31 Best Hotels in San Diego, California

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

After an $80 million renovation completed in 2019, the historic Italian Renaissance-style building—a former YMCA building used exclusively by military servicemen—updated all 162 rooms and suites, keeping plenty of nods to its military history like vintage photographs behind the lobby bar and original tile work. Once an underground pool now an event space, the subterranean floor also contains 10 especially quiet guest rooms and an old-fashioned barber shop. Thanks to the courthouse just a stone's throw away from the hotel and numerous reservable breakout areas, many travelers are here on business, where they can enjoy all meals from the lobby restaurant inside the plush indoor seating area or in one of the two adjoining courtyards. 

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.

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.

The moment you experience the cozy lounge spaces and wood accents of the Hilton's modern and sophisticated lobby, you realize this isn't your run-of-the-mill chain hotel—room perks include pillow-top mattresses, down comforters, and spacious work desks. Grab a drink at Wild Hare Bar Lounge, or order one to arrive poolside at the heated outdoor pool. The vibe feels more boutique than resort, and you can't beat the location: the trolley whizzes by, the convention center is across the street, and nightlife and restaurants are just outside your door.

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.

This elegant "Pink Lady" drew Hollywood film stars in the 1930s and ’40s with its setting and views of La Jolla Cove; today it draws a clientele with an appreciation for timeless perfection in concierge service, pool-deck libations, and valet attendants who greet you by name.  Rooms are small but handsome; most suites have balconies and imported linens, including the Sky Suite with 180-degree views of the Pacific. The airy villas have generous bathrooms with Jacuzzi tubs and dual sinks. The personal attention provided by the staff guarantees a pleasurable stay. Its signature restaurant, The Mediterranean Room, offers a California coastal menu, while The Whaling Bar serves craft cocktails in a 1940s swanky setting. Other La Jolla establishments are steps away, but be sure to have a drink while gazing at the ocean from La Sala Lobby Lounge, a lavish space with live music Thursday through Sunday.

Best known for its location adjacent to two 18-hole championship golf courses, this beautiful Craftsman-style lodge sits on a bluff between La Jolla and Del Mar with commanding coastal views, excellent service, a blissful spa, and the upscale AR Valentien restaurant (named after a San Diego artist of the early 1900s), which serves seasonal farm-to-table California cuisine. The warm and understated rooms are spacious and decorated with antiques, Stickley-style furniture, fabrics, leathers, and reproduction turn-of-the-20th-century pieces. Beyond the grounds are scenic trails that lead to the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. The village of La Jolla is a 10-minute drive away, which you can reach by way of the Lodge's complimentary luxury car service.

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.

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.

Minutes from SeaWorld but hidden in a quiet part of Mission Bay, the beautiful landscape of this 44-acre resort offers plenty of space for families to play and relax. The botanical gardens have ponds, waterfalls, footbridges, waterfowl, and more than 600 varieties of tropical plants—a pleasant backdrop for the island-inspired spa. Many opportunities for recreation are available—there are five pools, including one just for adults—two pickleball courts, two tennis courts, and an 18-hole miniature golf course. Ground-floor bungalow-style rooms are outfitted with flat-screen plasma TVs, mini-refrigerators, and a sleek navy-and-white palette.

This former budget motel has transformed into a contemporary hotel-motel with modern furnishings, a stylish restaurant and lounge, a fitness center, and even a hair salon. The brightly colored rooms are outfitted with pillow-top beds and interesting wall art; suites offer wet bars and some have marble bathrooms with whirlpool tubs. The on-site restaurant, the Glass Door, has fourth-floor harbor views, a stellar weekend brunch, and late-night happy hours. Complimentary shuttle service is available to the airport, cruise terminal, and convention center.

You'd be wise to make reservations well in advance for this small, quiet inn tucked away on Coast Boulevard atop Whale Watch Point; its popularity with repeat visitors ensures that it's booked year-round. Across from the Museum of Contemporary Art, the inn is a short walk from La Jolla Cove’s snorkeling and tide pools, and it's common to wake up to the sound of the ocean waves. Rooms are done in a beige-and-blue beachy style with plantation shutters, ocean views, and flat-screen TVs.