For a quick weekend getaway Kelly and I went to a lovely resort in Southern California called Cape Ray (which is actually under Hilton as one of their resorts).
Check-in: Awesome in that we bypassed the check in counter! I had checked in and even selected my room all online via Hilton's app. Selecting the room was amazing as I knew exactly what I was getting when I checked in. I knew the view I was getting, where the elevator was, what floor I was going to be on, and even where the ice was. No trying to negotiate a preferred room at check in.
Elite Benefits: As a diamond member, I'm entitled to an upgraded room upon check in. However, this being a 3-day weekend the hotel was almost fully booked so I had to go with the room I originally booked. There was no problem as it's always subject to availability. Another great elite benefit was a discounted breakfast for two people. When you check in or if you swing by the front desk, you'll get 2 vouchers per duration of your stay that give you either a free basic continental breakfast or $10 (per person) for the buffet or any other breakfast item. This was a real advantage considering the buffet is only $21 (per person).
Room: The room had 2 queen beds with a beautiful ocean view. In fact, one of the best views of the ocean I think I've ever had.
The room also had a nice bathroom with a microwave and small refrigerator.
The balconies aren't very private, however, and I always prefer hotels to try and have some separation between the balconies. As you can see, there isn't much space.
Pool: Very nice and plenty of room even though it was a busy 3-day weekend, the pool had a jacuzzi and a very small kiddie pool.
Restaurant:
The hotel had one restaurant, Chandlers. Chandlers serves all meals, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We did enjoy breakfast and dinner there. The buffet was great along with the service and price. I've seen buffets at over $40/person. This one was only $21; and if you're a gold or diamond member, you receive an additional $10 off... great deal. Dinner was also very nice with a fabulous ocean view
Beach:
The beach was not exactly what we were expecting. It was more of a pebble beach with the regular sand beach about a quarter mile down the street. Still very nice and not at all a bad place to grab some chairs and an umbrella and relax a bit... probably not the best for laying out on a towel..
Overall a great trip for a little quick weekend getaway. Nice pool, amazing views, friendly staff, quaint local restaurants, and low cost self-parking. Everything you need for a quick weekend getaway!