This 4.5-star* hotel makes Mission Bay and San Die...

This 4.5-star* hotel makes Mission Bay and San Diego's best boardwalk so accessible that it's fun to venture back and forth between the two. Both on foot and then using the electric-assist bicycle I rented from the larger of their duel onsite shops, which offer a wide array of equipment.

*it punches above its weight

Check out the attached panoramic view from one of my 10th-floor suite's two balconies. The map shows the course I biked around the bay before incessantly cruising up and down the boardwalk, where astute pedestrians are accustomed to making way for scooters as well as cyclists.

Their Oceana Coastal Kitchen featured an exemplary view of the bay and sufficient patio heaters to make evening breezes a delight. The mushroom broth soup was world class, so I had it three days in a row. Their swordfish was so wonderful that I had it on my first and third nights. PLUS they're situated within a few minutes walk to Woody's Breakfast and Burgers and World Famous on the boardwalk, both worthy of repeat visits.

Vacationers don't need a car at this spot, which is a less-than-$25 Lyft ride from the airport, whether or not you stop stop for basic groceries. The Catamaran checks all the boxes for experienced, capable management: reliable climate control, no weird smells or objectionable noise (unless you count hearing the Pacific's waves while deciding whether to gaze at the bay or the ocean).

Their fitness center had my favorite cardio equipment and big doors for an open-air bay view. Their Internet was reliable and sufficiently fast for video chat, etc. The maids are very thorough (and quiet!), and the kitchen was well enough equipped for those who prefer their own cooking.

Haling from Dallas, I plan to return to this prime San Diego spot each year rather than Miami Beach (traffic!), Galveston (dreary beaches), South Padre (less convenient), or The Keys (less accessible).

The bottom line is the Catamaran offers easy access, walkability, solid comfort, fine decor, gorgeous views, and plenty of relaxing, fun activities. Already looking forward to staying again in December 2019! : )

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P.S. For anyone who imagines I don't like to complain, check out my review and photos of the DoubleTree Hotel in Albuquerque, NM, where I tore them a new one for having temporary a/c units throughout their lobby for two (2) months, July and August (nonetheless, I benevolently gave them 3 stars). Color me happy to have found the Catamaran.