Post #177329 by tikiwinebear on Thu, Aug 4, 2005 11:47 AM

Great pictures and posting, Tangaroa!!!
I used to work at Humphrey's/Half Moon Inn back in the late 80's. They have keep it in darn good condition, considering how old it really is. That hotel has always been special to me due to the decor and aloha spirit it has. It is unfortunate that they had to erect a fence around the pool area, due to security and safety for kids. The grounds used to feel really open with a lush grassy area, and the tikis were all over and in the open, so you could easily see them. Inside the lobby was always cool too. The inside ceiling kept the same shape as you saw from the outside (porte cochere) and actually had a material much like thatching. I remember when they installed the slate flooring, replacing the carpeting.. it really assisted in the organic feel of the place. There was a lava rock fountain in the corner, supporting a bird cage with a live parrot. The owner, Bartell Hotels, have kept a lot of the old charm going, and have added even more tikis as I can see in the pictures.

The prices for the rooms have always been a little high, but when you have such views (marina on one side, and San Diego Bay and skyline on the other), along with a great restaurant and concert area, I rarely heard grumblings from the hotel guests. Besides, its across the "round about" from the Bali Hai!!! When I need a San Diego fix, I always stay at H/HMI, and I don't even get a discount anymore!