Hotel Silver Surf (San Simeon, USA)

Simple lodging in great proximity to Hearst Castle, Cambria, the Elephant Seal Rookery, San Simeon State Park and Moonstone Beach. There's a small pool and hot tub, lovely terrace ocean views and a courtyard with occasional hummingbirds. The beach is very nearby with umbrellas and chairs available. Some reported being served a basic on-site free breakfast; others claimed nothing was served. Still more opted to eat out regardless, as Big Sur Cafe is just adjacent and reception offers discount coupons. Try their highly recommended crusted French Toast, spinach omelets, fresh fruit or hash browns. El Chorlito is also within walking distance and has excellent reviews.

Spacious, comfortable rooms offer lovely patios/balconies, decent showers, good beds and cozy linens. Convenient in-room refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers are available. Some reported wonderful Wi-Fi connectivity; others stated it didn't work at all and neither did their cell phones. Big Sur Cafe next door offers free Wi-Fi if needed.

Most reported staff was helpful and friendly, providing a fan for warm guests and helping out with suggestions on area attractions or dining when requested.

There is no air conditioning, but it usually cools off well at night. However, some reported being uncomfortably warm.

Some reported their rooms smelled badly. Others showed photos of multiple bites on their skin, from which they claimed were bed bugs in this motel. The hot tub and pool were full of yellow foam, brown water or had dirty rings around the edges. Many items are in need of maintenance throughout the premises. Thin walls allow noise and cigarette smoke to be detected in adjacent rooms. There is no air conditioning, but it usually cools off well at night. However, some reported being uncomfortably warm.

Some overheard the manager offering a room for over three times the rate they paid the night before.