Check-in to the Marina inn San Diego

What is the best way to enjoy the golden San Diego beaches and other attractions if you're on a budget? You check-in to the Marina Inn Hotel & Suites, 2 blocks from the Cruise Ship Terminal, with the Gaslamp Quarter less than a mile off, and both Sea World and the San Diego Zoo less than 3 miles away. Rates from $59 to $154, depending on your preference of accomodations and date of stay.

If you're looking for San Diego motels, you don't really need to know more than that, but allow me to hammer in a few more nails anyway. The good people at the Marina Inn offer their guests free self-parking, a complimentary breakfast with waffles and coffee, free newspapers, complimentary wireless internet, cable TV with HBO, hairdryers, iron & board, microwaves and refrigerators (last 4 on request).

They have a 24 hr front desk, and you can ask for rollaway beds and cribs, if you need them. The 27 air conditioned guest rooms at the Marina Inn offer views of the Marina with plush pillow-top beds and cherry wood, modern décor. Safes are provided in-room, and so is a coffee maker and free coffee.

After a hard day of checking out all the San Diego attractions, you can relax by walking over to the harbor and enjoying a beautiful sunset over the bay. Best part of it is that the Marina Inn is family and kid-friendly. They even a special kids' suite. Pets are allowed (fee per pet), and they also offer special packages which include discounted attraction tickets. More details here.

There's plenty of good restaurants and 24 hour dining facilities available in the vicinity, including a Denny's and a Steakhouse.

Info: 1943 Pacific Highway San Diego CA 92101; (619) 232-7551; www.marinainnsd.com/