travel best bets san diego

The best hotels in San Diego

With beaches for surfers and families alike, a buzzing restaurant scene, myriad museums and cultural activities, not to mention kid-friendly attractions like its zoo, San Diego is one of the country's most dynamic vacation destinations.

Whether it's the first or final stop on a California road trip , the spot for a weekend getaway in the sun, or an extended SoCal sojourn, there are plenty of things to do in San Diego ... and plenty of excellent hotels to choose from.

Here are the 21 best hotels in San Diego, ranging from sophisticated city stays to more laid-back beach resorts.

Originally opened on an island (connected to the mainland by a strip of sand) across the harbor from downtown San Diego in 1888, the Hotel del Coronado — or the Hotel Del, as locals refer to it — has to be one of the most famous resorts in the country thanks to the parade of luminaries it has hosted over the years, including Charlie Chaplin, Bette Davis and Ronald Reagan, not to mention the hotel's own star turn as the setting in "Some Like It Hot."

These days, the property comprises several "neighborhoods," including the original Victorian wing, a gated community of villas and cottages dubbed the Beach Village, and the recently opened residence-style suites at the Shore House. Basically, there's a price point and accommodation type for most budgets.

Families with kids and teens can splash around the Cabana Pool as well as at the beach, take surfing lessons, watch movies on the beach and attend educational sessions through the Ocean Explorers program. Adult guests can take beach yoga classes, book a private pool cabana or indulge in a day at the spa (which has a Marilyn Monroe-inspired beauty bar), where treatments like the sea salt stone massage take their cue from the healing powers of the ocean.

The resort is home to a handful of dining venues, including the seafood-focused Serea for romantic dinners, artisanal pizzas at Eno Market & Pizzeria and classic cocktails and small bites at the mahogany counter of Babcock & Story Bar .

Rates at the Hotel del Coronado start at $436 or 95,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

This luxury upstart made a splash when it opened in downtown San Diego's nightlife-focused Gaslamp Quarter back in 2017, bringing a bit of luxury to an otherwise party-hearty district.

That's not to say the hotel is staid or buttoned up, though. Guests can take advantage of excellent on-site amenities like a lounger-lined rooftop pool and an assortment of dining and drinking establishments. Those include the moodily lit Fifth & Rose for refined bar bites and creative cocktails like the Little Leaguer, with peanut butter-washed Angel's Envy bourbon, strawberry, bitters and a Cracker Jack garnish as a playful nod to nearby Petco Park; seasonal fare at the palatial Provisional ; elevated coastal cuisine at Lionfish ; and craft brews and burgers at the dog-friendly Nason's Beer Hall , named after an early 20th-century farmer's market that once occupied this spot.

After a night out on the town, guests can recharge with a visit to the well-equipped fitness center and a bit of pampering at Spa Pendry with a green coffee and lime body treatment that includes an agave fiber exfoliation.

Rooms embrace a sumptuous, clubby aesthetic with oversize wood-framed beds with tufted leather headboards and throwback wooden bankers chairs along with plaid-upholstered chaise lounges, and ornate, Spanish tile-inspired wall coverings and marble-topped sinks in the bathrooms, among other touches.

Rates at the Pendry San Diego start at $395 per night.

Although it only opened in 2019, the 162-key Guild Hotel actually occupies a building dating to 1924, when it was the Army-Navy YMCA (the basketball court has been transformed into a ballroom where the mezzanine is the former running track). Both the interior and exterior have been carefully restored, including the ornate terra cotta facade, lending both a bit of mystique and sophistication to the setting in San Diego's swinging Gaslamp Quarter.

The rooms embrace original structural features such as high ceilings and enormous arched windows, plus playful locker room-like tiling in bathrooms stocked with C.O. Bigelow body products. Some rooms are a bit tight and have hanging racks in lieu of actual closets, but you'll still sleep well on hand-stitched Stearns & Foster mattresses.

Although fitness isn't the focus these days, guests can stay healthy by taking advantage of the modern fitness facility , or with classes at OG Yoga along with treatments at the next-door AquaVie Spa, thanks to the hotel's partnerships with them.

The focal point of the hotel is its sunny courtyard, where guests can enjoy coffee and pastries from the Guild Cafe or libations from the Guild Bar. Better to have those plus tasty dishes like shrimp risotto in the bar space itself, though, which has curvy art deco-style banquettes and bar stools, and is anchored by a dreamily lit quartzite bar.

Rates at The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel start at $199 or 43,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Opened in 2018, the 400-room InterContinental San Diego occupies one tower of a multiuse development right on the San Diego waterfront called Bric (a combination of Broadway and Pacific Highway, the intersection at which it lies).

The location is ideal for visitors in town for a quick overnight since it's just a block from the city's main train station, a 10-minute drive to the airport and a 10-minute walk from charming Seaport Village, though it's a full mile to the convention center, so you might want an alternative if you have events going on there. You can also walk to Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter easily.

Guest rooms are large and bright, though somewhat spartan, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the harbor and skyline, crisp white linens and a taupe-and-blue color palette in the other soft furnishings. Large bathrooms have half-glassed walk-in showers stocked with citrusy Agraria products.

When the day's meetings are done, guests can work out in the enormous and well-equipped gym or take a dip in the outdoor pool, both located on the fourth floor (the Layover bar out here is open from noon to 5 p.m.).

For a morning jolt, there's a Starbucks outpost on the first floor. Open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and across from reception on the third floor, Vistal serves locally sourced produce and seafood, like Baja shrimp cocktail and California spiny lobster with kabocha risotto, though many guests gravitate to the Sardinian-inspired, alfresco restaurant, Garibaldi , where specialties include grilled octopus with squid ink spaghetti in an arrabbiata sauce.

Rates at the InterContinental San Diego start at $265 or 38,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

Don't let first impressions fool you. Though The Westgate Hotel's exterior screams drab '70s, the interior was inspired by Versailles. Indeed, Louis XIV would look quite at home under the enormous Baccarat crystal chandeliers and amid the French and Flemish tapestries adorning the walls, enormous Persian carpets padding the parquet floors and a plethora of European antiques artfully placed here and there.

As you might expect, this hotel attracts a sophisticated, if somewhat older, clientele because of its aesthetic as well as its proximity to Copley Symphony Hall and the Museum of Contemporary Art, though it's also a quick stroll to the Gaslamp Quarter's bars and clubs.

Like the public spaces, the 222 guest rooms and suites, which start at 400 square feet, are more filigreed French than contemporary chic, though classic wooden beds, traditionally patterned carpeting and bathrooms with marble countertops and glinting brass faucets are sure to please most. Guests can access the AquaVie Fitness + Wellness Club, which has over 200 cardio and weight machines as well as a lap pool. Speaking of pools, the hotel has its own rooftop iteration where guests can enjoy food and beverage service for most of the day.

In an ornate setting with gilded wall sconces and plushly upholstered club chairs, the Plaza Bar serves three meals a day plus the hotel's ballyhooed afternoon tea while the Westgate Room is meant to feel more like a bistro ... if Marie Antoinette patronized bistros, that is. The menu includes staples like Dungeness crabcakes and steak frites.

Rates at The Westgate Hotel start at $159 per night.

With a name change (from Kimpton Hotel Palomar) and a $25 million makeover, the Kimpton Alma is one of San Diego's hottest (and pet-friendliest) hotels.

The public spaces and guest rooms now project a more SoCal midcentury vibe with colorful Mexican-inspired textiles, geometric chandeliers, Scandinavian-style wooden wishbone chairs, a profusion of succulents and other plants scattered about, and pale pastel accents.

The 211 rooms and suites are looking quite refreshed and are provisioned with a style hodgepodge of furnishings, from woven fiber deck chairs on the private balconies (in rooms that have them), to diminutive art deco velvet armchairs and slimline desks along with tattoo-inspired wall art. But you can still count on those much-loved Kimpton touches, like Frette bed linens, Atelier Bloem bath products and in-room yoga mats and — an addition — Japanese tea sets.

The hotel has a 24-hour on-site gym with a Peloton bike as well as bespoke Public bikes that guests can borrow. The rooftop pool deck has both loungers and cabanas from which guests can order drinks and nibbles from the hotel's seasonally open restaurant, Leave of Absence .

The Cafe serves a full breakfast menu plus healthy dinner items along with wine, beer and cocktails, while L.A.-based chef Jason Neroni oversees the full-service, fine(r) dining restaurant, The Desmond , where the menu includes specialties like hiramasa crudo with Asian pear and yuzu consomme, and koji-marinated hanger steak with salsa verde and barbecued romanesco.

Rates at the Kimpton Alma San Diego start at $247 or 44,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

Occupying two of San Diego's most recognizable towers, and hot off a six-year renovation of its public spaces and 1,628 guest rooms and suites, the Manchester Grand Hyatt is a great choice for folks coming to town for business or pleasure.

Speaking of the rooms, many feature panoramic views of San Diego's harbor and the downtown skyline. Starting at a spacious 340 square feet, they look fresh and chic thanks to their color palettes of white, cream, taupe and blue, along with new patterned carpets and fabric headboards. Technophiles should love the 65-inch high-definition TVs, while others will appreciate the fragrant June Jacobs bath products.

The hotel boasts not one, but two rooftop swimming pools — one for adults ages 21 and up on the third floor and one for families on the fourth floor that also has an area for lawn games — plus a StayFit fitness center.

Among the seven restaurants and bars, Seaview Breakfast Buffet Restaurant serves, as you might imagine, a sumptuous breakfast buffet daily, while Market One is a more casual grab-and-go affair throughout the day. The hotel's GrandEats is sort of like room service, only items are packaged in eco-friendly containers and delivered to your room. The 40th-floor Top of the Hyatt has some of the city's best sunset views through its floor-to-ceiling windows and serves cocktails and small plates such as ahi poke and bison sliders. Sally's Fish House & Bar , meanwhile, is the place to come for fresh fish and craft cocktails.

Rates at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego start at $294 or 17,000 World of Hyatt points per night (as of March 26).

One of San Diego's grandest and most historic hotels, The US Grant originally opened in 1910 after its construction was overseen by the eponymous president's son, and since then, over a dozen U.S. presidents have stayed here.

Though it fell into disrepair and was nearly demolished in the 1970s, multiple renovations by a rotating roster of owners saved the property and got it back to its original grandeur ... with a few eye-catching design updates as well. Though the imposing Classical Revival facade is still very much intact, and enormous crystal chandeliers light the public areas, guests will also find more art deco-style furnishings — jewel-toned velvet chairs and divans, art nouveau-inspired sculptures — in the extravagant lobby.

The 270 guest rooms and suites, which start at 280 square feet, have art deco touches as well, but a more contemporary look thanks to pared-down Louis XV-style chairs and custom abstract drip-painting headboards by artist Yves Clement, not to mention 49-inch high-definition TVs and modern amenities like Remede bathroom products.

The hotel's dining venue, Grant Grill , serves elegant, locally sourced seasonal fare, so the menus change frequently, though you might find delicacies like ricotta gnocchi with foraged mushrooms and wild boar chop and belly with pumpkin-sage risotto. The accompanying Grant Grill Lounge is a more casual setting for creative cocktails like Fannie's Old Fashioned, named after Ulysses S. Grant Jr.'s wife, with 90-day house barrel-aged Malahat rye whiskey with lychee bitters.

Rates at The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego start at $332 or 44,800 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

In the heart of San Diego's hip and historic Gaslamp Quarter, and setting up residence in a landmark 1912 building, the 122-room Palihotel has injected a breath of fresh, design-driven air into the party-hearty district, with a playful nautical aesthetic and a fabulous rooftop cocktail lounge just for guests.

Bright, cheerful accommodations offer creature comforts like Bellino linens, Diptyque bath amenities and Smeg minifridges.

Offering all-day dining, Saint James French Diner proffers a menu of French and American classics that range from croque madames in the morning to hearty burgers and bouillabaisse in the evenings.

Rates at Palihotel San Diego start at $110 per night.

Just blocks from Santa Fe Depot (the city's main train station), Hotel Republic is a supremely convenient option if your business or leisure takes you to downtown San Diego.

The decor pays homage to the city's seafaring past with royal blue carpeting, chandeliers crafted from driftwood and marine-inspired knickknacks including coral art pieces.

Rooms, likewise, have a bright, beachy ambience thanks to palettes of sandy taupe, turquoise and cerulean, plus blond wooden furnishings and wavy-patterned carpeting. White ceramic and marble-tiled bathrooms complete the look. Guests can dine alfresco on Baja-sourced cuisine at Topside Terrace Kitchen & Bar, or nosh on casual but upscale fare like crispy Brussels sprouts and grilled Kurobuta pork tenderloin at Trade Lounge. There's also a well-stocked 24-hour fitness center to work off all that good food.

Rates at Hotel Republic San Diego, Autograph Collection start at $215 or 41,500 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Although Southern California isn't short on coastline, very few hotels actually sit right on or above the beach. The Alila Marea Beach Resort , just north of the surfside village of Encinitas, is the exception to that rule, and claims pride of place on a bluff above the Pacific with private paths that lead right down to the sand of South Ponto Beach.

The resort opened in March 2021, so it still feels as fresh as a gusty sea breeze and brings a beachy aesthetic — think driftwood chic — to its casual decor scheme of natural timber flooring and furnishings and large outdoor spaces (balconies or patios, some with fire pits) along with prints by renowned surf photographer Aaron Chang in the hallways and public spaces.

Although the rooms offer some of the best coastline views (plus high-end amenities like Votary rosemary-chia bath products), settle in and then get out and explore. You could borrow one of the hotel's complimentary electric bikes for a cycle to one of Encinitas' coffee shops or bars, or north along the coast to Carlsbad.

