We have stayed here several times over the past 10 years. This time was not nearly as good as previous stays. Nobody told us that #2 had a loud rumble all afternoon and in to the night. The machinery making the rumble (AC compressor?) also interfered with the television, putting 30 oscillating vertical lines of interference on the picture. I called after the stay to try and resolve the matter, but both times the manager was out and the receptionist was unenthusiastic about taking a message. As for breakfast, I would eat at the great coffee shop across the parking lot. Eggs, oatmeal, pancakes; anything you want.
The high point of the trip would be the place up the boardwalk with gelato. Try chocolate with a shot of espresso over it.

I booked room #4 for my wife's 50th birthday and we were looking forward to a great time. Save your money!!! The traffic in Newport Beach, particularly Balboa is a parking lot. I've been to NYC and DC, the traffic there is bad. Newport is worse. I live 20 miles away and I spent 1.5 hours on the peninsula alone. We never checked in because parking is in a lot around the block and it would have taken me another 45 min. Not a great way to spend a relaxing evening or weekend. My wife's 50th birthday is ruined.

The location, on Newport Beach, is well-positioned right at the pier on the beach. The rooms are charming with a vintage victorian decor (feels a little like a brothel....in a good way). Beds are amazingly comfortable. We spent two nights at the Doryman in room 9 and room 10. The rooms are filled with flowers, beveled mirrors, sunken marble tubs, skylights, fireplaces. Room 9 has a door to the balcony where we enjoyed our coffee and breakfast. It does get loud at night. It's right on the beach and surrounded by bars...it didn't really bother us, but if you are looking for quiet and an early night, you should be prepared with earplugs.

Parking was a bonus.

Below the hotel, is the Ocean 21 Restaurant which is dubbed NB's finest/most romantic. I enjoyed the food and cocktails. Did not enjoy the service...not friendly or interested in making us feel welcomed or comfortable. We dined here twice and came for cocktails another two times....you would think they would have been more attentive. Took 10 minutes to waive over the bartender (with less then 8 people at the bar).

We spent two nights at the Doryman Bed and Breakfast, and I was pleasantly surprised the minute we arrived. The hidden elevator to the second floor is enchanting, and once the elevator door opens, you enter a timeless hotel. Filled with Victorian ambiance, you realize that this is no ordinary hotel. The rooms are exquisite, filled with flowers, beveled mirrors, sunken marble tubs, skylights, fireplaces and most rooms have windows with bay seating that overlooks the amazing ocean! Below the hotel, is the Ocean 21 Restaurant which is also a treasure. I was able to refresh my soul, write, read, take walks along the beach, fall in love all over again, and make incredible memories. We will definitely return to this hidden gem!! Connie Willson