San Diego Hotels

One of the greatest attributes common to nearly all hotels in San Diego is the warm and welcoming guest service. San Diego is known for its Southern California laid-back culture where no problem is big enough to cast a shadow over a sunny day. From the most prestigious and legendary hotels to the most casual beach hotels, you will find gracious staff committed to making your San Diego vacation a memorable experience. Sunshine, sandy beaches, diverse cultural experiences, and the warm embrace of San Diego await you, so get ready to have fun and be well taken care of in America’s finest city.

You can choose from a wide range of vacation destination hotels depending on what moves you. There are historic, grand hotels for those interested in the rich San Diego history and culture. A plethora of unique and beautiful boutique hotels offer guests with high-end taste a restorative and relaxing place to retreat at the end of a busy day. Family-friendly hotels and resorts work in partnership with local attractions to get the biggest bang for your buck on your family vacation. Beachfront hotels accommodate the epicurean traveler and the casual sun-seeker alike. In San Diego, there is a hotel for everyone.

Premier San Diego Hotels

Sofia Hotel – A beautiful, historic luxury hotel inducted into the National Trust for Historic Hotels of America, located at the north end of the Gaslamp Quarter. It features upscale rooms, suites, and VIP suites, plus a hotel spa, yoga studio, and health center.

Tower23Tower 23 – An ultra-modern, high-end independent hotel that caters to the savvy adult traveler; the beachfront property features in-room spa services, award-winning cuisine, and is steps from the iconic Crystal Pier.

U.S. Grant Hotel – An icon in the Gaslamp Quarter, the legendary U.S. Grant Hotel is a luxury hotel steeped in history; it features rooms, suites, a penthouse, a full-service spa, art gallery, and the prestigious Grant Grill.

The Keating Hotel – San Diego’s first luxury boutique hotel located in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter catering primarily to the sophisticated adult crowd. The Pininfarina designed hotel features contemporary Italian décor and some of the best room amenities in the city.

Pacific Terrace-14Pacific Terrace Hotel – A four-diamond luxury hotel located in Pacific Beach right on the boardwalk, overlooking the stunning Pacific Ocean. The family-friendly Caribbean styled hotel features both rooms and suites with upscale amenities.

Beach Haven Inn – A renovated best-value hotel located on popular Mission Boulevard in Pacific Beach, just a block from the ocean. The family-friendly hotel features a year-round heated pool, and rooms and suites with full kitchens and a comfortable residential ambiance.

Hilton San Diego BayfrontNational Geographic Traveler has awarded this resort-style hotel “Best of the World” status. It is the consummate business hotel next door to the San Diego Convention Center, yet shines as a family vacation hot spot too.

Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town – Hacienda Hotel’s several buildings spread across a hillside and feel more like a sprawling village than a hotel. The comfortable hotel offers sweeping views and a conscientious dedication to California’s Green Stay Initiative. (Lots of stairs here.)

Blue Sea Beach Hotel – The laid-back vibe of this hotel will appeal to romantic couples, solo travelers, surfers, and vacationing families. Its beachfront location across the boardwalk from expansive Pacific Beach is as enviable as it gets.

Westgate Hotel – A downtown luxury boutique hotel with a European ambiance located close to the Gaslamp Quarter and Little Italy. Fifteen hundred-square-foot suites are some to the largest in San Diego with views of the city, Pacific Ocean, or San Diego Harbor.

The Bristol-Front DoorThe Bristol Hotel – A modern and chic boutique hotel located on the edge of the Gaslamp Quarter; it is a certified member of the California Green Lodging Program and only one of seven San Diego hotels to receive a Green Eco-Leaf rating.

1906 Lodge, Coronado – in a quiet neighborhood a block away from everything Coronado has to offer, the 1906 Lodge combines the best or a Bed and Breakfast and a Luxury Hotel.

Catamaran Hotel – A luxury bay front resort located between Pacific and Mission beaches on beautiful Mission Bay, featuring a full-service spa, kids’ club and arcade, water sports rentals, and more; guests ride the Bahia Belle free.

The Bahia – A newly renovated luxury resort hotel located on a 14-acre peninsula in Mission Bay featuring bay front and garden rooms, studios, and suites, kids’ arcade, tennis courts, and vacation activities and rentals; guests ride the Bahia Belle free.

La Avenida Inn – This quaint two story lodge-style hotel sits on the Pacific side of Coronado Island. The great value hotel is perfect for vacationing families, romantic couples, and budget-minded travelers looking to enjoy the island.

Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines – Couples, families, golf enthusiasts and other leisure travelers will love the peaceful luxury of the Hilton Torrey Pines in La Jolla. This hotel is also a favorite among conventioneers and other business travelers.

Kings Inn Hotel – The newly renovated Kings Inn is located on Hotel Circle South in Mission Valley. The hotel has built its reputation on providing family-friendly vacation accommodations at affordable prices. Its central location offers easy access to SeaWorld and the San Diego Zoo.

Ocean Beach Hotel – A Mediterranean-style beachfront hotel at the end of popular Newport Avenue and across the street from Ocean Beach Municipal Pier. U-shaped three-story hotel with a charming courtyard is for travelers looking for the classic, casual California beach vacation.

El Cordova Hotel on Coronado Island – Once a private mansion built in 1902, El Cordova was transformed into a quaint Spanish Village hotel in 1930. Guests will enjoy 12 boutique shops and three restaurants, including Miguel’s Cocina, a San Diego favorite.

Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa – A four-diamond historical hacienda-style resort hotel in La Jolla that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. It has an award-winning spa, superb on-site eateries, and polished meeting and event space. It also holds the coveted Greenleaders Gold Level status.

Del Mar Motel on the Beach – The only beachfront accommodations in Del Mar, this budget motel caters to families looking to create summer beach vacation memories, solo travelers with a beach life addiction, and couples looking for a low-key romantic getaway.

Best Western Plus Inn by the Sea – Situated in the heart of La Jolla Village, this recently renovated boutique-style hotel emphasizes functionality and simplicity. It is budget friendly, which makes it a good choice for both business and leisure travelers in trendy La Jolla.

Kona Kai Resort & Marina – A Noble House Hotel, Kona Kai offers guests the ultimate private getaway. Couples longing for a secluded romantic escape, families craving resort amenities, or marine enthusiasts expecting a luxurious port will all find what they’re looking for at this hotel on the tip of Shelter Island.

Hotel del Coronado – Named a top family resort by Condé Nast, The Del is no doubt a memorable beach experience for vacationing families. It is also a premier wedding venue. The KSL resort hotel sits on Coronado Island along San Diego’s only white sand beach.

Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Downtown/Bayside Hotel – An urban-chic hotel near Waterfront Park in Little Italy, this is an ideal hotel for solo-travelers, business travelers, and couples wanting a romantic getaway.

Homewood Suites San Diego Bayside – A centrally located business class hotel in Little Italy. It’s an ideal choice for business travelers looking for an alternative to pricey hotels closer to the San Diego Convention Center. Great for families too.

Carlsbad Seapointe Resort – An all-suite condo resort in Carlsbad with all the creature comforts of home, but the luxury amenities of a resort. This is a great option for families or extended stay travelers.

Courtyard San Diego Downtown – A historic hotel in the Gaslamp Quarter, this 1928 luxury boutique hotel blends sophisticated charm with contemporary amenities. It’s the perfect place to retire after a night out on the town.

Crowne Plaza Hanalei San Diego/Mission Valley – A Polynesian-style resort in Mission Valley on a luxuriant ten-acre tropical oasis. Soaring palms, cascading waterfalls, and exotic flowers soothe the senses at this getaway that caters to adults.

Hilton Grand Vacations Club at MarBrisa – A Spanish Mediterranean-style resort hotel in Carlsbad. It’s a good choice for golf enthusiasts, since it’s adjacent to The Crossings at Carlsbad Championship Golf Course.

LEGOLAND Hotel at LEGOLAND California – Located at LEGOLAND California, this hotel is the perfect choice for families with tickets to the popular theme park. The fun never ends at this kid-centric hotel.

Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Airport/Liberty Station – A business class hotel in Point Loma’s Liberty Station near the airport. Great choice for travelers with an overnight layover, and families looking for a mid-range, centrally located option.

Sommerset Suites Hotel – A best-value hotel located in Hillcrest that caters to families and business guests, offering simple, spacious, and comfortable suite accommodations with balconies or patios. Special rates apply for corporate and extended stay guests.

Glorietta Bay Inn – An Italian Renaissance mansion and former home of John Spreckels – visionary, philanthropist, businessman, and Coronado Island developer. Now a sophisticated, historic 11 room boutique hotel overlooking Glorietta Bay.

Hotel Marisol – A 1927 Spanish Eclectic, three-story, 15-room boutique hotel on Coronado Island that is an mix of romance, sophistication, history, and whimsy. No children under 12 years of age permitted.

