59 Best Hotels in San Diego, California

Smaller but no less luxurious than the sprawling beach resorts of Coronado, this lodge—whose name alludes to the main building's former life as a boardinghouse built in 1906—welcomes couples for romantic retreats two blocks from the ocean. A major renovation in 2009 transformed the property beautifully and most suites now feature Jacuzzi tubs, fireplaces, and porches; all rooms have flat-screen TVs and bathrobes. A full complimentary breakfast is served each morning while freshly baked cookies, mimosas, and wine and hors d'oeuvres are served in the afternoon. Beach gear and bikes are available to borrow.

Near the Ferry Landing, this snazzy hotel has rooms with great Downtown skyline views. A renovation in 2015 provided a revamped lobby with sofas for lounging, grounds with tropical plants, and a redesigned pool area with a bar where you can catch sports games. The spacious rooms and suites are situated in low-slung buildings redone in a cheerful island-inspired fashion. Families in need of more space can book one of the resort's 20 cottages, which have kitchenettes and small living rooms. Their on-site spa offers 10 treatment rooms while a two-story fitness center boasts state-of-the-art equipment, pickleball courts, and daily (complimentary) fitness classes.

This white-wedding-cake-style hotel in the heart of La Jolla Village has ocean views and charming European details that include chandeliers, mahogany railings, a wooden elevator, crystal doorknobs, and French doors. The hotel was built in 1913 and expanded and redesigned in the mid-1920s; newer additions feature larger suites, all with full kitchens and fireplaces and stocked with luxury bath products and snack baskets. Without compromising the integrity of the past, rooms have been modernized in a tasteful palette of royal blue and muted yellow; request a corner room with large windows framing the ocean. Although most guests request the historic main building, all five areas of the property pay tribute to the swanky 1920s Beverly Hills vibe. Cruise La Jolla in the hotel's courtesy golf cart, or stroll the hallways lined with black-and-white portraits of La Jolla's past. The hotel's restaurant, Nine-Ten, run by chef Jason Knibb, is well-liked by locals for its fresh, seasonal California cuisine. A daily $45 resort fee includes hospitality extras like valet parking, in-room snacks, use of bicycles, a Chromebook, access to a neighboring fitness center, beach gear, local transportation, and complementary coffee-to-go.

San Diego's first (and only) guest-only hotel means safety, security, and privacy, all wrapped up in a $30-million renovation of a historic 1904 building. No design detail has been overlooked in this comfortable, cosmopolitan addition to lively Gaslamp. Thoughtful touches like zebra-print rugs and peacock-shaped lamps in guest rooms act as an homage to the building's history as temporary housing for numerous animals on their way to the nearby San Diego Zoo. A 24/7 security guard keeps the public out, allowing guests to feel at home in one of the 96 rooms, all of which have soundproof windows to block out street noise. A hot breakfast is included with the rate, but Granger encourages guests to get out and experience San Diego's extensive options of nearby restaurants, returning to relax and perhaps enjoy a nightcap in The Parlor Room adjacent to the lobby lounge. A partnership with the parking garage off 5th Avenue and Broadway allows for overnight parking with in-and-out privileges for $40 a night—a bargain in pricey downtown. 

With amenities like kitchens and a business center, most guests stay at least four nights, turning this all-suites hotel into a home. The in-room kitchens have everything from measuring cups to dishware, and there's a small on-site market where guests can stock up on supplies. Located in Liberty Station, the hotel has a bit of a suburban feel, but the outdoor common area has a pool, barbecue grills, and half-court basketball. There's a full hot breakfast daily and an evening reception Wednesday from 5 to 7 PM.

As much of a draw today as it was when it opened in 1888, the Victorian-style "Hotel Del" is always alive with activity, as guests—including U.S. presidents and celebrities—and tourists marvel at the fanciful architecture and ocean views. About half the accommodations are in the more charming, original Victorian building, which underwent major restorations that were completed in 2025: rooms in the newly remodeled The Cabanas building overlooking the pool have a contemporary feel and The Views building has remodeled rooms and suites with glass balcony railings for unobstructed ocean views. These rooms are closer to the pool and the beach, making them a good option for families. In the more secluded and exclusive Beach Village area, villas and cottages feature full kitchens, private terraces, and several bedroom configurations, plus access to a private pool. Spa guests also get access to the spa's infinity pool overlooking the ocean. Renowned sushi restaurant Nobu opened at the hotel in 2025. 

