Just adding my thoughts for anyone else who has the same question. We have stayed at a few of the hotels in the area, and have done both park and cruise and parking at the port. Here are my thoughts.
We much prefer parking at the port for a number of reasons. First and foremost is the convenience. We can drive over at our leisure, and do not have to wait on a shuttle either going to the port or returning after the cruise. Second, whether it really is more secure or not, the garage just seems more secure. I like having my car closed off from the outside world. Yes, it can still get broken into, but the odds just seem less. Lastly, while the cost to park at the port is higher, if you look for a great discount rate at one of the hotels the numbers can often be a wash. When we sailed in May 2012 and again in Oct 2012, we were able to score great discount rates that when coupled with the port parking rate we ended up paying slightly less than the best park and cruise rate we could find.
Ok, moving on to my thoughts on hotels, well of the most recent ones we have stayed at...
Country Inn & Suites = 'meh. It was clean and comfortable, but that was about it. Nothing special and nothing more than a bed to lie in for the evening. The breakfast area was a madhouse. Honestly, not a place I would choose to stay at again.
Residence Inn = great stay! We are partial to Residence Inn, so it goes without saying for me. We love their rooms which are always comfortable and clean and roomy. The living area and kitchenette are always a plus. Their hot breakfast is still great even after all these years. The rates are a little higher than others, but you can score good discounts.
La Quinta Oceanfront = nice. This is for the oceanfront location only. While the exterior isn't all that great (not to mention exterior doorways, which I loathe), this place is actually a nice stay. You cannot beat the location right on the ocean and next to the pier. The rooms are rather nice, especially for an older hotel. And the breakfast was really good! We would definitely stay again if the price is right!
Hope this all helps someone!