Yes, we have stayed there twice, once for a week in late 2012 when I had work to do in Irvine, and again for a few days last year. I selected it primarily because it was the closest pet-friendly hotel to the dog beach that got good reviews.
I doesn't just look good online but comes recommended. The property definitely is nice. The pet fee is reasonable at $50.
What I didn't like: no self parking, and they charge $32 per day for valet parking, plus tax and tips. There is $15/day public parking at the beach lot across PCH but that has a 9:00pm curfew after which the lot closes (you can't get out until after 5:00 am).

I never stayed at the Hyatt next door. That hotel has a $150 pet fee (a seven-day stay incurs $300 in pet fees, plus tax!). As a matter of principle, I do not give my business to properties with such excessive fees.