The InterContinental provides a more luxurious and stylish option for travelers in what's generally an area populated by more family-friendly lodging. All guest rooms feature bay-front views, with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer a panoramic view of available attractions both on the water and on dry land. Guests can also enjoy the pool, fitness and spa services, and indoor and outdoor dining at its signature fine-dining restaurant Vistal and "hidden" Italian restaurant, Garibaldi.

As your best bet on Shelter Island, this former 1950s swim club pulls out all the stops as a waterfront resort with spacious rooms, two pools, private beach, spa, fitness center, and outstanding restaurant—making the marina view an added bonus rather than the main focus. Back in the '50s, the Kona Kai lured everyone from Jerry Lewis to Richard Nixon, and while “The Club” still exists, today you’ll find a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere and plenty of resort perks like an adult pool, nightly bonfires, and the Vessel Restaurant, specializing in coastal comfort food (try the lobster carbonara or seared scallops). A second lap pool has furnished cabanas and tiki bars. Rooms are well appointed, with art-deco touches and pops of turquoise throughout; most have balconies with views of either the adjacent marina or San Diego Bay. The $46 resort fee is worth every penny, covering endless complimentary services including fitness classes, beach cruisers, charging stations, coffee service, and more.  Request room 278 for the best view, a soaking tub, fireplace, and the most space in the house for just a fraction more.

Originally opened in the 1940s, the Lafayette was once frequented by stars like Ava Gardner and Bob Hope; it eventually became something of a budget hipster stay, but since its $31 million renovation by local restaurant group CH Projects, the Lafayette has been given a maximalist makeover for the 21st century. The renovation also includes the addition of several distinct dining options, including a 24-hour diner, a bowling alley and bar, and Quixote, a Oaxacan-inspired mezcaleria designed with irreverent (but impressive) Catholic imagery. Be sure to make time for some poolside relaxation before catching a jazz show on the restored 1940s-era clamshell stage at Lou Lou's.

This 1959 former Sportsman’s Lodge had it all, from shag carpet to beta fish tanks, and today it still does, despite a remodel that clung to its roots without compromising the original designs of architect Robert Platt. Retaining the mid-century modern motel vibe, this Point Loma property has been thoughtfully renovated with contemporary aesthetics and unique vintage décor. Guest rooms surround an oyster-shaped pool where cocktails flow while guests watch Wednesday-night cult classics at restaurant Ponyboy. In rooms, expect private patios, rain showerheads, rattan-and-wood furnishings, and retro-chic décor with photographs of pearl divers. Staffers have a friendly, enthusiastic vibe.

This Gaslamp stunner has 317 rooms and suites that feature a modern luxury design—think toile wallpaper with subtle illustrations of surfers and chaise lounges—and amenities include giant flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, fully stocked minibars, and Bluetooth speakers. Six on-site restaurants and bars include a beer hall with vintage bar games, a rooftop lounge, and a basement social club for a place for adults to drink and play. For more traditional dining, Provisional serves as an all-day café, restaurant, and gelato shop offering seasonal California fare, while Lionfish serves up fresh-caught fish, oysters, and sushi. A roof-deck pool, fitness center, and spa round out the on-site offerings.

Neo-modern with a beachy vibe, this boutique hotel is a favorite of the young and young-at-heart. The sleek rooms are white with teak furnishings; the suites feature Jacuzzi tubs and step-in rain showers. Catch the sunset over cocktails at the downstairs bar or on a private balcony of an oceanfront room. The hotel is steps from the sand and party-friendly Pacific Beach's bars and eateries, though with amenities like free Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service from JRDN, the popular on-site restaurant, it can be hard to motivate yourself to leave. The outdoor decks can get lively, but the crashing waves often drown out the noise.

Newly updated after a multimillion-dollar renovation, the Town and Country Resort—a staple of Hotel Circle since 1953—has been given a second life while returning to its stylish roots. Its more than 600 rooms have been spruced up with mid-century modern furniture and a splash of color, while its grounds, rife with a new waterslide pool and various outdoor activities, look brand new. The hotel features a fitness center, lawn games, and wellness classes. It also features five restaurants and bars, including modern Mexican cuisine at Lapper Kitchen and Bar and Mediterranean fine dining at Arlo.

