Pier South Resort, Autograph Collection

I rarely write negative reviews, but this stay warrants an honest warning to other travelers. I booked Pier South Resort because it is marketed as a beachfront Marriott Autograph Collection resort. I specifically wanted a relaxing night on the beach and used 58,000 Bonvoy points expecting a premium experience. What I found instead was one of the most disappointing Marriott stays I’ve had. The first thing I noticed upon arrival was a strong sewage odor throughout the area. By morning, it became clear why: the beach was posted as closed and unsafe due to contamination. Calling a property a “beach resort” without clearly emphasizing that the beach is unusable is deeply misleading. The property itself felt neglected and under-maintained. The room was acceptable at first glance, but the overall hotel atmosphere suggested deferred upkeep rather than resort standards. The hot tub was closed, the pool area felt lifeless, and many spaces felt tired rather than welcoming. More concerning was the sense of insecurity. Elevators were unrestricted, my room had multiple exterior access points, the balcony door was unlocked on arrival, and there appeared to be non-guests lingering or camping around the property and beach area. As a solo traveler, I did not feel safe. What was supposed to be a premium coastal getaway turned into extra transportation costs so I could leave the area and spend time elsewhere. The "resort's" response was a modest partial-points gesture that did not reflect the seriousness of the experience. This property is not consistent with what travelers expect from Marriott or the Autograph Collection. Until conditions materially improve and marketing becomes more transparent, I would strongly recommend using your points or money elsewhere.

Valet was 10/10 Oliel was so sweet and extremely fast. Personable and so helpful. Extremely friendly too

Valet was great!! Oliel was great! As well as the other gentleman who helped. Front desk was also very accommodating and helpful.

As someone who travels frequently for business and stays at hotels across the country, I don’t say this lightly: the level of hospitality I experienced at Pier South Resort / Marriott in Imperial Beach was truly exceptional. From the moment I arrived, the team turned what could have been a simple inconvenience into one of the best hotel experiences I’ve had in a long time. The room I originally booked was unavailable, but instead of offering a standard apology, Gaby, Aaliyah, and Daniella went above and beyond. They upgraded me to an even better corner suite with stunning beach views and also adjusted the rate for the inconvenience. That kind of proactive service is rare. What stood out most was not just the upgrade—it was the professionalism, warmth, and genuine care they showed throughout the process. They made me feel valued as a guest, and that is something many hotels overlook today. For anyone considering a stay in the San Diego / Imperial Beach area, Pier South should be at the top of your list. Beautiful property, incredible location, and most importantly, a front desk team that understands what world-class hospitality looks like. Huge thank you to Gaby, Aaliyah, and Daniella for setting the standard. Marriott is fortunate to have a team like this representing the brand. I’ll absolutely be back, in fact whenever I visit San Diego, this will be my go-to hotel. #Marriott #PierSouthResort #ImperialBeach #Hospitality #CustomerService #Travel

I spent a couple nights at Point South, actually went home a day earlier than planned. I’ve had a hard time putting my finger on how to describe this property and finally decided this hotel feels like a Courtyard, and not at the Autograph tier in any way other than the amazing views. I paid for an oceanfront room (absolutely necessary here) and was “upgraded” to a corner suite on the second floor. My upgrade included a side view to the parking lot, constant noise all night long from the adjacent stairwell, a ceiling fan that worked when it wanted to and zero water pressure. Due to the noise I requested a move to another room that was ocean front, this time it was a Q/Q room and in better shape. Still no water pressure and a wall in the bathroom that was hacked up and dirty in the corners. The view is magnificent. Unfortunately, the water is contaminated (signs were posted not to go in the water). But the beach was slow, had a lot of space and was good for walking. I was a solo traveler and felt safe on the beach and in the area (during the day). Overall, a very tired Marriott property that doesn’t meet up to expectations of being in the Autograph tier. Had I booked a Courtyard or Fairfield, my expectations would have been met.

From the moment we pulled up to the front door in a vehicle The concierge was smiling positive and willing to help in any anywhere needed Kassandra and Emily greeted me at the front desk with smiles, laughter, and courtesy. Willing to make sure the stay would be unforgettable All the staff were all very positive and the scenery from the room and the hotel is breathless. Something that cannot be bought. It will be the first place on my list when returning

The new girl at the front desk was very nice but not her manager, not accommodating at all.

I drove over 2 hours and could not check in until after 5pm and there is a guaranteed check in at 4pm. I paid extra to have a room with a view so I could hear the breeze however, my room faced the basketball courts so we could not leave the door open to catch the breeze which is why we drove out there. They would only grant a one hour late checkout even though they made us check in late. Not a happy camper.

We really enjoyed staying at this hotel. While it is a bit older, we did not miss anything. Clean, comfortable suite, amazing location, fantastic old CA vibe of Imperial Beach, our favorite brewery next door (Mike Hess) and ocean view from the balcony. What’s not to like? We will be back!

The spaces are a bit older and could use a bit of sprucing up, but it was really not a big deal to us