Mystery Critic

Hyatt Regency Newport Beach

Hotel URL

Last Stayed On: May 2008

Published Internet Rate: $199 / Priceline.com Rate $75

Orbitz Rating: 4 Stars / MC Rating: 

Cleanness and Comfort
Location and Parking
Noise and Privacy
Service and Attitude
Amenities and Facilities

GENERAL

There are lots of old resorts along the Southern California coast, most of them are totally showing their age, but they are still going for prime rates.  If you are looking for a resort, however, in a decent location, nice setting and great facilities, this a good choice - provided you can get it at the rate I got.

PRO

Big Swimming Pools and Other Amenities - When the weather cooperates, you've got a lot to do at this resort!  Three nicely laid-out pools, conveniently located at the center of the resort, tennis courts, nearby golf, and even bike rental to allow you fully enjoy Souther Cal sunshine.  When the weather is bad, settle for the big gym and table tennis.

Nice Rooms - Renovated rooms are good size, many facing the pool, clean and neat with good equipment like flat panel TV and good-size bathroom.  Reasonably quiet and private IF and when there are no teenagers or college kids playing in the pool.  Fortunately the pool has a hard close at 10pm.

Central Location - It would be great if it's on a beach, but you could easily drive to the beach, Newport Beach and Balboa Island towns, Fashion Island mall, etc.

CON

Service and Attitude - The staff is friendly and efficient, but they just seemed very tense, and some are young and less experienced than those typically found in a high-end resort.

Noise - If you are lucky enough to be there with a company meeting or there were some young people hanging out by the pool, it could be rather noisy because of the layout and density of the resort.

OVERALL

I would never pay $200 for a room there, but at $75 - or even $130 - it's a tremenously great deal.  You can do a lot around and inside the resort, and the rooms are comfortable.  OH BTW, there's also the typically Hyatt room service that will present you with a beautiful breakfast (at $15) to start your day.

Family-Friendliness Rating:  (out of 5)