Holiday Inn Express & Suites Costa Mesa

This property should not be open to the public. It is under construction. No pool. No Breakfast. Construction noise, even on a Saturday. Thankfully it is being rebranded as a Hampton Inn, so it will be off from the Holiday Inn Express listing. Of course, because of the rebranding, the microwave didn’t work, the toilet was leaking water, the sofa had stains, dust was on everything and it really needs an upgrade, which is finally happening. 2 floors are shut down, but they need to close all three floors!

Overall a typical Holiday Inn Express experience. Nothing stands out but nothing really detracts. Some minor cleanliness items but nothing that I couldn’t overlook. Breakfast was basic but normal. WiFi is quick. Ample parking. Location is only a few minutes from Newport so easy to access.

The best part of this hotel is the location. And, this fact makes it's shortcomings worth it. There is only coffee 24/7. There is no decaf or hot water. Even at breakfast, there is no decaf. I highly recommend the top floor. We were on the second and third floor. Morning and evening, it sounded like hippos dancing above us - impossible to sleep. Our room smelled very mildewy, but since we were here for just a couple of nights we didn't ask to switch. The breakfast is minimal and a very tight fit. No bananas - ever. The oatmeal was like soup. I waited 5 minutes one morning for someone to come to the front desk to rekey my room. There was a sign that someone had stepped away. Even the phone rang and rang. The staff, when present, was very friendly, though. A huge plus, just out the door and a short 1.5 mile drive or jog is the Newport Bay running and/or biking trail. I ran on this every morning, and I was very happy. I will stay here again, but request the 4th floor and break my own decaf coffee.

Great rates! Friendly staff and very clean! Highly recommend! They have a gym, a great breakfast and pretty sizable rooms! Very comfortable beds and everything is pretty updated! Very comfortable overall! Mini fridge microwave. we paid 151 for a king and pretty good size. Very happy.