Hotel Haven - Moxy San Diego

Cool and clever Moxy San Diego

During a five day trip to San Diego this month, I decided to use points for part of the trip for a two night stay in the heart of downtown at Moxy San Diego. This was my first stay at a Moxy hotel, the innovative brand from the Marriott chain that combines style, fun and function at a decent price (in this case free, but a great use of points)

I really enjoyed the community atmosphere, the stylish colorful lobby and compact but functional and well-designed rooms. The hotel was welcoming and unique, and has a cool but also laid back vibe. You efficiently check in at the bar area and are offered a welcome cocktail in the form of a poker chip (which can be turned in for a drink at any point during your stay) The bar has plenty of seating that surrounds it, to encourage guests to enjoy time out of their rooms and to strike up conversations with others. I had several over the course of the few times I sat to relax and enjoy some wine, tacos, and my free cocktail (which was refreshing and light) 

Eye catching design at the Moxy 

Different evenings feature unique food specials, themes and entertainment. They include $2 Taco Tuesdays, and Live Music Thursdays. The full list is highlighted at the hotel. The lobby also has beautiful seating areas (especially upstairs where you can even play chess!), casual board games, jenga and a couple of old school video games (Pac Man/Space Invaders) Look out for some cool quotations in the area too. While somewhat aimed at a millennial crowd, all are welcome who enjoy a social atmosphere. During my stay I saw guests of all ages staying and/or playing there.

Chess and Chill at Moxy

The Moxy is very well located in downtown San Diego on Sixth Street. Set in the historic Gaslamp quarter, there is an excellent variety of restaurants of all kinds, attractions and fun bars within walking distance (not to mention amazing architecture). There is even an arcade/cocktail bar called Coin-Op game room just a 2 minute walk away (which I enjoyed playing pinball at!)

For coffee lovers, there are a couple of great choices within a few minutes’ walk. Check out the cute Coffee and Talk, and/or locally roasted James Coffee where you can pick up a java on the go (inside Biga restaurant) You can also get free coffee at the Moxy in the Grab & Go area (which also sells other drinks and snacks) 

This is a hotel you can really feel at ease staying at. The rooms are cozy and well-appointed with 42" TV's, comfortable beds and nice bathrooms. They are not as traditional with storage options as they do not have closets. To assist with the lack of a dresser, a long row of hooks helps with the function aspect. Rooms are a bit quirky, with touches like rotary phones and feel a little bit like a cargo ship container -  cool design for sure. There are some colorful touches as well. If you feel like you need more space, it helps that the lobby and play areas are so bright, spacious and unique while still being comfortable and offering lots to do, or just a change of scenery from your room.

Cozy but cool room at the Moxy

My first stay at a Moxy hotel was a hit, great location and service, and a unique and memorable vibe. I look forward to checking out another location soon!