Sunny San Diego may be one of the most popular summer getaway spots this side of the hemisphere. With miles and miles of white beaches, temperate weather and scrumptious coastal fare, it’s the perfect holiday destination for some much-needed rest and relaxation, whether you’re traveling alone or as a family. Here are eight of the best places to stay in San Diego, so outstanding that you’ll never want to leave.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on March 03, 2024.
1. Fairmont Grand Del Mar: The lap of luxury (from USD 568)
A five-star hotel in Grand Del Mar Court, the Fairmont is the epitome of opulence. With its beauteous grounds, Mediterranean architecture and immaculate King rooms and one bedroom suites, the hotel has become the top choice for vacationers looking to indulge in a home away from home. Relax with a glass of red while watching the sunset out on the terraces or take a dip in one of the four outdoor pools.
Enjoy a hot tub as a couple or explore the hotel’s lush greenery as a family with the free bicycles provided. Dine your way through six in-house restaurants, and be sure to sample the Fairmont’s signature Mediterranean fare at Amaya. With ample facilities (including free transportation to La Jolla and Solana Beach), top-notch service and an isolated location guaranteeing a good night’s sleep, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar promises a sumptuous experience, and a stay unlike any other.
Fairmont Grand Del Mar
Address: 5300 Grand Del Mar Court
19.61 km (12.2 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego
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2. Pantai Inn: A cozy sanctuary by the beach (from USD 337)
A boutique Balinese-inspired resort in the town of La Jolla, Pantai Inn offers studios and cottages with a fantastic view and homely tropical decor. ‘Pantai,’ which means 'beach’ in Indonesian, is an apt name for this property only a minute’s walk from sand and sea. However, the great location isn’t the only reason guests keep returning.
Come for the serene unhurried ambiance unique to coastal lodgings and enjoy one-of-a-kind Indonesian hospitality. Personal touches and a consistently excellent staff will make you feel right at home, albeit more relaxed. The free parking is a bonus for families intending to drive to nearby attractions like SeaWorld and the Birch Aquarium. For unparalleled vistas every morning and evening, choose a room with an ocean view, and let yourself be swept away by nature at Pantai Inn.
Pantai Inn
Address: 1003 Coast Boulevard
10.45 km (6.5 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego
3. Homewood Suites by Hilton (San Diego Airport): Comfortable waterfront residence (from USD 221)
A three-star hotel located in urban Liberty Station, the Homewood Suites are a mere two kilometers (1.3 miles) away from the airport, making it highly accessible for holidaymakers. Despite the proximity, guests need not worry about aviation-related noise, as the hotel’s location is surprisingly quiet. Both suites and studios are offered, with a fully-equipped kitchen and complimentary hot breakfast. Guests can unwind in the outdoor pool, visit nearby Point Loma for a day trip or for those with a taste for adventure, rent a dinghy at Mission Bay to spend an afternoon on the sea! With a walking trail perfect for morning excursions, a variety of restaurants, family-friendly rooms, and free airport shuttle service, the Homewood Suites by Hilton at Liberty Station are a great choice for travelers.
Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Airport-Liberty Station
Address: 2576 Laning Road
3.95 km (2.5 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego
4. Ocean Beach Cottage: A refreshing seaside abode (from USD 161)
A newly remodeled 1940’s house located in the town of Ocean Beach, the cottage is an ideal vacation rental for small groups. Accommodating up to five people, it is a spacious one-bedroom residence with beautiful pastel decor and a fully furnished kitchen. Only 50 steps away from the beach, guests can look forward to a true seaside experience with the entire home to themselves.
Sunbathe and swim to your heart’s content while making use of the beach paraphernalia provided in the garage. Take a stroll along Ocean Beach Pier, and watch the fishermen hauling in the day’s catch. Try out the nearby restaurants, and visit the Farmer’s Market for something different. With a prime location, amenities for children and the warmth of hosts Marina and Joanie, this cottage promises a seaside retreat with extra charm.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the pullout couch was the most comfortable i’ve ever slept onthe cottage itself is cozy and relaxingthe main bed is comfortable and the pictures and description on airbnb accuratethe house was clean with several amenities beautiful kitchen comfortable bed and moreboogie boards beach towels kitchen tools and appliances were all greatCleanliness:
so clean and comfortableclean and comfortable place to staythe place was very clean and updatedit was clean cute and convenienthouse was clean and in good conditionHost:
thanks a lot to our great hostseveryone in the area was very friendlyamazing location & charming cottage the host was extremely responsive & always helpfulvery kind neighbors and steps from the beachRead more reviewsLocation:
great location close to everything eating and shopping within walking distancegreat location just a few steps to the beach in a cute areabeautiful location and tastefully decoratedsuch a cute little cottage in a great locationthis is a great place close to the beach and walking distance to restaurants
5. Little Italy apartment: Rise and shine (from USD 175)
An apartment in the quaint neighborhood of Little Italy, this place exudes a gentle warmth with its sunny color palette and loft-like design. Simple but delightful furnishings and a whole lot of natural sunlight will please guests looking for a cheery escape close to the waterfront. Explore the unique shops the area has to offer on foot and stop by one of the cafes to quench your thirst with some delectable Italian coffee. The numerous food options, airy feel of the house, extremely convenient location and attentiveness of host Rachel will make your trip a joyous one.