Closer at hand, the pool is family-friendly and has prime ocean views along with food and drink service from the casual The Pocket bar (which also hosts live music on weekend afternoons). Speaking of food, chef Ananda Bareño helms the hotel's signature restaurant, Vaga , and her menu is a fascinating fusion of Mexican and Asian flavors to enjoy along with stunning sunset views.

Alila hotels are known for their spas , and the one here offers ocean-inspired treatments like the Splendor facial, which uses sea lavender and wakame seaweed to moisturize and soften the skin.

Rates at Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas start at $509 or 25,000 points per night (as of March 26).

Perched on a hilltop above the beachy hamlet of Carlsbad, a 30-mile drive from San Diego International Airport (SAN), the Park Hyatt Aviara feels like a classic California resort. Sure, the beach is a short drive away, but there's plenty on the property to keep guests occupied.

The Splash Pool Deck is a great, boisterous spot for families, while the vibe is decidedly more laid-back at the 18-and-older Ocean View Pool Deck. Wellness seekers can take advantage of the expansive fitness center, tennis courts and rounds at the Aviara Golf Club (with a course designed by Arnold Palmer), as well as nearby hiking trails along the Batiquitos Lagoon. Be sure to check out the well-being programming and regimens at Miraval Life in Balance Spa Aviara .

Among the resort's restaurants and bars are the classic steakhouse, Ember & Rye , from "Top Chef's" Richard Blais and Ponto Lago for contemporary Baja-inspired menus, along with Aviara Market for grab-and-go items.

Rooms, meanwhile, range from the 540-square-foot Foothill View category (but book a Coastal View accommodation if you can) all the way up to individual suites, like the Fireside Terrace and Blue Heron suites with features like outdoor fire pits and expansive furnished balconies overlooking the coast.

Rates at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa start at $450 or 25,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

The idyllic coastal enclave of Del Mar, about 20 miles north of San Diego, has been attracting well-heeled beachgoers for over a century thanks, in part, to the presence of L'Auberge Del Mar, which started life back in 1910 as the Stratford Inn and which began attracting Hollywood heavyweights soon thereafter.

These days, the vibe is more Tommy Bahama-meets-tech-boom-millionaire, with an exclusive-feeling patio and pool deck overlooking the Pacific and a lobby bar scene that gets pretty convivial on weekends thanks to the mix of friendly locals and sun-seeking parvenues here for a good time.

Although it used to have a more Victorian vibe, these days, the hotel is looking spruce thanks to a midcentury-inspired makeover with silver and gold Scandinavian-chic furniture and dramatic matte-brass light fixtures in the lobby, along with a more contemporary, neutral-toned look in the guest rooms and suites — though accommodations still boast beautiful garden and ocean views through classic white shutters.

While here, guests can grab cocktails at the Living Room Bar in the lobby or at the pool bar, coastal fine dining at Adelaide , or just coffee and pastries at Lyric Coffee . After a day shooting the curl at the beach, a Soulful Salt Stone massage at Spa L'Auberge is just the treat you'll need.

Rates at L'Auberge Del Mar start at $409 per night.

Designed in a grandiose Mediterranean Revival style that harks back to Hearst Castle (think ocher-colored facades and Moorish arches) and a tucked-away setting in one of the area's quieter corners, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar offers a throwback style of luxury you don't often find in California.

Unlike some of the other luxury resorts in San Diego's North County, this one isn't on the beach — it's about 5 miles inland — but that means that the May gray and June gloom that can spoil stays at other hotels doesn't get this far from the coast and you can count on sunny skies if you just want to lounge by one of the pools.

But there's plenty else to keep you occupied, including biking and horseback riding through Los Penasquitos Canyon, a challenging Tom Fazio-designed golf course and two tennis courts you can rent for your own private tournament.

The Fairmont Spa & Wellness is a state-of-the-art facility with a beautiful and tranquil outdoor pool and a range of treatments designed by spa education expert Anne Bramham and featuring a custom-created line of organic products.

The resort is also a magnet for foodies thanks to its three-Michelin-star restaurant, Addison (named after an early 20th-century architect), where chef William Bradley serves nine-course tasting menus that highlight local ingredients and seasonal cuisine. There's also the alfresco Amaya for more casual California cuisine, the Grand Social outdoor lounge for wood-fired pizzas and other nibbles, and Cent' Anni Cafe for coffee, pastries, sandwiches and salads.

The 249 guest rooms and suites, meanwhile, skew more classic than contemporary, with two-poster wooden beds, wall-mounted TVs set into gilt frames, and positively palatial bathrooms with marble finishes.

Rates at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar start at $569 per night.

Few hotels feel more Californian than this exclusive enclave set deep within what was once a primordial eucalyptus grove. It lies near the horse-heaven hamlet of Rancho Santa Fe, just a few miles from the coast, yet leagues away from the beachgoing hordes that throng this part of San Diego during the busy summer months.

Set amid citrus and olive groves, the 49 Spanish-style casitas and three villas start at a spacious 900 square feet and take on a Mission-style aesthetic with simple wooden furnishings, stone floors, sunken living rooms with fireplaces the staff will light for you on chilly nights, colorful bathroom tiling and wood-framed beds with 600-thread-count Fili D'oro linens, among other touches.

The recently renovated spa is a draw thanks to the array of programming available in its yoga pavilion, Pilates studio and fitness center, as well as treatments like the signature Sixth Sense body ritual. The resort's world-class tennis facilities draw pros and events from around the globe.

But after a grueling match on the courts, settle in at one of the cabanas for a leisurely lunch from The Paddock at the recently renovated Resort Pool, or refuel with a gourmet dinner surrounded by both locals and other guests at the equestrian-themed Pony Room , where you can sample tastings from the 100-plus tequilas on offer while considering standouts from the menu, like the hamachi crudo with ponzu and serrano chiles, or the mustard-glazed New Zealand lamb lollipops with tzatziki.

Rates at Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa start at $1,034 per night.

Although The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe is celebrating its centennial in 2024, it's looking fresh and fancier than ever thanks to a multimillion-dollar makeover by L.A.-based hotel designer Steve Hermann.

Of course, there are still hints of its glamorous past hosting luminaries like Charlie Chaplin, Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks. But its unique rooms and cottages exude contemporary flair, with fancy features like Calacatta marble bathrooms with rainfall showers and eye-catching wallpaper that alludes to the rolling orange orchards just beyond the hotel's grounds.

Be sure to stop for a signature cocktail like the refreshing, tequila-forward Lapaz at clubby Bing's Bar and dinner specialties like Monterey Bay king salmon at Lilian's. When it's time to unwind, a full-body massage at the Mila Moursi spa is just the ticket.

Rates at The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe start at $699 per night.

Sometimes the best trips are the ones with the fewest hassles, and if you've got the little ones in tow for a visit to Legoland, you can't get more worry-free than a stay at The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa.

Guest rooms measure up to nearly 500 square feet with private balconies overlooking the ocean and the surrounding valleys. Thanks to its small size (just 208 keys total), the guest experience here is also more intimate than you might expect at first blush.

Just about 2 miles inland from the beach, the resort is still within easy distance of the Carlsbad coast and many beaches farther south. But the main attraction is its proximity to Legoland. In fact, guests can simply walk to the park via a private path.

Amusement parks aside, guests can golf at the nearby Crossings at Carlsbad course, pop down to the public beaches, enjoy some outlet shopping at name-brand stores at the Carlsbad Premium Outlets, and visit the famous nearby Carlsbad Flower Fields, which are abloom with various plantings throughout the year.

On-site dining options include the casual Marketplace for coffee and grab-and-go meals, and 20Twenty , a contemporary American grill serving local beers, handcrafted cocktails and coastal cuisine like diver scallops with charred grapefruit, cashew cream, Marcona almonds and spicy chile oil.

The hotel also has a large fitness center and a huge outdoor pool area.

Rates at The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa start at $213 or 40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Also located near Carlsbad and about 30 miles north of San Diego International Airport (SAN), this upscale family-friendly resort has an array of kid-pleasing features.

The Kidtopia kids club will watch little ones from 6 months to 12 years of age, as well as host special activities like arts and crafts and movie nights. The resort has a whopping eight pools, including several for families, along with two 100-foot waterslides.

Active travelers should get a lot of use out of the 17 clay and hard tennis courts at the Cliff Drysdale Tennis facility , while golfers can swing their clubs on the Legends Course (though it's currently being redesigned by architect Gil Hanse).

The Spa at La Costa offers seasonal and group packages, and treatments incorporate high-end brands like Knesko and Osea.

Guest rooms and villas are bright and spacious, starting at 425 square feet, with French or patio doors leading out to private balconies or lanais.

As for dining, guests can take their pick of eateries, from the simple but elegant menu at Bob's Steak & Chop House to Mediterranean shared plates at Bar Traza and grab-and-go wraps and pizzas at Marketplace, among other options.

Rates at the Omni La Costa Resort & Spa start at $300 per night.

Dubbed the Pink Lady of La Jolla due to its distinctive hue, the La Valencia Hotel has been around for nearly 100 years and continues to be one of San Diego's most popular hotels, thanks to its unparalleled perch on the bluffs above the Pacific along a bustling stretch of Prospect Street, which is packed with luxury shops and galleries.

With just 114 rooms, suites and villas, accommodations are on the small side (rooms start at a mere 250 square feet) thanks to the historic nature of this property. But the interiors have been recently redone in a palette of sandy gold and royal blue, inspired by nearby La Jolla Cove, and when you have huge windows overlooking an azure stretch of ocean, you won't be focused on what's inside.

The focal point of the hotel is the small but welcoming pool surrounded by cushioned loungers, where food and beverage service is available as well as complimentary Coola skincare products for avoiding sunburn. It's also just a short walk downhill to the beach.

The hotel's all-day restaurant, the Mediterranean Room , serves specialties like chorizo eggs Benedict with chipotle hollandaise, and coriander-peach scallops with charred carrot puree and pepita dukkha in a Spanish colonial-inspired dining room with colorful tiles and a roaring fireplace. For something more casual, La Sala serves cocktails and small bites under its distinctive handpainted ceiling.

Rates at La Valencia Hotel start at $409 per night.

Although it looks like one of the world's best examples of California's Craftsman-style architecture — with post-and-beam buildings, stained-glass light fixtures and green-tiled, copper-framed fireplaces — it is, in fact, only 20 years old. But that makes it no less atmospheric as you wander the lantern-lit grounds at dusk, listening to the crash of the Pacific on the shore below.

The hotel has just 170 rooms and suites, ranging from 500-1,500 square feet, and all with views of the golf course or the hotel's central court from private balconies and patios as well as Stickley-style wooden furniture and large bathrooms tiled in granite and marble.

One of the main draws is the Torrey Pines Golf Course , which is actually public and managed by the city of San Diego (though Lodge guests can request priority tee times) and offers some of the most stunning coastal views in the country from its two 18-hole championship courses.

The spa complex comprises a fitness center along with 14 treatment rooms and men's and women's locker rooms, plus a relaxation lounge with a fireplace. Experiences include a massage using warmed basalt stones, and an organic seaweed body scrub and wrap.

Named after a famous American painter and ceramist, the hotel's much-lauded signature restaurant, A.R. Valentien , overlooks the pool. There, chef Kelli Crosson whips up specialties like porcini-crusted California sturgeon with sunchoke, wild mushrooms and purple kale.

Rates at The Lodge at Torrey Pines start at $499 per night.

This world-renowned spa resort tucked amid lavender fields in the vineyard-covered hills of Vista feels transported from Provence thanks to its rustic stone buildings and the Mediterranean climate. But its wellness programming is state of the art. No wonder it's such a hit with Hollywood glitterati (yes, Oprah is a fan).

While here, guests can take advantage of exercise, yoga and meditation sessions, indulge in a nourishing grape-skin body wrap, and feel guilt-free as they tuck into health-minded seasonal cuisine, some of which they can learn to prepare at home.

There are just 32 rooms total, and the staff-to-guest ratio floats at around 5:1, so you can rest assured that every need will be attended to.

Three-night packages at Cal-a-Vie Health Spa start at $4,900 per person.

What is the best part of San Diego to stay in?

The best part of San Diego to stay in depends on what your main interests are. If you hope to explore the museums of Balboa Park or take in a performance at the Old Globe, then downtown and its trendy Gaslamp Quarter might be the best options for you.

Families on the hunt for the ideal beach vacation might prefer the options farther north along the coast in the coastal enclaves of La Jolla, Del Mar, Encinitas or Carlsbad, while wellness seekers can explore the spas of Rancho Santa Fe and Vista.

No matter what your interests are, though, there are plenty of great neighborhoods to explore in San Diego, and you can do so year-round thanks to the city's temperate Mediterranean climate.

Related links:

• The 15 best things to do in San Diego
• 12 stops to make on your Southern California family road trip
• Beachside chic in California: A review of the new Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas
• Cool, casual and cute: A first look at the new Del Mar Beach Hotel in California

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The 22 Best Hotels in San Diego

By Beth Demmon and Archana Ram

San Diego was dubbed America’s Finest City for good reason: With incredible beaches, a thriving food and drink scene, and activities for people of all ages and abilities, it’s a vacation destination unlike any other. Just ask the 31 million people (and counting) who visit every year, nestling down in chic boutique hotels, resort spas, and beachside bungalows to have the time of their lives. San Diego is for serious golfers, surfers, business travelers, architecture buffs, foodies, families, and four-legged friends, and there’s a place perfect for everyone to check in and check out. These are the best hotels in San Diego.

Read our complete San Diego travel guide here.

Every hotel review on this list has been written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination and has visited that property. When choosing hotels, our editors consider properties across price points that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination, keeping design, location, service, and sustainability credentials top of mind.

