DH and I stayed here in 2004 and found it to be very decent for the price!
My family also just stayed there in April 2006 when they came to visit us in SoCal. The location certainly can't be beat, and I have to say that I was pretty impressed with their continental breakfast offerings. (Much better than at other hotels.)
My parents had some problems with the management over some small issues, like the fact that their room did not have a phone and it took a looong time to get someone to bring them one that worked!
But once those little issues were resolved, they were happy with their stay.
The only thing I must say that bugs me is that the pool is ALWAYS closed at this hotel. It claims to be "seasonal", but even during the incredibly hot weather while my family was there, the pool was closed.
But if you are okay without the pool, then you will be fine!
And yes it is still very near the entrance. You can't get much closer, it's a great locale!