The Pearl Hotel –  A modern, minimalist, vintage hotel in Point Loma/Ocean Beach with a great restaurant and pool.

Clarion Inn, Del Mar – A relaxing coastal getaway a block from the beach in charming Del Mar that promises to keep you plugged in if you’re here for business, or get you unplugged if you’re ready for some fun in the sun.

Days Inn Little Italy – Located near the airport in Little Italy, the budget-minded hotel is a great choice for business guests on the go and those leaving for or returning from cruises. Amazing harbor views, affordable accommodations, and a convenient location give this hotel its appeal.

El Rancho Motel – A simple ten-room, bungalow-style Coronado motel for those who prefer to spend the bulk of their vacation dollars on island experiences, and simply need a clean, comfortable, and affordable place to rest.

Empress Hotel – A beach inspired boutique hotel in downtown La Jolla Village overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The elegant nautical décor offers the ambiance of a scaled up version of a summer beach house in the Hamptons.

Grande Colonial Hotel – A stately historic luxury hotel with the opulence of a grand European hotel. Modern day resort and business guests will enjoy contemporary touches like USB charging ports, Keurig coffeemakers, and iHome docking stations.

Handlery Hotel – A popular, family-oriented resort hotel centrally located on Hotel Circle North in Mission Valley providing easy access to San Diego’s many beaches and tourist attractions.

Hotel Indigo – A Del Mar neighborhood hotel great for families. Spacious rooms have kitchenettes, patios or balconies, complimentary Wi-Fi, heated pools, and proximity to local beaches, parks, and attractions.

Lafayette Hotel – A retro-style 1940s resort hotel with an Old Hollywood vibe, modern amenities, and an Olympic size pool. It has a devoted following of travelers every year, from “free spirits, the suits, global nomads, couples, families, and parties of one.”

L'Auberge Del Mar -32

L’Auberge – A four-diamond seaside resort in Del Mar that feels more like a private coastal estate. The ambiance leans toward adult sophistication; think relaxing spa retreat or a romantic getaway.

DoubleTree San Diego, Little Italy – This upscale hotel provides an alternative to pricier historic and boutique hotels in Downtown San Diego without sacrificing business services. It’s location on the edge of Little Italy makes it family-friendly.

La Valencia – The iconic Pink Lady of La Jolla pampers business and leisure travelers, welcomes families, and caters to a high-end clientele. It exudes old-world charm from its location overlooking stunning La Jolla Cove.

Manchester Grand Hyatt – A swanky twin tower high-rise hotel overlooking San Diego Bay. It is two doors down from the San Diego Convention Center, and is adjacent to Seaport Village and Embarcadero Marina Park North.

Horton Grand – The distinguished historic hotel has a modern, comfortable feel that appeals to the sophisticated adult traveler. Business and leisure guests will appreciate the refined ambiance and Gaslamp Quarter location.

Hotel Indigo – Located in hip East Village, this eco-chic hotel is the ideal choice for those wanting to keep their carbon footprint low. Its Level 9 Rooftop Bar and Lounge offers sweeping views of the city and PETCO Park ball field.

Pantai Inn – A traditional Balinese-inspired hotel in La Jolla Village with custom crafted furniture, imported Balinese artwork, and ocean views that provides a tranquil retreat. Most guests choose Pantai Inn for a romantic getaway.

La Jolla Cove Suites – The only oceanfront hotel in La Jolla Village. It is an affordable choice among La Jolla’s more sophisticated hotel options, and has been recently renovated.

Andaz San Diego – A swanky upscale hotel on the edge of the Gaslamp Quarter and East Village that caters to the young urban professional crowd. It’s ultra-modern, amenity laden rooms and suites are best suited to adults.

Omni San Diego Hotel – The 21-story luxury Omni San Diego Hotel is located in the heart of Downtown’s East Village. This newly renovated four-star hotel offers contemporary accommodations, and the exquisite service of elite Clefs d’Or concierges ensures guests enjoy a top tier experience.

Hard Rock Hotel San Diego – Located in the lively Gaslamp District in Downtown, this funky, modern, luxury resort features bold colors, a sleek contemporary design, and top-of-the-line amenities with rock and roll swag.

Hotel Aqua Mar – A newly renovated modern boutique hotel located in Point Loma. Maritime enthusiasts will love its proximity to fishing, diving, sailing, and other water sports activities. It’s also a great choice for solo travelers, couples, and budget-minded business travelers.

