Fodor's Expert Review Fashion Island Hotel

Editor's Note: This property is currently undergoing renovations.

Across a palm tree-lined boulevard from stylish Fashion Island, this 20-story tower caters to business types during the week and leisure travelers on weekends. Guest rooms have private balconies (usually with outstanding views of the Newport Harbor and the ocean beyond), marble bathrooms, and original art. You might feel like you're in Hawaii while relaxing on a lounge chair or taking a dip in the heated pool and bubbling hot whirlpool. The tropical setting carries over to the Oak Grill, serving contemporary California cuisine on an extensive outdoor terrace among towering trees and hanging lights. Off the lobby, the Aqua Lounge is popular on the weekends, thanks to its tempting mixologist-made cocktails, atmosphere lighting, and pulsating music.