San Diego is iconically known for its beautiful beaches and its classic SoCal vibes. There’s nothing quite like visiting the pacific beach with its surfer waves and scenery. Seriously, I love visiting San Diego for an escape to paradise and it’s such a fun beach city to visit with your friends.
While you can try to fit your schedule within one day, I highly recommend staying for at least the weekend so you and your group have more time to relax and explore all the different parts of town like La Jolla and Del Mar. Not to mention, the resorts here are absolutely stunning–how could you not visit without staying at one of the beautiful San Diego beach hotels?
There is SO MUCH to do in the city like surfing, visiting the aquarium, eating at the amazing restaurants, and of course having fun at the beach. There are so many resorts and hotels scattered across the city from those located more inland to hotels that open right up to the beach,
This guide will highlight the best San Diego hotels to stay at depending on your budget and vaycay plans so you can make the most fun out of your trip!
What Area to Stay in San Diego
San Diego offers so much! It’s a really big beach city–in fact it’s the second largest city in California and the eighth in the United States–so you can imagine that there are A LOT of activities to do and places to see. What area you should stay in depends on what attractions/places you’re looking to visit and what ambiance (i.e. chill, lively) you’re looking to have.
We’re going to cover all the major spots like Coronado, La Jolla, Mission Bay, Del Mar, Imperial Beach, and Downtown San Diego so you can choose which place is best for you!
Staying in Coronado
I love visiting Coronado because it’s like visiting a little island, even though it’s still technically connected to the rest of the mainland. Coronado is located on a peninsula in San Diego and is accessible by crossing the Coronado bridge via CA-75.
If I’m staying on the mainland, I enjoy taking the ferry, which is just a quick ride over and offers stunning views of the harbor and skyline. It’s even more beautiful at night when all the city lights are on!
1. Hotel del Coronado
Hotel del Coronado is one of the most well-known and iconic resorts in all of San Diego because of its long history since 1888 and its totally haunted but stunning white Victorian-style buildings that just ooze California charm.
Hotel del Coronado is located right next to Coronado Beach, which is such a huge plus since the area can get really busy during the weekends and summer season. By staying at the hotel, you won’t be fighting for parking spots and you’ll get the first pick of where to set up on the sand. Perk: the beach in front of the hotel is also accessible even if you’re not a guest.
Summer is not the only time to visit–from November to January, Hotel del Coronado also transforms into a winter wonderland. This holiday special is called Frosted by the Sea and features holiday decor, a Christmas tree, and an ice skating rink.
If you’re traveling with family or a bigger group, consider the Beach Village at gated community of beachfront cottages and villas at Hotel del Coronado.
Staying in La Jolla
La Jolla in general is one of my FAVORITE parts of San Diego to visit and is always my go-to area when looking for restaurants to eat at. I could rave about it forever–whenever someone mentions “San Diego” I always picture La Jolla for the famous La Jolla Cove, sea lions, amazing gelato, and its beaches.
Of course, this means you can find some of the best San Diego beachfront hotels here. La Jolla is a really lively and busy area full of surfers, swimmers, and restaurant-goers, so it always makes me feel so excited to be in the city.
2. La Jolla Shores Hotel
La Jolla Shores Hotel is in a great location because it’s in the middle of two of my favorite San Diego attractions: Birch Aquarium and La Jolla Cove. Birch Aquarium is an underrated place to visit in San Diego, but one that I highly recommend! The hotel is also right next to La Jolla Beach and only six minutes away from La Jolla Shores Park, which are both fantastic areas to stroll around and even have a picnic with the girls.
The rooms themselves are so cute–I love the coastal chic aesthetic with adorable baby blue and wood accents–it truly feels like you’re staying in a beach house. The hotel also offers three types of rooms: beachfront, coastal, or garden view. While all of these would make for great views, I would recommend booking a patio terrace room facing the beachfront side of the hotel to catch those stunning sunsets and ocean waves.
There is also a restaurant in the hotel that offers casual dining that is perfect for big groups that don’t want to travel out for food, or are just looking to grab a quick bite. The restaurant has a patio that literally has front row seats to the beach which will have the most insane sunset views!