Head over to Little Italy for a great time!
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
cozy san diego modern feel in beautiful little town filled with delicious foods and amazing musicharbor breakfast downstairs was so convenient- try the french toast shelley was super sweet and helpfulalso i like that they supplied shampoo conditioner body wash misc stuff in the kitchen etcthe apartment itself was stylish airy light and super comfortablecomfortable and clean and only a short walk to the gas lamp district which is very livelyCleanliness:
spotlessly clean and is just as describedthe place was very clean and well stockedthe rooms are clean and spaciousthe place itself is exactly as described v clean and stylishspacious clean apartment with a great kitchenHost:
rachel is very nice hostrachel is excellent at communicating and a great hostrachel was also very responsive and helpfulloved that there was parking huge plus rachel was very responsive and thoroughthe location is great and rachel was a great hostRead more reviewsLocation:
excellent location very close to everythingperfect location in little italyperfect location in little italycute style and great locationvery cute spot and such a perfect location
6. Ocean view flat: A comfortable pad for the family
A one-bedroom flat in Chollas Creek, this new house is child- and pet-friendly, as the owners have two boys and a dog of their own. With comfortable beds, a kitchenette and a toddler cot, this residence brings a touch of home through its cozy decor and thoughtful amenities such as coffee and breakfast bars for the jet-lagged traveler. San Diego’s most popular attractions are only a car or taxi ride away and the free parking on premises only makes this easier for families. Dan, the host, is a local San Diegan who will be more than happy to advise on food and recommendations.
San Diego, California, United States
13.88 km (8.7 mi) from SeaWorld San DiegoAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the air conditioner was helpful as we sleep best in cooler temperaturesgreat location wonderful view from the backyard and super comfy bedcute space with comfortable bed and great amenitiesthe flat was cozy the remodeled kitchenette was a nice touchthe kitchen is fully equipped making cooking very easyCleanliness:
very clean large spaceit was clean and stylishit was very clean and well maintainedit was clean and very cozyplace was very clean and bed comfortableHost:
hosts were very nicei appreciate the great hospitality of our hostawesome place and hostthe host was great at communicating and check in was super easyloved this place welcoming and helpful hostsRead more reviewsLocation:
dan's location is close to downtown and other attractionsgood location close to everywhere we went tothe location is nicely placed it was close to the zoo where we wanted to visitthis is a comfortable place in a very central locationideal location if you are planning on visiting the san diego zoo
7. Sea glass hideaway: A designer studio by the beach (from USD 128)
A remodeled studio in the heart of La Jolla, the Hideaway is only a stone’s throw away from the Windansea Beach, famous for its gorgeous scenery and powerful waves. After a tiring afternoon on the surf, guests will be happy to know that shopping and dining opportunities are only a short walk away on the Boulevard. The property boasts a fully-equipped kitchen and a private patio if you wish to enjoy your meals outside. With its great location, friendliness to dogs and unbeatable price, the Sea Glass Hideaway makes a great case for a short stay or a long retreat.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
overall it was comfortable and i would definitely rent it againCleanliness:
very comfortable clean everything i neededspace is perfect for us clean simple and convenientit’s clean functional cozy ikea eurocharming property clean and well appointed bathroom sink tinythe space was perfect compact and clean with new modern fixturesHost:
sharon was very ind and responsivethe owners of the unit were very responsiveowner seems very nice and accomidatinghighly recommended owner was fantastic the best croissants are at busy beeRead more reviewsLocation:
nice location quiet close to beachwe found the sea glass hideaway to be very cozy well appointed and the location was top notcha very nice and cosy studio very well equipped close to everythingit’s the perfect location for us and the main reason is because we have dogsi enjoyed my stay and would recommend this if not for the short walk to windansea beach
Fun in the sun
From surfing to fun in the sun, San Diego has it all for anyone wanting a sandy summery escape. Why not book a stay at one of these lodgings on your next trip and relish your vacation to the maximum?
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