Nice bed but otherwise a drab hotel with views...
My wife and I stayed at this Hilton for two nights earlier this month. The plan was to stay for four nights, but the blah and drab atmosphere turned us off, and we switched to the Manchester Grand Hyatt. We were glad we did, and I'll write another review shortly on that hotel.
As for this Hilton, I picked it due to the superb pictures of the skyline and bay views from the balconies shown on other reviews. The views are as advertised, however prepare for lots of noise coming from the bay in the form of boats and helicopters, etc. During the day, this is not a quiet location due to all the activities from the military base across the bay and powerboats on it. Can't comment on the other side overlooking the boat harbor, but that's the side where the airport is, and I can't imagine no airport noise would be heard.
We also heard noise from a very loud ice machine that had a low vibrating buzz that could not be blocked. Also, the room doors are on springs that cause them to slam hard. This is an annoyance as well as danger, and I accidently lost my grip on the door while entering the room one night which caused the door to swing hard into my wife who got a slight shoulder bruise! I can't fathom why designers of hotels in the 1970's (or whenever this was built) would have installed such difficult and noisy room doors.
The facility is very dull and drab, including a small dated lobby. The best thing I can say for this place is that the bed is quite comfy, and I slept well both nights here. Of course, I use earplugs, which are a must at this location. Also, the wireless internet worked quite well and is included in the room rate. However, breakfast was not included.
In sum, unless you are flying out of San Diego and need a nearby hotel, other hotels in downtown or elsewhere in San Diego would be a better experience with more ambience than this Hilton, nice views notwithstanding. You'll be able to sleep here, but won't enjoy it that much.