A shift in the frame can bring snow-capped mountains, historic sights, gorgeous beaches, and palm-lined roads into sight and this is possible only in San Diego. While the city downtown is packed with many modern spoils, Little Italy, or Middletown, which was once a fishing neighbourhood, retains its Bohemian character and boasts several interesting little cafes and restaurants. Undoubtedly, San Diego has a wealth of things to do, an enormous number of attractions to visit, and quite simply put, a ton of fun to indulge in. So, check out these top vacation apartments in San Diego, California, that serve as a home away from home and qualify as the perfect retreats.
1. Equipped home close to the beach (from USD 206)
An easy 1.5 km (0.9 mi) distance from the beach, this fully equipped two-bedroom home for upto four guests is a brilliant rental option. The apartment is spread across two floors, of which the first floor (part of the host’s house) is where you’ll find the kitchen, living room, and dining room (shared with other Airbnb guests and the host). Some kitchenette essentials (coffee maker, microwave oven, etc.) are provided en-suite, so you need not rely on the full kitchen for all your refreshments. You will also have access to a shared garden out front and a backyard. However, remember that the price listed on Airbnb is for two guests and will change if you add more guests. P.S. the private bathroom has a low ceiling, which may pose a problem for those taller than 5 feet 7 inches (170 centimetres).
Walk to the beach, free parking & private entrySan Diego, California, United StatesSuperhost
Accommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
beautiful room and view of the wonderful gardenthis was a beautiful place to stay lots of amenities included in our roomhaving the mini- fridge microwave and coffee pot in the room was greatrooms are airy and a bit cool although there are blankets and a space heater availablehowever tara was great about making sure we had a heater and enough blanketsCleanliness:
very clean and well equippedspace itself was very cleanthe space is clean and accomodating in every other wayprepare yourself to be thrilled by well organized clean and delightful accommodationstara is very organized and cleanHost:
tara is a great hosttara was a great hostshe was very friendly and helped in anyway she couldshe is a great host that leads you with step by step expectationstara was a great host and the room was perfectRead more reviewsLocation:
great location good restaurants and near the beachgreat location near the beachthe location on this was greatgreat location and really comfygreat location having a parking spot walking distance from the beaches is a big plus
2. Well-appointed home for three (from USD 175)
This brilliant studio apartment for upto three guests sits in the vibrant neighbourhood of Golden Hill and enjoys easy connectivity with downtown San Diego as well as several other attractions closeby. As for the living space, it features all creature comforts along with a sauna. A portable air conditioning unit can also be made available, should you need it, so let the host know early on.
Central San Diego Studio 3San Diego, California, United StatesAccommodates: 3
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the apartment has an elevator which made it easy since the unit is on the third floorCleanliness:
very organized and cleanit was very clean and very nicely decoratedthe space was so clean and organizedit was sparkling cleanapartment was functional clean had everything we neededHost:
she is very responsive and accommodatinggilda was an excellent hostgilda was an amazing host very responsive and was willing to answer any questions if neededgreat space super nice host and super nice people neighboring at the airbnbgilda was a great host as she responded quickly and provided great amenities/ resources it was a perfect locationRead more reviewsLocation:
super close to gaslamp downtownthe location was great very close to many thingsconvenient safe and close to downtowngood location for exploring san diegogood location close to downtown and north park
3. Stylish studio apartment with luxurious features (from USD 403)
This is a perfect repose conveniently located near San Diego’s top attractions. While the house features creature comfort, what makes it even better is the on-site hydromassage spa tub, multi-jet walk-in rain shower, and uber-luxurious linens that you can make full use of. The house was remodelled in 2012, so you’ll find it done up in an entirely sophisticated fashion, complete with hardwood flooring, aesthetic furnishings, and all essentials. Upto three guests can be easily accommodated here but is primarily a couples’ favourite.
STUNNING ZEN VILLA! Tub AC 2Jacuzzis Rain ShowerSan Diego, California, United StatesAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
was also a big fan of the bath robesthe patio is amazing and the room was incrediblethe highlights were definitely the incredible shower and outdoor patio with the spa tubcozy place with great amenities and perfect locationthe bed was really comfortable and we loved the jacuzzi and the grill outsideCleanliness:
absolutely clean and super relaxingthe space was sparkling clean and comfortablethe space is clean modern + relaxinggreat outdoor space but very clean and comfortableplace was clean 10/10 would recommend for a coupleHost:
host was very responsiverick was a great hostrick was a great hostrick was an awesome hostyou're recommendations were really helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
the location was perfectperfect location as wellthis place was absolutely amazing the location was great and close to everything and the neighborhood was beautifulwonderful place to stay and very close to downtowneasy walking distance to starbucks trader joe’s and a wide assortment of restaurants and nightspots
4. Pet-friendly loft for four (from USD 265)
An Airbnb Plus property, this one-bedroom loft house is spacious enough for upto four guests. It is aesthetically done up and enjoys stones-throw access to the historic Gaslamp District in San Diego. It is well equipped with amenities for guests to enjoy cooking and/or spend quality time with loved ones. Plus, the house is pet-friendly too. The host will be able to provide more details on the rental’s pet policy, so check in with them directly if you want to bring your pets along too.