The US Grant may be more than 100 years old (it first opened in 1910), but thanks to a top-to-bottom interior renovation in 2017 and historic exterior restoration in 2024, this grand old dame is now one of the most glamorous hotels in Southern California. A white Carrera marble promenade gives way to a stylish lobby with mirrored walls and several sleek seating areas, and white-walled guest rooms feature oversize beds that overflow with soft pillows and modern conveniences like Wi-Fi and USB charging ports. The lobby offers a complimentary coffee bar in the morning and fresh juices in the afternoon. The Grant Grill, located just off the lobby and once a male-dominated power spot, has softened up its look and lightened its menu to serve seasonal produce alongside choice meats and fresh seafood. A comprehensive mixology program gives diners interesting pairing options for their meals.

A few blocks from the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, this swanky AAA Four-Diamond hotel features luxurious guest rooms and a popular outdoor lounge open seasonally on the fourth floor rooftop next to the heated pool. Rooms have flat-screen TVs, Italian linens, oversize windows, rainforest showers, and standalone tubs, and the lobby restaurant and café offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner plus a full bar and espresso service. Cabanas and daybeds ring the pool at the Leave of Absence rooftop lounge, where a relaxed weekday vibe becomes rambunctious during summer pool parties. The $35/night destination fee includes a $35 food and beverage credit, plus two glasses of wine at the lobby bar.

Escape to this peaceful 14-acre peninsula with a private beach in Mission Bay. Some rooms are quieter than others; opt for the Garden View or Courtside Garden rooms for more privacy. All rooms and suites include flat-screen TVs and amenities like a mini-refrigerator and coffeemaker. By day, take advantage of the large pool and hot tub; by night, book a Bayside Bonfire experience with firewood, chairs, and s'mores included. For something to get the adrenaline flowing, Action Sports Rentals rents powerboats, kayaks, paddleboards, and bikes.

Perched on a hill in the heart of Old Town, this hotel is known for its expansive courtyards, outdoor fountains, and maze of stairs that connects eight buildings of guest rooms. Rooms are decorated in a Southwestern style with colorful artwork and wood shutters; suites include two rooms and a kitchenette. The property is within walking distance of many eateries, and the on-site restaurant, the Old Town Tequila Factory, offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.

With tennis courts, two pools, jogging paths, fitness center, and complimentary bike rentals, this waterfront hotel is a natural fit for healthy travelers. Skylights, a waterfall, and a Thai theme expressed in gilt carvings and golden statues brighten the property's tiny but airy lobby. Harbor and marina-view rooms are decorated in simple whites and earth tones, and most of the suites are equipped with full kitchens. Despite the central location, the two heated pools and room service make it challenging to leave the hotel. Happy hour at Blue Wave Bar & Grill, the on-site restaurant, is popular for the seafood with SoCal flair.

A new boutique, luxury property that opened in 2025, The Bower is a short walk to Coronado Beach and downtown, bringing the island its first rooftop bar and restaurant
called Dive. Rooms at this adult-focused property feature plush bedding and towels and luxury in-room amenities. There are free pastries and coffee for guests on each floor, each morning.

Mod pop art inspired by artists such as Andy Warhol and Ed Ruscha sets the tone at this casual boutique hotel. The 1960s' feel continues in the guest rooms, which were renovated in early 2017, but with modern amenities such as HDTVs, single-cup coffeemakers, eco-friendly toiletries, complimentary Wi-Fi, and bathrobes. There's no restaurant on-site but the hotel bar and lounge is open for cocktails and happy hour specials in the evenings. The San Diego Trolley's Blue, Orange, and Silver Lines stop nearby at the Civic Center stop at Second and C Streets.

Tiki torches light the way through grounds thick with tropical foliage to the six two-story buildings and the 14-story high-rise on Mission Bay known for its bayfront location and activities. The Polynesian theme continues in the guest rooms, which all have either a balcony or a patio to enjoy the sea breezes. The Catamaran Spa offers Hawaiian-style massages, ginger-root detox wraps, and sugar body scrubs. The fitness center looks out on the bay; kayaks, pedal boats and other craft are available for rent from the hotel's dock. Among the resort's many summertime activities are Hawaiian luau and bay cruises aboard the Bahia Belle stern-wheeler. A champagne brunch is held every Sunday in the Oceana Coastal Kitchen restaurant.

It’s the view and location that will grab you at this boutique hotel with plenty of perks including a rooftop restaurant, the 24-hour Prospect Market, and Tesla charging stations. Named after the black sea birds you’ll most likely see from your balcony, this La Jolla property stands out from the pack with room service, a business center, valet parking, and mid-century modern touches that are prominent in everything from the clean lines of the furniture to the patterned carpet. Rooms are on the small side, but you can't beat the location. Even if you don’t stay here, the hotel's rooftop bar, Birdseye, is worth a visit for some of the best views in town (hotel guests receive 15% off).

