35 Best Hotels in San Diego, California

Business travelers who also want to catch a baseball game flock to this modern masterpiece that occupies the first 21 floors of a 32-story high-rise overlooking Petco Park. A sky bridge that opens 90 minutes before game time connects the hotel and the stadium. Another perk—expertly trained Clefs d'Or concierges are available to guests at all hours of the day. All rooms have windows that open, and most have views of the ocean, the bay, the Downtown skyline, or the ballpark's outfield. Multiple stone fireplaces anchor the pool terrace, where you can dine alfresco at Tortuga or relax on padded chaise lounges. Other dining options include Ace Porter on the street level with a baseball-themed menu serving "Designated Hitters" as appetizers and "In The Glove" entrées.

Since its unveiling in 2022, this historic estate-turned-boutique hotel has lured travelers from afar with its romantic courtyard, sophisticated lounge, and deco-modern suites just blocks from the beach. Designed by Irving Gill, the 1913 former residence took a turn for the better without jeopardizing its integrity; retained are the original archways and handrails for which the famed California architect is known. With seamless check-in and contactless services, everything is at your fingertips, including an on-site concierge who is just a text message away. Between fresh pastries (Friday–Sunday), pet-friendly rooms, a library lounge, and cold brew on tap, it’s like staying at the home of a wealthy friend. Sunny and soft rooms have thoughtful touches including Nespresso machines, Smart TVs, Turkish robes, sateen linens, and mini-refrigerators that can be stocked with fresh juice, face masks, and snacks. If you like what you smell, Orli's custom scent of candles or room spray can be purchased from the gift shop. The location, across from the Museum of Contemporary Art, is about as central as you can get without all the street noise. Take advantage of the neighboring parking garage and let your feet do the exploring to the nearby beach, shops, and restaurants. The hotel partners with local businesses to provide culinary and wellness experiences.

Originally built in 1912, the former St. James Hotel was fully redesigned in 2023 and now features a nautically inspired elegance that nods to the building's history. The vibrant rooftop lounge features gorgeous views of the Gaslamp District, San Diego Bay, and the Coronado Bridge, and offers full bar service and light bites when open between March and November. The all-day eatery, Saint James French Diner, combines the feel of a classic American diner with the subtlety of a French bistro and offers room service for dinner only. Due to the age of the building, some of the rooms feel a bit small with some odd layouts (like a vanity in the sitting area), but each one is beautifully designed with Bellino linens on comfortable beds. Wi-Fi is free, as is the Nespresso machine in each room, and dogs and service animals are welcome for $100 for the entire stay. Nevertheless, the fee can be waived with proof of documentation for service animals. Leave the kids at home—this hotel is meant more for business travelers and design-savvy visitors.

This stylish and centrally located boutique hotel may have small rooms, but it compensates with plenty of pampering extras like an on-site yoga studio, Zen-like spa suite, updated lobby, and Sofia Signature spa products in each room. Rooms feature pillow-top mattresses, flat-screen TVs, contemporary bath fixtures, and mini-refrigerators and microwaves. The four slightly larger VIP suites have extra sitting areas and soaking tubs in the bathrooms. Explore the nearby area at one of the hotel's complimentary hour-long walking tours, every Saturday and Sunday at 9 am.

A modern high-rise near Horton Plaza hides San Diego's most opulent old-world-style hotel—the lobby is outfitted with bronze sculptures and Baccarat chandeliers—where staff greet guests with old-fashioned charm and politeness; other Downtown hotels have flashier amenities but you won't find one with greater class. Rooms are individually furnished with Italian marble counters and rich wool carpeting. From the ninth floor up, the views of the harbor and city are breathtaking, especially from the rooftop swimming pool, which is encircled by a running track. Afternoon tea, with or without champagne, is served in the lobby to the accompaniment of harp music.