We didn't stay there but we did drive past it this summer. The new section looked very nice, in fact we are thinking of staying there next summer. It is a short drive to Mission Beach with plenty of public parking available (at least there was during the week in August - not so sure if that is the case on the weekends). The new bayview rooms and suites are very roomy and the new section has a pool as well. I am sure that you would be able to watch the fireworks from Sea World from the bay beach. I would stay there, the location is good for many places in San Diego.