12 Best Short-Term Rentals In San Diego, California - Updated 2024

Kaycie Gayle
Kaycie Gayle 
Updated
| 5 min read

San Diego is the oldest town in California and it is packed with plenty of excitement to offer locals and visitors. With an idyllic climate and easy-going ambiance, it invites you to come and explore its beauty. San Diego lives true to its title “America’s Finest City" with its repertoire of amazing attractions. Coronado Beach, Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, and La Jolla Cove awaits beach lovers. Embarcadero, USS Midway Museum, and Maritime Museum of San Diego allow you to have a glimpse of naval-related activities. Point Loma and Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve are perfect for those who love to sightsee from a high vantage point. You can trace the yesteryears at San Diego Old Town, Old Point Loma Lighthouse, Seaport Village, and Whaley House Museum. Kids and the young at heart will love to explore attractions like San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and Birch Aquarium. Belmont Park, San Diego Natural History Museum, San Diego Air and Space Museum, will also keep little ones awed. Plan your trip and find your home base in this amazing city by checking out our best short-term rentals in San Diego, California.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) host status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, decor, availability of dates, and short-term stay rules and regulations. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 09, 2024.

1. Cozy waterfront apartment to relax (from USD 215)

This Vrbo apartment is located in Mission Hills and is close to many attractions like the San Diego Waterfront, Seaport Village, Balboa Park, and more. You can start your day with a fresh bath in a hot tub which will be given with prior reservation, and eat homemade breakfast prepared in the fully equipped kitchen. In addition, there is an eight-seater dining table where your family can dine together and chit-chat over coffee.

If you’re interested in playing games or sports, the apartment has a game room with a pool table and ping pong table. Your kids can also play some video games or read books for entertainment. After spending a good time in the apartment, you can participate in nearby activities such as swimming, fishing, cycling, jet skiing, and many more.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
5.92 km (3.7 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego
Apartment 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
everything you read about the queen bed is true it is extremely comfortable
Cleanliness:
very clean and quiet
everything was very clean and well maintained
the place was super clean and had lots of charm
my wife and i loved this charming apartment that was so clean and comfortable
Host:
the owner bill is very friendly
wonderful hosts they had great recommendations for restaurants
owners are very friendly
bill & tiffany are wonderful hosts and were quick to respond to our questions
hosts were very friendly and helpful
Location:
the property is wonderful location is great
location location everything was amazing great find
close to lots of san diego attractions as well
easy walk to little italy and convenient for coronado island and the zoo
it was easy to get to and also very close to many beaches restaurants and attractions
Read more reviews
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2. Homey condo with a beautiful view (from USD 209)

This condo is one of the most comfortable and pretty homes for rent in San Diego that is between the ocean and bayside beaches. You will be overwhelmed with the view from your balcony as it overlooks the beach, and you can even sit by the veranda and enjoy the scenery.

After swimming or doing nearby activities like kayaking, surfing, and more, you can return to the apartment and relax in the shared sauna or spa whirlpool. Make coffee and watch your favorite show or movie on television. End your day by updating social media with your pictures using the provided internet.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
2.14 km (1.4 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego
condo 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the beds were very comfortable (including the sofa bed) the hot tub was great too
our only suggestion will be that kitchen pans should be updated they are pretty old
Cleanliness:
place was clean as described
hot tub is 108 degrees and the towels are clean and plentiful
clean comfortable beds beautiful view
Host:
owner was very helpful with a few questions we had he answered us right away
the owner gave us a credit because of the bike problem which was appreciated
Location:
location was very good too
a great quiet location
the location was great
i would definitely come back to this property great location close to everything
great location parking was a little small
Read more reviews
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3. Adorable vacation rental near Mission Beach (from USD 138)

Nestled in a quiet neighborhood and just across the beach is this cozy little private beach vacation home. Beach towels, beach chairs, sand toys, boogie boards, and beach cruiser bikes are supplied during your stay. Conveniences such as air conditioning and outdoor shower for rinsing off are available. Garage parking, street parking, and other nearby free parking lots are also available.

