Best Western Plus Humboldt Bay Inn — Hotel in Eureka

My recent stay at the Best Western Plus Humboldt Bay Inn in Eureka, California was troubling and disappointing, especially given my status as a Diamond Select member. While the hotel itself offers pleasant aesthetics, the excessive rules and invasive practices significantly marred my experience.

Upon arrival, the check-in process was cumbersome, requiring detailed vehicle information and extensive paperwork—far more than what I've encountered at other hotels. This was my first sign that guest convenience might take a backseat to rigid policy enforcement.

As a loyalty member, I was taken aback when my request for an upgrade was declined unless I paid extra. The front desk bluntly remarked that "they are in the business of making money," a response that felt dismissive of my patronage and loyalty.

More concerning was the hotel's strict visitor policy, which prohibits guests in rooms after 10 PM. This felt particularly unreasonable given the nearly $150.00 per night rate, treating me as if I were a teenager with a curfew rather than a paying adult.

The most significant issue arose around privacy. Despite placing a "Do Not Disturb" sign on my door due to needing privacy for work, I was repeatedly approached by housekeeping. After I informed the front desk of my preference to decline room cleaning during my stay, I was told that it was mandatory for staff to enter every three days for cleaning, citing a non-existent local law as justification and hotels policy. This led to a confrontation with the owner, who insisted on checking my room under the pretense of ensuring no illegal activities were taking place—a claim that was both unfounded and offensive. He even threatened eviction and police involvement if I did not comply with his demands.

Legal Considerations, In most jurisdictions, hotel guests have a reasonable expectation of privacy in their rooms. Hotels can set policies for room inspections for maintenance and safety, but these must be clearly communicated and justifiably enforced. The actions taken by the hotel owner in this case could be seen as an overstep, especially without any substantiated legal basis. Guests who feel their privacy rights are violated should seek recourse through consumer protection agencies or legal channels.

This experience was not only an invasion of my privacy but also an affront to my integrity as a guest. The oppressive atmosphere and the confrontational approach by the hotel staff have led me to decide never to stay at this or any Best Western again. I would strongly advise potential guests to consider other accommodations where their privacy and customer loyalty are...

Very disappointed and quite frankly, disgusted, that I chose to stay here. You should not expect a room that is cleaned or to have a guaranteed parking spot. You should expect rude employees and unhygienic surroundings. I arrived at 10 at night to learn that the lot was full and only "overflow" parking would be available - situated off property and nowhere near my room. I then entered my room to find hair everywhere, a pill lying on the bathroom floor, and used hand towels on the rack. I only snapped a couple of quick pics in poor lighting since I was tired from traveling (attached here), but continued to find human hair (long, black hairs) around the room - especially in the bathroom. It was evident that no sweeping or sanitization had been done to the room since it was last used.... Despite being disgusted I chose to stay since it was late and the surrounding hotels were booked. A couple of hours later while attempting to walk my service dog before going to sleep, I was screamed at by Selena - the hotel front desk employee I had checked in with and who was completely aware of my service animal. Selena informed me I may "take the dog off property" because it should not go anywhere where any lights are turned on on the property? This completely illogic demand was aggressively screamed at me by Selena across the parking lot. I informed Selena I would not be walking on the streets in the dark as I'm a small, 28 year old female that does not need to feel unsafe. Selena continued to discriminate against me and my service dog by insisting I not let her relieve herself anywhere within the large property - not even on the pebble rocks outside - if it's near a light. No explanation was ever given. I'm completely grossed out that I stayed here. A dirty room and a bad experience. I just hope I don't leave...

Absolutely the best hotel I've ever stayed in. My first impression when pulling in was "this is just a typical chain hotel". That ended the second we went to check in. The reception was warn and inviting. The whole experience was a feeling of my comfort. Check-in was smooth. You just get the feeling they went you to be here and enjoy it while you are.

We were supposed to have a single king room, but none were available so we put in a double queen. The room still was out standing. It again just felt warm and comfortable. It was clean and tidy. Had a very upscale feel without being gawdy. Warm colors on the walls, comfortable carpet with soft padding, rich wood furniture, lovely tile floors, modern TV, DVD, microwave, and refrigerator.

The beds were great: not too soft, not too firm. Same for the pillows. The HVAC had a wall control as well as the unit control. Lightning and electrical outlets were plentiful. The bath products are top notch as well. Towels thick and soft. The only minor issue was the nightlight in the bath was out.

The major perk here is the Oasis area. Heated pool, outdoor pool table, the spa hot tub kept at the perfect temperature AND the waterfalls in it. Outdoor showers near both pool and spa as well. The majority of the Oasis is covered to allow you to enjoy them in the less than perfect weather days. There is patio heaters and fire pits as well. Did I mention they want you to be comfortable and relax?

If you want to go out but are not familiar with the area, they have free limo service to take and pick you up! How's that compared to an old van most places use?

Gary Stone, the owner, shows pride in what he does here. It's rare to find someone like him willing to reinvest back into his property, but Gary does so and more....