3. La Jolla Cove Suites
La Jolla Cove Suites is a bit further south than La Jolla Shores Hotel and places it right next to La Jolla Cove, which is a must visit destination if you’re in the area. This is also where you can visit the famous La Jolla beach with the sea lions (remember to never interact, only observe).
I can’t stress enough about what a great location La Jolla Cove Suites is in! The hotel is in a prime spot since it’s also next to all the shops and restaurants that I love in La Jolla, making it super convenient to travel around even if you don’t have a car.
The hotel itself is stunning with modern decor and a range of rooms to choose from like the penthouse suite for something romantic to a standard suite which is perfect for traveling with the girls.
The hotel also has a rooftop terrace which is amazing to view sunsets or have a drink with your friends. The terrace also has fireplaces, which is perfect since the nights can get chilly.
4. La Valencia Hotel
La Valencia is an adorable pink hotel that is perfect for the bougie girlies who are looking to have a luxurious experience in San Diego! This Mediterranean-style resort is nicknamed the “Pink Lady” for its pastel pink walls and just screams glamor and relaxation.
La Valencia is in an ideal location just minutes away from La Jolla Cove, Boomer Beach, and Ellen Browning Scripps Park–all great locations to take photos, walk, and people watch. If you have a car, I recommend driving six minutes down to Windandsea Beach which is generally less busy than La Jolla beach, but just as beautiful and popular amongst surfers.
The hotel rooms are beautifully furnished with mosaic tiles and wood accents. There are also two on-site restaurants that serve Modern European cuisine, but there are so many other restaurants close by that I recommend eating out if you can!
Staying in Sunset Cliffs, Point Loma
Whenever I visit Sunset Cliffs, it never ceases to take my breath away. Sunset Cliffs is part of the Point Loma community in San Diego and an absolute must-visit destination. The cliffs are lined with beautiful houses (that I totally wish I could live in) and the view of the pacific ocean is stunning!
My favorite time to visit is right before the sun goes down so I can catch those golden rays, although the ocean views are beautiful day-round. I like to start my walk up north by Sunset Cliffs Coastal Park, or wherever I can find parking since it can get busy. I then enjoy a walk down the street and end by the stairs to lookout Sunset Cliffs.
5. The Inn at Sunset Cliffs
Sometimes I just want to have a lowkey vacation and take in the sights around me without feeling overwhelmed by large crowds of people. The Inn at Sunset Cliffs is perfect for a chill stay in San Diego and is also a budget-friendly option–even better if you’re sharing a room with your friends! This inn is so cute and feels more intimate because of its smaller size, but still has access to all the amenities and activities to keep you entertained and comfortable.
The hotel has a pool, which is perfect if you want to relax and don’t want to travel down to the beach. There’s also mini golfing, bike rentals, watersports, and hiking trails nearby so you don’t have to worry about traveling into other parts of the city to have fun!
The Inn is located right next to the Sunset Cliffs Coastal Park I mentioned earlier, which means you can enjoy a lovely walk along the cliffs without having to worry about finding parking. It is a bit further out from most restaurants and stores, but there is an adorable beach cafe next door called the Little Lion Cafe that would be perfect to have breakfast at while admiring the ocean view.
Staying in Mission Bay
Mission Bay is your classic boardwalk beach town that stretches 2 miles of sandy beaches, cafes, and restaurants. Mission Bay is a convenient area to stay in if you’re arriving from the San Diego International Airport because it’s only about 20 minutes away.
Mission Bay is also home to Belmont Park, which has an entire roller coaster, as well as an arcade, miniature golf, and other carnival games! There are numerous rentals for renting bikes and watersport activities that you can participate in at the famous Mission Bay. There are so many fun activities to do here, you’re sure to never get bored!
6. Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa
If you truly want to feel transported into a paradise island, stay at the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa. The hotel looks magical and entering the lobby feels like you’re stepping into somewhere tropical–the decor reminded me of my stay in Waikiki, Honolulu. The lobby has an entire waterfall inside of it (and I don’t mean one of those small fountains you can find in your backyard) with lush greenery and palm trees everywhere really adds to the ambiance.
