Hotel Review: Westin South Coast Plaza
During a recent trip to Southern California, I opted to stay at the Westin South Coast Plaza; a 4-star hotel which is located directly across the street from the South Coast Plaza shopping mall. It’s even connected by a pedestrian bridge, so you don’t have to negotiate crossing the busy street.
Location
The Westin South Coast Plaza’s address is 686 Anton Boulevard, Costa Mesa, CA, 92626
The closest airport to the hotel would be John Wayne Orange County Airport (SNA) – there is a free shuttle service offered to and from the hotel, however you do need to arrange this in advance.
Things to do
Of course you have got the expansive South Coast Plaza right on your doorstep. Well, it’s across a pedestrian walkway, but it’s literally two minutes away. The complex boasts a Macy’s, Macy’s Home, Bloomingdales, Saks Fifth Avenue, Zara, Abercrombie & Fitch, Bath and Body Works, and hundreds more stores.
Costa Mesa is a wonderful city known as the “City of Arts” It is also home to the Segerstrom Center for the Arts – a 3,000 seat theatre, the South Coast Repertory, and many other venues.
Less than a 25-minute drive from the Westin South Coast Plaza is the Disneyland Resort. If you follow me on social media you may have guessed that I am a bit of a Disney fan. I’m a Brit who actually holds an annual pass for the resort in Southern California. A shuttle service does run to Disneyland at specific times from the hotel. Otherwise simply walk across to South Coast Plaza and pick up an Anaheim Resort Transit (ART) shuttle just beside the Macy’s Valet area. A one-day shuttle pass is $5 for adults and $2 for children aged 3-9. Park admission is extra of course.
Further afield, Costa Mesa is the perfect location where you are almost halfway between L.A. and San Diego.
Rooms
I booked to stay in one of Westin’s Traditional Rooms, which can accommodate up to four guests.
The room was very modern, spacious, and for once had plenty of lights – something a rarity in hotels.
It was my first time staying at a Westin property; and the world-renowned Westin Heavenly Bed® lived up to it’s name. I love the little sample of lavender oil you are given too. Very helpful for trying to sleep and combat jet-lag.
Bathroom
The bathroom was again very spacious and I loved the large backlit mirror above the sink. The spa-style shower was very powerful and everything looked almost brand new. You’ll also find a hairdryer for use.
Amenities
My room featured a 37″ flat screen television, work desk (with even more plugs and USB sockets), a safe, refrigerator, plenty of storage space and tea/coffee making facilities.
WiFi is complimentary for Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) members whom book direct. Remember that Starwood is now part of Marriott International; so you can easily transfer points between your SPG and Marriott Rewards accounts.
The hotel also sports a large and expansive fitness studio and outdoor pool area. I was impressed to learn the Westin South Coast Plaza actually offer guests the opportunity to lend New Balance athletic shoes and clothing for use during your stay for $5. That’s really good value and saves having to carry running shoes etc. with you.
Dining
Since the Westin South Coast Plaza is on the doorstep of the more than 250 shops and restaurants, the hotel doesn’t feature a full-service restaurant, but more-so a casual Lobby Lounge which is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
There is also a Grab-N-Go market open from 06:00-18:00 which offers a variety of light snacks, bakery items and Starbucks Coffee.
I arrived at the hotel pretty late in the evening after a long flight from London, but I decided to freshen up and enjoy a meal in the Lobby Lounge. It was a lovely setting, the food tasted good and it was reasonably priced too.
One restaurant nearby that I’d highly recommend you visiting is the Water Grill. It is literally a minute walk from the hotel
Final Thoughts
The Westin South Coast Plaza is a great hotel located moments away from hundreds of things to do in the heart of Orange County. Rates start from around $155 a night which is actually very good for a hotel of a 4-star quality. Keep an eye on their website for special offers, including those which include gift cards to spend at South Coast Plaza.
All staff I encountered were ever so helpful and I really couldn’t fault anything with my stay – apart from two nights not being enough. I’d give the Westin South Coast Plaza an 8/10.
Psst. Until January you can take advantage of this amazing offer and receive a $100 gift card for use at South Coast Plaza!
