3 Best Hotels in Embarcadero, San Diego

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.

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. 

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.