13 Best Vrbo Vacation Rentals In Downtown San Diego, California - Updated 2025

Jovannie
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 6 min read

If you want a holistic vacation, one that will make you have fun under the sun, soak in the waters, go on history walks, see the animals, indulge in a shopping spree, appreciate art, and try a variety of restaurants, then there’s no better place to stay than a Southern California beach house in downtown San Diego. One of the must-visit attractions here is the historic Gaslamp District, where you’ll find modern architecture blending beautifully with Victorian-age structures. You’ll also see here complex art galleries, chic boutiques, a vibrant night scene with myriads of things to do, fine dining restaurants, and so much more. It is also the closest neighborhood to the Maritime Museum of San Diego. In case you’re still on the lookout for the best accommodation in the area, we’ve compiled a list of the best ones. Scroll down and read about the best Vrbo vacation rentals in Downtown San Diego, California.

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 April 19, 2025.

1. Luxurious house with soundproof windows (from USD 600)

This vacation home for rent in San Diego is the epitome of luxurious living. Featuring a gourmet kitchen and comfy living spaces across three stories, this rental boasts a workstation complete with monitors, a keyboard, and a mouse. It also has wired internet access at the workspace, with Wi-Fi available throughout the home, making it perfect for business travelers.

Book a stay at this home and enjoy barbecue nights on the balcony. Soak in the beautiful city views with a glass of wine, or lounge on the comfortable leather couches while watching TV. Air-conditioning is provided to keep you cool. And the best part is the soundproof windows that promise sound sleep and a peaceful stay.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States

1.56 km (1.0 mi) from Seaport Village
PRIVATE VACATION HOME 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Host:
JD and Tina were great to work with and they made the check-in / out process simple
Jd and Tina were very helpful and willing to give us suggestions about places that were close Would recommend to anyone that ask
We were traveling with my parents so the floor plan worked well for us
allowed us to leave our bags there before our next adventure after checkout which was a huge benefit Next timeJim K
Overall the driving distance was great
Location:
Great location within walking distance to restaraunts bars and the convention center
The location was perfect for walking to most everywhere we wanted to go
The house is gorgeous within walking distance to the convention center Petco Park and the Gaslamp District
We were able to get groceries delivered easily because of
They loved the closeness of downtown
Cleanliness:
The house was perfectly clean
The house was exactly as documented with no problems during our stay
Very clean and funky artwork make this vacation property one of the best we have stayed in
we primarliy walked and don't miss the waterfront
well-decorated and spacious Location is perfect in the Gaslamp district
Amenities & Room:
The pictures do not do it justice
so well-appointed it was difficult to leave
The town home was immaculate spacious and
My older kids loved that their bedroom was separated from ours by the second floor living and kitchen Highly recommend
This town home is one of a kind
Read more reviews

2. Beautifully designed, pet-friendly loft

Book a stay at this stylish rental designed by the award-winning architect Jonathan Segal, and enjoy a vacation with ocean views. Located near the Maritime Museum of San Diego, this fully air-conditioned place sits in the Little Italy neighborhood, within walking distance of some of the most popular restaurants and cafes.

The compact space is well furnished with a plush, L-shaped sofa in the living room. A separate leather couch with a small coffee table is available for productivity and privacy. If you walk straight down, you’ll see a comfy bed facing a flat-screen TV, ideal for indulging in your favorite programs as you end your day.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States

1.38 km (0.9 mi) from Seaport Village
condo 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

3. Fully stocked condo with two balconies

Featuring two balconies with beautiful views of the city, this furnished Vrbo rental with a pool in San Diego’s liveliest neighborhood, Gaslamp Quarter, is an incredible place for families. A five-minute walk gets you to several tourist spots like the waterfront and the convention center. This home is fairly small but it is equipped with the essentials for a convenient vacation, including a full kitchen, laundry facilities, and speedy Wi-Fi. Heating and air conditioning are also available so you can stay comfortable no matter the weather.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States

