The Empress Hotel offers spacious quarters with traditional furnishings a block or two from La Jolla's main drag and the ocean. It's quieter here than at the premium cliff-top properties, and you'll sacrifice little other than direct ocean views (many rooms on the top floors afford a partial view). If you're planning to explore La Jolla on foot, the Empress is a good base, and it exudes a classiness many comparably priced chains lack, with warm service to boot. Rooms are tastefully decorated and well equipped. Bathrooms are average size but well appointed, and four \"Empress\" rooms have sitting areas with full-size sleeper sofas. Breakfast is set up next to a serene sun deck.