Ok, here's the scoop, have never been to San Diego, want to stay on or within walking distance to the beach. Want to spend around $100-$150 or so per night. We want to go to the San Diego Zoo properties (we wil have a rental car), walk the beaches, shopping, etc. We will have 3 days to do this stuff. Which region should we stay in??(Near Balboa Park?) There are so many... Could I please get some recommendations from people, on places that they've stayed in the San Diego area??? I don't need plush, but like convenience and cleanliness. I would highly appreciate this. Thanks

There is little in your price range unless you're into motel six, etc.
M

These two are not in San Diego proper, but they might be worth a try since both overlook the Ocean:

Best Western Stratford Inn in Del Mar

Courtyard by Marriott Solana Beach (I'd rather consider it Del Mar since it is so close to the Del Mar district around the racetrack).

Traffic into San Diego usually is not much of a problem and Del Mar is a very nice beach community.
You'd also be reasonably close to La Jolla.

Have a look at the Best Western in La Jolla. I haven't stayed there but like the location to be near beach & shops. It will be a drive to the park but you'll have to drive from anywhere except right at the park.

This past April we stayed at the Ocean Park Inn. Found a great rate through www.sandiego.org (the SD visitors and convention bureau). Rate was right in your price range. The hotel is right on the beach (where Mission and Pacific beach meet), the rate includes free underground parking (a rarity near the beach), continental breakfast, coffee and juice all day and the rooms are equipped with fridges, microwaves and coffeemakers...
Small pool and jacuzzi but great location, nice staff and there's nothing like going to bed with the sound of the ocean coming through your door!

Thanks for the info, anyone else have any ideas???

Hi Mainetoday,

Just got back - stayed at La Avenida Inn on Coronado island. The inn is clean and comfortable and in a great location one block from the beach. Also right in the heart of things on Coronado with restaurants, shops and cafes (Cafe 1134 our favourite) nearby. We paid $175 per night but rates drop in Sept. Right next door is the El Cordova hotel which looks really nice and obviously is also in a great location. Their website says rooms start at $149. Husband and I would return to Coronado in a second and it's easy to drive anywhere in San Diego. Check tripadvisor.com for these hotels. Good luck.

I'll 2nd the recommendation for the Best Western in La Jolla. It's about 2-3 blocks from the beach and right off the main drag. The area around the beach in La Jolla is kind of like Rodeo Drive. Lots of nice shops and restaurants. And you're walking distance from my favorite beach in San Diego, La Jolla Shores.

And you're close to the seals at Children's Pool.

Yes, check out LaJolla's Best Western! We stayed there in '01 and loved it. Had an upper floor with a view of the ocean from our private balcony. The location is perfect, and just a short drive to san diego.

Another vote for The Ocean Park Inn - this is the hotel to choose if you want to stay directly on the beach. Cost is going to depend on when you will be in San Diego. It is worth the extra $$ to get a room facing the ocean - going to sleep hearing the sound of the surf is wonderful. You will save on breakfast and parking. You can walk the beach, plenty of eating places, grocery etc. in the area. Agree with karenvk try www.sandiego.org and www.expedia.com for reduced rates.

Sandy

www.shelterpointe.com

parking is extra but there is street parking a block away most nights.

Wow, this is great news, now we're getting somewhere!!! Thanks for the recommendations so far.

We stayed at the Shelter Pointe Hot and Marina in mid May for about $150., but they put us in a "handicap" room which would have been OK if we were 3 1/2 ft tall.
The area is really crowded in Summer!
We opted to go to Rosarito,MX on Sunday as the zoo was sooo crowded - it was virtually empty on Monday.
Highly recommend Thee Bungalow and 3rd Corner rest(s) in Ocean Beach nearby.
M

Mikemo I went to Thee Bungalow recently on your reco. Had an outstanding meal there. Thanks so much!!

thks for the responses, anyone else have a recommendation???

mclaurie,
My pleasure as always.
Hope you found that great $24 or so Pinot Noir on the wine list (they never returned my e-mail).
Always one of our favs going back to 1975 or so.
M