We stayed at the Dolphin during the week of Thanksgiving. We had such a wonderful stay; the rooms were small but so clean and fresh. The breakfast included juice, sweet muffins, bananas and yogurt. We think it would be a nice addition to have some type of bread that's not so sweet as the muffins! And also herbal tea, for the non-caffeine visitors. The staff was very helpful for all of our needs at all hours of the day and night! The Dolfin is right across from the pier and it is such a fun place to venture. The neighborhood is safe and the bus stop (for those public transportation types) is right on the corner. The owners are also very kind and concerned that their guest have a great stay. You just don't find that these days. We have stayed at more expensive places in San Diego, but you can't beat the Dolphin's prices and service! If you enjoy simple and clean, stay here!

I should have written this weeks ago. I but have been quite busy and very lazy, but better late than never!
I’m a Brit, my wife is a Californian from LA and we were visiting her Mom, in LA, throughout Sep/Oct 2012.
We decided to spend a couple of days and one night in San Diego, but liked the area so much that we stayed for three nights and four days. Could easily have stayed longer but were running out of time.
We arrived late morning, 1st October, without reservations, and were assigned a room immediately.

I can’t add anything new to the good reviews, simply reiterate that our smallish room was very clean and comfortable with a decent TV and all essentials. It isn’t the Ritz, of course it isn’t, but we were absolutely satisfied with what we received for the money we paid.

The office staff were very efficient, friendly and helpful, even down to handing out a discount coupon for the excellent Miguel’s Restaurant a couple of hundred yards along the quayside (highly recommended).

The motel price is very reasonable for San Diego, made even better by a free simple breakfast – help yourself on the patio. Good coffee and a selection of lovely muffins, which did me nicely. My wife chose from a selection of fruit, juices and yoghurts and there was always plenty of everything. Free off the road parking is another simple, invaluable bonus.

The best part, though was meeting the owner, Horace, who was absolutely charming each morning at breakfast time. ‘Holly’ gave us photocopy maps and clear directions to many local attractions plus well-founded recommendations as to where to go, what to see and how much time to allow for it. Even gave me advice on how to stay off cigarettes, which I was struggling with! He is an absolute gentleman, who I would love to meet again, if we ever make it back there. I do hope so and intend to make it happen.

Horace, if you read this, thank you for your warmth and kindness – I’m still off the cigs and hope to stay that way!

We were searching for budget accomondation in SD for our last 4 night 16 days california trip. Well we were glad to choose this motel. LCD TVs,fridge and view in front of room #36 is fantastic. Suprised to see that room service is done daily. Housekeeping folks did a good job. Every morning we will see the boss walking around checking the place. Plus point is they provide free gps to use.. the chinese guy on night shift even show us the way to coin laundry.

Actually, I don`t have any negative view about this lovely place. We spent a couple of days in July 2012, and it was very nice to stay here. Close to marina & not far from Cabrillo National Monument. The staff was kind and the room was clean. But the main point is, that cakes were amazing!