8 Best Places To Stay For A San Diego Summer Retreat - Updated 2024

8 Best Places To Stay For A San Diego Summer Retreat - Updated 2024
Jessica
Jessica 
Updated
| 4 min read

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.

Stayed at this property?

Fairmont Grand Del Mar

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 5300 Grand Del Mar Court
19.61 km (12.2 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Tennis court

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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.

Stayed at this property?

Pantai Inn

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 1003 Coast Boulevard
10.45 km (6.5 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego

Parking Meeting/banquet facilities 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms Fishing Babysitting/child services

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.

Stayed at this property?

Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Airport-Liberty Station

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 2576 Laning Road
3.95 km (2.5 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego

Parking Pets allowed Meeting/banquet facilities 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km) Terrace Non-smoking rooms

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.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
2.74 km (1.7 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego
615 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire cottage 3 Beds 5 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 5

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the pullout couch was the most comfortable i’ve ever slept on
the cottage itself is cozy and relaxing
the main bed is comfortable and the pictures and description on airbnb accurate
the house was clean with several amenities beautiful kitchen comfortable bed and more
boogie boards beach towels kitchen tools and appliances were all great
Cleanliness:
so clean and comfortable
clean and comfortable place to stay
the place was very clean and updated
it was clean cute and convenient
house was clean and in good condition
Host:
thanks a lot to our great hosts
everyone in the area was very friendly
amazing location & charming cottage the host was extremely responsive & always helpful
very kind neighbors and steps from the beach
Location:
great location close to everything eating and shopping within walking distance
great location just a few steps to the beach in a cute area
beautiful location and tastefully decorated
such a cute little cottage in a great location
this is a great place close to the beach and walking distance to restaurants
Read more reviews

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!

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
7.14 km (4.5 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego
490 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE RENTAL UNIT 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
cozy san diego modern feel in beautiful little town filled with delicious foods and amazing music
harbor breakfast downstairs was so convenient- try the french toast shelley was super sweet and helpful
also i like that they supplied shampoo conditioner body wash misc stuff in the kitchen etc
the apartment itself was stylish airy light and super comfortable
comfortable and clean and only a short walk to the gas lamp district which is very lively
Cleanliness:
spotlessly clean and is just as described
the place was very clean and well stocked
the rooms are clean and spacious
the place itself is exactly as described v clean and stylish
spacious clean apartment with a great kitchen
Host:
rachel is very nice host
rachel is excellent at communicating and a great host
rachel was also very responsive and helpful
loved that there was parking huge plus rachel was very responsive and thorough
the location is great and rachel was a great host
Location:
excellent location very close to everything
perfect location in little italy
perfect location in little italy
cute style and great location
very cute spot and such a perfect location
Read more reviews

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.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
13.88 km (8.7 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego
306 reviews   Wifi Available
Entire guest suite 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the air conditioner was helpful as we sleep best in cooler temperatures
great location wonderful view from the backyard and super comfy bed
cute space with comfortable bed and great amenities
the flat was cozy the remodeled kitchenette was a nice touch
the kitchen is fully equipped making cooking very easy
Cleanliness:
very clean large space
it was clean and stylish
it was very clean and well maintained
it was clean and very cozy
place was very clean and bed comfortable
Host:
hosts were very nice
i appreciate the great hospitality of our host
awesome place and host
the host was great at communicating and check in was super easy
loved this place welcoming and helpful hosts
Location:
dan's location is close to downtown and other attractions
good location close to everywhere we went to
the location is nicely placed it was close to the zoo where we wanted to visit
this is a comfortable place in a very central location
ideal location if you are planning on visiting the san diego zoo
Read more reviews

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.

Stayed at this property?

8.94 km (5.6 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego
46 reviews   Wifi Available
studio 2 Guests 0 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2
Minimum Nights: 7
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
overall it was comfortable and i would definitely rent it again
Cleanliness:
very comfortable clean everything i needed
space is perfect for us clean simple and convenient
it’s clean functional cozy ikea euro
charming property clean and well appointed bathroom sink tiny
the space was perfect compact and clean with new modern fixtures
Host:
sharon was very ind and responsive
the owners of the unit were very responsive
owner seems very nice and accomidating
highly recommended owner was fantastic the best croissants are at busy bee
Location:
nice location quiet close to beach
we found the sea glass hideaway to be very cozy well appointed and the location was top notch
a very nice and cosy studio very well equipped close to everything
it’s the perfect location for us and the main reason is because we have dogs
i enjoyed my stay and would recommend this if not for the short walk to windansea beach
Read more reviews
Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.

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?

Stayed at this property?
Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Jessica is passionate about literature, gastronomy and travel. She recently learnt Korean and enjoys bathroom singing on good days.

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