From the outside, this Hampton Inn hotel deviates little from the generic look of the chain, housed in a bland building set in immaculately tidy grounds. Inside, however, plenty of effort has been made to give the lobby space a bit of character, with plush couches and antique-style furniture pieces displayed on a mixture of natural wood, ceramic tile, and paisley-patterned carpeting, with a bit of stone-like cladding thrown into the mix. The overall effect feels unpretentious and homey, and a centerpiece fish tank and freshly cut flowers complete the cozy ambience. 

The hotel is located just off a busy interchange where the Cabrillo Freeway meets Clairemont Mesa Boulevard in San Diego's Kearny Mesa district. The surrounding area is mostly industrial and commercial, with plenty of local businesses, restaurants, and supermarkets within walking distance, though nothing in the way of tourist attractions nearby. Downtown San Diego and the airport are around 15 minutes away by car, while the popular Mission Beach district is a 20-minute drive. The hotel is well-positioned for getting to the Marine Corp Air Station (MCAS) Miramar, which takes just five minutes by road. 

The hotel has 147 rooms, all traditionally decorated with antique-style wooden furnishings, plush cozy seating, and carpeted floors. The chain's signature Hampton beds are particularly comfortable, while the lap-desks are an unusual but convenient touch. Each room has a 42-inch flat-screen TV as well as dedicated bedside charge points for phones and tablets. Bathrooms have marble-topped counters and shower/tub combos and include hairdryers and Neutrogena bath products. Despite the proximity to the freeway, there's little problem with external noise; however in-room air conditioning units can be loud.  

A buffet breakfast is served free of charge each morning and includes eggs, sausages, and waffles -- take-out breakfast bags are also available for guests in a hurry. An outdoor kidney-shaped swimming pool is set in a pleasant terrace area with lounge chairs and tables, while inside a spacious and modern fitness room is available 24 hours a day. Self-service laundry facilities can also be found on-site and parking is free of charge. Wi-Fi is free but reportedly slow; guests wanting faster speeds must pay extra.