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Lafayette Hotel Arrow

From the moment you step past the stately columns of this Colonial Revival historic beauty, it’s clear that you’re in a local hotspot. Forget minimalism; here, the vibe is a riot of textures, patterns, and colors. Think canopy beds with tiger-striped fabric and red-and-blue striped textiles to match the upholstered headboards. Snake-shaped reading lamps twirl up bed posts flanked by opaque palm leaf sconces.Then, there’s the floor lamp with a fringed, cheetah-print lampshade and the camo-meets-houndstooth upholstered footstools. Even the toilets are hand-painted rococo thrones, in retro bathrooms with black-and-white tiled showers. None of this should work, but somehow it does, with the complimentary colors and luxe textures sparking excitement, not headaches. The vibe feels lush and layered, almost like it was added to over time by a favorite great aunt who watches Some Like It Hot every night while clutching an ice-cold martini.

Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa Arrow

Carlsbad, just north of San Diego , may be better known as a barefoot surf town than a luxury resort destination. Though this legacy retreat has been bringing in a golf crowd for its manicured greens that host the LGPA for decades. Those who knew it as the Four Seasons will recognize the residence club and fairways. But the $60 million that Hyatt pumped in to relaunch the fabled resort last year means it now includes an updated 15,000 square foot spa with knock out Swedish massages and a sharp new Californian bistro, Ember and Rye, where the barbecued oysters go well with their Sonoma chardonnays. Of course there is plenty to keep the kids happy too, including a totally reimagined pool area with waterslides and a badminton area. And nice to know, too, that should moms and dads want to escape down the bluff for a night out knocking back beers with the local surfers, Aviara has a squad of babysitters at the ready. Doubles from $599. —Michelle Gross

Orli La Jolla Arrow

Cozy, private, and well-designed, this boutique hotel blends technology and luxury to make guests feel like royalty in the heart of La Jolla. With only a handful of rooms, this brother and sister-managed boutique hotel is a chic way to explore luxe La Jolla and have a home base with all the Instagrammable creature comforts waiting for you, like a moody library with cozy royal blue velvet loungers or self-serve brew bar with cold brew on draft. Don’t expect many children or families—it’s more for the insightful traveler or couples looking for a customizable and upscale getaway a few blocks from the Pacific Ocean.

The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Marriott Tribute Portfolio Hotel Arrow

The beach communities have incredible views and the hipster 'hoods have the beer and coffee scene, but downtown San Diego has been slower to find its unique value proposition. The answer started emerging in summer 2019, when The Guild opened in a 1920s-era YMCA. The 162-room Marriott Tribute Portfolio hotel retained some historic details, like the (restored) exterior and grand stone staircase. But there are plenty of the new touches, too, like blush-colored velvet couches, herringbone floors, and a slick lobby bar.

Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas Arrow

Encinitas beaches are some of the best in the world, and this minimalist property makes the most of the world-class ocean views. It manages to feel inviting and elevated, but not ostentatious or sterile, and the Venn diagram of guests is that center slice where CEOs meet surfers. Guests may be wearing wetsuits by day, but at night it’s more Patek Philippe; with no kid’s pool or menus at any of the on-site eateries, Alila Marea caters to high-net-worth adults and couples more than Gen Z or Alpha. By utilizing a lot of natural materials like fiber rugs and reclaimed wood, no room is exactly the same—but the showstoppers are the ones with ocean views.This is the type of place to celebrate a milestone birthday or anniversary, leaving the kids at home and having that extra glass of wine while watching the sun set over the Pacific. It’s more laid-back than Laguna Beach, but just as luxurious.

Fairmont Grand Del Mar Arrow

Fairmont Grand Del Mar is grand, indeed; the majestic 400-acre resort, operated by the team behind The Plaza in New York City , and The Savoy , has a luxurious Mediterranean vibe thanks to a rose-colored facade, intricate ironwork, roof tiles, copper accents, and towering cypress and palm trees. It feels a little like a palace in Spain or France —with California burritos and great surf just a few miles away.

The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego Arrow

The 11-story historic building is downright regal. Inside, the lobby feels palatial, with sparkling chandeliers, glossy tile floors, and impressive Corinthian-style columns. The hotel has a strong cocktail program, and the Vieux Carré experience is particularly special; bartenders make the cocktails tableside on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Plus, the location is central to Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, buzzy restaurants in Little Italy, and the scenic bayfront area.

The Westgate Hotel Arrow

Feel transported to Versailles at this elegant hotel where skyline views and comfortable beds, and a decadent afternoon tea service draw business travelers and families alike. The lobby is opulent, with Baccarat crystal chandeliers, French tapestries, and Persian rugs. It’s a refreshing change of pace from the recent wave of modern, minimalist hotels. The downtown location means you're walking distance from the Gaslamp Quarter and just a few miles from Little Italy, Balboa Park, and the zoo. It's an elegant option in San Diego.

InterContinental San Diego Arrow

The InterContinental offers a lot within walking distance. By foot, Little Italy is 15 minutes away and the Gaslamp Quarter is about 20. By car, Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo are less than 10 minutes. It may not have beach access, but the harbor's right at the hotel doors, perfect for sunset strolls, a visit to the USS Midway , and the Waterfront Park. Just don't mind the cruise terminal. In a destination like San Diego, the view is everything. So it makes sense that the InterContinental capitalizes on its harbor location with floor-to-ceiling windows (in rooms and even in the fitness center) and a fourth floor pool overlooking the water. That means plenty of prime sunset vantage points, too. This is a waterfront hotel for traditional, no-frills travelers.

Cal-a-Vie Arrow

At Cal-a-Vie, in Vista California, you could mistakenly believe you were somewhere in the bucolic French countryside . Suites are simple and rustic, with washed-out wooden floors, fresh flowers, and comfy, bounce-worthy beds. This is a place that offers much to do—you can wake to a sunrise hike and follow it up with any combination of spinning, water volleyball, or restorative yoga. Soothe your sore muscles with a trip to the world-class spa; past patrons rave about the massages, but also look for their Vinothérapie options, which incorporate Cal-a-Vie’s organic wine grape seeds, skins, and pulp extracts. Pair these pampering treatments with an on-site nutritionist, and you’ll leave feeling like a million bucks.

The Pearl Hotel Arrow

A lot of hotels near the bay reek of cliché coastal decor. Not so at this hip, midcentury beaut in Point Loma, a couple blocks from the water and midway between the beaches of La Jolla and the urban delights of Little Italy. The petite 23-room hotel feels like Palm Springs style with a low-key, tucked-away vibe. Built in 1959 by San Diego architect Robert Platt and originally dubbed Sportsman’s Lodge, The Pearl has been a hit for its central location and iconic oyster-shaped pool, but the rooms and decor always felt a little stale. Thankfully, hospitality collective Casetta Group took over in 2019 and modernized all 23 guest rooms and common areas, bringing in wood, linen, handmade ceramics, and other organic materials in desert-friendly hues. It still has an old-school Cali feel but with a more streamlined, less kitschy vibe.

Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa Arrow

More like a luxurious neighborhood than a typical resort, this sprawling getaway is peak California. Think orange groves, bright pink bougainvillea, and Spanish Colonial architecture. The main features—the suites, restaurants, lobby—are spread out across 45 acres, making it feel more like a luxurious neighborhood than a typical resort. Located in Rancho Santa Fe, a ritzy enclave 25 miles north of downtown San Diego, this place has the whole package—beautiful decor, dedicated service, next-level amenities, well-manicured grounds, and a serene vibe.

Omni La Costa Resort & Spa Arrow

What used to be a celebrity retreat in the ‘60s has morphed into an expansive Mission-style resort spread out across 400 hilly acres in Carlsbad. This place is all about the activities, and you can go as sweaty or as serene as you choose. The landscaping is immaculate, with palm trees, bougainvillea, and fountains. With two dramatically redesigned championship golf courses, a newly renovated spa, 17 clay and hard tennis courts, three restaurants, and its own shopping complex, Omni La Costa feels more like a little city than a resort.

Town and Country Resort Arrow

This kitschy, mid-century modern San Diego oasis boasts plenty of picturesque details, like the famous rotating neon silhouette of 1920’s Olympic diver Thelma Payne, collectible cocktail tchotchkes at the Monkey Bar, and—of course—a 40-foot-tall twisty water slide that attracts as many fun-loving adults as it does kids. It’s hard to absorb how humongous Town & Country Resort is until you’re past the lobby. Tucked just off the Interstate 8 freeway, the sprawling campus contains nearly 700 rooms, 27 fire pits, a 10,000 square foot pool, four acre riverfront park, five dining concepts, and that’s just the start. Everyone is here, from parents keeping an eye on their splashing kids from the comfort of a poolside cabana to business travelers having a bite to eat in between sessions at the adjacent convention center, honeymooners, couples…you name it, they’re here. Even San Diego locals pop in on the regular for the fluffiest Japanese pancakes in town at the recently launched DJ Brunch at ARLO.

La Valencia Hotel Arrow

You can't miss it—just look for the iconic pink stucco exterior of this Mediterranean-style hotel that sits on a cliff above La Jolla Cove . Dubbed "the pink lady," the boutique hotel is Old Hollywood meets Alhambra meets French Riviera, with dark wood, Spanish-style roof tiles, and oil paintings. San Diego is already a beautiful vacation spot, so booking a stay here is taking your getaway to the next level. It's one of the most picturesque, iconic hotels in town.

The Lodge at Torrey Pines Arrow

Modeled after the famed Gamble and Blacker houses of Pasadena, this cliffside Craftsman-style resort looms large. The decor is dark and heavy, with brick, stone, and wood beams. A hit with golfers and design geeks alike, this serene, well-appointed resort is spread across six acres but still manages to feel cozy. The resort is located on the 18th green of the South Course of the renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course . If you're here in January, you may spot the Farmers Insurance Open, and if you’re here in 2021, the U.S. Open. While the course is open to the public guests get preferred tee times and access to special packages.

San Diego Mission Bay Resort Arrow

Originally built in 1962 on the quiet shores of Mission Bay, this was Hilton’s first resort property and focused on laid-back luxury. That focus remains the same, but when Noble House took over in 2020, they redid everything from top to bottom. Rooms got new bedding and decor, restaurants were completely made over, and the $32 million renovation was finished in June 2021 from Texas-based design group Waldrop+Nichols Studio. With 284 guest rooms, 65 studios, five one-bedroom suites, and three two-story suites, travel groups of all sizes and budgets can find what floats their fancy. The most popular guest rooms are the Garden Studios, which feature a kitchenette and bay view from the Garden by the Bay lawn. The lawn is often busy with activities like yoga, so for something a little cozier, try one of the Fire Pit studio guest rooms, which include a private patio and complimentary bundle of firewood.

Hotel Republic San Diego, Autograph Collection Arrow

Despite its position downtown, Hotel Republic, a modern hotel (and a great-value to boot). It takes its design cues from San Diego's coastal location, with blue carpeting, chandeliers made of driftwood, and nautical tchotchkes. Accommodations are nothing mind-blowing, but they're definitely comfortable, with modern vibes and a pleasing blue-and-white color palette. Most standard rooms clock in at a comfortable-but-not-huge 362 square feet, but you can bump up to a corner room or the Presidential Suite for even more space. If you can stay the whole weekend every Sunday, the rooftop Topside Terrace Kitchen and Bar hosts free yoga classes for both guests and non-guests.

Hotel del Coronado, Curio Collection by Hilton Arrow

You can spot the iconic red turrets from the plane. The beachfront Victorian-style hotel is grand, a San Diego icon featured in the Marilyn Monroe flick Some Like It Hot . It feels less like a traditional resort and more like a retail complex open to the public, with shops, restaurants, walking paths, and an ice skating rink during the holidays (in addition to its guest rooms). The hotel offers old-school vibes with new-school luxury—and dogs are welcome, too.

Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa Arrow

Estancia is in the upscale coastal neighborhood of La Jolla, but closer to UC San Diego and Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve than the pedestrian-friendly Village. Terra-cotta hues and charming architecture stand out at this Spanish Colonial-style hotel and spa that also features pristine gardens to stroll in the mornings. The spa has nine treatment rooms, including a couple’s option with an outdoor tub. Make sure to hit up the eucalyptus steam room and the meditation garden. The hotel is peak California: Mission-style architecture, succulents, and gardens galore.

Pendry San Diego Arrow

When Montage decided to open a line of trendy, design-centric hotels geared toward the millennial traveler, the company looked to San Diego to be its first outpost. This bright, 12-story hotel opened in early 2017 and brought some much-needed modernity to the Gaslamp Quarter, a downtown neighborhood that veers on the kitschy, touristy side. The rooms feature lots of wood, whites, and metallic gold touches—like a West Elm catalog come to life. But this is as much a dining and nightlife venue as it is a hotel. There's casual fare at Provisional; high-end seafood at Lionfish; a casual beer bar with the best soft pretzel around at Nason's Beer Hall; Vegas-style partying at the subterranean Oxford Social Club

Tower23 Hotel Arrow

Located in the youthful Pacific Beach neighborhood, this modern boutique hotel splits the difference between shabby-chic and ultra-glamorous, while offering plenty to keep you entertained and a prime location by the beach. Check it out—as long as you're okay with a bit of a party vibe. It’s a fun, laid-back hotel with style. And, really, you must see the sunset from the second-floor deck.

