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Its summer concert series (see Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay), tropical landscaping, private marina, and long list of activities make this hotel an entertaining choice. Pay a little a more to get a room with a view of the bay.

At this 1902 Spanish-style hotel, Mexican tiles line stairways and wrought-iron balconies overlook the street. A swimming pool is set amid lush landscaping. Good restaurants are next door.

On a hillside overlooking Old Town, the rooms at this charming hacienda-style hotel have private balconies or look onto a courtyard. There is complimentary airport transportation.

In the 1960s, a wave of Polynesian-themed hotels sprang up and those that survived have almost a retro coolness factor to them. The tropical decor still rules the public areas, but the rooms are contemporary and overlook the pool or neighboring golf course.

Families love this hotel. All the water activities of Mission Bay are close by, and the hotel operates free shuttles to Sea-World. Tropical landscaping surrounds the grounds, and the swimming pool is a hit with kids. Free parking.

This European-style B&B offers individually decorated rooms with selected antiques and lacy comforters. A full kitchen is available to guests, and a daily Continental breakfast.

Spanish-Colonial architecture befits the neighborhood’s origins, and a sunny interior patio provides respite from the streets of Old Town. This above-average Holiday Inn offers free parking and a swimming pool.

Rattan furniture and tropical fabrics give a Polynesian cast to this hotel. The best rooms are at the back, and have views of the marina and Point Loma. Breakfast is included.

A 180-degree ocean view distinguishes this inn. Many rooms have kitchens, and a whirlpool tub in the presidential suite overlooks the sea. A swimming pool is located between rooms.

Rooms are named and decorated after famous artists, such as the tropical Gauguin room, the French-country Monet, and the rustic Mexican look inspired by muralist Diego Rivera. The Japanese-style Furo room has sliding Shoji screens and a soaking tub.