887 meters (0.6 ft) from Seaport Village
condo 6 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Top guest reviews
Host:
the owner is very responsive and i always prefer to deal with the owner versus a manager
the owner is easy going and responded to all my communications promptly
shawn was always just a phone call or text away and very accommodating and fun to work with
location is unbeatable owner is very responsive and worked with us on check-out time
Location:
easy walk to marina
easy process and great location
talk about making things happen at the last minute the location was superb
we could walk everywhere very easily
this condo was in the perfect location for exploring downtown and the harbour
Cleanliness:
clean and abundant linens
the condo itself is clean comfortable and straightforward in a quiet building
very nice place clean quiet and well maintained
great condo very clean wonderful amenities
Read more reviews

4. Two-bedroom stylish haven for four

An architect’s pick, this stylish condo in the quiet part of downtown San Diego will surely make for another holiday worth reminiscing about. It is a charming two-bedroom unit that has a minimalist vibe and sleek interiors with a white and black color palette. You’ll also notice that property is surrounded by windows and mirrors, making the rooms more spacious than it really is. The unit features an open floor plan with a kitchen that is well equipped with stainless steel appliances and a Caesarstone countertop, a sitting area with a television, a dining set-up, and a balcony with a view of the city.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States

1.37 km (0.9 mi) from Seaport Village
condo 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Host:
Brandon was so great to work with and very accommodating when we asked him to help us with details that were beyond his responsibility
In addition Brandon was the most responsive friendly accommodating and professional person to work with
He not only helped us find the most suitable property for us in his portfolio but also was available to help us out in every way he can during our more than a month long stay
the marina etc )
Great coffee and bagels on the corner and some terrific gourmet food and cheese stores
Location:
And Starbucks is just around the corner
great restaurants the ball park
If you're into the craft beer scene - some of the best beer bars are only minutes away
well located (walking distance to all the restaurants and bars in the Gaslamp district but also to Seaport Village
It's also perfectly situated in downtown San Diego with walking-distance access to Petco Park
Cleanliness:
The property was clean and everything was in working order when we got there
we were able to wash some clothes in the apartment's washing machine and dryer perfect on a long trip away from home
Amenities & Room:
The listing description and pictures are accurate
we felt like it was home
The condo is very well equipped and very comfortable
I really enjoyed being able to read and drink coffee on the beautiful balcony during the weekends and enjoy the huge flat screen TV in the evenings
I was in town for work and stayed at this unit for two months The unit is absolutely beautiful comfortable and well-stocked with everything you would need for a short-term or long-term stay
Read more reviews

5. Historic home for four in Little Italy

If you’re tired of the usual hotel room and looking for an accommodation with character, then you’ll love this historic home in Little Italy. Its old vibe remains intact with the timeless pieces of furniture and decor scattered around the house. But, don’t you worry, for almost everything in the house is already modern like their kitchen. This vacation rental is a semi-detached house and features two bedrooms that can accommodate up to four persons. It also has a spacious area with a sitting room, kitchen, dining set-up, and in the middle is a regulation pool table. You’ll love that you’re just a walk away from many restaurants and cafes as well as a few minutes ride to many of San Diego’s’ famous attractions.

Stayed at this property?

1.65 km (1.1 mi) from Seaport Village
205 reviews   Wifi Available
Apartment 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

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 great
anthony is a perfect host
anthony was so attentive to us; he checked in and made sure we had everything we needed
anthony was a very gracious and responsive host
anthony was a great host and recommended several restaurants and sights to visit
Location:
close to all the great features of downtown gaslamp district and petco park
the location itself is amazing right in little italy and walking distance to downtown
recommend staying on a saturday so you can partake in the farmers' market taking place that morning
the location was wonderful and is as described
anthony has a great place in a great location
Read more reviews

6. Sleek rental in the Gaslamp District

Located in the beautiful Gaslamp District, this two-bedroom accommodation can easily suit six guests. It is walking distance and a few minutes travel to numerous attractions in San Diego, which includes the convention center, Mission Beach, Seaworld, the zoo, and many more. The unit is sleek and stylishly furnished with modern appliances like an Apple TV and designer furniture. You’ll also love that there are many huge windows in the unit which will give you great views of the city skyline. In case you’re planning to stay longer, you don’t have to worry for everything you need is available, including a kitchen, a cozy living area, and a dining set-up.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States