Explore the Historic Gaslamp District from a Charming LoftSan Diego, California, United StatesAccommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the couch was super comfortable though if you have extra people staying with youthe apartment is classy and fully equipped for traveling familiesalso the café 21 just across the street was perfect for having breakfast and i highly recommend itthe apartment was spacious comfortable and provided all the amenities of homeloads of stylish space comfortable furniture and fantastic locationCleanliness:
it was clean spacious well decorated smelled lovely and much morewe loved everything it was clean and a beautiful placeloved the apartment it was very comfortable and cleanthe place is clean safe and comfortable especially if there are 4 or fewer gueststhe appartment was spacious clean and had everything needed and moreHost:
she was very accommodating and helpfulmayra was a great hostmayra was an excellent host who responded quickly and helped with all of our questionslocated near the nightlife and a fantastically attentive host thanks so muchmayra’s place was great and she was very helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
great location for gaslamp districtawesome location in the middle of all the downtown sd activityamazing place right in downtownamazing location in the heart of the gaslamp districtbeautiful apartment in a great location
5. Conveniently located spacious home (from USD 222)
Spread across two bedrooms where upto six guests can be comfortably accommodated, this brilliant apartment is walking distance away from Old Town and several of San Diego’s attractions. While the bedrooms and common areas in the house are great, the courtyard/balcony outside, offering beautiful views of the neighbourhood are extraordinary. The house is equipped with all standard essentials, but the host is readily available to make further arrangements if necessary.
Bright & clean contemporary flat w/ AC - walkableSan Diego, California, United StatesAccommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
having coffee and creamer available in the kitchen was a great touchkitchen had everything you would need to cook a meal and coffee was greatstylish modern design the height of rooms is greatloved the natural light coming through the ceiling and the comfortable bedsthe apartment is modern with a very nice kitchen two bedrooms two bathrooms and one showerCleanliness:
very clean and modern spacevery clean and modern airbnbreally clean and beautiful placevery clean and well keptvery clean modern & comfortableHost:
evan was such a great host and accommodated our questions quicklythank you evan for hosting usthis place was great and the host was quick to respond and had such great recommendationsevan is a great host who was very responsive and gave a lot of helpful tipshost was very helpful in providing all instructions far in advanceRead more reviewsLocation:
great location that is close to everythinggreat location at around safe regionsuch a great location for sd everything was close bygreat location near everywhere we wanted to goit’s very close to all the attractions
6. Beachfront condo for six (from USD 499)
Located right across the street from the famous Mission and Pacific beaches, this superb two-bedroom condo is a great option to consider if you’re travelling as a group of six. The house has been done up in a totally modern fashion, complete with all standard amenities, a full kitchen, laundry, top-notch facilities, and ample balcony seating. Guests are also permitted access to a (shared) patio, equipped with sun loungers, a dining table, and a barbecue grill, overlooking the Mission Beach.
Best location on all of Mission Beach!San Diego, CA, USTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we loved sitting on the deck or at the breakfast bar for great people watchingCleanliness:
there were plenty of towels and the condo was very cleanthe condo was clean and well stocked except for condimentsHost:
the owners were very responsive to any and every inquiryowner was very responsive to the couple of questions that came up during our stayRead more reviewsLocation:
we will definitely look into booking this location againwe especially loved the locationgreat location and everything that we neededbest if two couples are family or very close friendsthis apartment complex was very secure and located in an ideal location with a full ocean view
7. Family home in the historic district (from USD 190)
Nestled in Little Italy’s scenic neighbourhood, this two-bedroom home is the perfect option for family-travellers looking to absorb the best of San Diego’s historic appeal. The apartment sits on the first floor of its complex and enjoys complete privacy. While here, you can make use of the full kitchen and pool table. Do remember that you’ll need to climb a short flight of stairs to access the space. Rest assured, you’ll spend a thoroughly fabulous time while staying here.
