Best Western Plus Northwoods Inn

This hotel serves as a practical and convenient stop for road trippers and nature enthusiasts exploring the Northern California coast and the Redwood National and State Parks, which are easily accessible. Its signature feature is its prime location near the harbor, offering picturesque views, especially from the breakfast area. Guests frequently highlight the exceptional friendliness and helpfulness of the staff, who often go above and beyond to assist. While the hotel is generally considered a good fit for families due to its amenities and location, and for pet owners with its accommodating policy, many reviews point to the rooms being outdated and in need of significant renovation. Prospective guests should consider requesting a room away from high-traffic areas or stairs to mitigate noise, and it's advisable to inquire about the operational status of the pool and hot tub upon booking.

Facilities & Amenities
Feedback on the hotel's facilities and amenities is notably mixed. The indoor pool, hot tub, and sauna are frequently mentioned, with some guests enjoying them as a welcome respite after a day of exploring. However, a significant number of reviews report these facilities as being dirty, green, having an oily film, or being out of order for extended periods, leading to considerable disappointment. The laundry facilities are available, though some guests encountered issues with machines being out of order or a lack of soap and quarters. While Wi-Fi is generally available, a few guests experienced connectivity problems. Parking is provided and often described as ample, though it can become tight during peak times. Some rooms include a Keurig coffee maker, though one guest reported it was broken.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The overall condition and comfort of the rooms receive highly varied, often critical, feedback. Many guests describe the rooms as outdated, small, cramped, and in dire need of renovation, citing issues like chipped paint, worn furniture, and dirty carpets or floors. While some reviews praise the cleanliness of the rooms, others report finding sand, hair, dust, stains on linens, or even mold in bathrooms. The beds are a frequent source of complaint, often described as uncomfortable, hard, or squeaky, with some guests noting issues like dingy sheets or the absence of fitted sheets. Noise levels are a significant concern, with many guests experiencing disturbances from thin walls, loud neighbors, street noise, a persistent foghorn, and even rattling light fixtures. Bathrooms are sometimes noted as small, with issues like loose toilets, slow drains, or a lack of hot water.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's complimentary breakfast is a prominent feature, often highlighted for its convenient location on the second story with a beautiful view of the harbor. Most guests find the breakfast variety to be good, typically including eggs, sausage, pancakes, waffles, and biscuits and gravy. The breakfast staff consistently receive high praise for their friendliness, attentiveness, and efforts to keep items stocked and guests satisfied. However, some guests express disappointment with the food quality, describing items like eggs as rubbery or powdered, coffee as weak, or pancakes as tasteless. There are also occasional reports of items running out or a lack of certain staples like milk or gravy. The hotel's on-site restaurant is noted as being closed.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently lauded as a major advantage, offering easy access to a variety of local attractions and natural wonders. Guests appreciate its proximity to the Redwoods National and State Parks, making it an ideal base for exploring the majestic forests. The hotel is also conveniently situated near the harbor, pier, and lighthouse, providing opportunities for scenic walks and dining. Many reviews highlight its direct access to Highway 101, making it a practical stop for road trips along the coast. Nearby attractions like Ocean World and Trees of Mystery are easily reachable. Parking is available on-site, with guests generally finding ample space, though it can be tight during busy periods. The location is also praised for its walkability to various restaurants and shops.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives overwhelmingly positive feedback for their exceptional customer service. Guests frequently commend the friendliness, helpfulness, and accommodating nature of the team, from the front desk to the breakfast attendants and maintenance personnel. Many reviews highlight instances where staff went above and beyond to assist with requests, resolve issues, or provide local recommendations. The check-in process is generally described as smooth, with staff often praised for their efficiency and welcoming demeanor. The breakfast staff in particular are noted for their attentiveness and dedication to ensuring a pleasant dining experience. While isolated instances of less positive interactions are mentioned, the prevailing sentiment is that the staff's commitment to providing excellent service significantly enhances the guest experience.

Additional Information
Several important details emerge from guest reviews that provide further insight into the hotel experience. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, which is appreciated by guests traveling with animals, though some note an associated pet fee. Many guests express a sentiment that the hotel is overpriced for the quality of the accommodations, especially given the dated nature of some rooms. A recurring point of feedback is the persistent noise from a nearby foghorn, which can be heard throughout the night, potentially impacting sleep for light sleepers. Some guests also reported unexpected upcharges or double billing issues. Additionally, the hotel's policy of not using fitted sheets on beds was a point of surprise and dissatisfaction for some.