Holiday Inn Express San Clemente N – Beach Area by IHG — Hotel in San Clemente

Just wanted to get away for a few days mid-week to relax. All we wanted was a pool, the ocean, and a pier to fish from. We lucked into finding this hotel. 3 teenage girls, plus my wife and I. We also had my wife's service dog traveling with us. This is a pet friendly hotel, and they always had treat bags out for the dogs (a snack and a poop bag).

The staff was fantastic. Always friendly and helpful. When we asked about a location, they immediately pulled it up on the computer and printed out directions. Anything we needed (extra towels, shampoo...) they gladly provided. Even when I was looking at the attraction brochures many hotels stock, they came over and asked if there was anything they could help me find. I've never had that happen before.

Room was always clean, and was very comfortable. Even had a balcony. While the view was nothing special, it was nice to sit out there. We were on the 3rd (top) floor, and it was very quiet.

Pool was nice, very relaxing. Even though we didn't make use of it, they had a lift at the pool for disabled individuals. No spa here.

Breakfast room was open 24/7. Breakfast (6:30-9:30 weekdays) was fantastic. Items varied slightly from day to day. Pancakes, sausage, ham, cinnamon rolls, hot & cold cereals, fresh fruit, yogurt, bread & bagels, juices, biscuits & gravy, scrambled eggs or cheese omelets. Really a great buffet, and always stocked. During non breakfast hours, there was always coffee & tea available, and most days fresh fruit.

Location was easy to find if you use the hotels directions. DO NOT try to get directions from online or GPS. Down the hill (easy walking distance) is a shopping center with a 99¢ Only Store, Del Taco, Stuft Pizza (really good pizza!) and many other stores. And you're only about a mile from the beach. The front desk will loan you towels and supplies for the beach. Just ask.

Unfortunately, the fishing wasn't great at the pier (which was about 3 miles away). Caught some small fish, and a small shark, but tossed them all back. It was still relaxing, which was the whole point...

I made my reservation for a suite using the online booking method. I booked online rather that on the phone because I did not want to be put on hold for an extended period of time while customers were being checked in. I booked a suite at this hotel because it had great reviews on trip advisor and it claimed to be able to accommodate six people. I was planning my sister's calm bachelorette party. It was very important to me that all six of the people in my group would be in the same room, all together because my sister had been living out of the country for the past two years. Being together was our priority and your hotel claimed to be able to meet that need.

Although I made the reservation ahead of time, I received a call about a week before the scheduled stay. I was very disappointed to be informed that your hotel would not be able to live up to our agreement because the suites had been over-booked, the reasoning being that I had made my reservation online. We were to be split into two separate rooms, the thing I had been trying to avoid. If I would have been informed earlier I would have been able to seek accommodations at a different hotel, but it was too late to do so by the time I was informed. I was on the phone for 25 minutes trying to sort out the mistake, most of that time I was on hold because customers needed to be checked in.

Please do not offer online booking if it is not reliable. Also, it would be helpful to bring in more front desk staff to avoid putting customers on hold for extended periods of time, the thing I was trying to avoid in the first place by making my reservation online. The facility is well maintained and the front desk staff (Steven) was particularly welcoming and attentive, however the breakfast was not as high quality as I remember it from previous stays and the situation was less than ideal. I would have liked to be told immediately if there was a problem with my reservation in order to make other accommodations that fit...

Excellent Service, Guests often praise hotels for their exceptional service. They appreciate friendly and helpful staff members who go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay. Clean and Comfortable Room, Guests value clean and comfortable accommodations. Positive feedback often mentions the cleanliness of the rooms, comfortable beds, and well-maintained facilities. Great Location, Hotels in convenient and desirable locations often receive positive feedback. Guests appreciate being close to attractions, restaurants, and transportation options. Delicious Food, Hotels with on-site restaurants or breakfast options that receive positive reviews for their delicious food and variety of choices tend to attract more guests. Beautiful Views, Hotels with stunning views, whether it's of the city skyline, mountains, or the ocean, often receive positive feedback from guests who appreciate the scenic surroundings. Excellent Amenities, Guests appreciate hotels that offer a wide range of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, spa facilities, and complimentary services like Wi-Fi or breakfast. Prompt and Efficient Check-In/Check-Out, Guests value a smooth and hassle-free check-in and check-out process. Positive feedback often mentions the efficiency and friendliness of the hotel staff during these procedures. Personalized Attention, Hotels that provide personalized attention and cater to the specific needs and preferences of their guests often receive positive feedback. This can include special requests, room upgrades, or assistance with planning activities. Value for Money, Guests appreciate hotels that offer good value for their money. Positive feedback often mentions reasonable prices, discounts, or package deals that provide a high-quality experience at an affordable rate. Overall Satisfaction, Guests often express their overall satisfaction with their stay, mentioning that they had a wonderful experience, felt welcomed, and would highly recommend the...