DoubleTree By Hilton Hotel Review
The flight out of LAX was early in the morning so I was surprised at how busy the airport already is with holiday travelers. After a quick one hour flight, my sister and I arrived at Oakland International Airport.
We made our way over to the rental car shuttle and boarded the bus. It costs $40 dollars for a one-day rental car. Which turns out it’s cheaper than buying two tickets on the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART). Once we left the rental car terminal we made our way to the hotel.
Hotel Check-in
Although we arrived early we were offered an early check-in and offered a free warm walnut chocolate chip cookie. The attendant gave us information about the free hotel shuttle to the nearest BART station. Then we were off to our hotel room to unload our bags before the next shuttle departure time.
Lobby Area
When you first enter into the hotel area immediately in front of the entrance doors is a complimentary water station. Although, it wasn’t a hot day after flying and checking out at the rental car it was nice to have a refreshing glass of lemon water.
In front of the water station, there’s an electronic kiosk. The kiosk allows you to check the local weather, dining information, and flight status. In addition to the kiosk off to the left side of the lobby entrance, there’s a comfortable seating area. Which was perfect for waiting inside the hotel for the shuttle and checking in/out.
A flat screen tv and a business service center allow customers on business to multitask as they wait.
Eateries
Starbucks
In addition to the two other eateries, there’s a Starbuck grab and go counter. There were plenty of hot and cold beverage items and sugary sweet snacks for sale.
Main points of the area where the communal dining table, and the loveseats area. *Although there’s also a tv inside the Starbucks it plays the same channel as the lobby entertainment.
Marina Room
Inside the Marina Room, the hotel offers an all you can eat breakfast buffet for $25 dollars.
If you’re more into purchasing a la carte menu there’s also a Marina Room breakfast option for $14.
The Breakfast consists of 2 Eggs, Bacon or Sausage, Potatoes (Bell Pepper and Onion), and Toast.
I choose the sourdough toast, but they also offered wheat and white bread options. Overall, it tasted like the typical American style breakfast and I have no complaints. I believe the real draw here is that it’s located in the hotel’s main building and the serving staff were really friendly.
The inside decor was festive with holiday decorations and had a great view of the boating dock and walking path area.
Bay Grill Bar
One the first night in Oakland I didn’t want to go out to eat for dinner. Instead, I choose to pick up an order at the hotel Bay Grill Bar. I ordered a to go purchase of chicken wings for a total of $19 dollars.
The chicken was seasoned with a barbecue tang that had a subtle hint of spiciness. It was the best menu item I ordered and I definitely recommend ordering these for a late night snack.
As I waited for my chicken wings I sat inside the Bay Grill Bar, near a romantic fireplace and looked out at the marina.
*Dining Tip: Near the hotel, there’s a Whole Foods Supermarket.
Hotel Room
Building 2 – Single Bedroom
There was a comfy queen size bed with two nightstands on the left and right side. The hotel room was decorated with artwork of the Golden Gate Bridge and Marina.
Underneath the TV dresser, there was a mini refrigerator and storage area. Although the room didn’t have a microwave, it did provide a free coffee, ice and tea area.
Hotel Amenities
The hotel offers additional amenities that I didn’t get a chance to use. Just outside of the hotel there’s a walking path that goes around the boat dock. If you don’t want to walk around the path the hotel offers bike rentals.
Because of the weather and the miles I walked while I visited Chinatown later that day I didn’t check out the pool or the fitness area.
Nearby Attractions
Cesar Chavez Park
Within walking distance are the Cesar Chavez Park and Ocean. It’s a beautiful location to take your dog out for a walk or fly kites.
If you want to find to read more information about Cesar E. Chavez Park check out the City Of Berkeley website.
Berkeley Marina
There’s a walking path around the Berkeley Marina for a morning walk/run. *Ocean breeze flows from the marina so be sure to wear layered and warm clothing.
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Berkeley Marina is located at 200 Marina Blvd, Berkeley, CA 94710. If you would like more information on the DoubleTree Hotel call (510) 548-7920 or visit Berkeley Marina DoubleTree, California Hotel.
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