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Travel Guide

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Best Hotel Bets in San Diego

• Best Splurge: Resembling an ornate Tuscan villa, the Grand Del Mar, 5300 Grand Del Mar Way (tel. 888/314-2030 or 858/314-2000), is an aptly named resort tucked into the foothills of Del Mar. Opened in 2007, it features exquisite terraces, fountains, gardens, and amenities galore. Its stand-alone restaurant, Addison, is the first San Diego dining establishment to receive a AAA 5 Diamond Award.
• Best Triple-Threat: Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, 7100 Four Seasons Point (tel. 800/633-7313 or 760/448-1234), is a AAA 5 Diamond resort in Carlsbad that pulls off the hat trick of encompassing one of the best restaurants, spas, and golf courses in the county.
• Best Moderate Downtown Hotel: You won't find a better downtown location than the Gaslamp Plaza Suites, 520 E St. (tel. 800/874-8770 or 619/232-9500), right in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter. This historic Edwardian beauty was San Diego's first skyscraper, built in 1913, and features spacious rooms and architectural flourishes.
• Best Value in Little Italy: Check in to the Little Italy Hotel, 505 W. Grape St. (tel. 800/518-9930 or 619/230-1600). Once a boardinghouse for Italian fishermen, dating from 1910, it now offers convenient, affordable digs in one of the city's hippest neighborhoods.
• Best Historic Hotel: The Hotel del Coronado positively oozes history. Opened in 1888, this Victorian masterpiece had some of the first electric lights in existence, and over the years has hosted kings, presidents, and movie stars. Meticulous restoration has enhanced this glorious landmark, whose early days are well chronicled in displays throughout the hotel.
• Best for a Romantic Getaway: At the Lodge at Torrey Pines -- one of only three AAA 5-diamond hotels in the county -- you can enjoy a fireplace in your room, sunset ocean views from your balcony, a couple's massage at the fabulous spa, and superb meals at the hotel's A.R. Valentien restaurant. In the Gaslamp Quarter, the Andaz Hotel has seriously sexy accommodations where see-through showers separate the bed and bath areas; one room even has a stripper pole.
• Best for Families: The Paradise Point Resort & Spa is a tropical playground offering enough activities to keep family members of all ages happy. In addition to a virtual Disneyland of on-site options, the aquatic playground of Mission Bay surrounds the hotel's private peninsula.
• Best Budget Hotel: In San Diego's Little Italy, La Pensione Hotel feels like a small European hotel and offers tidy lodgings at bargain prices. There's an abundance of great dining in the surrounding blocks, and you'll be perfectly situated to explore the area by trolley.
• Best Bed-and-Breakfast: The Britt Scripps Inn is set in a glorious Victorian mansion, once home to one of the city's most prominent families. It offers incredible architectural details, top-of-the-line amenities, and a great location near Balboa Park.
• Best Service: The Zen-inspired boutique Hotel Parisi is small enough to provide personalized service and upscale enough to offer in-room treatments ranging from acupuncture to ear coning.
• Best Place to Stay on the Beach: Although the Hotel Del is the grande dame of West Coast seaside resorts, if you really want to be in the heart of San Diego's beach culture, no place is better than Tower 23. This sleek, modernist hotel -- which takes its name from an old lifeguard station -- sits right on the Pacific Beach boardwalk.
• Best Hotel for Travelers with Disabilities: While many of San Diego's hotels make minimal concessions to wheelchair-accessibility codes, downtown's Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego goes the distance. There are 63 rooms with roll-in showers and lowered closet racks and peepholes. Ramps are an integral part of all the public spaces, rather than an afterthought. The hotel's Braille labeling is also thorough.
• Best Hotel Pool: The top-floor pool, sun deck, and lounge at the Andaz Hotel collectively make up downtown's largest rooftop space. Although the pool is shallow, the video-enhanced cabanas, Gaslamp Quarter vistas, and clubby vibe attract the beautiful people (some of whom are also shallow). For a more private, guests-only experience, the pool at La Valencia Hotel is oh-so-special, with its spectacular setting overlooking Scripps Park and the Pacific.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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• Destinations

This California Destination Is the 8th Largest City in the U.S. — and It's Home to Casual Beach Towns, Family Theme Parks, and Beautiful Golf Courses

Best Times to Go

Things to know, how to get around, best hotels, best restaurants, things to do, best shopping, neighborhoods to know, apps to download.

San Diego, one of 18 cities in Southern California's San Diego County, is the eighth largest city in the United States. Sharing a border with Mexico, San Diego is known for its mild, dry climate, with a year-round temperature average of around 68 degrees F (20 degrees Celsius) and low rainfall, occurring mostly between December and March. Coastal areas are generally cooler than inland parts of the city.

Like most large cities, San Diego encompasses a variety of neighborhoods and communities, including casual beach towns, downtown business areas, and both new and historical sections. Tourism is a major industry, attracting visitors to its 70 miles of beaches, family theme parks and attractions, museums, golf courses, craft breweries, restaurants, and stellar hotels .

San Diego is home to several military installations, dating back to the early 20th century when the U.S. Navy established a base there. The Coast Guard has a base on San Diego Bay, and the U.S. Marines have installations at Miramar and Camp Pendleton. The aircraft carrier U.S.S. Midway is a museum and tourist attraction.

Pacific Standard Time (Daylight Savings Time, seasonal; dates vary)

Moderate temperatures year round along with minimal rainfall make just about any time lovely in San Diego. Summer is beach season, and visitors enjoy sunny weather and warm water in the ocean and bay for water sports like surfing, paddle boarding, swimming, and boating. The sea and air are cooler during winter months, still pleasant for outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and walking along the shore.

The San Diego County Fair, an annual event at Del Mar Fairgrounds, was first held in 1880, and the most recent fair saw more than 1,500,000 visitors.

San Diego is a dog-friendly destination, with a variety of hotels, restaurants, parks, beaches, and activities that will welcome your furry friend.

In the town of La Jolla, you can watch the seals and sea lions that have taken over the Children's Pool Beach. They can be seen from the cliffs at La Jolla Cove.

In San Diego, you can find both ocean beaches with waves for surfing and calm bays for easy swimming.

Buses: For bus schedules and information, visit the Metropolitan Transit System website. Refer to the map and timetable to plan your trip. In San Diego's North County, the Breeze System provides service.

Trolley Service: Three trolley lines (blue, orange, green) service downtown San Diego communities and beyond. They run an average of every 15 minutes. For information, visit the Metropolitan Transit System website.

Waterfront Shuttle: Between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends, the Waterfront Shuttle makes eight stops along the Bayfront from Harbor Island to the South Embarcadero near the San Diego Convention Center. For information visit the website.

Mission Bay & Beachfront

The catamaran resort & spa.

Address: 3999 Mission Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92109 Phone: (858) 488-1081 Book Now

Tropical landscaping and decor create an elegant atmosphere, and with a patio or balcony in every room, views are guaranteed. Set on a sandy beach on Mission Bay, the resort includes refrigerators, coffee makers, pool, jacuzzi, and bike rentals.

Paradise Point Resort & Spa

Address: 1404 Vacation Road, San Diego, CA 92109 Phone: (855) 463-3361 Book Now

This family resort on Mission Bay near SeaWorld features five pools, a mile-long beach, tennis courts, bonfire pits, putting course, beach cruisers, two waterfront restaurants, and a private marina on its 44-acre island. Bungalow-style rooms are set among lagoons and tropical gardens.

Bahia Resort Hotel

Address: 998 West Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, CA 92109 Phone: (858) 488-0551 Book Now

The Bahia is set on a private 14-acre peninsula on Mission Bay less than five minutes from SeaWorld. Amenities include a pool, arcade, tennis courts, shuffleboard, beachfront cabanas, and complimentary cruises on the Bahia Belle, its Mississippi-style sternwheeler.

Kona Kai Resort & Spa

Address: 1551 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, CA 92106 Phone: (619) 452-3138 Book Now

Located on the tip of Shelter Island near the Point Loma neighborhood, the Kona Kai offers waterfront accommodations, a fitness center, two waterfront pools, and locally sourced cuisine served at Vessel with sea breezes and views.

Hotel del Coronado

Address: 1500 Orange Avenue, Coronado, CA 92118 Phone: (619) 435-6611 Book Now

The iconic hotel offers a variety of accommodations including rooms, suites, newly renovated cabanas, and beachfront suites at the Beach Village with patios facing the sand and ocean. A variety of dining venues, shops, and expansive beach make a stay at the Del a memorable experience.

Downtown/Gaslamp District

Manchester grand hyatt.

Address: 1 Market Place, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 232-1234 Book Now

This waterfront hotel near Seaport Village offers a resort-like feel in the midst of downtown. Visitors love having views of the sea along with a convenient location and upscale amenities.

Andaz, San Diego

Address: 600 F Street, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 849-1234 Book Now

Set in a historic 1913 building and updated in contemporary style, the Andaz offers guestrooms and suites, pool, private cabanas, Andaz Wine Bar, and a rooftop bar and lounge with views of the San Diego skyline.

Hotel Indigo San Diego Gaslamp Quarter

Address: 509 Ninth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (877) 846-3446 Book Now

Conveniently located near the Convention Center and Petco Park, this pet-friendly boutique hotel boasts a roof garden and Level 9 Rooftop Bar with cozy fire pits for chilly evenings.

The U.S. Grant, San Diego

Address: 326 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 232-3121 Book Now

This historic hotel dates to around 1910, and a major renovation retained its vintage style and elegance. Visitors enjoy cocktails in the Grand Grill Lounge or French-inspired Rendezvous Bar. A spa, fitness center, and luxurious guest rooms and suites make it a popular choice.

Pendry San Diego

Address: 550 J Street, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 738-7000 Book Now

This modern hotel offers a spa, rooftop pool, and several dining and entertainment venues, including a beer hall and fine dining restaurant. The Pool House, their rooftop lounge, provides poolside service and sunset views from the pool or hot tub.

The Lodge at Torrey Pines

Address: 11480 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: (858) 453-4420 Book Now

The elegant Lodge offers early California Craftsman style with expansive public spaces with fireplaces, overstuffed furniture, leather chairs, and views of the Pacific and Torrey Pines Golf Course.

La Valencia Hotel

Address: 1132 Prospect Street, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: (855) 476-6870 Book Now

Set atop the La Jolla Cove among fashionable shops, galleries, and beaches, the Mediterranean-style La Valencia, nicknamed "the Pink Lady," offers luxurious accommodations, romantic courtyards, Spanish mosaics, ocean views, and lush tropical landscaping.

La Jolla Shores Hotel

Address: 8110 Camino del Oro, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: (855) 923-8058 Book Now

Set directly on the beach for a romantic oceanfront stay, the hotel's amenities include an outdoor heated pool, Jacuzzi, year-round kayaking, s’mores nights, bike rentals, and yoga classes. Savor Baja-inspired coastal cuisine and epic ocean views at The Shores restaurant.

Estancia La Jolla

Address: 9700 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: (855) 318-7602 Book Now

The hotel is set among nine acres of lush gardens, featuring a spa, saltwater pool, and outdoor wellness activities and yoga classes. Its prime location near elegant La Jolla's attractions and University of California San Diego make it an attractive destination.

Inland - Mission Valley and Old Town

Town and country san diego.

Address: 500 Hotel Circle N, San Diego, CA 92108 Phone: (619) 291-7131 Book Now

With a complete renovation, the 1953 property has added a host of new amenities while retaining its mid-century modern charm. A sun-drenched pool complex with the new Twister, a four-story-high water slide, colorful artwork, bright yellow accents, and new furnishings make the hotel a delightful place to stay.

San Diego Marriott Mission Valley

Address: 8757 Rio San Diego Drive, San Diego, CA 92108 Phone: (619) 692-3800 Book Now

Conveniently located near San Diego State University, Old Town, and SDCCU Stadium, the hotel offers a fitness center and outdoor pool with a waterfall. There's casual dining at DEN and an upgrade available for access to the M Club Lounge featuring complimentary breakfast, snacks, and drinks.

Downtown, Gaslamp District, and Little Italy

Rustic root.

Address: 535 Fifth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101 Website

American cuisine with a modern touch and a menu of locally sourced meats, produce, and seafood is their specialty. Craft cocktails and a rooftop with skyline views add to the experience. Reservations are recommended.

Address: 366 Fifth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101 Website

Helmed by Michelin-starred celebrity chef Akira Back, Lumi offers creative Japanese dishes and sushi along with views of the city from his rooftop. Cocktails, Japanese whiskey, and DJ beats provide a lively atmosphere. Reservations are recommended.

Herb & Wood

Address: 2210 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 955-8495 Website

The extensive menu includes seafood, meat, salads, pasta, toasts, wood-fired pizza, craft cocktails, and a dessert menu that might tempt you to start there first. Brunch is also a treat at this popular spot. Reservations are suggested.

Ironside Fish & Oyster

Address: 1654 India Street, San Diego, CA 92101 Website

Their menu of shellfish, finfish, chowders, small plates, big platters, lobster, cocktails, beer, and wine along with weekday happy hours make this a popular spot. Reservations are suggested.

Juniper and Ivy

Address: 2228 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 269-9036 Website

Set in a renovated warehouse, the atmosphere is relaxed, and dishes are tasty and artfully presented. Their imaginative food is based on seasonal local ingredients treated to the creativity of a team of chefs. Reservations are recommended.

Born and Raised

Address: 1909 India Street, San Diego, CA 92101 Website

Elevated steakhouse cuisine with a menu that includes luxurious dry-aged steaks and Wagyu beef. Retro touches like tableside presentation of Caesar salads and steak tartare make for a delicious and entertaining experience. Reservations are recommended.

Civico 1845

Address: 1845 India Street, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 431-5990 Website

Civico 1845 serves traditional southern Italian dishes, an expansive menu, and a selection of cheeses and cured meats in addition to a separate vegan menu. Their outdoor patio offers a pleasant spot for al fresco dining. Reservations are suggested.

Little Italy Food Hall

Address: 550 W. Date Street, Suite B, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 269-7187 Website

Located at the Piazza della Famiglia , the food hall features six food stations and a full bar. Choose to dine on pizza, tacos, pasta, Asian dumplings, or lobster and save room for Bobboi's Natural Gelato for dessert.