I love that the rooms match the tropical theme with rich colors and floral prints, which really makes the experience feel complete. The first floor rooms also open right up to a grassy field that is right behind the beach. It would be so relaxing to wake up in the morning and have a nice cup of coffee on one of the patio chairs while enjoying the ocean breeze.
The hotel has an on-site restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner that you can eat on their patio that leads right to the beach.
There are also parrot shows hosted by the hotel staff, which I think is so unique to the other hotels in San Diego
7. Pacific Terrace Hotel
Pacific Terrace Hotel is just steps away from Pacific Beach and Law Street Beach. Imagine waking up every morning and being able to enjoy a walk on the sandy beach with your toes in the water. It sounds like an absolute dream!
This hotel is still beachside, but surrounded by more residential houses behind it, so it won’t feel so touristy. There are also many cafes and restaurants within walking distance to choose from like Amplified Kitchen + Beer Garden, a brewpub that serves tacos.
It is also only a 20 minute walk from Mission Bay, a nice park with a long strip of grass and palm trees that would be perfect for having a picnic with the girls! If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can rent boats and other watersports from Mission Bay Sportcenter.
8. The Wayfarer San Diego
I have always loved beaches and watching the surfers shred the waves, and The Wayfarer perfectly embodies what a surfer beach hotel should look like.
The rooms and lounge areas are hip and cool with fun colors and surfboard decorations, so you know that you’re going to have the absolute BEST time in the waves. There is also an outdoor heated pool that is great if the day is too gloomy for a splash in the ocean. Plus accessible fire pits for guests, which is a nice amenity to watch the sunset in a warm blanket and some smores.
The hotel is a beachfront and only a minute away from Mission Beach and Mission Bay–perfect if you are looking to do some water sports like kayaking or snorkeling. It would also be so fun to rent a bike and cycle down Mission Bay and visit one of the parks or coves.
9. Tower23 Hotel
Tower23 Hotel is the perfect lux hotel if you’re looking to stay in the Mission Bay area. The hotel is right by Pacific Beach and Crystal Pier, which I recommend checking out for some beautiful photo ops with the sky and ocean in the background. This would also make for a romantic night walk with a partner or the perfect time to chat with family and friends.
There is also an on-site restaurant called JRDN, one of the best oceanfront restaurants in the city! Every Tuesday, you can order their SoCal Supper Club deal for $50, which comes with an appetizer, entree, side, and dessert. This would be the perfect romantic dinner to share for two! You can also get 50% off wine if you spend over $100.
I also recommend checking out Kono’s Cafe, a really popular breakfast/brunch spot known for their egg burritos and surfer aesthetic. The cafe is right next door and would be a great place to grab breakfast before hitting the waves or going for a walk. There’s bikes, scooters, and moped rentals nearby, which can be fun to take along the Ocean Front Walk.
The hotel also features a rooftop terrace including a bar and lounge that is perfect for having a drink with the girls, while watching the sunset and waves.
Staying in Del Mar
Del Mar is most famously known for its Del Mar Fairgrounds, which is home to Del Mar’s horse races and county fair, but there’s so much more to do. Del Mar has all the beach and surfer vibes, but bundled into a small town with beautiful views and architecture. Located about 20 miles north of San Diego, this quaint beach town is full of beachfront restaurants, shopping, and stunning views.
10. L’Auberge Del Mar
I stayed in L’Auberge Del Mar for just one night and I honestly wished that I could’ve stayed for a whole weekend! You will have to splurge more on this hotel, but let me tell you it’s so worth it if you can. The hotel itself is stunning and reminded me of a mansion or villa rather than just your typical hotel. The staff is really friendly and accommodating, and can help you book reservations at nearby restaurants.
The beach is really close by, but you do have to walk down some slopes and stairs, so keep that in mind when packing beach supplies. Consider renting beach chairs so you don’t have to carry them back and forth. I didn’t mind the walk, however, since the trail was lined with so many beautiful flowers and the sun was shining overhead.
The pool and lounge area is huge with firepits and lounge chairs. The hotel also has an on-site restaurant, so there are tables outside that would be amazing to sit at while having a nice dinner during golden hour. I opted to just order some small bites at the bar inside and everything was delicious!