Historic Gem in the Heart of Little Italy!Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 3
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Host:
the accommodations and hosts were greatanthony is a perfect hostanthony was so attentive to us; he checked in and made sure we had everything we neededanthony was a very gracious and responsive hostanthony was a great host and recommended several restaurants and sights to visitRead more reviewsLocation:
close to all the great features of downtown gaslamp district and petco parkthe location itself is amazing right in little italy and walking distance to downtownrecommend staying on a saturday so you can partake in the farmers' market taking place that morningthe location was wonderful and is as describedanthony has a great place in a great location
8. Comfortable home with easy beach access (from USD 329)
A short walking distance from the beach here’s another great vacation rental that can accommodate upto four guests, but one more can be accommodated (on request) in the pull-out bed in the living room. The apartment sits on the second floor of its building (access via stairs only) and is furnished with all essentials and amenities. While the house has a gas grill, full kitchen, great courtyard seating (for exclusive use), and generally enough space for all occupants to spend a fun time, there are also plenty of shops, restaurants, and other attractions within a close distance if you feel like stepping out.
Modern Beach Flat Rose to the OceanAccommodates: 5
Minimum Nights: 3
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
highly recommend shoreview for breakfast galaxy tacos for lunch and scoops ice cream for dessertwe were glad to have the a/c in augustCleanliness:
nice clean and updated apartmentthe condo was cleanthe house was clean and ready for us when we arrivedclean and convenient to shops and restaurants and the beach would definitely stay here againHost:
john the owner was very responsive to handling any issuesjohn was very responsive and helpful with great recommendationsthe owner (john) was a good host and relied to my emails promptlycheck in was simple and communications with owner were excellentjohn was extremely thoughtful and communicativeRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is the best partgreat location to explore la jolla arealocation was perfect - close to beach and restaurantsproperty has a great locationthis apartment is within very easy walking distance to family-friendly la jolla shores beach
9. Pet-friendly home with easy beach access
This property offers easy beach and bay access, excellent (private) outdoor seating, enough space to accommodate upto eight guests, kid- and pet-friendliness, and beach essentials (surfboards, boogie boards, beach toys, etc.). These are only some of the many features of this fantastic rental. Plus, the large playground at Mission Bay Park located nearby is a real highlight for parents. San Diego Zoo, Sea World, Balboa Park, Old Town, and several other attractions are also 10 - 20 minutes’ drive away. As far as the apartment itself is concerned, there’s central heating/cooling, laundry area, garage parking, unlimited internet, and all toiletries made available to ensure that you spend a thoroughly fun time while checked in here,
Serene Beach and Bay House! Amazing Patio/WiFi/Garage, Steps to Beach and Bay!Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
they had everything we needed and was extremely comfortableCleanliness:
the house was clean well stocked with basic necessities and lots of beach itemsbeautiful inside and out wonderful location close to bay and ocean; very clean spacious with lovely furnishingsproperty was clean and conveniently locatedHost:
thank you mark and tara for being fantastic hostsmark was super helpful and quick to respond to any questions or concerns before and during the tripRead more reviewsLocation:
great location great house that suited our needs even with 2 large dogsa wonderful time at a beautiful property in a great locationbeach is so close it was perfect for our quick stay in san diego thank you
10. Ocean-front house for large groups
A fabulous option for upto eight guests, accommodated across the house’s three bedrooms and a pull-out bed in the living room, this property is comfortable, spacious, and minutes away from the beach. It was remodelled in 2012 and is equipped with all essentials to guarantee you a brilliant time indoors. The fully stocked and equipped kitchen (with a separate pantry room) is ideal for complete family cook-outs, the large living room is a great spot to unwind, and the private balcony, offering gorgeous ocean-front views, is equipped with barbecue essentials, so you can even enjoy fun grill sessions. However, do note that this neighbourhood can get a tad noisy. The host offers some discounts if you’ve rented this property before, so get in touch with her for more details on that.
Oceanfront Castle Apartment, Spacious Balcony, Steps to Sand, at the BoardwalkTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the bed and couch are beyond comfortablewe highly recommend olive café & the mission for breakfastCleanliness:
it was very clean and updatedwe loved our stay at the castle the listing was as described and was very clean and well appointedHost:
i gave this place a 5 because the location is perfect claudia and her staff were amazingRead more reviewsLocation:
as the location is awesomegreat place to stay and the location could not be betterwalking distance to beach store restaurants even snow cones love people watchingwas the perfect location and beautiful place we will be back thank you claudiamy kids loved the location and everything we needed was there from towels to dishes
Experience San Diego to the fullest
While exploring the many well-known attractions in San Diego might take up most of your to-do list, don’t forget to indulge in a few offbeat experiences too – paragliding at Torrey Pines, hot-air ballooning, diving at Wreck Alley, steam train rides, are biplane flying are only a few of the many you can try here. Get in touch with your travel planner to help you enjoy the best of these, but before that don’t forget to make your reservations – these top vacation apartments in San Diego, California, are just the best!
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