35 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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. 

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.

With its rambling California mission–style architecture and brilliant gardens, this resort on what once was a famous equestrian ranch exudes rustic elegance. In 2024, Estancia unveiled a $26 million renovation, adding two new culinary concepts including The Trading Post Café and The Palma Pool Bar—both of which complement the refurbished pool deck and cabanas. Pet-friendly rooms have private lawns for four-legged friends and include pet-packages with grain-free munchies and plush beds. Slightly removed from downtown La Jolla, there are plenty of in-house dining options set around an antique hacienda with adobe brick. Tucked within the nine acres are secret gardens where weekend yoga is held, and an outdoor games library where you can make your move under a starry sky. The Torrey Pines Golf Course is less than 1 mile from the hotel.

One of San Diego's first "skyscrapers," this 11-story structure has a central location and a vintage feel, but all the contemporary features of a modern hotel. The public areas have old Corinthian marble, brass, and hand-cut tile mosaics that harken back to its early 20th-century origins. Most rooms are small, but they're decorated with similar old world–style furnishings and come equipped with mini-refrigerators, coffeemakers, microwaves, and dining utensils. Enjoy the view from the casual rooftop terrace, and be sure to book your room ahead if you're visiting during the busy summer season.

Modern decor, spacious rooms, convenient location, and endless amenities make this property the best bet for travelers wanting a little bit of everything in one hotel. Within walking distance of Liberty Public Market, it’s adjacent to San Diego Airport. Hot breakfast, a swimming pool, fitness center, laundry facilities, on-site market, and coffee/hot cocoa bar are just a few of the bonuses to the reasonable room rates. Although the hotel has plenty of amenities, the rooms are somewhat sparse, but comfortable and spotless, with aviation artwork adorning the wall. The proximity to Downtown—just 3 miles away—and the airport make this hotel a top choice for business travelers and early-or-late flight arrivals.

Self-billed as a hip playground for rock stars and people who want to party like them, the Hard Rock near Petco Park overlooks glimmering San Diego Bay with an interior that oozes laid-back sophistication and guest rooms that include branded Sleep Like a Rock beds and the option of renting a guitar. One of the hotel's 17 Rock Star suites was designed by the pop group, the Black-Eyed Peas. Restaurants on-site include Nobu, a sushi mecca, and Maryjane's, a diner with classic American style. Among locals, the hotel is most well-known for its 207 nightclub and Float—a poolside bar where skimpy bikinis and board shorts rule.

Two brands from Hilton Hotels share a building in Little Italy two blocks from the bay, giving guests more space to spread out and be relatively within budget. Hilton Garden Inn rooms occupy the right side of the floor, while the larger Homewood Suites are on the left side. Both brands offer free Wi-Fi and room service, as well as a shared 24/7 grab-and-go market, the Pacific Standard Coastal Kitchen restaurant (dinner only), and access to a heated outdoor rooftop pool. The 160 Homewood Suites have full kitchens and larger layouts, along with daily breakfast buffet and an evening reception Monday through Thursday, making it more ideal for longer stays. Some of the 204 Hilton Garden Inn rooms have bay views and sleeper sofas.

This contemporary 30-story hotel overlooking San Diego Bay strives for a boutique feel. Rooms are modern and spacious with views of either the bay or the port. All rooms have large work desks, perfect for industrious business travelers while families will enjoy the heated saltwater pool and kids-only splash pad. The hotel also has a full-service spa and fitness center. Trolley tours of the city stop at the hotel; joggers will like the waterfront 3-mile path that winds over to Seaport Village.

Already an excellent value for Old Town, this cheerful property throws in such perks as a free breakfast buffet, and when you've had enough of the heated pool off the shaded courtyard, you can tackle the historic park's attractions and the restaurants nearby. Rooms are basic but nicely furnished; each one has a microwave, mini-refrigerator, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Conveniently located just off the I–5 exit, the hotel offers free parking and free shuttle service to the airport, convention center, and the cruise terminal.

This 19-acre bayside property has many desirable amenities, including three pools with waterslides and proximity to Mission Bay and SeaWorld. Recently refreshed rooms in the main tower and older rooms in the low-level, lanai-style buildings both feature a neutral color scheme and clean-lined furniture, quilt-top beds, and flat-screen TVs. The Red Marlin Restaurant & Terrace serves seasonal, seafood-heavy cuisine with 180-degree water views; the full-service spa offers massages, treatments, and other packages for a day of pampering.

At this 1950s former apartment complex, every room at the U-shaped hotel gets a glimpse of the ocean, meaning you can fall asleep to the sound of the crashing waves and wake up to the sight of surfers paddling just in front of the hotel. Inspired by the owner's travels to Santorini, this blue-and-white two-story hotel has bright and cheerful rooms framing a pool and courtyard. Downstairs on the terrace, guests can enjoy a panoramic view of the sea and nearby cliffs. Rooms have laminate and tile flooring, wall-mounted flat-screen TVs, and double-headed showers with granite finish. If you plan on cooking, request one of the five rooms with small kitchens. You won't find a restaurant or room service, but the outdoor grill and teak patio furniture provide the basics for an ideal sunset barbecue.

Request a south-facing room on the second floor for the best ocean views at no extra charge.

You can park your boat at the 80-slip marina of this romantic retreat set on a secluded 15-acre peninsula on the Silver Strand. Rooms glow in sand-and-sea hues; most standard rooms and all suites have furnished balconies with water views. You can rent watercraft—including WaveRunners, Duffy boats, sailboats, and motorboats—and get out on the water or luxuriate by the tropical oasis that surrounds three pools. The 10,000-square-foot Sea Spa features a tranquil garden area with a hot tub and Watsu water massages. Exercise classes range from yoga to bootcamp, and the resort also rents out kayaks, paddleboats, stand-up paddleboards, and bikes.

Primarily a draw for business travelers, this hotel between Seaport Village and the convention center also works well for leisure and family travelers. All rooms have water views, modern furnishings, and windows that open to the coastal breeze. Two pools, several sports courts for basketball, tennis, and volleyball, a spa, a 24-hour market, and seven restaurants and bars mean you don't have to leave the hotel. But, if you do leave, the trolley station is one block away, and the Gaslamp's clubs and restaurants are within walking distance. Sally's Fish House & Bar offers locally sourced seafood and has a picture-perfect patio on the waterfront while The Landing is a great spot to sip a craft cocktail.  Be sure to catch at least one sunset from the Top of the Hyatt bar on the 40th floor.

This Hilton property pays tribute to the Portuguese fisherman who discovered Point Loma in the 16^th century, as evident in the mosaic tiles, basket lamps, and roped pillars. Beyond reception is a ground-floor bar where an in-house mixologist keeps craft cocktails flowing. Overlooking a central courtyard, rooms have mid-century decor with Portuguese artwork, and all the creature comforts including a mini-refrigerator, 55" TV, and NEST toiletries. Other perks include underground parking, electric charging stations, and pet-friendly rooms for those who travel with Fido. Local roaster, Dark Horse Coffee, set up shop so you can wrap your hands around a latte while listening to music on the courtyard. There's no pool, but the cool style and setting will make you think you're in a European beachside hotel.