On your stay, you’ll have access to the shared patio for outdoor relaxation. Entertainment is provided through free wifi and internet TV. This beautiful beach house can sleep two adults up to a maximum of four persons. It is well-suited for short-term vacation rentals in San Diego for couples, families, or groups of friends.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
3.0 km (1.9 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego
244 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE RENTAL UNIT 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
all the usb outlets around the unit were a thoughtful touch
we simply loved our time at janet and scott's cozy cottage
the bed is super comfortable
bed extremely comfortable also which is important
Cleanliness:
clean orderly and a very comfortable bed
everything was super clean
very clean wonderful bed and bright and cheery
it is clean comfortable and you could not ask for a better location
the place was small but very cute clean and in excellent condition
Host:
they are great hosts
the hosts are super responsive and helpful
i've stayed with hosts before at another property and they clearly have the guest experience dialed in
very nice unit described very well and the owners were extremely easy to work with
communication with hosts was easy and they respond very quickly
Location:
great location great value close walking distance to restaurants and beach
nice place with great location
great place in a great location
perfect location you’re close to everything you could want or need
this cute little unit is in the perfect location to enjoy your trip to the beach
Read more reviews
Weekly discount: 10% off

4. Gorgeous condo with ocean view (from USD 140)

Experience the epitome of a beachside getaway in one of the best romantic places in San Diego while staying in this romantic sea breeze condo. It comes with a nautical theme and thoughtfully selected modern furnishings. It has a fully supplied kitchen, a balcony, and a room where you can enjoy the ocean view. During your stay, you’ll enjoy a dedicated parking spot and access to the laundry room. This condo is perfect for several nights’ stay for a group of three persons. The relaxing beach home is located just one house away from the boardwalk.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
2.32 km (1.5 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego
258 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE CONDO 1 Bed 2 Guests 0 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
excellent end unit location with a balcony view of the bay inlet and air conditioning
efficiency studio with full kitchen amenities full sized frig and stove
the air conditioning worked well and quickly to keep the indoors dry and cool
modern appliances in the kitchen and a bathroom with a very nice shower
the apartment was the perfect place to stay in san diego and karena was an amazing host
Cleanliness:
the place is clean comfortable and very stylish
clean comfortable lots of extras
karena’s place was adorable and clean great communication and check in was super easy
clean cute place as described
it was spotlessly clean and everything had been provided for
Host:
karena is a thoughtful host and the big binder of information was awesome
karena is very responsive and a great host
she is a host you can trust and i would absolutely stay at one of her condos again
Location:
great location able to walk everywhere
great location by the beach
we really liked the location and the parking space
adorable place in a great location
location is awesome walking distance to beach boardwalk shops and restaurants
Read more reviews
Weekly discount: 22% off

5. Cute one-bedroom cottage

Step into this light and airy one-bedroom cottage that is just a five-minute walk to the beach. It is attached to a home with a separate entrance from the main house. This cozy bungalow has a living room with a kitchenette, a dining area, and it has been comfortably furnished. Its large bedroom includes a Cal King bed, while its bath has a separate toilet, shower and vanity area with a walk-in closet. The cottage is just a one- minute walk to restaurants, shops, and kayak and surfboard rentals. The bungalow can sleep up to three people.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
10.49 km (6.6 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego
351 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire bungalow 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
it was an extremely hot (website hidden by airbnb) ac would have made it much more comfortable
the cottage is quiet and quite comfortable
microwave and toaster oven as well as a full refrigerator and freezer as well well as wifi
we managed with two powerful fans
it's very comfortable and stays plenty cool if you keep the windows open and fan going
Cleanliness:
clean and quiet
towels were clean and smelled fresh
everything was very clean and well stocked
cottage quite spacious and clean
it was very clean with a comfortable bed
Host:
she is a wonderful host and made sure i had an amazing stay
maureen was an amazing host
great option great home great host
maureen is a very nice host really helpful
maureen was a great host
Location:
the location is amazing
amazing location and nice place
very nice apartment close to everything
great location and an easy walk to restaurants and la jolla shores beach
the location was perfectly set in a quiet neighborhood close to beach and restaurants
Read more reviews

6. Stylish home with patio

This vacation home is well designed for solo adventurers, business travelers, and couples looking for a comfortable getaway. This remodeled petite suite features a bright boho-chic aesthetic and a relaxing patio with plenty of succulents. It also has a private entrance, a business nook with a desk and fast wifi. Other features include a small updated bathroom, beautiful flooring, and spaces with tons of natural light. Coffee, tea and small snacks are provided. This home is in a quiet and safe residential neighborhood, and it is nestled at the rear part of the host’s house. It can be accessed through a private walkway.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
6.59 km (4.1 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego
167 reviews   Wifi Available
Entire guest suite 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
super comfortable stay amazing views and lovely surroundings
this cool boho suite is cozy and comfortable with a breezy patio and a nice view
the bathroom is equipped with an efficient ventilation system which kept the space free of extra humidity
could spend time relaxing in bed without feeling claustrophobic or cooped up as i have at other airbnb's
the space was extremely comfortable with thoughtful touches
Cleanliness:
room was exceptionally clean modern and tastefully decorated
outstanding the space was beautiful and clean and comfy
this place is amazing very clean and bright
the bathroom was spotless which put me at ease
very impressed with how clean and the little touches in how the space was decorated
Host:
very good host
joel was the best host and provided us with many great recommendations
joel was a great host
joel was an exceptionally attentive and considerate host
lovely place great host really stylish too :)
Location:
the location is great
the location and it’s proximity to the city was perfect
beautiful apartment in a great location
the location is nice because it’s relatively close to everything but in a quiet peaceful area
the location was perfect with easy access to all of the major highways beaches and attractions
Read more reviews