Nine-Ten Restaurant and Bar

Address: 910 Prospect Street, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: (858) 964-5400 Website

Recognized with awards for chef Jason Knibb, sommelier Chris Russo, its wine list, cocktails, and more, Nine-Ten serves an eclectic menu of creatively prepared farm-to-table ingredients. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch provide a variety of opportunities to sample its dishes, from salmon benedict in the morning to butternut squash risotto at dinner. Reservations are recommended.

A.R. Valentien

Address: 11480 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: (858) 453-4420 Website

Set in an elegant craftsman-style dining room, A.R. Valentien serves regional cuisine overlooking the 18th hole of the Torrey Pines Golf Course and the California Coast. Outdoor seating is available, and reservations are recommended.

Address: 1025 Prospect Street, Suite 210, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: (858) 459-0040 Website

The breakfast menu includes French toast, blueberry pancakes, chilaquiles, crab cake benedict, omelets, and more served on their ocean-view patio. Choose from the breakfast menu at lunchtime too, or take advantage of their weekday happy hour.

Louisiana Purchase

Address: 2305 University Avenue, San Diego, CA 92104 Phone: (619) 255-8278 Website

They serve the best of Creole and Cajun classics like gumbo, po' boys, crawfish, catfish, collard greens, and Southern flavors along with cocktails and unique shareable punches.

The Smoking Goat

Address: 3408 30th Street, San Diego, CA 92104 Phone: (619) 955-5295 Website

This intimate French bistro has an enthusiastic following of fans of their baked brie and duck fat truffle fries served during happy hour. The dinner menu includes seafood, steak, and lamb with seasonal additions and an extensive wine list.

Shank & Bone

Address: 2930 University Avenue, San Diego, CA 92104 Phone: (619) 458-9085 Website

Traditional and modern Vietnamese dishes include a selection of pho, spring rolls, bowls, rice dishes, and banh mi sandwiches. The colorful, casual atmosphere includes a large mural, and outdoor tables are available. Reservations are suggested.

Mission Hills

Farmer's bottega.

Address: 860 West Washington Street, San Diego, CA 92103 Phone: (619) 458-9929 Website

They serve traditional Italian dishes with a focus on organic, seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is vintage, with the rustic feel of a farmhouse. Come for weekend brunch and daily happy hour.

Blue Water Seafood

Address: 3667 India Street, San Diego, CA 92103 Phone: (619) 497-0914 Website

This is the place for fresh local seafood, tacos, sandwiches, salads, soups, oysters, and sashimi — all from the nearby seas. There's an Ocean Beach location too.

Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar

Address: 902 West Washington Street, San Diego, CA 92103 Phone: (619) 955-8451 Website

They serve breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. Weekly specials include Maine lobster Thursdays, Taco Tuesdays, Prime Rib Fridays, and Southern Fried Chicken Saturdays.

Barrio Logan

Address: 2196 Logan Avenue, San Diego, CA 92113 Phone: (619) 255-3856 Website

Tacos and street food-style offerings are the specialty at this popular dining spot, and their "not tacos" menu includes ceviche, fries, quesadillas, and more. Sip a margarita, horchata, or michelada, and stop in for weekday happy hours.

Barrio Dogg

Address: 2234 Logan Avenue, San Diego, CA 92113 Phone: (619) 546-7889 Website

This popular spot is open all day serving high-quality, organic, 100% Angus beef hot dogs embellished in Chicago, TJ, Asian, Cuban, and German style, along with fries to match. Side dishes include Elotitos sweet corn, nopalitos, and mama's macaroni. Enjoy along with local beers.

Multiple Locations around San Diego

Crack shack.

Address: 2266 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 795-3299 Website

Chicken is their specialty — fried, sandwiched, smoked, grilled, served in bowls and salads and accompanied by Mexican poutine, fries, and biscuits. Other locations include Encinitas, Costa Mesa, Pasadena, and Las Vegas.

Buona Forchetta

Address: 30001 Beech Street, San Diego, CA 92102 Website

They serve a full menu including antipasti, salads, pastas, and vegan selections, but their specialty is Pizza Napoletana baked in authentic wood-fired Italian ovens. Locations in the San Diego area include Encinitas, South Park, Coronado, and Liberty Station.

Belmont Park

Address: 3146 Mission Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92109 Website

Go back in time to an old-style beachside amusement park with rides, arcades, and views of the Pacific. The Giant Dipper Roller Coaster was originally built in 1925, and its restoration in the early 1990s included all new tracks, thousands of board feet of lumber, and two new trains with modern restraint systems. It retains the vintage look of its original era of wooden roller coasters.

While you're at the Mission Beach amusement park, stop for a snack or play a game at the arcade.

Sharyn Umana-Angers/Travel + Leisure

Address: 100 Park Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 795-5555 Website

Conveniently located in downtown San Diego, this magnificent baseball stadium is home to the Padres, and it's also a venue for concerts, soccer, and special events. A delightful place to watch baseball, the park also provides views of the city and delicious foods including grilled fish tacos, BBQ, burgers, pizza, and of course, hot dogs and ice cream. Visit for a behind-the-scenes tour, sit in the dugout, and see the pressbox, Visitors' Clubhouse, and more.

Maritime Museum of San Diego

Address: 1492 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 Website

The museum features a world-class collection that includes sailing ships, steam-powered ships, and submarines. Sailing ships include the Star of India, the world's oldest active sailing ship, and the 555 USS Dolphin, the deepest diving submarine in the world. Permanent exhibits cover sea monster myths, photography, navigation, and lots more.

Cabrillo National Monument

Address: 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive, San Diego, CA 92106 Website

This national park celebrates the 1542 arrival of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first European to set foot on what is now the West Coast of the U.S. It's a great place for tide pool exploration, hiking, history, and spectacular views of downtown San Diego.

San Diego Zoo

Address: 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 231-1515 Website

This world-famous zoo in Balboa Park houses more than 4,000 animals including giant pandas from China and many rare and endangered species. Take a guided tour on a double-decker bus or a ride on the Skyfari for an aerial view. For a special experience, try the Early Morning Photo Expedition or Sunrise Surprise Stroll before the zoo opens for the day.

SeaWorld San Diego

Address: 500 Sea World Drive, San Diego, CA 92109 Phone: (619) 422-4732 Website

SeaWorld's dolphins, orcas, Beluga whales, otters, turtles, penguins, fish, and other sea creatures entertain, educate, and make us appreciate their beauty and value their presence.

You'll also see flamingos, macaws, and have an opportunity to watch animal specialists feed the penguins, sea turtles, and others. Watch sharks from their amazing underwater tunnel.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Address: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA 92027 Website

Take a wildlife safari in the back of a covered, open-air safari truck with an expert guide to get a close-up view of a variety of birds and mammals. You can enjoy wide-open views of giraffe herds, rhinos, and a variety of African wildlife in a private cabana with a dedicated host to share stories about the animals. See beautiful cheetahs at Shiley's Cheetah Run on an early morning stroll along with an experienced guide.

Balboa Park

Chelsea Loren/Travel + Leisure

Address: 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 Website

Balboa Park is home to 17 museums, more than 10 performing arts spaces, nearly 20 gardens, shops, dining spots, and attractions like the carousel, miniature train, and the San Diego Zoo. Start at the Visitors Center to plan your day or days — you could spend a week there and not see it all. Decide on a museum or two, stroll through a garden, and download the Balboa Park app to your smartphone to guide you all day.

Mission Bay Aquatic Center

Address: 1001 Santa Clara Place, San Diego, CA 92109 Phone: (858) 488-1000 Website

At one of the world's largest instructional waterfront facilities, you can learn surfing, sailing, water skiing, kayaking, windsurfing, stand up paddleboarding, and more. Rent a paddleboard, kayak, sailboat or other water sports equipment, and if you're new at it, this is the place to learn how to enjoy watersports safely.

U.S.S. Midway Museum

Address: 910 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 544-9600 Website

This historic aircraft carrier is open for self-guided audio tours and guided tours of the bridge and more. Exhibits include more than 30 restored aircraft, flight simulators, flight deck, admiral's cabin, and more. As a bonus, the flight deck provides views of San Diego's downtown skyline, the San Diego Bay Bridge, and active U.S. Navy ships.

Mission Bay Bike Path

Address: 850 West Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, CA 92109 Website

Nearly 12 miles of flat, scenic paved paths wind around Mission Bay, taking you through public parks and wildlife reserves. You'll ride past SeaWorld and Belmont Park, enjoying the sea breeze and views on the way. Bike rentals are available along Mission Boulevard.

Address: Caesar E. Chavez Parkway at Main Street, San Diego, CA 92113 Website

The historic neighborhood is home to artists, designers, galleries, and a growing display of public art — the largest collection of Chicano murals in the world. Authentic Mexican food is another good reason to visit Barrio Logan. Enjoy homemade tortillas, spicy tacos, refreshing paletas (ice pops), and agua frescas or a local craft beer.

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

Address: San Diego Avenue at Twiggs Street, San Diego, CA Website

Learn about life in the early days of San Diego in the early 19th century when it began as a Mexican pueblo. Visit the Whaley House Museum, one of only two officially designated haunted houses in California. Enjoy authentic Mexican food, mariachi entertainment, and shopping for souvenirs and snacks.

Swim With Sharks

Address : La Jolla Shores Beach, northern end of La Jolla

When you tell your friends you swam with sharks in San Diego, you might forget to mention that they were harmless Leopard sharks , named for their yellow and black markings. The creatures, from four to five feet long, arrive in early June and peak in numbers during August and September when they seek the abundant food in the warm, shallow water of La Jolla Shores. All you need is a snorkel and swim fins to watch the sharks swim by below.

Coronado Ferry

Address: 990 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 234-4111

A bargain at only $5, this scenic boat ride takes you across the bay to the Coronado Ferry Landing for shopping, dining, and exploring Coronado Island. Enjoy the views and sea air during the 15-minute ride.

Rent a Boat or Take a Boat Tour

In a city bordered by the ocean and home to a huge bay, a cruise is a natural way to see the sights from another perspective. With so many to choose from, you'll find one that's just your speed. Whether you want a sailboat, speedboat, dinner cruise, whale watching trip, or sunset harbor cruise, don't miss a chance to see San Diego from the sea.

Whale Watching

If you visit during the whale migration times of year, you can see the amazing creatures from land or sea. From mid-December through April, more than 20,000 gray whales travel between Alaska and Baja California, passing San Diego on their journey. Blue whales, the largest creatures on earth, can be found off San Diego's coast from mid-June through September. The blue whales travel further out to sea, so a boat tour is a better way to view them.

Hiking in San Diego

The moderate weather is ideal for outdoor activities, and San Diego offers many hiking trails with a range of difficulty. Mission Trails Regional Park , just 12 miles from downtown, provides a variety of hikes as well as Lake Murray. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in La Jolla is another favorite of hikers who enjoy views of the ocean and the reserve along with wildlife that includes birds, rabbits, mule deer, lizards, and snakes.

Balboa Park Museum Shops

Throughout the park, museum stores and artisans provide the opportunity to take home a prized item, gift, or souvenir. For example, the Spanish Village Arts Center is a community of more than 200 artisans offering paintings, sculpture, jewelry, photographs, prints, baskets, as well as glass, clay, and fiber art. The San Diego Museum of Art store offers books, prints, handmade jewelry, toys, games, and even chocolates in art-decorated tins. The San Diego History Center Museum Store features books, historic photographs, memorabilia, jewelry, and handmade items by local artisans.

Liberty Station

Address: 2850 Womble Road, San Diego, CA 92106 Website

In San Diego's Point Loma community, Liberty Station, once the Naval Training Center dating back to 1923, is now a venue for art, entertainment, dining, and shopping. The multi-use community is home to restaurants, bars, boutiques, art galleries, museums, office spaces, and parks.

Address: 3725 Paseo Place, San Diego, CA 92130 Phone: (858) 523-2298 Website

You can live, work, and shop at One Paseo, and it's a pleasant place to browse the boutiques or stop for a bite. A variety of specialty shops offer apparel, home decor, beauty and wellness products, swimwear, jewelry, shoes, and more.

Seaport Village

Address: 849 West Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 530-0704 Website

For waterfront shopping and dining near downtown, Seaport Village offers casual browsing, souvenirs, clothing, and specialty shops. Look for toys, collectibles, games, novelty items, kites, beach apparel, and more. Grab a bite to eat or a glass of wine while you're there.

Westfield UTC (University Town Center)

Address: 4545 La Jolla Village Drive, San Diego, CA 92122 Phone: (858) 546-8858 Website

Recently renovated, this open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment destination offers luxury brands, excellent customer service, and a family-friendly experience. Nordstrom, Macy's, and more than 200 shops and restaurants make it a favorite with locals and visitors alike.

Fashion Valley

Address: 7007 Friars Road, San Diego, CA 92108 Website

This trendy destination in Mission Valley features Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom, Macy's, and designer houses like Gucci, Prada, Ferragamo, and Saint Laurent.

Westfield Mission Valley

Address: 1640 Camino Del Rio, North San Diego, CA 92108 Phone: (619) 296-6375 Website

This open-air mall features Bloomingdale's Outlet, Nordstrom Rack, Macy's Home, and Vans as well as restaurants and a movie theater.

Las Americas Premium Outlets

Address: 4211 Camino de la Plaza, San Diego, CA 92173 Phone: (619) 934-8400 Website

Located about 20 minutes south of downtown San Diego, the outlet mall includes 125 stores in an outdoor courtyard setting. Name brand and designer stores as well as a variety of eateries make it a popular shopping stop.

La Jolla offers beautiful beaches, outdoor recreation, luxury hotels, and outdoor recreation. La Jolla Underwater Park and Ecological Reserve thrives with marine life, and in Torrey Pines, there's hiking and an array of native wildlife. Internationally recognized Torrey Pines Golf Course is nearby.

