Harvey's Motel — Hotel in San Diego

We chose this motel as a last-minute option during a spontaneous trip to San Diego. Our decision was largely influenced by TripAdvisor reviews, though we noticed quite a few first-time reviewers—something I usually try to ignore. It was budget-friendly, but after our stay, I can't help but think it should have been even cheaper.|We arrived just after dark and were greeted by a small, grungy-looking “office” that was locked up tighter than a drum. There was a sign instructing us to ring a bell, which we did, and shortly after, a person appeared to chat with us through a Plexiglas barrier and a tiny slot at the bottom. It felt like a scene out of a post-apocalyptic motel horror movie—think COVID-era accommodations but with the barricades still intact. Is this area really that dangerous?|This setup didn’t exactly inspire confidence, and the entire building was in desperate need of renovation. It’s a small motel that wasn’t fully booked, so we parked right in front of our room, which was a plus. What did we find inside? An old room that looked like it was stuck in a time warp, desperately needing an update. On the bright side, it appeared clean. The amenities included a 40” TV with HBO (score!), free Wi-Fi, a fridge and microwave, a hairdryer, and worn bedding—with no extra blankets or pillows.|What really earned this place a two-star rating, though, was the ice maker down the sidewalk that required 25 cents for ice. That was a first for me! Who carries around quarters? It’s not like you can just stroll over to the office for change. Talk about being cheap!|This motel is at a crossroads: it could either sink to dump status or rise with a much-needed renovation. The ball is in the owners' court. Would we stay here again? Nope! There are plenty of other options in the area, and I suggest you make a different choice.|You've...

Kind of last minute booking, wanted to look around outside of San Diego before going to the coast. I would probably give it a 4 rating if it was maintained better, it's a bit run down. But easy access to freeway to go to desert or Palomar or Pacific crest trail. It is a few minutes walk to a Ralph's (basically a west coast Kroger with Kroger merchandise) and close to some hole-in-the-wall, good eateries, so food is not a problem. The area is a bit neglected, still safe, never felt danger after dark. The rooms are cleanish, newish, could use some TLC, had a microwave and small fridge. Got a fine haircut at the nice Vietnamese salon a block away, as it was so hot I was sweating with long hair. The street gets noisy early, that was one drawback. A little pricey, but maybe that's just California prices, everything seemed expensive in San...

I enjoyed staying here. I book this place regardless of what other reviews had said and was pleasantly surprised. This isn’t a resort style or anything close to that but for a motel, I think this place is great. The staff are very accommodating and kind and the rooms are exactly as pictured. I didn’t find anything wrong with the room or bathroom. Each room comes with a mini fridge and microwave as well as a flat screen TV with cable. The bathrooms were also very clean. Didn’t find anything bad. Water pressure was good too. Parking was also a breeze. ||If you’re looking for an affordable stay somewhere for a weekend or mini trip, this...