Hyatt The Pike - Long Beach, CA

The hotel is located on “The Pike”, the old amusement center in Long Beach formed in 1902.   It eventually turned into a small amusement park, with food stands, shops, arcade, carousel, and most famously the Cyclone Racer roller coaster.

After “The Pike’s” demise in 1979, the property has transitioned into an outdoor mall of sorts, with several shops, many restaurants and several hotels, including Hyatt The Pike.  Unfortunately, the venture has not been as successful as had been planned as there are still several vacant storefronts and restaurant spaces available for lease.

yatthhhhhhdfhdskafhfadkhadfshhHyatt took over the Avia chain, and has converted this into a boutique type hotel, somewhat akin to the Andaz brand.  I did not stay at this property when it was Avia, so I do not know what, if any, changes have been made since Hyatt took over.

There is no valet parking, but there is a parking structure only steps away from the hotel.

As you enter the hotel, lighting is somewhat dim very much like an Andaz hotel.  There is a bar/lounge to the right, with many seating areas throughout the lobby.

As I approached the front desk, there were no employees to be found.  I could hear conversation somewhere in the back, but until we got the attention of an employee we could have been standing there for hours apparently.  There was no apology.

Check-in was quick, but no amenities of the hotel were provided such as breakfast hours, if points, or food and beverage were wanted as the amenity.  I was asked if I had parked in the structure, and was given an overnight pass which allows for in and out privileges.  I was also asked if I wanted a late check-out.

The impression I got from the front desk experience, was not good, and that this was likely to be a poor stay.  The front desk agent did not smile, was not friendly, and somewhat surly and probably perturbed that her social hour had been interrupted.

Hallway

I was upgraded to a Master Suite, which is a larger room with the TV and part of the wall separating the living room from the bed.  I did appreciate having a larger space, but this is not a true suite.

Room 624

As you enter the room there is a mirror hung on the wall with a little shelf, which is perfect to place your keys, wallet, etc.  There is also an outlet directly under the shelf so you could also use this space to charge your cell phone.

There is a small stand on the opposite side of the mirror which can also be used to place keys, wallet, purses, etc.

The living room is to the left and includes a large L-shaped couch which is comfortable when watching TV.  It is very convenient that the TV swivels, so one can watch TV while in bed, on the couch or even while seated at the desk.

Living Room

There is also a long desk with ample working space, and most importantly a conveniently located outlet to charge 3 devices.  Although I appreciate the big work area, the space between the desk and the back of the sofa is very small so there is not much room to maneuver if sitting in the desk chair.

Desk

There is a small mini-bar containing cold drinks on one side, with snacks and alcohol on the other.  Unfortunately, no drinks or snacks are complimentary.  Interestingly enough, there is an alarm built into the mini fridge that automatically charges outlet to charge 3 devices.  There is a small mini-bar containing cold drinks on one side, with snacks and alcohol on the other.  Unfortunately, no drinks or snacks are complimentary.  Interestingly enough, there is an alarm built into the mini fridge that automatically charges your room just for moving any item within the fridge.  There is a small shelf to store personal drinks, such as water, soda or beer, but if you happen to have a cup with a lid and mistakenly move one of the drinks unknowingly like I did then be prepared to potentially pay for that.  After reading the warning signs, I called the front desk to let them know that a drink had been moved but not consumed and was not charged.

Mini Bar

Mini Bar

I think this policy has good intentions, but fails in practicality.  Many people bring or buy drinks when staying at a hotel, and simply remove any items for purchase during their stay, then put them back before leaving.

Bedroom

The bed is very soft and comfortable, while the linen has a semi-silk like feeling.  It is very soft, somewhat slippery and stays mostly cool throughout the night.  There is a night stand on each side of the bed with 3 outlets conveniently located on each side.

Bed

The bathroom is very large, although the tile design can be somewhat mesmerizing because of its pattern.

Bathroom

The sink has ample counter space.

Sink & Toilet

The shower does not have an enclosed door, but does provide a choice between a waterfall shower head, or a conventional one.  Water pressure is very good and there was no variance in temperature.

Shower

Shower

Hyatt Diamond members can take breakfast either in the restaurant or through room service.  You are entitled to an odd amount of $24.55 per registered guest at breakfast.

The Short Rib Chilaquiles is a large dish of fried corn tortillas, a tangy spicy green tomatillo sauce, topped with 2 eggs of your choice, sour cream and queso fresco.  The dish is served in a deep casserole dish and is probably large enough for two, and is a classic hangover food.

Short Rib Chilaquiles

The Cinnamon French Toast is topped with apples.  Although requested extra soggy, most restaurants will not comply with this request, the Hyatt was like most others and failed to deliver.  The French Toast was very tasty and the custard was very prominent in some bites.

French Toast

The Black Forest Ham and Cheese Omelet is served with seasoned potatoes, onions and peppers.  The omelet is loaded with cheese, almost too much if that’s possible.  The omelet is cooked well, still soft and creamy on the inside with a touch of texture on the outside.

Omelet

The Pancakes can be served with or without different types of fruit.  The pancakes were light and fluffy for the most part, but just a tad underdone in the middle.

Pancakes

Overall, Hyatt The Pike is a great property that is conveniently located to many restaurants within walking distance.  There were some service issues that could be improved.  The hotel very much reminds me of a “lighter” version of the Andaz brand.  Although the hotel’s website states that parking is $17/per day, the hotel is only charging $7/day.  A great deal for parking in the area.