1.03 km (0.7 mi) from Seaport Village
condo 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Host:
Not only were we happy with the unit
The next time we rent in SoCal we certainly hope to work with Brandon
He provided us with excellent instructions for locating and accessing the condo and parking and responded to our questions and request promptly and was very helpful
Brandon was mostly through email
We cannot say enough good things about this place and the overall experience Because it's a corner unit
Location:
Also a great selection of restaurants and shops on and around 5th Street
The location could not be more perfect with only minutes to walk to the Convention Centre and the waterfront activities shops and restaurants in and around Seaport Village
We discovered a good food market Ralph's in G Street about an 8 min walk from the condo just across the road from Westfield Horton Plaza Mall 5th Avenue Train Station is also a 5 min walk
Really enjoyed the location right in the middle of the gas lamp Close to all of the restaurants bars and shops
Two blocks from the convention center in the heart of gas lamp quarter Check in and out was
Cleanliness:
it's infused with light (which is exactly what we want when we flee the northern climate for the month of January)
Amenities & Room:
we were able to use the indoor workout room
The unit was accommodating and spacious enough to sleep 6 people comfortably
The condo itself is very clean spacious and modern with loads of room for a group plus wireless interent
simple Apartment was clean and had everything one could need
We especially enjoyed having a full kitchen and being able to have breakfast on the patio Thanks so much for a wonderful stay Hope to be able to return again
Read more reviews

7. One-bedroom penthouse with amazing views

If you’re looking for a cozy accommodation that is centrally located, you will never go wrong with this one-bedroom penthouse in the heart of Gaslamp District. Though it only has one bedroom, the condo can suit a party of four guests. It features large picture windows that give you the best view of the city. The vacation rental is also complete with all the home conveniences, which include a functional kitchen, a cozy living area, and a charming dining set-up. Moreover, the building has quite a few amenities you can enjoy, such as a gym, lounge, outdoor community space with barbecue facilities, and more.

Stayed at this property?

1.06 km (0.7 mi) from Seaport Village
10 reviews  
condo 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Host:
The owners are very nice accommodating and hospitable
Our host Noel couldn't have been nice more helpful or more responsive We would recommend this to any couple or perhaps even a few more if one bathroom and a sofa bed would work for more than two
Noel was available and very responsive to any issues that I had although the complaints were minimal for the length of my rental
The condo is in very good condition and was cleaned to hospital standards when I moved in
Noel was amazing and was easily reached via text if I had any concerns or questions
Location:
Great location for restaurants and downtown activities
I loved being a very short walk away from the stadium
The location is fantastic with the convention centre only a block away; restaurants and bars catering to every taste within easy walking distance; walking distance to the waterfront and Seaport Vil...
Perfect location for baseball fans
but you are far enough off 5th that it is quiet
Amenities & Room:
The kitchen is fully equipped and has plenty of plates cutlery
The parking was great and easy to access as it was in the same building
This place was perfectly set up with everything I needed for the summer From a very comfortable couch and bed to the smaller things like towels and kitchen supplies
The view was amazing and because the condo is not directly next to the street
it was perfectly quiet inside with the door
Read more reviews

8. Modern luxury home

If money is not an issue with you and you’re in San Diego to splurge, then you’ll love this luxury home that screams of space and style. It has two well-decorated bedrooms that can accommodate up to six persons. Also, you’ll find here a gourmet kitchen, a spacious sitting area, and a dining set-up. Another great feature is the garage, where you can park your car, without an additional charge. In case you’re planning to explore the area, it is within walking distance to many attractions like the Petco Park, the convention center, San Diego Trolley, and Gaslamp District.

Stayed at this property?
825 10th Ave

1.58 km (1.0 mi) from Seaport Village
townhome 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms

9. Unit near the Gaslamp Quarter

If you’re planning to have a month-long vacation in San Diego, then there’s no better place to stay than in this one-bedroom condo that can accommodate up to four persons. It is on the uppermost floor of the building, giving you the view of the bay and the city. It is also close to many attractions like the Gaslamp Quarter, PETCO Park, the convention center, and the trolley. As for the vacation rental, it is modern, fully furnished, and well organized. It features an open floor plan with an upgraded kitchen, cozy sitting area, and a balcony with furniture and a gas grill. Aside from the unit, you are also allowed to use the common areas in the property like the lounge and the barbecue area.