Staying in Imperial Beach
Imperial Beach is almost the furthest south you can get in San Diego before entering Tijuana, Mexico. This is a really underrated part of San Diego because it’s a bit isolated from downtown, but the surrounding scenery is so worth exploring!
Discover the delicious local eats, afterall, Imperial Beach is right by Mexico so you’ve got to try some of their tacos.
Tijuana River Reserve is another highlight of staying by Imperial Beach where you can take guided nature walks, go hiking, and observe the beautiful wildlife and scenery. Staying here is such a unique blend of beach vibes, flora and fauna, and wildlife that would be so fun to discover with family and friends.
11. Pier South Resort, Autograph Collection by Marriott
There aren’t many hotels in Imperial Beach, but Pier South Resort is still a great option for its prime location and amenities. The hotel and rooms are clean and modern with a pool/ lounge area to relax in and breakfast during weekday mornings.
This is the closest you’ll get to paradise without actually traveling out of the country and is the perfect way to rewind without all the stress of planning an extravagant trip.
What drew me to staying in Imperial Beach is how many fun activities there are to do that aren’t just walking on the beach. Get this–you can go horseback riding! While the hotel doesn’t have horse rentals, there are several local ranches and equines nearby Tijuana River Reserve that offer riding and rentals.
Being able to ride a horse while on vacation sounds like something straight out of a movie and a rare opportunity I’d recommend checking out!
I can’t resist a good spa, which Pier South Resort has–this would be great to visit after a long day of exploring the wilderness! There is also an onsite-restaurant and bar, but don’t worry about being far away from downtown, there’s still a lot of great restaurants nearby. You’re by the ocean so it only makes sense to try some seafood at restaurants like Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar or tacos at Quiero.
Staying in Downtown San Diego
Downtown San Diego has everything you could possibly want when vacationing in a beach city from amazing restaurants, farmer markets, parks, entertainment, and museums. While Downtown San Diego is a bit away from the beaches, it’s easy to travel to Coronado or the other local beaches for some fun in the water.
Gaslamp Quarter is one of the best and most-well known spots in San Diego and for good reason. The area is always so lively and fun, especially during the weekends, and is a for sure way to bring my spirits up. There are comedy shows, live music, and rooftop experiences–perfect for a romantic getaway or a girls trip in the city.
Downtown is also where Seaport Village is located, a small outdoor shopping mall that has cute stores for souvenir shopping and yummy eats. I love coming here for some ice cream and then walking along the water where there are stalls selling cute jewelry, art, and food.
From there I walk to the USS Midway Museum which is only a few minutes away. This museum is literally on a giant aircraft carrier and I’d recommend checking out this really cool preservation of history. There are sometimes really neat fighter jets and helicopters on display and even a homage to the blockbuster film Top Gun.
12. Manchester Grand Hyatt
Manchester Grand Hyatt is located right behind the Seaport Village, one of my favorite spots to visit for food and shopping. While this hotel doesn’t open up right next to the beach, it is really close to the water and only a short drive (or ferry ride) to Coronado where you can visit Coronado Beach. I can’t overstate what a fantastic location Manchester is located in!
The hotel has a buffet breakfast every morning, although I also recommend checking out the local cafes and restaurants. There are six restaurants (yes, SIX), as well as a bar and lounge, coffee shop, and snack bar–so you truly have everything you could need!
Downtown San Diego is one of my favorite places to stay in the city and while it can get busy, it’s so convenient to go shopping or exploring in the city and if you want to find a beach there are so many close by.
No matter where you choose to book your stay in San Diego, there is no wrong answer. Every area is full of fun activities and, most importantly, great beaches. While it’s not 100% necessary to stay at a beachfront hotel in San Diego, it can really elevate your experience (who doesn’t want to feel like a local surfer) and make commuting easier.
When booking your hotel, it’s important to consider if you’re looking for a more chill and quiet place to spend your vaycay like Imperial Beach or if you want to party it up with bustling nightlife in La Jolla. Either way, San Diego is easy to commute in and you can always travel from one location to another if you’re looking to beach hop or just a change of scenery.
Nothing beats the beaches at San Diego and I hope you love your time there as much as I do! And we want to hear all about it! Tag us on social @whimsysoul!