Gaslamp Quarter is a 16-block area in the historic heart of downtown San Diego, a lively dining, entertainment, and shopping district. More than 100 restaurants, 40 bars and nightclubs, theaters, art galleries, and shops as well as luxury hotels make it a popular destination.

Little Italy was once home to the tuna fishing industry and Italian families who settled there. Now the lively neighborhood is filled with restaurants, pubs, art galleries, and boutiques. India Street is the main thoroughfare, and Kettner Street is the place for new, popular restaurants.

Barrio Logan is home to Mexican street art, focused on Chicago Park beneath the San Diego-Coronado Bridge overpass, where a display of colorful murals are painted on the bridge's pillars. Authentic Mexican food, artist studios, bakeries, and a brewery attract visitors as well.

Hillcrest is located next to Balboa Park, minutes from downtown. The hub of San Diego's LGBTQ+ community, Hillcrest is known for eclectic nightlife, casual dining, chic boutiques, and vintage clothing stores. The main thoroughfares are University Avenue and tree-lined Fifth Avenue.

University Heights , adjacent to Hillcrest, features historic and renovated craftsman-style homes, shopping, nightlife, and dining. Its main thoroughfare, Park Boulevard, is home to popular eateries, shops, and lounges.

Coronado is located across the bay from downtown San Diego. Beaches, shops, and the historic Hotel del Coronado attract visitors. Orange Avenue, Coronado's main thoroughfare, is lined with restaurants, galleries, and theaters.

San Diego is known for its moderate, near perfect climate . Temperatures vary, with warmer areas inland and cooler near the ocean often with morning clouds. Annual precipitation is rarely above ten inches, with the majority occurring between December and March.

The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month.

January 48 - 65 February 65 - 76 March 61 - 73 April 54 - 69 May 67 - 76 June 65 - 75 July 62 - 71 August 59 - 69 September 56 - 67 October 53 - 66 November 51 - 65 December 49 - 65

A variety of smartphone apps are available to make a visit to San Diego convenient and easy.

Balboa Park Official Mobile App is an interactive guide to the park with details on museums, eateries, schedules, and more.

For transportation, apps for Uber and RideYellow make getting around easy.

SpotAngel helps drivers find street parking and understand local rules.

SeaWorld 's app provides GPS navigation, search, show times, and up-to-date wait times for rides.

Legoland 's app provides a park map and overview of rides, shops, dining, and ticket information.

Related Articles

2024 Best Resorts in San Diego, CA

Hotels ranked on industry awards, guest reviews and hotel class ratings

Unbiased content created by U.S. News editors

Photo tours of select hotels by local experts

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Travel Guide

• # 2 in Best Weekend Getaways

Consistently sunny weather and 70 miles of magnificent coastline are what draw active types and sun seekers alike to San Diego throughout the year: that and the mouthwatering Mexican cuisine, thriving nightlife and one of the country's favorite zoos . And then there are the beaches : Retreat to Mission Beach to catch a wave, to La Jolla to soak up the sun and to Coronado for a leisurely seaside stroll. What's more, San Diego offers some of the best California tours , including whale watching tours , boat tours and fishing charters . When you're ready to ditch your flip-flops and board shorts for more formal attire, you'll find pockets of vivacious nightlife throughout, especially near the historical Gaslamp Quarter .

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Best hotels in San Diego

This list of the best hotels in San Diego has been curated according to their location, style, rooms, facilities and dining options. Here is our selection of the best places to stay in San Diego.

All hotels have been independently reviewed by our expert writers, who are usually hosted on a complimentary basis. We will earn a commission if you book via the links below, but this never affects our rating.

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InterContinental San Diego

Hotel Republic

Grande Colonial

Hotel del Coronado

Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa

Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

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The essential guide to visiting San Diego

Here’s all the info you need to explore the southern California city’s sunny beaches, eclectic museums, and charming historic neighborhoods.

Why you should visit San Diego

Seventy miles of sun-kissed coastline . The San Diego Museum of Art and the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park. Pop-culture fest Comic-Con . California’s first Catholic mission .

Best time to visit San Diego

Spring:   In March and April, golden yarrows, mariposa lilies, and California poppies burst forth in Mission Trails Regional Park . Pink and white blooms star in March’s Cherry Blossom Festival in the Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum .

Summer: Temperatures in the 70s Fahrenheit make summer an ideal time to walk, surf, or sunbathe on local beaches like Torrey Pines   and La Jolla Shores . Iconic seasonal events include Comic-Con International downtown and the S an Diego Pride Parade , which brings up to 300,000 revelers to Hillcrest.

Autumn:   Experience one of the country’s largest Day of the Dead processions (plus live music and food vendors) in Barrio Logan . Snorkel amid the (harmless) leopard sharks in La Jolla in September, the best time to spot the timid creatures.

Winter:   From December to March, around 20,000 gray whales migrate from Alaska to Baja California, passing through the deep waters off the San Diego coast. Take a whale-watching cruise from Mission Bay, keeping an eye out for dolphin mega pods. February is Museum Month , with half-price admission to over 40 city showplaces, including the Whaley House Museum in Old Town, the USS Midway Museum in downtown, and the Women’s Museum of California   in Balboa Park.

Lay of the land

Coastal neighborhoods:   Traveling south, stop at Gliderport for the hang-gliding school in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve . (Tip: Tandem rides offer amazing ocean views.) Avoid tourist-clogged Mission Beach and head instead to the coastal village of La Jolla , set amid pine trees, craggy cliffs, and sparkling tide pools. Visit the recently revamped Museum of Contemporary Art , then catch a Broadway musical at La Jolla Playhouse , founded by actor Gregory Peck in 1945.

Urban neighborhoods:   Historic Gaslamp Quarter , with its Victorian-style flickering streetlights, is the city’s nightlife hub. Dance to hip-hop and electronica at Bloom or soak up the views of the bay from Altitude Sky Lounge . Nearby, Little Italy   comprises 48 square blocks of outdoor restaurants, patio cafés, and wineries. Stop for a slice at Filippi’s Pizza Grotto (established in 1950) then head five minutes north to the famed Ballast Point Brewery , which has more than 25 beers on tap.

Inland neighborhoods:   Historic neighborhoods east of downtown include Old Town , the first European settlement in California, where you can drop by the 19th-century adobe Casa de Estudillo . In nearby Mission Valley, explore California’s first church: the serene, whitewashed Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá . Hillcrest holds gay-friendly bars, restaurants, and boutiques, as well as The Center —the heart of San Diego’s LGTBQ+ community since 1971.

Getting around San Diego

By bus:   MTS operates bus routes throughout the city. Plan your trip and buy tickets at the MTS website or on the PRONTO app. Greyhound   and   Flixbus   offer regular daily services to San Diego from all major U.S. cities, including New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

By car:   With about 1,800 charging stations across the city, San Diego is one of the most EV-friendly destinations in the U.S. No matter what you drive, parking can be a challenge, so check Parkopedia for nearby lots and parking structures, and use ride-shares when possible.

By train:   Amtrak   connects San Diego with many U.S. cities. Pacific Surfliner runs north and south along the coast from Oakland to the Downtown San Diego Amtrak Station, with stops at San Francisco, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles.

By trolley:   The bright-red, eco-friendly San Diego trolley crisscrosses through the city, connecting neighborhoods such as downtown, Old Town, and Mission Valley.

Know before you go

Languages: English is the official language, but many people speak Spanish as well.

Wildlife awareness:   Stingrays are ubiquitous in the summer months; remember to shuffle your feet through the sand when entering the ocean to warn them you are coming.

LGBTQ+:   San Diego has the 7th highest LGBTQ+ population in the U.S. In a 2023 report by financial news website 24/7 Wall St., California was ranked the most queer-friendly state in the country. Just north of Balboa Park,   Hillcrest is home to Rich’s , a celebrated gay club, and Hillcrest Brewing Company , which claims to be the world’s first gay brewery.

How to visit San Diego sustainably

Outdoors: San Diego was recently ranked the Greenest City in America . Cycling lanes are abundant; use the regional bike map to navigate. San Diego Natural History Museum offers a new native plant nature trail and a canyoneer-led hiking program with guided walks through desert, beach, or mountain wilderness.  

Shopping:   In hip   North Park , browse along Main Street for locally made gifts, jewelry, and vintage clothing. For secondhand surfboards, try Bird’s Surf Shed   near Mission Bay.

Dining:   Visit restaurants under the Farm to Fork   banner. Members are committed to ethically sourced food and support local farmers and fishermen. Look for the summer 2024 opening of Michelin star chef Drew Deckman’s Watershed . The North Park restaurant will donate 1 percent of monthly revenue to sustainable farming projects.

What to read and watch

The House of Broken Angels , by Luis Alberto Urrea. This Mexican-American family saga explores issues surrounding immigration, identity, and loss in San Diego and across the border.

Mister Magic , by Kiersten White. The San Diegan horror writer serves up a creepy tale of 1990s child television stars who reunite to solve a cold case.

Veronica Mars , directed by Rob Thomas. San Diego stood in for the fictional Neptune, California, in this beachy noir TV series (and movie) starring Kristen Bell as a hardboiled, soft-hearted teenage sleuth.

For more local literature, visit the San Diego Festival of Books in August.

( For more tips on what to do in San Diego, see our Explorer’s Guide .)

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES
• TRANSPORTATION

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These are the best San Diego hotels, sorted by price from low to high.

Kimpton hotel palomar san diego, the guild hotel san diego, a tribute portfolio hotel, intercontinental san diego, manchester grand hyatt san diego, pacific terrace hotel, loews coronado bay resort, the us grant, a luxury collection hotel, the inn at rancho santa fe, hotel del coronado, curio collection by hilton, fairmont grand del mar, park hyatt aviara resort, golf club & spa, faq: san diego hotels, where should i stay in san diego, what is there to do in san diego, what is the best time to visit san diego, is it safe to stay in a hotel, more of the best hotels in california, 11 beautiful san diego hotels that offer central locations, incredible rooftops, or beach and golf perks.

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• San Diego is home to beaches, a military base, a world-famous zoo, and many outdoor activities.
• From urban towers with water views to beachfront resorts, we vetted the city's best hotels.
• Our picks are based on our own reviews and offer great amenities for a Southern California getaway.

With beachfront resorts, contemporary downtown hotels, and intimate Spanish-inspired bungalows, San Diego's hotels are as varied and exciting as the city itself. Whether your visit is for business, golf, world-class spas, the beach, or, of course, Comic Con, there's a hotel to meet your needs.

To highlight the best hotels in San Diego, we made selections based on our own expert hotel reviews and experiences on property, and also set discerning criteria to determine the best hotels in the city. Though, if you prefer a vacation rental, we've got you covered too .

Whenever your travels next take you to San Diego, consult our list of the best hotels, from Coronado Bay to downtown, and Rancho Santa Fe. 

Browse all the best hotels in San Diego below, or jump directly to a specific area here:

• The best hotels in San Diego
• FAQ: The best hotels in San Diego

Book Kimpton Hotel Palomar San Diego

This bang-on-trend property in the heart of San Diego's buzzing Gaslamp district is popular with younger travelers who appreciate a look and feel that's equal parts trendy and modern and perks like complimentary wine at check-in. 

There are 211 rooms set over 20 stories with the top four floors reserved for Skyline Collection rooms that have expansive views of San Diego and include touches like surfboard headboards, upcycled light fixtures, and shibori curtains. Every room is design-forward with crisp white linens and Atelier Bloem bath products and stocked with useful extras like yoga mats and umbrellas.

There's also a posh rooftop pool, an on-site Mexican eatery that specializes in elevated street fare, and a pet-friendly attitude that treats your dogs like VIPs.

COVID-19 procedures are available   here .

Read our full hotel review of Kimpton Hotel Palomar San Diego

Book The Guild Hotel San Diego, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel

In downtown San Diego there are many corporate big-box hotels and it can be hard to find a middle ground between modern and intimate and a reasonable price point. Enter the Guild San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel from Marriott Bonvoy.

The hotel is a newer addition to downtown, housed in a century-old Armed Services YMCA. Yet rather than erasing the building's past, the owners lovingly embraced its former life in an effort to honor San Diego's rich maritime heritage.

Ornate, Italian Renaissance Revival exteriors were preserved, while run-down dormitory-style interiors were transformed into a sleek lobby. Well-appointed rooms feel upscale with modern velvet furnishings. But the standout is a tranquil but glam pale pink courtyard and urban garden that feels like you've been transported to the south of France.

Read our full hotel review of The Guild San Diego

Book InterContinental San Diego

Located on the historic grounds of Lane Field (the former baseball stadium for the San Diego Padres) and part of IHG hotels, the InterContinental's downtown waterfront location offers a prime vantage point of the San Diego Bay and is a close walk from the Embarcadero, where the USS Midway Museum, Broadway Pier, and cruise ship terminals are located.

Housing 400 guest rooms over 19 stories, InterContinental San Diego is a mass of oversized windows overlooking the water with rooms that are above average in size and generally very affordable in price. Since the real draw here is the bay, splurging on a room that overlooks industrial buildings wouldn't sit right — spring for a water view. There are also spacious two-room suites, ideal for families.

Read our full hotel review of InterContinental San Diego

Book Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

While there are cheaper downtown options in San Diego, the Manchester Grand Hyatt consistently delivers a high level of sophistication alongside friendly staff, plenty of on-site dining, and a central waterfront location.

With 1,628 guestrooms, including 76 suites, the hotel is huge but not impossible to manage. Rates are accessible in price too if you're not specific about which incredible view you receive. And there isn't a bad one; all rooms overlook either the Pacific Ocean, San Diego Bay, or downtown city area.

