A European influence and French countryside ambience is apparent upon entering the Ayres Hotel & Suites in Costa Mesa. However, it’s a casual French countryside and does not give off a “do not touch” vibe. Families and kids will definitely feel welcome at this family-owned and operated boutique hotel.

Opened in the 1980s, this Costa Mesa property is the first hotel the Ayres family built from the ground up. Two towers house the hotel and natural wood decor can be found throughout. Each tower offers an outdoor pool and spacious guestrooms and suites, with free Wi-Fi and plenty of space for families.

The onsite restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and families will definitely want to enjoy meals outside in the pretty garden courtyard. After dinner, be sure to stop by the lobby, where the kids can pick up a few of the hotel’s freshly baked cookies — warm from the oven, of course!

Located only minutes from Newport Beach, the John Wayne Airport and about 30 minutes from Disneyland, the Ayres Hotel & Suites in Costa Mesa is a great choice for families visiting the area.

The 284 guestrooms and suites are situated in two towers of this hotel and feature an Old World, European decor. You are likely to have the best sleep ever on one of Ayres own uniquely designed mattresses, and the Ayres Celestial Sleeper mattresses are for sale. Cribs and rollaway beds are available upon request. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.

Guestrooms

The guestrooms feature one king or two queen beds with outlets by the bed, a flat-screen television, a mini-fridge and a coffeemaker. The bathroom features a shower/tub combination.

Suites

The spacious suites feature one king or two queen beds with outlets by the beds and a flat-screen television in the bedroom area. In a separate living room area, families will find a microwave, mini-fridge, coffeemaker and sink in the wet bar, a second flat-screen television and a sleeper sofa. The bathroom features a shower/tub combination.

Outdoor Pools

An outdoor, heated courtyard pool can be found at each tower of the hotel. The kids will love swimming and splashing in the medium-size pool, while the adults relax on one of the many surrounding lounge chairs. There are also cabanas lining the perimeter of the pool, offering bench seating and plenty of shade. The pools are open from 8:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. and pool towels are provided. Restrooms are located nearby as well.

Bicycles

Check with the front desk about renting a bicycle from the hotel. Then the family can pedal around Costa Mesa and explore.

Le Chateau Garden Bistro

Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, this full-service restaurant features indoor seating and outdoor seating in a pretty garden courtyard with a center fountain. Sandwiches, salads, build-your-own burgers, pasta, fish tacos and four-hour oven roasted pot roast are a few of the menu items. Be sure to try the famously delicious Monte Cristo sandwich, too -- it's been voted best in Orange County.

There is no dedicated children's menu, but little taste buds can easily be accommodated. The restaurant is open from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

All About the Extras

Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.

Parking
Complimentary self-parking is available in a lot.

Fitness Center
The fitness center features cardio machines and free weights. Gym towels and water are provided.

Laundry
Coin-operated laundry facilities are available to guests.

Free Shuttle
The hotel's free shuttle service will take families to the John Wayne Airport or anywhere within a 3-mile radius of the hotel.

The Best Time to Visit

The summer months, from about June through the middle of August, are the busiest at this hotel. Spring break and school holidays are also busy here.

Getting There

The John Wayne Airport is situated five minutes away from this hotel. Los Angeles International Airport is about 45 minutes away. Disneyland is about 25 minutes away from this hotel and Knott's Berry Farm is about 30 minutes away.

Getting Around

While a vehicle is needed to see much of the area, families can also use the free shuttle, which transports guests anywhere within a 3-mile radius.

For Mom and Dad

Bar
A bar is located within Le Chateau and is a great place for adults to enjoy a cocktail.