Best Western Plus Bayside InnThe Best Western Bayside Inn is nestled between Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego’s downtown financial district. It has the accommodations families, business travelers, and those looking for great value will appreciate.

The Lodge at Torrey Pines

The Lodge at Torrey Pines – The Lodge at Torrey Pines sits elegantly atop towering bluffs overlooking renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course and the Pacific Ocean. It offers guests a unique woodsy feel in luxury five-diamond accommodations.

Hotel Solamar – A Kimpton Hotel, reflects the coastal culture of its Downtown East Village location. Contemporary design, upscale amenities, one-of-a kind ambiance, and its complementary Jsix Restaurant give Hotel Solamar the look and feel of a classic urban boutique hotel.

Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina – The sprawling Best Western Plus Palms Hotel & Marina takes up the entire middle third of Shelter Island in San Diego Bay. It’s a resort hotel that appeals to romantics, families, and of course, fishing, sailing, and yachting enthusiasts.

Holiday Inn Express San Diego Airport/Old Town – A great value hotel at the edge of Old Town. Families will love it for its convenient central location that makes it easy to explore the best attractions in San Diego.

Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Airport/Liberty Station – A business class all suites hotel located fewer than two miles from the airport in Point Loma’s Liberty Station neighborhood. Perfect choice for travelers with overnight layovers.

La Jolla Shores Hotel – An established beachfront hotel in the La Jolla Shores neighborhood. Rooms and suites are across the boardwalk from La Jolla’s most popular beach – literally steps from accommodations to the sand.

The Dana on Mission Bay – A well-appointed, tropical-themed resort hotel on Mission Bay that will appeal to vacationing families and watersports enthusiasts. Centrally located between Mission Beach and SeaWorld

Urban Boutique Hotel – Urban Boutique Hotel in Little Italy with 55 rooms is a true boutique hotel. It is a good choice for solo travelers, business travelers, and couples, as cozy guestrooms have two-person limits.

Ramada Inn Gaslamp – This historic hotel, known locally as the Ramada St. James, was the first high-rise luxury hotel in San Diego. Savvy business travelers, solo travelers, and couples looking for great value for the money favor the Ramada St. James.

San Diego Hotel Types

Luxury Hotels
The industry standard is four and five-star hotels with discreet check-in, enhanced room features, gracious service, bounteous guest activities and amenities, superior hotel dining, and complimentary touches.

Family Hotels
Hotels or resorts in proximity to family vacation attractions with kids’ activities and dedicated spaces, in-room entertainment, pool and water features, all-inclusive activities and meal plans, and/or value-added family-centric extras.

Romantic Hotels
Adult hotels featuring rooms that emphasize privacy with in-room amenities like couple’s spa services, hot tubs, fireplaces, well-dressed king beds, and epic private views. Hotel properties often have luxurious, natural landscaping, semi-private indoor and outdoor spaces, and intimate dining.

Great Value Hotels
Accommodations offering high-value amenities at a moderate price point; in-room boutique touches and free Wi-Fi, free value-added property perks like tennis courts, outdoor fireplaces, or live music, and complimentary breakfasts or evening receptions.

Green Hotels
Eco hotels that make a conscious effort to minimize their impact on the environment with green living practices to reduce waste, and save water and energy. They are often participants in eco-rating systems for hotels like the Green Lodging Program.

Pet-friendly
Hotels where pets are welcome with some offering pet amenities like designated potty areas, leash-free play areas, pet-sitters, towels, pet-beds, gift baskets and more. Pet-friendly hotels have written policies guests can view before booking.

Beach Hotels
Located in beach neighborhoods either on the beach, or within a block or two of the beach with beach access, offered at a variety of price points. Amenities often include balconies or patios, ocean views, outdoor showers, beach gear rentals, and bike rentals.

Resort Hotels
An expansive hotel property located on a substantial piece of land, characterized by its size, location, and on-site amenities and activities. Often located near natural or entertainment tourist attractions with room for more on-site amenities, rentals, free activities, and local freebies than a hotel.

Gay-friendly Hotels
Independent or TAG approved hotels that welcome same-sex couples and offer a wealth of information about local LGBT culture, businesses, and nightlife. Independent hotels may provide networked concierge-style services, and offer discounts to many gay-owned venues.

Boutique Hotels
Small, stylish, independent hotels under 100 rooms that are typically located in the trendy neighborhoods of the city with a distinctive urban vibe and modern décor. Their strength is personalized service, and they usually have extraordinary restaurants or bars.

