I just received a coupon for a free night at a Red Lion Hotel, and we are coming to San Diego the end of June to do Sea World. I looked up their website and found 2 in S.D.-Could anyone tell me which one,if any,is better,-Red Lion Inn and Suites in South Bay, or R.L. Hanalei Hotel?? Are they both fairly close to Sea World? Thanks so much for any help, it's hard to know, living in Seattle.

I think you will be happy with Red Lion.
Although it's not around Sea world.
If you are looking for a Hotel near Sea World, I would consider Paradise Point, Mission Bay hilton Resort or Hyatt Islandia. Hanalei Hotel is in a different area where there's a great concentration of Hotels and NO views or attractions.

Stay clear of the hanalei...it's right on one of the busiest hwy's in town

The Hanalei is fine. Yes, it's on a freeway, but it's not a bad hotel. It's also on a golf course. It's not far from Sea World, not as close as the Islandia or Paradise Point, but not really much further than the Mission Bay Hilton. Because it's adjacent to I-8, you will find it very easy to get anywhere in San Diego from here. Go ahead and use your free night at the Hanalei.

Lisa,
Out of the two, I would definitely go with the Hanalei Hotel. Years ago, before it was acquired by Red Lion, my parents stayed there quite often. The location is very central, and while it's located next to the freeway, the bldgs with the rooms are at the back of the property, so freeway noise never seemed to be a problem. I think you'll enjoy your stay there.

South Bay isn't really convenient to any major area attractions.

I'd go for the Hanalei. Even though it's right off the freeway, it is a fun, Hawaiian atmosphere with a nice pool. It is also central to tons of SD attractions, Sea World is only 5 minutes away by car. South Bay is not much of an area. No attractions, many dangerous neighborhoods, pretty south of SD.

The Hanalei was also recently remodeled from top to bottom.

Hanalei, definitely. i'm a native san diegan and although I myself live in the south bay, I would not recommend it for tourists. Yes the hanalei is adjacent to a major highway, but it is much more centrally located to tourist attractions. you'll be happy with the hanalei.

I stayed at the Hanalei for 2 nights in December and then switched to the Paradise Point Resort & Spa for the rest of our stay.

Hanalei was on a busy highway - although we didn't hear any noise due to the hotel room we had being on the back side of the building - and traffic sucks in that area. The pool area was nice enough and the staff was exceedingly pleasant.

Paradise Point was absolutely wonderful!! The property was gorgeous and staff was also great. The pool areas(s) are awesome - kids will love it. Plus, it is right there near Sea World.

I hated San Diego, but if I was ever "forced" back, it would be to Paradise Point.

Enjoy your trip!

haven't stayed there but have gone to the hanalei several times for their sunday brunch. it was excellant.