The hotel earns added appeal as the West Coast's tallest waterfront hotel and is just steps from attractions like the Gaslamp Quarter, the USS Midway, and San Diego's scenic Embarcadero. 

Read our full hotel review of Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

Book Pacific Terrace Hotel

Directly facing the ocean at the end of the Pacific Beach boardwalk, this beachy hotel's waterfront location is gorgeous. There are 73 rooms and suites with rich wood furnishings, plantation shutters, and bright pops of turquoise for a tropical island feel. Book a room with an ocean view and watch as San Diego strolls, runs, bikes, and rollerblades by, and surfers catch early morning waves. 

If you can't choose between pool or ocean, know that the former directly faces the sand for a best-of-both-worlds lounging option. Beach buckets and shovels, toys, boogie boards, and bikes are available for guests' use, and the hotel is well-located near attractions such as the San Diego Zoo, Torrey Pines State Beach, Belmont Park, Crystal Pier, and is just eight miles north of San Diego's International Airport.

COVID-19 procedures are available  here .

Book Loews Coronado Bay Resort

Coronado might be synonymous with the famous Hotel Del Coronado , but for a cheaper beach resort getaway, the Loews Coronado Bay Resort is a solid option without compromising on comfort or style. 

Situated at the end of a private 15-acre peninsula, Loews Coronado offers a hip but relaxed vibe with a luxury lean, plus excellent grounds, amenities, and scenic 360-degree bay views.

Though beach access is located across a highway and requires a free hotel shuttle, there's plenty to enjoy on-site including the large pool deck with reserved space for both adults and kids, a spa, and a terrace bar with ample views. It's also a bit quieter than Hotel Del, surrounded by natural elements and removed from the city bustle. Rooms are chic and in line with the high-end Loews brand.

Read our full hotel review of Loews Coronado Bay Resort

Book The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Once a presidential palace dating back to 1910, The historic US Grant is a posh hotel that's also earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. The 11-story building was built by the son of Ulysses S. Grant, who named it after his father. 

But it's far from old and stuffy. Now operating as a luxury hotel, the interiors are magnificent, with large chandeliers, impressive columns, and artifacts that speak to the city's history.

There are 270 rooms and suites providing a high-end, traditional experience not commonly replicated in the city. The hotel is also well-located near Balboa Park, the waterfront area, San Diego Zoo, and Petco Park. Luxury Collection hotels are also members of Marriott Bonvoy, offering a good opportunity to earn and redeem points.

Book The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe

Set on 21 landscaped acres outside of downtown San Diego, The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, A Tribute Portfolio Resort & Spa, is an enticing option when you want to stay near San Diego, but not in the thick of it.

This calming escape is a member of Marriott Bonvoy and feels like a Mediterranean-inspired village with red-tiled roofs, mosaic details, Spanish-Californian architecture, and bubbling fountains. Swaying palms, leafy green trees, and tall cacti add color to the well-kept grounds.

Even starter Queen rooms are large with 325 square feet, sleek bathrooms, and peaceful terraces overlooking the hotel's polished spaces. The design is rustic but contemporary, which creates a cozy, welcoming feel, especially if you upgrade to a room with a fireplace. 

Book Hotel Del Coronado

Located five miles from downtown San Diego, the Hotel del Coronado is a historic hotel and landmark that has hosted U.S. presidents, royalty, and movie stars for decades. If the Victorian-style resort looks especially familiar, that's because it's the direct inspiration for Walt Disney World's Grand Floridian Resort.

Affectionately dubbed The Del or Hotel Del, the sprawling beachfront resort counts 28 acres and 757 rooms and suites throughout the massive original Victorian building, as well as a contemporary oceanfront tower, poolside cabanas, and luxury beach cottages and villas.  

The main building showcases a variety of antique details such as a vintage iron elevator that requires an operator, while the oceanfront towers, cabanas, cottages, and villas each have their own vibe and tends to be more modern and beachy.

The beach is also a draw (and attracts crowds too as it is public) with on-site water sports rentals and wellness classes.

Read our full hotel review of Hotel Del Coronado

Book the Fairmont Grand Del Mar

You might feel like you slipped away to the Spanish countryside when you first enter this sprawling five-star luxury golf and spa hideaway.

Housed on a lush 400-acre setting with Mediterranean tile work, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar appears pristine with arched windows, curved staircases, and a rose-tinted facade resembling a European palace. The hotel is also operated by the same team behind the ultra high-end Plaza Hotel in New York City.

There are 249 large, well-appointed rooms and suites, though you'll likely spend most of your time wandering the pretty gardens or taking a dip in one (or all) of the four pools. For more activity, the resort is just a few miles from the beach, and there is also an 18-hole private golf club designed by Tom Fazio, and activities such as art classes, tennis lessons, yoga, cooking classes, and more.

Fairmont Grand Del Mar earned the distinction as a Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond luxury resort and also boasts a spa, kids club, nightlife, and dining.

Book Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa

For something more sedate than the crowded beach, or quieter than noisy downtown San Diego, head inland to the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort's 200-acre estate in Carlsbad. The hotel overlooks golf greens, a wildlife sanctuary, and offers ample views of the ocean in the distance. The sense is overwhelmingly tranquil with well-kept common places to kick back after a few laps in the lavish pools.

A recent renovation delivered on well-appointed rooms, and a newly revamped grandiose pool has separate areas for adults and children. 

Read our full hotel review of Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa

That depends on what you want to do. Stay downtown in neighborhoods like the Gaslamp Quarter, Little Italy, or Embarcadero if you want to sight see with a central, urban base.

If you plan to spend most of your time on the sand, look to coastal communities in Pacific Beach, Ocean Beach, La Jolla, or Del Mar. Drive 25 miles up the 101 and you'll find yourself in popular beach towns like Cardiff and Encinitas.

Or, for a beach base with easy access to downtown, consider Coronado Island. 

If you want to revolve your trip around theme parks and attractions, you should consider a hotel's proximity to places like the San Diego Zoo or Legoland in Carlsbad.

San Diego has a little bit of everything with a robust city center, military base, rich history, and beautiful beaches.

Watch surfers, take a dip in the ocean, take advantage of the nightlife in Gaslamp, stroll around Coronado Island, or check out the seals in La Jolla. There is also a major sports stadium, the San Diego Zoo, and beautiful parks such as Torrey Pines. 

San Diego enjoys warm temperatures and sunny weather for most of the year. As such, there isn't a major off-season when prices change dramatically. For nice, mild weather, consider a winter visit. However, when temps soar in summer, you might just see cheaper hotel prices.

According to the CDC, fully vaccinated people can safely travel domestically .

Hotels are open during COVID-19 and while you're more likely to encounter other people in common spaces such as lobbies, check-in desks, restaurants, and pools, experts say that with added caution, it is safe to stay in a hotel . 

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The 13 Best Hotels in San Diego, California

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Executive Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Caroline has a passion for adventure travel and has hiked to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro and the bottom of the Grand Canyon in pursuit of a good story. Follow her around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

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Can’t decide between a beach holiday, a foodie city break, or a relaxing wellness holiday? In San Diego , you don’t have to choose. This diverse destination offers something for every type of traveler—along with warm and sunny weather practically every day of the year. 

San Diego’s hotel offerings are equally varied, with options ranging from budget-friendly to five-star luxury. Here are the best hotels in San Diego, California . 

Fairmont Grand Del Mar

For a truly relaxing escape, book a room at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar . Set on 400 lush acres in a pristine coastal canyon, the Grand Del Mar is a respite from the busy city. There are four pools (heated to a balmy 81 degrees) to unwind in, including a quiet adults-only option. The resort’s 37 miles of hiking trails offer plenty of chances for exercise, or guests can borrow a complimentary BMW bicycle to explore the resort grounds and Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve. 

Blue Sea Beach Hotel

If you’re strolling down the boardwalk at San Diego’s Pacific Beach, you can’t miss the Blue Sea Beach Hotel , which has a prime location steps from the sand. The property also boasts the only beachfront hotel pool in the neighborhood—make the most of it by booking a poolside cabana suite which comes with its own sitting area by the pool.

The 10 Best Things to Do in San Diego

Staypineapple Hotel Z Gaslamp San Diego

Looking for a pet-friendly hotel in San Diego? Check out Staypineapple Hotel Z , which welcomes pets (for a fee). The Pineapple Pup package includes a water bowl, treats, dog waste bags, and a dog bed—so Fido can sleep as comfortably as you will.

Human amenities include: 

• Complimentary beach cruisers
• Unlimited bottled water
• In-room coffee and tea
• Free welcome drink
• Afternoon treats

The Guild Hotel San Diego a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Built as the Armed Services building in 1924, this historic property underwent a transformation in 2019 to become the modern Guild Hotel . Need some extra space on your San Diego trip? Book the hotel’s Rooftop Penthouse suite, which occupies its own private floor and features a rooftop garden terrace, two bedrooms, and 2.5 bathrooms. 

Even standard rooms feature luxurious details such as Stearns & Foster beds, smart TVs, Bigelow bath amenities, curated local art, and blackout shades.  

Pendry San Diego

For pure luxury, you can’t beat the Pendry San Diego . The $120 million hotel is topped by a stunning rooftop pool overlooking the Gaslamp’s famous 5th Avenue. Six restaurants and bars offer plenty of choices for dining and entertainment all day long—from brunch at Provisional to late night at the Oxford Social Club.

Rooms at the Pendry are spacious, starting at 350 square feet and going up to the 700 square foot specialty suites (like the Pool Suite, which offers a private terrace with direct access to the rooftop pool.)

The Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the United States

Omni San Diego Hotel

Catching a game or concert at PETCO Park? The Omni San Diego , connected by a pedestrian skybridge to the park, is the closest thing you can get to sleeping on the field. When you’re not at PETCO, the Omni’s 8,000 square foot outdoor terrace is the place to be, featuring a pool (heated to 83 degrees for those rare chilly San Diego days), hot tub, stone fireplace, and bar.

Porto Vista Hotel

Art-lovers (and anyone looking for the perfect Instagram photo backdrop) will appreciate the Porto Vista Hotel’s arts program, which showcases contemporary artists throughout the property. Rooms are outfitted with original art as well.

With rates starting as low as $158 per night, the Porto Vista is one of the cheapest (but still stylish) accommodation options in San Diego.

The US Grant A Luxury Collection Hotel San Diego

Built in 1910 for the jaw-dropping (at the time) amount of $1.9 million, The US Grant has been an iconic San Diego landmark for over 100 years. Today, the property has been thoroughly modernized without losing its historic flair—guests will find original crown molding and Art Deco stylings throughout. 

Hotel Front Desk Secrets: 9 Ways to Improve Your Stay

Solamar San Diego

Pets are not only allowed to stay at the Solamar San Diego but they are the guest of honor at the hotel’s Yappy Hour, held at the rooftop bar every Thursday from 5-7pm. The rooftop pool, featuring a terrace and lounge with fire pits and private cabanas, attracts both tourists and locals looking for a fun night out. 

When it’s time to unwind, luxurious rooms all feature oversized Fuji soaking tubs (and separate walk-in showers).

Kimpton Hotel Palomar San Diego

Located just one block north of the Gaslamp Quarter, the Kimpton Hotel Palomar San Diego is a great base for exploring the city. Standout amenities include:

• Frette linens
• Heated rooftop pool
• Custom-designed loaner bikes
• Hosted evening social hour
• No charge for pets and no size/weight limits

The Westin San Diego Bayview

As the name implies, guests at The Westin San Diego Bayview will be spoiled with views of beautiful San Diego Bay. The hotel was built in the shape of a hexagon, so all rooms offer either bay or city views. Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the bay—but you may fall right back asleep after, since all rooms feature Westin’s signature ultra-comfortable Heavenly Beds. 

The 15 Best Hotel Booking Sites

Catamaran Resort and Spa

Looking for a classic California beach vacation in San Diego? Book a room at the Catamaran Resort Hotel . Set on Mission Beach, you can book rooms with walkout access to the beach and boardwalk. Or, opt for a balcony room for even better views of the ocean. Beach chairs and umbrellas are provided for guests to help you have the best day on the sand without having to lug your own gear.  

Bahia Resort Hotel

Voted a Best Value Hotel in America, the Bahia Resort Hotel offers a ton of free amenities included in the relatively cheap night price, such as:

• Beach games
• Outdoor movie nights
• Live music by the water
• Poolside entertainment
• Daily snacks and drinks in the lobby
• Beach chairs
• Shuffleboard
• Beach cabanas
• Arcade games

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14 Best Beaches in San Diego – Recommended by a Local

June 8, 2023 By: Maria Haase This article may contain affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you buy through our links.

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San Diego has over 70 miles of coastline, which makes it one of the top beach destinations in Southern California, maybe even on the whole West Coast. But which beaches in San Diego are the best ones? Of course, that depends on your preferences. Here are our recommendations for the best beaches in San Diego – recommended by a San Diego local.

14 Best Beaches in San Diego

If you don’t have a car, but don’t want to miss out on a fun day at the beach, take a look at these tours:

• San Diego Life at the Beach Tour
• La Jolla Coast Walking Tour

Whether you are searching for the best family-friendly beach in San Diego, the best dog beaches in San Diego , tide pools , a fun spot to hang out with friends, or the best location to catch some waves, San Diego beaches make everyone happy. Here are some of our local favorite beaches in San Diego county.

Mission Beach

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Mission Beach is one of my favorite Beaches in San Diego. There is so much to do here, whether you want to learn how to surf, rent a bike to cruise along the boardwalk, relax in the sand, or watch the world go by with a cocktail in your hand at one of the beach bars.

If you are going to the beach with kids, you might want to add Belmont Park – the old-school amusement park – to your beach day itinerary. Riding the Giant Dipper and looking out over the Pacific makes for some fun memories.