7. Gorgeous villa with pool and patio (from USD 1173)

Come and stay in this estate with an open-plan layout. It is polished with natural finishes, rich textures, and beamed ceilings. It features a patio with a gazebo, barbecue space, pool, a waterfall rock feature, and a basketball net. It has three bedrooms with seven beds including a California King bed and queen bed. It has two baths and a hot tub. This exquisite home can comfortably fit 10 guests.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
5.83 km (3.7 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego
62 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 6 Beds 10 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 10

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
they had a trampoline and air hockey which kept us entertained after pool time
comfortable beds that easily accommodated our group of 7
the kitchen is beautiful and very well-stocked
the pool with the slide is lots of fun
the pool area is amazing very well maintained and relaxing (even better than the pictures )
Cleanliness:
the house is beautiful incredibly clean and comfortable
everything was sparkling clean and the backyard was absolutely beautiful
the house was clean well appointed and extremely comfortable
the house was also clean
the house was perfect clean comfortable and fun
Host:
owners are super responsive
the host was very efficient highly recommend staying here
thank you quinn for being such a good host and making sure all my needs were met
the host was responsive and delightful to work with
worth every penny hosts are more than accommodating and very friendly
Location:
the location is perfect close to the freeway and principal points of interest in san diego
easy to get to the beach and the house is close to a ton of restaurants
totally recommend quinn's place beautiful backyard and location many fun activities you will love it
location was great too - easy to get to places in san diego or la jolla
Read more reviews
Weekly discount: 3% off

8. Fully furnished studio near the beach (from USD 95)

Enjoy a beachside retreat in this studio nestled at the southern tip of Mission Beach. It is just steps away from the beach, and a short walk to stores, groceries, and restaurants. The studio features luxury designer details with hand-painted murals and custom-designed wallpaper.

It is one of the short-term furnished apartments in San Diego that is fitted with modern conveniences and comes with a full luxury kitchen with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Plenty of parking is available with options of uncovered parking space. This is an excellent short stay accommodation for couples, solo adventurers, business travelers, and families.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
2.19 km (1.4 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego
393 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE CONDO 2 Beds 3 Guests 0 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 3

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the fan in the closet was a god send for white noise
good sized kitchen/bathroom high speed internet and cable
the unit has strong wifi and is easy to connect
excellent construction and the white noise of the a/c cancels out almost all noise from aircraft
the bed was nicely firm and super cozy
Cleanliness:
sheets smelled wonderfully clean and overall very tidy place
everything was very clean and up to date
very nice place- quiet clean
very clean and cozy spot on the bottom floor
the condo is sparkling clean comfortable with personal touches
Host:
host was awesome too highly recommend
accommodating and responsive host
he was very responsive and helpful
simon was very responsive and provided enough details for self check in
it is well represented simon was very responsive and helpful with any questions i had
Location:
the location is ideal
the location is perfect
cute condo in an amazing location close to the beach
perfect location and great value
great location in the heart of san diego and right next to the beach
Read more reviews
Weekly discount: 9% off

9. Modern studio close to the beach

Just steps away from the beach is this modern stand-alone guest house. The studio is situated behind the main house and has its own private entrance, bathroom, kitchen, washer, and dryer. It has two beds and can fit up to three guests. During your stay, you are free to use its three beach chairs and beach towels. Safe and free street parking is available in front of the property.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
2.31 km (1.5 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego
299 reviews   Wifi Available
Entire guest suite 1 Bed 2 Guests 0 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
*really liked having a remote for the fan and the light
the only thing i wish they had was an air conditioner
the bed is superrr comfy and i loved the two chairs in the yard
also the aesthetic of the room was very beautiful
the space is great for two adults and the bed & bedding was comfortable
Cleanliness:
really clean and super convenient
very nice place and clean
the place was just as described and very clean
the guest house is super nice and clean
beautiful clean private and a fantastic host
Host:
the host were respectful and quick to response for any questions
nadia was a great host quick responses and instructions
nadia was the best host
nadia was a great host she replied to us very quick when we needed her
nadia was a great host as she responded quickly and was very helpful along the way
Location:
great location right on the bay close to everything
very cute studio with a perfect location
absolutely amazing location right on the bay and close to several beaches
small but the location is fantastic
great place and amazing location
Read more reviews

