The feedback I received from my last post on this same topic was very helpful, but there were no specific hotel recommendations. It was recommended that we stay in downtown SD because it is a short taxi ride to Balboa Park, and we plan to go to the Old Globe.

We are senior citizens who would like a reasonably priced, pleasant hotel that is convenient to the major attractions and located in an area with restaurants and cafes. If someone has stayed at a place that they really liked, I'd like to hear about it.

The Marriot that Happy Traveler mentioned on the Waterfront in the Gaslamp/downtown area is nice. If you have some thoughts and exact names after weeding through what is offered that appeals to you, I can check out the hotel you might be interested in, DH works downtown so i'm there often especially the Little Italy area of downtown. I think most of the big name hotels are nice it would be a matter of location.

I hope some Fodorites who visit here in San Diego can have specific names of places they've stayed at.

In order of preference - we have stayed at and had great stays at:

Omni
Kimpton Salomar
Courtyard [right next to Petco Field and the Omni].

Not sure of prices...

We liked the Residence Inn Downtown on Pacific Highway. They have an airport shuttle and will shuttle you to Balboa Park/Old Globe Theatre (or anywhere else within a few miles of the hotel) whenever the courtesy car is available. (I think the shuttle is only one-way to Balboa Park so you'd have to taxi back...or the trolley stop is right across from the hotel, 2 blocks.) There are restaurants in the surrounding few block, markets etc and the hotel includes buffet breakfast. Rooms have a kitchenette and there is a tiny convenience store onsite for snacks etc.

An easy walk to the Bayfront/pier, The SS Midway, and to the Coronado Ferry if you wish to go to the island. We liked the Fish Market restaurant right on the bay, it's about 1/4 mile from the hotel. Hotel staff very helpful with instructions for trolley etc to get around town.
Senior rate is $185 or sometimes you can find a lower rate on booking.com Parking is $15 which is less than what many downtown hotels charge.

Hi Grandot
I just stayed at the Marriott Marquis in San Diego last week....it is on
the water and has a nice resort feel...it's size is a little overwhelming but
the staff are very friendly. If you can get a balcony overlooking the water
for a good price I would highly recommend the hotel. The view is spectacular
the higher you go....and I loved the Fish Market restaurant down the street also.
Have fun....I can't wait to go back!
Auty1