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LODGINGS
The Seal Beach Inn & Gardens / 1.5*
212 5TH ST, SEAL BEACH; 562/493-2416 OR 800/HIDEAWAY
This B&B with bright blue awnings, shuttered windows, wrought-iron
grillwork, hanging baskets of geraniums, and old-fashioned lamp posts
looks as though it belongs in New Orleans' Garden District, although it's
only a block from the beach. The check-in desk in the main building shares
space with an elaborate gift shop selling reproduction Tiffany style lamps
and expensive toiletries; beyond are a bright, sunny coffee bar, wicker
and wingback chairs, and three oak bookcases crammed with reading material.
French doors lead out to the kidney-shaped pool surrounded by greenery,
lounge chairs, and a fountain, all of which make a prime setting for the
full breakfast on warm mornings and tea, wine, and cheese in the evenings.
When a chill sets, in the Tea Room's mammoth gas-burning fireplace is
the place to cozy. The inn's 24 rooms, which include 13 suites, are decorated
in highly distinctive style. The Primrose Room has a gas-burning fireplace,
rasp-berry flower wallpaper, a coffered ceiling with a deep purple inset,
and a bathroom with a Jacuz-zi tub for two. The Azalea King Suite is larger,
with a bright pink floral theme, a canopy bed covered in white flouncy
gauze, a kitchen, and a Roman soak tub in the bathroom. Most, but not
all, of the rooms and suites have kitchenettes, fireplaces, and Jacuzzi
tubs. If you're a light sleeper, avoid the first-level rooms at the front
next to the parking lot. $$$; AE, DC, DIS,
MC, V; checks OK if reservation is made a month ahead; hideaway® sealbeachinn.com;
www.sealbeachinn.com; 4 blocks west of PCH.
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