With antique furniture, pull-chain toilets, and a veranda overlooking Old Town State Historic Park, the Cosmo offers guests a taste of Victorian-era living. A restoration in 2010 brought back the 1860s, but with air-conditioning and Wi-Fi, and some rooms have walk-in showers while others have claw-foot bathtubs; some have full closets, while others have wall hooks. 

Close to the restaurants and shops of Liberty Station, this family-friendly hotel spares travelers the extra fees charged by most Downtown and coastal lodgings. Guest rooms have a contemporary style with HDTVs, iHome docking stations, Keurig coffeemakers, and mini-refrigerators; about a third of the rooms have balconies. Convenient amenities include a laundry room, Starbucks coffee, and a free airport shuttle. A casual on-site restaurant serves breakfast and dinner daily. Even if it's chilly, you can lounge by the pool, which has firepits and an indoor-outdoor area with comfortable seating. Customer service is top-notch, and the relaxing common areas around the hotel make you forget you're just five minutes from the airport.

This is not your typical Courtyard by Marriott, as the building has a historic past—it was the home of San Diego Trust and Savings Bank in 1928. Today much of the original lobby layout remains—you can even see where the teller cages once stood—and the elaborately stenciled ceiling matches the one in the hotel's presidential suite, which once served as the office for the building's original architect, William Templeton Johnson. Downstairs, the old vaults (with safe deposit boxes intact) serve as meeting rooms. The guest rooms feature contemporary decor and convenient amenities such as free Wi-Fi, microwaves, and work stations; some even have sofa sleepers for extra guests. It takes around 15 minutes to walk to Petco Park from the lobby, with plenty of eateries and bars on the way to stop and grab a bite or drink beforehand. 

Clean and comfortable, the Crowne Plaza may not have the frills of downtown hotels and coastal resorts, but it's a reliable pick for budget-minded visitors. A popular conference location with more than 30,000-square-feet of meeting space, the hotel is best for business travelers and guests looking for an affordable and modest jumping-off point for exploring what San Diego has to offer.

Rustic little oases with a charm all their own, the beachy cottages may lack some of the amenities of comparably priced hotels, but you're paying for character and proximity to the ocean—these lodgings are literally on the pier. Crystal Pier, a Pacific Beach landmark, had its grand opening in 1927; 10 years later, the first of the blue-and-white cottages were built. The well-maintained units sleep two to six people; most have kitchens and private decks. Call 11 months in advance for summer reservations. There's a minimum-stay requirement of three nights from mid-June through September, two nights the rest of the year.

This waterfront resort, just down the road from SeaWorld, has an ideal location for active leisure travelers. The Water's Edge suites have wet bars, bay views, balconies, and sofa sleepers—great for families—while some of the Marina Cove rooms have private patios that overlook the pool area. There's plenty to keep groups occupied: two pools (plus a poolside bar), water-sports rentals, and a restaurant with great views. The resort also provides shuttle service to SeaWorld and Dive In movies at their Bayside Pool (nightly at sunset). The Dana is also known as San Diego's most pet-friendly hotel.

Near the Fashion Valley shopping mall and adjacent to the Hazard Center—which has a seven-screen movie theater, four major restaurants, and more than 20 shops—the DoubleTree is also convenient to Route 163 and I–8 and there's a San Diego Trolley station within walking distance. Guest rooms feature plush-top bedding, 37-inch TVs, and large desks with ergonomic chairs. Public areas are modern yet comfortable, well suited to this hotel's large business clientele. A small café in the lobby, which brews Starbucks coffee, is a convenient spot to pick up snacks or small meals. Other hotel amenities include heated indoor and outdoor pools and a fitness center.

A few blocks from the ocean and Girard Avenue's upscale shops, this five-story hotel blends Southern California beach style with a touch of European flair, making it one of the more affordable and convenient options in La Jolla. Bright and airy rooms have hypoallergenic beds, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, local artwork, microwaves, and small refrigerators. Thoughtful touches are in the soft and fluffy robes, slippers, towels, and pillows that adorn the contemporary turquoise and beige rooms. For more space and perks, upgrade to a suite with a separate living room, wet bar, and Jacuzzi tub. Guests can dine in at the hotel's Italian restaurant, Manhattan of La Jolla, or order room service.