Stayed at this property?

1.07 km (0.7 mi) from Seaport Village
21 reviews  
condo 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Host:
Specifically we felt she was most responsive whenever we needed her
She is always there if you have questions and checks in regularly to make sure everything is going well
We remain very grateful to Kathy for allowing us to experience San Diego from such a wonderful base
Both TVs are big screened and the picture quality is excellent
milk water and orange juice for breakfast along with beverages cheese and crackers for later
Location:
There are many restaurants close by and within 7 blocks are 2 grocery stores a shopping mall and a theater
It is also close to the Balboa Theater Civic Center and Petco Park
Everything you need is within walking distance
It's a block from the convention center Petco Park and has easy access to the highway As a frequent San Diego visitor
Firstly there is no district downtown more alive and exciting than Gaslamp and this condo couldn't be more perfectly located; a stones throw from the best restaurants and bars but just enough off...
Cleanliness:
It's immaculately clean and well decorated
you can't beat beauty full view
The view and location can't be beat
extremely comfortable and clean Property was excellent and had absolutely everything you need
The rooms are spacious and the ceilings are vaulted
Amenities & Room:
The condo looks exactly like the pictures it is spacious inside with fantastic views
The shower/tub is very large and modern
quiet and on the top floor with West facing views
Everything is high-quality
The furnishings are well maintained and comfortable including the king sized bed
Read more reviews

10. Penthouse with amazing views

Located at the heart of Gaslamp Quarter, this one-bedroom condominium unit will surely make your holiday plans a lot more convenient since it is near numerous attractions and essential establishments like the San Diego Convention Center, Petco Park, the trolly, shops, restaurants, cafes, and more. The unit can welcome up to three guests with its pull-out bed and one bedroom. It comes with a cozy sitting area, a kitchen, a small dining set-up, and a balcony with a view of the city. Moreover, the building offers numerous amenities that you’ll surely need during your vacation like the gym, barbecue area, lounge, and more.

Stayed at this property?

1.08 km (0.7 mi) from Seaport Village
20 reviews  
studio 3 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Host:
Also the owner was readily available (gave me a key to the mailbox the same day I asked about it)
The owner was very responsive to any concerns that I had and took care of anything I needed very quickly
so the neighbors are friendly
helping people in the same situation
I rented this condo for 14 days and could not be happier
Location:
Great location with great restaurants within walking distance
It is mere minutes from Petco Park
There are many restaurants and bars within walking distance and Coronado is a short drive away
it is laid out in a very efficient way
AND THE OCEAN LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION IS GREAT WALK OUT
Cleanliness:
the picture does not do it
You can see the ocean from your terrace and look out over the bustling gaslamp
everything in Gaslamp is within walking distance and public transportation is readily available
Amenities & Room:
It is fully equipped and comfortable
The owners are wonderful and have outfitted the condo thoughtfully:
Huge bonus was the underground parking spot
The condo was comfortable cozy and all that we hoped it to be for a romantic getaway
The kitchen has all the utensils and pans for basic cooking
Read more reviews

11. Luxury studio in downtown San Diego

If you’re looking for an affordable vacation rental that is centrally located near the attractions, then this studio for three is perfect for you. It is fully furnished and has a small sitting area with a sofa and television, and a functional kitchen, and a bathroom. To top it all off, it has a washer and dryer for your laundry needs. Another great thing about this Vrbo accommodation is it will provide you with all the essentials like shampoo, soap, toothpaste, towels, and more.

Stayed at this property?

1.4 km (0.9 mi) from Seaport Village
17 reviews  
Apartment 3 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Host:
owner is very helpful if needed
This property had secured after hours and on weekends I had to contact the owner about this
Great communication and feedback when needed from the owner Would stay there again
The cleanliness though was not great
it was very cozy and clean many choices for dining and close to the Midway harbor area Close to the airport and downtown activies
Location:
Nice property in a convenient location
Centerly located in Gaslamp district
Easy to get to and easy communication
Nice place Easy walk to Padres baseball game and lots of nightlife
Their were too many great places to eat
Cleanliness:
The place was clean and felt very secure
Amenities & Room:
The kitchen could have more cooking utensils and cooking ware
shampoo and conditioner was almost gone
However it needed cleaning a Bristro table and chairs on balcony would be great and
There was two bottles of juice in the fridge that looked like they were left for us
everything in it was half used
Read more reviews

