The hype
Guests love the tropical grounds and pool area but consistently note the rooms feel tired and worn.
Humphrey's Half Moon Inn
$150-250/ night
Book this if You want a tropical 'Hawaii-lite' escape with a killer on-site concert venue and marina views.
Why People Love It
- Lush, jungle-like grounds that feel like a Polynesian hideaway
- Direct access to Humphrey's Concerts by the Bay (watch from your balcony if lucky)
- Walkable waterfront path along Shelter Island
Quick Take: A charmingly dated tiki time capsule where the concert lineup matters more than the threadbare carpets.
Reviewed by @wine.and.dine.with.irene: We booked this for our anniversary and NYE, and it was magic. The suite had a killer view of the marina, and the food was honestly some of the best we've had. It’s rare to find a spot that feels this fancy but is still so fun for our boys.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'Garden View' often means 'Palm Tree & Bird Poop View' with little privacy on ground floors.
- You have tickets to a show at Humphrey's Concerts by the Bay
- You love a retro, kitschy tiki vibe over modern minimalism
- You want a resort feel without the mega-resort price tag
Cleanliness & Maintenance
7.8
- Housekeeping: Hit or miss. Some guests report missed days or having to request service multiple times.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally clean surfaces, but expect older grout, chipped tubs, and low water pressure.
- Maintenance: The property is showing its age. Peeling paint and worn carpets are common complaints.
- Linens & towels: Functional but not luxurious. Towels can feel a bit scratchy and thin.
- Odors & scents: Older rooms often have a lingering musty or damp smell due to the marina location.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Live concert audio (May-Oct)
- Navy jets from nearby NAS North Island
- Loud in-room air conditioning units
Before you book
Good to know
- Resort fee is ~$20/night and includes bike rentals and spotty wifi
- Parking is $25/night for self-parking
- There are no elevators to second-floor rooms — pack light or ask for ground floor
What to pack
- Earplugs (for the jets and concerts)
- Sandals (for the pool and walking to Bali Hai)
- A mobile hotspot (if you absolutely need internet)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Upper-level Marina View rooms (vaulted ceilings, quieter, better views)
- Suites (significantly more spacious, good for families)
Rooms to avoid
- Ground floor Poolside rooms (zero privacy, noise from pool bar)
- Rooms directly facing the concert venue (unless you want the free show and noise)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love to request an upper-level room with a Marina View to avoid foot traffic noise. If possible, please avoid the ground floor units near the pool.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, the large outdoor pool is heated and open year-round.
Can I see the concerts from my room?
Only specific Marina/Bay view rooms have a direct line of sight, and they book up fast. Most others just get the audio.
Is breakfast included?
No, breakfast is à la carte at Humphrey's SoCAL Dining, though some packages include it.
How far is the beach?
There is no swimming beach on property (it's a marina). Ocean Beach is about a 10-15 minute drive.
Is it walkable to downtown?
No, Shelter Island is isolated. You need a car or Uber to get to Gaslamp or Old Town (approx. 15-20 mins).
Are there fridges in the rooms?
Yes, all rooms have microwaves and mini-fridges.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Walk 5 minutes to Bali Hai for their famous (and lethal) Mai Tais — stronger than anything at the hotel bar.
- ✨
The 'Half Moon Pass' includes 1-hour bike rentals; use them to ride the flat, scenic path along Shelter Island.
- ✨
If you don't have concert tickets, you can often rent a kayak or dinghy to listen from the water in the marina.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'tropical' birds on property are beautiful but loud at sunrise.
💡The carpet in hallways and some rooms feels decades old and can smell musty.
💡Housekeeping can be inconsistent; some guests report having to beg for fresh towels.
💡The in-room safes are tiny (often too small for a 15-inch laptop).
💡You might spot famous musicians hanging out at the Backstage Live lounge after their set.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Humphrey's Half Moon Inn is located and what's nearby.