After a year-long property-wide renovation, Ocean Park Inn is ready to welcome guests back to the heart of Pacific Beach. The family-owned and operated hotel, celebrating 30 years at its iconic boardwalk location, has unveiled a refreshed exterior, an updated pool deck, and a stylish lounge area. The renovations reflect a seamless blend of mid-century design with a relaxed beach vibe, offering visitors a contemporary yet timeless coastal retreat.
A History of Hospitality
The Lai family has been a cornerstone of Pacific Beach hospitality since 1967, introducing the Ocean Park Inn brand and its current location in 1991. Known for providing impeccable service and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, the hotel has long been cherished by both locals and travelers seeking a boutique beachfront experience.
The reopening after extensive renovations promises to maintain the same high standard of service while infusing the property with a youthful energy inspired by the vibrant Pacific Beach community. Elvin Lai, CEO and President, expressed excitement about welcoming guests back. He emphasized that the enhancements combine the hotel’s reputation for excellence with contemporary design that celebrates the coastal surroundings.
A Refreshed Exterior and Pool Deck

The building exterior has been thoughtfully updated to mirror the interior transformations, capturing a modern interpretation of the property’s mid-century beach aesthetic. Clean lines, soft textures, and a cohesive color palette create a fresh, inviting façade that complements the iconic boardwalk setting.
The newly transformed pool deck showcases an abstract mid-century pattern crafted from recycled rubber, offering durability and sustainability while maintaining visual appeal. Crisp white sun loungers accented with teak create a refined, polished look that encourages relaxation and socializing. The pool area has been designed as both a sanctuary for serene mornings and a lively gathering space for afternoon enjoyment.
Interior Enhancements with a Local Touch
Los Angeles-based bespoke interior architectural design firm Clear on Black has been instrumental in bringing the new interior vision to life. The enhancements honor the property’s history while introducing modern comforts and stylish details. Every corner of the hotel has been curated to reflect a mid-century meets beach aesthetic, with attention to materials, finishes, and furnishings that celebrate both the past and present.
Phase three of the renovations, slated for a May 2021 unveiling, will introduce a series of curated artistic installations. Local artist Randall Engstrom of Randall’s Sandals will contribute a signature art installation, while Brett Olson of Wave Surface will create ocean-inspired tabletops. A walking tour of Pacific Beach photographed by John Cocozza will further connect guests to the surrounding community. These enhancements promise to enrich the guest experience with cultural depth and local charm.
Looking Forward to the Final Phase
The final phase of the renovation, scheduled for 2022, will feature a guest-only surf and tiki-inspired cocktail pool bar. This long-awaited addition will further enhance the Ocean Park Inn experience, offering a sophisticated yet playful space for guests to unwind and enjoy signature beverages. With each phase, the property carefully balances elegance, comfort, and a sense of community, ensuring a distinctive and memorable stay for every visitor.
A Community-Centric Brand Refresh

In addition to physical renovations, Ocean Park Inn has introduced a new brand aesthetic and website to better reflect its identity and the surrounding Pacific Beach culture. The refreshed digital presence highlights the hotel’s mid-century tiki theme and emphasizes the property’s connection to the local environment. This modernized approach ensures that guests can engage with the hotel easily and discover the many experiences available on-site and in the surrounding neighborhood.
The hotel’s commitment to community extends beyond design, with local artists, photographers, and artisans contributing to its visual and cultural identity. These collaborations create a sense of place that resonates with guests seeking authentic experiences that are uniquely tied to Pacific Beach.
Health and Safety Measures
Ocean Park Inn remains attentive to the evolving needs of travelers, implementing enhanced health and safety measures throughout the property. Guests can enjoy peace of mind knowing that cleanliness and safety remain a priority while experiencing the hotel’s stylish new spaces. From contactless check-in to rigorous sanitation protocols, every detail has been considered to provide a secure and comfortable stay.
The Ultimate Coastal Retreat
With its ideal location on the Pacific Beach boardwalk, Ocean Park Inn offers direct access to sandy shores, coastal dining, and vibrant local attractions. The newly renovated hotel now provides a sophisticated environment for both relaxation and adventure, whether guests are seeking a tranquil retreat or an energetic beachside escape.
The blend of mid-century design, modern amenities, and community-inspired details ensures that Ocean Park Inn remains a destination in its own right. Visitors can enjoy thoughtfully curated spaces, elevated hospitality, and unparalleled proximity to the Pacific coastline, creating an experience that balances luxury, comfort, and casual beachside charm.
Embracing the Past and the Future

The renovations celebrate 30 years of hospitality while looking toward the future. Ocean Park Inn’s thoughtful updates honor its history while embracing contemporary trends and guest expectations. The property reflects an enduring commitment to style, comfort, and quality, ensuring that it continues to stand as a landmark in Pacific Beach for decades to come.
From the vibrant pool deck to the artful interiors and forthcoming tiki-inspired bar, every enhancement has been designed with intention. Guests can anticipate an elevated stay that combines coastal elegance with playful sophistication, making every visit feel both luxurious and approachable.
Plan Your Stay
Whether visiting for a weekend escape, a longer retreat, or a special celebration, Ocean Park Inn offers an immersive beachfront experience enhanced by its new renovations. From thoughtfully designed interiors and outdoor spaces to curated artistic installations and attentive service, every detail is crafted to delight.
For additional information about rooms, services, amenities, and health and safety measures, visitors can explore the hotel’s updated website at oceanparkinn.com. The refreshed online presence allows guests to plan their stay, discover the property’s unique offerings, and anticipate the unparalleled charm of Pacific Beach.




