Ok--am I trying for something that just doesn't exist? I'm going to SAN in July. I would like to stay on Harbor Island because I figure my family and I can walk to places, instead of driving everywhere. I've looked at the Sheraton, (found price on quickbook for 169/night) and the HIlton (same price)...are these the types of prices I can expect? Or is there another type hotel my family of three can stay ? I've looked at TONS of websites and quickbook seems to be the best for hotel prices. Anyone have recommendations? Thanks in advance.

where did you get the idea that you can "walk to places" from harbor island? the only place worth walking from there is around harbor island!

Okay, they're not on Harbor Island, but the Westin Horton Plaza and Manchester Grand Hyatt (both 4* Priceline, as is the Sheraton on Harbor Island) come up on Priceline for under $100/night (in one case, as little as $70/night, as reported on BiddingForTravel.com). The Sheraton also came up occasionally for under $100/night.

If you've really got your heart set on Harbor Island, don't consider Priceline. If you're willing to be flexible to save some money, Priceline could probably get you in the Sheraton or an equivalent hotel for a lot less than Quikbook.

Usual disclaimers--no vested interest in Priceline or BiddingForTravel, no guarantee you'll match previous winning bids on Priceline (but you might even do better), no ability to pick a specific hotel (just a Priceline zone and star level), yadda, yadda...

Calli: I strongly suggest that you rent a car while in San Diego. I grew up there, and visited family a few weekends ago. I can borrow my dad's car to run around. San Diego is not a walkable city at all even if you stay in the downtown tourist area. You should really rent a car for the time you're there.

Yes,we are renting a car. I thought if I stayed on Harbor Island I could at least walk someplace--rather than no palce. Downtown on a weekend isn't where I want to be. Wish I could afford the Bahia...what about Dana Point? Is that OK?

Guess I should open up my pocket book and spend more $$ than 129/night, aye?

Calli, why don't you want to be downtown on a weekend?