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LODGINGS
Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort / 3*
21100 PACIFIC COAST HWY, HUNTINGTON BEACH; 714/960-7873 OR
800/HILTONS
One of the prettiest in the Hilton chain, this large establishment has
a special ambience that makes it seem much smaller than its 290 guest
rooms and 12 stories would suggest. The reason is obvious: It's directly
across from the ocean, and it's at the quieter south end of Huntington
Beach. Awash with sunlight reflecting on the water, the hotel's exterior
wears a perpetual rosy gold glow. The marble lobby is light, airy, and
impressive, with its coffered ceiling and skylight. It's peaceful to rest
a while in the cushy padded wicker armchairs and the overstuffed sofas
in
conversation-group arrangements. The staff are helpful, and the bellhops
,seem to whoosh your luggage to your room in record time. All the rooms
have privates lanais and ocean views, but the corner suites are the best
__ because they have wraparound terraces that seem to turn the Pacific
Ocean into a roommate. There is a beautiful simplicity to these suites,
with their soft beige and warm peach decor and fabric-covered head boards
that match the satin brocade coverlets. The bathrooms are polished travertine,
extraordinarily clean and spacious, and the suites have
both wet bars and fully stocked minibars. Added perks include an out-
door pool, fitness center, spa, and restaurants The Palm Court, which
serves Mediterranean influenced cuisine; the West Coast Club, a more formal
library-like dining room; and Surf Hero, which serves coffee drinks, fresh
sandwiches, and pizza. The Surf Hero will also sell you fire wood, hot
dogs, and all the fixings for s'mores so you can make a fire in one of
the rings on the beach just across from PCH. On the concierge level, continental
breakfast, soft drinks, and afternoon tidbits are gratis.
$$$$; AE, DC, DIS, MC, V; checks OK; www.hilton.com; between Golden West
St and Beach Blvd.
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