San Diego Hotel Neighborhoods

Downtown Hotels
There is an eclectic mix of seven urban neighborhoods that make up Downtown San Diego. Each has its own personality with hotels to match. Look for great hotels in the Gaslamp Quarter, East Village, Core-Columbia, the Marina District, and Little Italy.

Gaslamp Quarter Hotels
Nestled between two other popular downtown neighborhoods – the Marina District and East Village – the Gaslamp Quarter is the hub of San Diego’s culture and history, posh nightlife, and festive events. Thousands of visitors flock to this 16-block walkable neighborhood year-round.

Little Italy Hotels
Little Italy is a trendy and affordable Downtown neighborhood with retail shops, restaurants, cafés, pizzerias, and a Saturday Sicilian market. It is an ideal vacation destination for its proximity to the airport, maritime history, lively Italian ambiance, and significant art scene.

Marina District Hotels
Opulent bayside high-rise hotels and condominiums from the Maritime Museum to the San Diego Convention Center define this waterfront neighborhood. Neighborhood attractions include Seaport Village, Embarcadero Park North, B Street Cruise Terminal, and Broadway Pier.

East Village Hotels
East Village is an eclectic neighborhood with an edgy mix of reclaimed warehouses and ultra-modern architecture. The classy, hipster vibe has likened the district to Manhattan’s SoHo. Look for a sophisticated assortment of boutique hotels here.

Pacific Beach Hotels
Nestled between La Jolla and Mission Beach, this is epicenter of San Diego’s hip, yet laid-back beach community. The area caters to young professionals, surfers, and families alike. There are accommodations to suit every kind of San Diego traveler.

La Jolla Hotels
La Jolla is known for its theater scene, unique shops, art galleries, and upscale restaurants. There are tons of family-fun activities from La Jolla Cove to Torrey Pines. Independent boutique hotels, and golf, family, and luxury resort hotels offer accommodations for every taste.

Del Mar Hotels
Del Mar is the Hollywood of San Diego where prosperity, leisure, and notable residents are the norm. The seaside village is home to the Del Mar Race Track that has long been its symbol. The Village offers luxury, great value, and romantic boutique accommodations.

Mission Bay Hotels
Located on the southern end of Pacific Beach, Mission Bay is a man-made aquatic park made up of 56% water and 46% land, a perfect destination for water sports enthusiasts. Resort hotels dominate this neighborhood on 27 miles of shoreline.

Mission Valley/Hotel Circle Hotels
Centrally located Mission Valley is a narrow corridor running along both sides of Interstate 8 between Interstates 15 and 5, making it a perfect launch pad for all San Diego attractions. Tourists flock here for the high concentration of great value hotels on Hotel Circle.

Coronado Hotels
Coronado Island, tucked between the bay and the ocean, has a nautical feel that includes the only white-sand beach in San Diego. Luxury waterfront resort hotels, and a number of franchise and independent best value beach hotels cater to every family’s needs.

Hillcrest Hotels
Dubbed the Greenwich Village of San Diego, the culturally diverse urban neighborhood has an inclusive multi-ethnic and gay-friendly vibe, trendy restaurants and chic wine bars, quirky shops, vintage clothing stores, and more. Hillcrest is the heartbeat of San Diego’s thriving gay community.

Harbor Island/Shelter Island
Shelter and Harbor Islands extend into San Diego Bay between Point Loma and Coronado Island. They are premier boating centers that cater to sailors with high-end restaurants, resort hotels, and marinas. Accommodations include boats and yachts.

Core-Columbia Hotels
Core-Columbia combines two of Downtown San Diego’s seven districts – Civic Core and Columbia; together they form the business district. Civic Core contains the city government, all major banks, and many financial and corporate entities. Columbia is home to San Diego federal and county courthouses, and county government offices.

Point Loma Hotels
This affluent neighborhood is home to waterfront residential and entertainment enclave Liberty Station, and the premier marinas of Harbor and Shelter Islands with high-end restaurants and resort hotels. Historic Cabrillo National Monument and dramatic Sunset Cliffs are also on Point Loma peninsula.

Airport Area Hortels
San Diego International Airport is between Interstate 5 and Harbor Drive along San Diego Bay. Its urban location plants it squarely among the neighborhoods of wealthy Point Loma, historically affluent Mission Hills, and affordable and neighborly Little Italy.