10. Contemporary condominium in a historical district (from USD 184)

Come and enjoy this modern condo located in a peaceful historical neighborhood. The unit is located in a rebuilt building which was once an officer’s quarters built in WWII. It features a private deck that faces the sunsets and downtown skyline. Sleeping arrangements include a king-sized bed, queen-sized sofa pullout, and queen-sized blowup mattress. Conveniences include a full kitchen, centralized air-conditioning, two bikes, and free street parking. The property is within walking distance to downtown.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
9.63 km (6.0 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego
276 reviews   Wifi Available
ENTIRE CONDO 1 Bed 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
it was a nice apartment and a good view
the view from the 2nd-story balcony was very nice and the apartment itself is appealing overall
we liked the fact that there was cable and a large-screen tv in the living area
Cleanliness:
very clean & private
very bright and clean cozy stay
exceptionally clean and well maintained made for a great stay
beautifully decorated and clean space
it is very clean which is a very important pint for me
Host:
mike was a great host
host kept checking in to make sure everything was okay perfect home to have a nice mini vacation
definitely my go to host when in san diego
check-in process was very easy and host was very quick and detailed in communication
it is a quiet place and mike was very helpful
Location:
very nice location which is close by to the airport and all the attractions
loved the location everything was 10 mins or less away from us
there is a beautiful of downtown san diego very close from the park the restaurants
a great value at a great location
we will return i very like this apartment the location was excellent
Read more reviews
Weekly discount: 11% off

11. Two-bedroom casa close to the beach (from USD 199)

Enjoy a homey and cozy ambiance in this classic Spanish-inspired bungalow. It features original hardwood floors and comes with two bedrooms. Its larger bedroom has a queen bed with a beautiful vintage vanity set and the smaller room has a full bed. Both bedrooms are fitted with walk-in closets. Meanwhile, its bathroom has a 1920’s era style and comes with a tub and shower combo. It has a fully equipped kitchen, and a separate spacious formal dining room that’s perfect for big family meals, or a romantic dinner. Its living room offers a cozy ambiance with tall coved ceilings and a faux fireplace. The casa also has private parking and a huge yard with lemon and guava trees. The rental is situated 1.5 blocks (500 meters) to the beach.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
5.36 km (3.4 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego
115 reviews   Wifi Available
Entire bungalow 2 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
good heating (we’ve been there in winter) in all rooms (except kitchen)
comfortable for 4 of us
Cleanliness:
nice and clean apartment
it’s a neat and clean house updated
the house itself was extremely clean charming and well equipped with beach accessories and more
i felt safe and clean in the home with my family the entire time we were there
Host:
good communication with our host
communication with the host carla/brianna was super easy and answers were always provided very quickly
Location:
location location location wonderfully cute bungalow
great location close to the beach
terrific location and nice house
it's perfectly situated close to the beach restaurants and shopping
easy walk to the beach restaurants and shopping
Read more reviews
Weekly discount: 11% off

12. Waterfront condominium (from USD 400)

Perfect for short term rentals for eight people is this three-bedroom condominium. This waterfront property offers scenic water views from its kitchen and dining areas. Its master suite comes with a walk-in closet and opens up to a private patio that allows you to enjoy bay views, whether you’re sitting on the couch or laying in the comfortable queen bed. Its large bathroom contains a soaking tub, shower, and dual vanity. Two other bedrooms are located down a hallway. One is set up with a queen bed and the other room has two twin bunk beds. Private, covered parking is also available for two cars in the carport.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
2.2 km (1.4 mi) from SeaWorld San Diego
149 reviews   Wifi Available
ENTIRE CONDO 6 Beds 8 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 8

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the kitchen was fully stocked tons of sheets and towels a great heating/ac system easy access
the bunk beds were fun for the kids but would be pretty tight for adults to use
tons of room for everything loved it
Cleanliness:
the house was very clean and easily accessible
very very clean and ready when we arrived booked again already for next year
Host:
host was extremely responsive
the host was very helpful and kind
our host was super helpful and kind
hosts were great and extremely attentive
host’s service is surely a+++ his responses were immediate and he accommodated all our requests without any hesitation
Location:
this location and house is amazing
the location of this condo is fantastic
the location of this house is amazing right on the beach and close to everything
great location for getting all over san diego
it seemed like the best location you can get
Read more reviews
Weekly discount: 5% off

Be amazed by San Diego

Be amazed by San Diego and get the best out of it during your stay. You can either plan your stay in San Diego in weekly rentals or monthly rentals. Recollect your escapades as you tuck yourself comfortably in your home away from home in this impressive city. Start planning your trip by selecting rental houses in San Diego.

You can also check out a few best Airbnb plus homes in San Diego for a pleasant stay.

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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Kaycie is a content writer that specializes in the travel industry. She writes regular blogs and articles for various websites. She is into local tourism and slow travel.

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