12. Comfortable flat in the Marina District

If you’re looking for accommodation that is comfortable and at the same time has great views, then you’ll fall in love with this two-bedroom condo unit in the glamorous Marina District. The unit is surrounded by large windows, giving you a magnificent view of the bay and the city. From you’re unit, you’ll see different scenarios every day such as fighter jets practicing their maneuvers and Navy vessels docking after months in the sea. Aside from the view, the unit features a cozy living area, a modern kitchen with all the essential cooking wares and appliances, a bathroom with a tub, and more.

Stayed at this property?

790 meters (0.5 ft) from Seaport Village
10 reviews  
condo 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms
Top guest reviews
Host:
The owner is very accommodating and easy to work with We thoroughly enjoyed our stay
Spectacular views from an absolutely gorgeous and well maintained condo
This centrally located property was extremely well maintained with a pleasing decorating style and I felt safe there at all times I would recommend this property to anyone
Great property; great building; great location and very easy working with the owners
The location is excellent being close to free ways and the airport
Location:
At the end of a day spent sightseeing at the many places to visit in San Diego returning to this magnificent condo was a pleasure and treat
One of the best features is you are only a very short walk to shopping fabulous restaurants and Petco Park stadium
Best way to cap off a fun filled day is enjoying a glass of wine on the patio and taking in the lovely views (we were lucky enough to enjoy live music from concerts taking place at the Marina)
Convenient location that is walking distance to the Marina naval base museum and more and only a quick trolly ride to Little Italy Close to several of the best beaches including Coronado La Jo...
indoor parking) and outstanding location within walking distance to grocery shopping and restaurants Personal tour and explanation of facilities from owner when we arrived Quiet secure building...
Amenities & Room:
The view is outstanding - as shown in the pictures
The views were magnificant and one of my favorite things was to sit on the balcony take in all the beauty and meditate
The condo is nicely decorated and well-appointed
The views from the condo are breathtaking and watching the ships come in and out of the harbor
this condo was the perfect location right in the middle of all the excitement Waking up to this view every morning watching all the boats on the water while drinking your morning coffee on the ba...
Read more reviews

13. Brand new 40th-floor apartment

A vacation rental with a chic design, this condominium in an upscale apartment building will surely make your holiday in San Diego one to remember. One of the things you’ll notice right away when you arrive is its many large picture windows, giving you the best view of the city and the bay, and also making the space bright and airy. Another great thing about this house is it features artworks from local artists. The unit features three bedrooms that can accommodate up to eight persons. It also has an open floor plan with many seating areas, a modern kitchen with barstools, and a balcony with a dining set-up. Moreover, the building has so many amenities you can enjoy, which includes a lap pool, a gym, a lounge, and the common area with foosball and more.

Stayed at this property?

2.13 km (1.4 mi) from Seaport Village
6 reviews  
condo 8 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms
Top guest reviews
Host:
a boiler plate copy that address generic facilities
So many things were below our expectations
so I can't fault her at all
At $500 per night with all the additional fees we were expecting a lot more luxury for the price we paid
Location:
The condo itself is just not quite luxury
Building and condo exceptionally clean perfect location and incredible view of SanDiego
Amenities & Room:
but we hated parking in the basement 4 floors underground
but it would be difficult to have 8 people actually stay there
De-laminating kitchen cabinets dirty carpet
a dishwasher that spewed all over the floor and a broken light fixture
It would have been nice to have been given an inventory of what was inside the kitchen instead of having to guess A personalized copy of the specs for this condo would have made a big difference i...
Read more reviews

Sleep in charming San Diego

Downtown San Diego is a place you’ll love to see if you’re up for some sightseeing, shopping, nightlife, and the arts. So if you’re planning a waterfront holiday with the whole family, book a beachfront vacation rental in San Diego’s downtown area. In case you still don’t have a place to stay, check out our list of the best Vrbo vacation rentals in downtown San Diego.

Frequently asked questions about the best Vrbo vacation rentals in Downtown San Diego, California

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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