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Spectacular ocean views, a centralized location and gorgeous cottages leave little to be desired at the Crystal Pier Hotel in Pacific Beach.

The cottages offer a quaint, old-fashioned charm and are typically booked well in advance. Winter visitors should expect to reserve a cottage at least four months in advance. Summer guests should plan to make a reservation approximately eight months ahead of time. If you get lucky, you may be able to catch a cancellation if you call to book a cottage in the morning. Usually, the hotel requires at least a 2-night minimum stay, but you can often bypass this regulation if you're able to reserve a room the day of your arrival.

Once you arrive, expect to fall in love. Each room offers a kitchenette complete with a microwave and refrigerator; a spacious living room, and a private deck overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Pacific Beach boardwalk. The petite cottages fit nicely on the pier, enabling you to rest just seconds away from the beach.

At night, you can relax on your private patio and relish the gorgeous sunset. If you're lucky enough, you may even get to see a dolphin or two swim past. If you grow bored of the pier, there are plenty of other things to see and do within walking and driving distance of the cottages. The Pacific Beach dining and nightlife scenes are continuously up and coming. For a nice dinner and soothing cocktail, check out Firehouse, JRDN, Johnny V, and Bar West - just to name a few.

The Crystal Pier Hotel, while relatively pricey (visitors can expect to pay upwards of $200-300/night), offers a romantic and charming environment for couples who simply want to get away from it all for a few days.