Am just wrapping up a stay here (my first) and all I can say is WOW. The glowing reviews in this thread are thoroughly warranted. If I could sum up my stay here in one word, it would be service. Clearly it is a priority here for management, and they have infused this throughout the staff. Every single one of my interactions with the employees here, from the front desk and regency club to housekeeping and pool staff was a positive one where I felt like a valued guest. On to the review:
Arrival and Checkin: The property was easy to find, with signage well before you arrive at the hotel. The valet staff was busy but kept the front drive clear to allow for easy parking during checkin (chaotic front driveways are a pet peeve of mine). Front desk was adequately staffed and although I didn't notice an elite checkin area, there was no line and I was helped immediately. I had pre-booked a suite and wasn't expecting an upgrade. The front desk clerk found my reservation, noted my diamond status, and explained that I would recieve Regency Club access as well as free internet. I requested a tower room, and was accommodated in a corner suite.
Self-parking at this property is available for $20/night, or $25/night for valet. There is street parking just outside the property for visits, but prohibited 2AM-4AM so not useful for overnight guest parking.
Room and Furnishings: I ended up in a large suite on a low floor, with what one might call an obstructed view of the bay. I was pleased with the floor-to-ceiling glass doors that let in plenty of light, giving the room a bright airy feeling. The two balconies were each equipped with chairs and a small table.
The suite is divided into 2 areas: the entry leads to a large parlor area with conference table, work desk, sleeper sofa, TV stand, and full bathroom; a connecting bedroom includes a king size bed, two couches, work desk and 2nd full bathroom. Both the parlor area and the bedroom include a mini-fridge, safe, and coffee service. The furniture shows some slight signs of wear but is modern and comfortable. I would almost say this suite was TOO large as I often found myself traversing the room; I suspect this could have been improved if the connecting door weren't at the far end of the room.
Regency Club: The regency club is on the 17th floor of the tower building (only the penthouse is above) with keycard access required for the floor and club itself. The club is modest in size (about 2 standard guestrooms) but well-appointed. In contrast to many RC offerings, two very sleek, modern PC's were available (complete with Windows 7 and wireless keyboard and mouse). Despite being at 100% occupancy during my stay (the property was hosting a large conference), club attendance was sparse every time I entered. Both breakfast and evening spreads were well-stocked; the evening hors d'oeuvres were cold only but delicious and varied nightly. Unlike some clubs, dessert is offered for the full duration of evening service (5PM-9PM).
Despite the outstanding food offerings, my highest praise for the club is definitely for the staff. I was warmly greeted on each arrival and always felt comfortable and welcome. There was no tray for dirty dishes because the staff insists on clearing dirty dishes away the moment you're through. They consistently kept the whole club feeling clean and pleasant.
Dining: The only meal I had a chance to try at the Red Marlin was breakfast, but here is where it became crystal clear here that literally everyone at this property tries their best to make guests feel welcome. The host and wait staff performed impeccably, always looking for some way to serve. I went for the breakfast buffet and wasn't disappointed. A generous spread of hot (pancakes, bacon, sausage, and eggs) and cold (fruit, pastries, and cereal) items was constantly attended, ensuring the area was clean and well-stocked at all times. The view over the marina was the perfect cap to this excellent meal. I'm truly disappointed I didn't get to enjoy dinner here.
Grounds and Pool: I agree the sidewalks on the property are a bit maze-like, but there are clear signs at basically every intersection which get you to where you're going. I would characterize the foliage here as "lush" rather than "overgrown" - the sidewalks are clear of infringement and the plant areas are free of weeds. The palm trees and ferns give the property a distinct resort feel. There are three small pools surrounded by lounge chairs at the center of the property. It's definitely a family-centric design; the kids loved the water slides and a zero-entry pool makes it accessible to even the youngest ones. On Saturdays they set up a projector and show a family movie outside. There's a fire pit and the pool bar has s'mores kits available for roasting marshmallows.
Checkout and Departure: Here again the front desk staff shined with skill, efficiency, and a pleasant, helpful attitude. Despite some complicated charges and credits, everything posted correctly. The front desk staff was again welcoming but even more so, empowered. I was most impressed that an accidental charge (that was my own fault) was quickly dealt with without a visit to the manager's office. The Hyatt check certificates I used to pay were handled quickly and without any fuss, unlike some other properties that complain or delay when presented with them. The only other property I've been so impressed with front desk acumen is in Hyatt's hometown at the HR Chicago.
Overall: This property is in a great location right on Mission Bay and basically next door to Sea World, but I can't emphasize enough that what makes it outstanding is the truly welcoming attitude pervasive throughout the staff. Even the grounds staff smiled and greeted me while walking about the property. I genuinely felt warm and welcomed by everyone there, and it truly made a difference in the quality of my stay. My only disappointment is that I waited so long to try out this gem of a property. Highly recommended for visits to San Diego; I'll definitely be returning.