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You don't have to stand long in the lobby of the Hyatt Regency La Jolla to realize this hotel mainly serves a business clientele.



Everything in the no-nonsense lobby has its proper place, and the atmosphere feels cool and efficient. Sprinkled with marble, dark woods and large windows, the decor is attractive. But no one seems to be enjoying the beauty. This is not a place for leisurely reflection, but rather a place for getting important things done.



The Hyatt's feeling of efficiency extends to the Palm Courtyard, which consists of a circle of palm trees set in gray concrete. The rectangular junior Olympic pool is divided for swimming laps. An extensive business center offers many services and numerous meeting rooms. The facilities include the glass-enclosed Barcino Pavilion, which hosts conferences, receptions and special events. Though pleasant, the guest rooms lack the special signature touches that serve as the marks of a luxury hotel.



The Hyatt, located off of the Interstate 5 freeway that leads into San Diego, is not a part of the charming downtown La Jolla Village area. However, it is a staple in the popular Aventine complex -- which offers a variety of amenities to hotel guests. Four restaurants share a courtyard with the hotel. Cafe Japengo features sushi and Pacific Rim cuisine, Ristorante Pasquale serves northern Italian cuisine, Palomino's is a "Euro-Bistro" and Flemings is a steakhouse and wine bar. All four restaurants attract a trendy crowd and are considered "places to be seen" in La Jolla.



For an additional fee, guests can utilize the Sporting Club at Aventine, a 32,000-square-foot fitness facility. Featuring modern equipment in a sleek, tri-level design, the club has almost 100 cardiovascular machines on raised balconies overlooking state-of-the-art strength training equipment. Yoga, tennis, volleyball, basketball and spa services also are available.

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