>>Also read our List of Free Things to do in San Diego with Kids

Mission Beach is one of the longest beaches in San Diego, stretching all the way to Pacific Beach. This makes it perfect for long walks or runs on the beach. There are also some volleyball courts that you can play or join a team. You’ll find some stunning beach rentals in Mission Beach that will make your

Great for: Families, Sports-Lovers, large Groups

Amenities: Boardwalk – Volleyball Nets – Toilets – Showers – Amusement Park – Restaurants and Bars – Pier

Parking: Free

Coronado Beach

Coronado Beach is not technically a San Diego beach since Coronado is an independent city, but it is definitely worth a mention. Coronado is an upscale beach town on a peninsula right by San Diego. You can take the ferry from downtown to Coronado to get there.

If you are looking for a luxurious getaway in style, there is nothing better than staying at the Hotel Del Coronado, one of the best beach resorts in San Diego . But even if you don’t stay there, I highly recommend a cocktail on their beautiful pool bar and patio overlooking Coronado Beach. And here are some other great (and more budget-friendly) Coronado Hotels to check out.

On the northern tip of Coronado Beach, just before the Navy Base, there is also a dog beach in Coronado. So if you are looking for some fun times on the beach with your four-legged friend, this is a great spot.

Great for: Families, Groups, Upscale, Dog Beach

Amenities: Toilets – Showers – Restaurants and Bars – Dog Beach

Parking: Free, but limited

Silver Strand State Beach

Silver Strand State Beach – the southern part of Coronado Beach connects the Coronado peninsula to the mainland and you can enjoy miles and miles of endless beaches.

The southern part of Coronado Beach is a State Park with limited amenities and no restaurants and bars nearby. This spot is great if you want a quiet beach with not a lot of hustle and bustle going on or if you want to camp near the beach.

Great for: Families, Groups, Camping & RVs

Amenities: Toilets – Showers – Campgrounds – RVs

Parking: State Park Entrance Fee

La Jolla Shores

La Jolla Shores is the perfect Family Beach in San Diego. There is plenty of space to spread out on this mile-long beach, the amenities are great and there are a few family-friendly restaurants nearby.

If you like kayaking, this is a great spot to explore the caves along the La Jolla shoreline. You can either rent a kayak or go on a guided kayaking tour from there as well. If you are coming from out of town, take a look at these stunning La Jolla Hotels and La Jolla Vacation Rentals that will make your trip extra special.

Great for: Families, Groups, Sports-Lovers

Amenities: Toilets – Showers – Restaurants and Bars nearby

Pacific Beach

Pacific Beach is where the college kids hang out. Along Grant and Garnet Street, you’ll find plenty of bars and clubs, cheap eateries, and fun coffee shops. The beach in Pacific beach also has more of a party atmosphere and it definitely becomes a party city during spring break.

Tourmaline Surf Park in North Pacific Beach is a surf-only beach, which is great especially for beginner surfers.

Great for: Party, Groups, Surfers

Amenities: Toilets – Showers – Restaurants and Bars nearby – Pier

Torrey Pines State Beach

Torrey Pines State Beach is located between La Jolla and Del Mar and one of the most scenic beaches in San Diego. Towering above the sandstone cliff is the Torrey Pines Reserve with some great hiking trails . Torrey Pines State Beach is long and wide you can walk all the way to Del Mar from here.

If you feel like a hike, you can actually hike up to the preserve from the beach and enjoy not only a beautiful hike but a gorgeous view from the top over the Pacific ocean. If you are lucky, you might even spot a pod of whales.

Great for: Family, Groups, Nature-Lovers

Parking: State Park Entrance Fee or Street Parking (paid)

Del Mar North Beach

This small beach is simply gorgeous and one of my favorite dog beaches in the winter. Why in the winter? Because in the summer, dogs have to be on leash during the day, which kind of defeats the purpose of having a dog beach.

However, there are some beautiful rock formations and cliffs that make it a really pretty beach. We actually had our family photos taken there (see the pic above).

Be careful of rip currents on this beach. They are quite common there because of the inlet.

Great for: Groups, Photo Shoots, Dog Beach

Amenities: None

Parking: Street Parking (paid)

Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach is the Hippie Beach town in San Diego. The vibe is really chill and relaxed, which makes it perfect for groups and families. Near the pier, you can catch some awesome waves, if you are a surfer. In the center part of OB, you can swim and play in the water, or relax in the sand.

On the northern end of Ocean Beach, right by the parking lot, there is a huge dog beach. Our dog loves this beach and we love taking him here because it is so convenient. After the beach, we walk him over to the showers and rinse him off, then take him for a walk along the walk/bike path along the inlet until he is dried off.

I love how Ocean Beach has distinct sections for surfers, swimmers, and dogs. That way, you can enjoy the beach, but don’t get into each others way.

Great for: Groups, Families, Dog Beach, Surfers

Amenities: Showers – Toilets – Boardwalk – Restaurants & Bars nearby – Pier

Parking: Free (limited during peak season)

Shell Beach La Jolla

Shell Beach in La Jolla is one of the cutest little beaches in La Jolla. It is right in the heart of the city, so it is very small, but gorgeous. When the tide is out, you can explore the tide pools for crabs and critters.

This beach is not really for sunbathing or swimming though, but perfect, if you want to dip your toes in the sand or water as you are exploring the cute little beach town.

Great for: Groups, Solo, Photo Shoots

Amenities: Showers – Toilets – Boardwalk – Restaurants & Bars nearby

Mission Bay

Mission Bay is perfect for families with small children. There are practically no waves, the water is shallow and warm. There are also plenty of shady areas on the grass to cool down during the heat of the day.

Mission Bay is also great if you are into water sports like standup paddleboarding, kayaking, or wind-surfing and don’t want high waves.

At night, the fire pits along the bay are very popular among locals and tourists alike. It is the perfect spot for a little get together, enjoying a beach bonfire and eating s’mores.

Great for: Groups, Families, Parties, Water Sports

Amenities: Showers – Toilets – Fire Pits – BBQ Pits

La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove is probably the smallest beach on this list. Located right in the heart of La Jolla, this beach is not great for laying on the beach and relaxing. It is always super busy and because it is so tiny, super crowded.

However, if you are into snorkeling or diving, La Jolla Cove is your spot. You’ll see stunning rock formations and plenty of wildlife just a few strokes from shore.

Great for: Snorkeling & Diving

Amenities: Showers – Toilets (not nearby)

Parking: Street Parking (limited during peak season)

Windansea Beach

Windansea Beach is a little hidden gem on this list of best beaches in San Diego. A mix of sand and rocky boulders, this beach is simply stunning. If you are into photography and want some stunning beach photos, head there, especially during sunset and golden hour.

The waves hit just right on this beach, so it makes it very popular with surfers.

Great for: Surfing, Photo Shoots

Amenities: Showers – Toilets (not nearby) – Palm Covered Hut

Solana Beach

Solana Beach is also not a San Diego beach, but we let it slide because it’s so nice. It is also very easy to get there from San Diego, either by car or even with the coaster. I love the beautiful sandstone cliffs in the background of Solana Beach and the view from up top.

Just one block up, you will find Solana’s many restaurants, bars, shops and cafés, if you choose to take a break from the sun and surf.

Great for: Families, Groups

Amenities: Showers – Toilets – Restaurants & Bars nearby

Black’s Beach San Diego

Black’s Beach is the only nudist beach in San Diego. Yes, you read that right – Black’s Beach is clothing optional. You don’t HAVE to go naked, but you can. Whatever makes you feel comfortable.

Located just below the Hangglider port in Torry Pines, this beach is not easy to get to. The shortest way (but steep) is via the Gliderport trail. You can also walk from Torrey Pines State Park or La Jolla Shores.

Great for: Solo, Couples, Groups, Nudists, Surfers

I hope you liked our little list of the best beaches in San Diego and found one to try on your next beach day. What is your favorite beach in San Diego?

Best Beaches in San Diego – Pin for Later:

Last Updated on June 8, 2023 by Anastasia Rybina

About Maria Haase

Maria Haase has been a travel writer since 2007, stumbling into this profession during an internship in China. She grew up in Germany, but has lived in San Diego since 2006. Maria is a globetrotter, but also adores to explore her own back yard whenever she is home. She loves to share her favorite spots, help visitors plan their trips and share helpful tips about her chosen hometown San Diego.

Reader Interactions

April 13, 2021 at 6:28 pm

I am planning on a vacation with my 36 year old daughter and 31 year old son to San Diego. We would like a location with a pretty beach area with bars and restaurants near. Beach where you can walk, go for a run or possibly a bike ride also. We would like to find a place to stay where we could walk to the beach and bars and restaurants. Is there a beach area you would recommend? Thank you!

April 21, 2021 at 11:53 am

Hi Laurie, I think Mission Beach, La Jolla Shores, or Coronado would be a great choice. La Jolla and Coronado can be a bit more pricy, but absolutely stunning and relaxing. Mission Beach caters a bit more to the younger crowd and offers fun beach activities and great vacation homes. Here are some articles that can help you find a great place for you and your kids:

Vacation Rentals:

https://sandiegoexplorer.com/best-vacation-rental-la-jolla/ https://sandiegoexplorer.com/beach-houses-for-rent-in-san-diego/

Hotels https://sandiegoexplorer.com/best-beach-resorts-san-diego/ https://sandiegoexplorer.com/best-la-jolla-hotels/ https://sandiegoexplorer.com/best-coronado-island-hotels/

I hope this helps! Have a wonderful time in San Diego!

April 8, 2023 at 5:09 am

We are visiting San Diego for the first time with our 4 and 1 year old. I was looking for a calm and shallow beach that’s kid friendly.

April 9, 2023 at 12:34 pm

I think for small kids, the best San Diego beaches for kids are on the San Diego Bay, specifically in Mission Bay and Mission Bay Park. I like Venture Cove Park ( https://goo.gl/maps/aTEKXZSC1H5YUxq1A ) , as you have the shallow beach, but just 2 blocks away is the Pacific beach with the board walk, shops and restaurants for the “beach town vibe”. If you prefer more of a quite area but with less amenities (think picknick and public restrooms, but no other facilities), Mission Bay Park has many options. Just drive around until you find a spot you like. I would stay away from Fiesta Island, as it is a dog park area, with lots of dogs running around off-leash. I hope this helps. Enjoy your beach time in San Diego!

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7 Fantastic Hikes In San Diego

Stephen P. Crane / Shutterstock

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations
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• United States

San Diego offers hiking trails along oceanside cliffs, through mountain backcountry, up the peaks towering above the San Diego River bed, and in the rolling foothills of the eastern part of the county. When you visit San Diego, you can plan both gentle, scenic walks and more strenuous hikes. If you’re looking for an adventure that takes an entire morning or afternoon, plan for one of the longer hikes. And with few rainy days and moderate temperatures all year, San Diego is the perfect place to spend time outdoors.

Here are great options for more in-depth exploring out in nature. Pack a lunch and stop for a picnic. Sit on a rock and rest while you take in the views. And if these trails appeal to you, they are all doable in a shorter time if you go partway and turn back to your car whenever you need to.

Sharon Odegaard

1. Enjoy Panoramic Views At Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

If you have time for only one hike in San Diego, make it to the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve . This gem of San Diego hikes will take your breath away with panoramic views of the ocean from paths that wind along lacy sandstone cliffs high above the beach.

Torrey Pines hiking options include five trails, from easy to more challenging. You can even hike from the cliffs down to the water using a stairway. Check out the trails before you arrive and figure out which to go on in the time you have. You can easily pick two or three, as they connect at different points.

The flattest is The Guy Fleming Trail. This loop just off the parking lot is only two-thirds of a mile and features two scenic overlooks. Wildflowers, ferns, and Torrey pines line the trail.

The Parry Grove Trail covers a half-mile. It’s steep and has more than 100 stone steps to navigate. High Point Trail is also steep and has steps. The view from this trail is stunning.

To reach ocean overlooks, take the Razor Point Trail or the Beach Trail, both a bit under a mile long. If you’re looking for the stairs down the sand, these are part of the Beach Trail.

The Broken Hill Trail is the longest at 1.3 miles south or 1.4 miles north. Wind through chaparral and sagebrush, and you will reach an overlook. From here, you can clearly see the beautiful eroding sandstone cliffs.

As you hike, look for the Torrey Pines dotting the area. These short, scrubby pines grow only two places in the world: Here in La Jolla and on Santa Rosa Island. The trees are an endangered species and are protected so they will continue to thrive in Torrey Pines. Stay on the paths and respect this treasure of nature as you hike.

Pro Tip: You can drive up from the beach to the hiking area and park in lots at the top of the hill. If you want a more strenuous hike, park at the beach and walk up the steep road for about 20 minutes of cardio.

Sherry V Smith / Shutterstock

2. Savor The Views From The Point Loma Bayside Trail

Cabrillo National Monument in Point Loma is famous for the historic lighthouse perched on the hill overlooking San Diego Bay. Many visitors miss the fun hiking trail from the bluff down to the shoreline. The Point Loma Bayside Trail winds down the hill from the lighthouse. Round trip, after you turn around and head back up, is 2.5 miles.

The entire hike gives you panoramic views of the water with sailboats gliding gracefully along. Ballast Point is on the tip of land where explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo landed in 1542. You can also gaze upon downtown San Diego, Coronado Island, and Tijuana, Mexico.

As you trace the path bordered by sandstone cliffs, watch for park signs that tell about the vegetation and animal life in the area. Plant enthusiasts will appreciate that this is one of the few places in the world where Coastal Sage Scrub flourishes.

This area served as a lookout point during World Wars I and II, when an invasion was feared. During the World Wars, cannons, mortars, and observation bunkers were built here to protect the harbor. The searchlight shelter and power plant used in those tense years still stand along the trail.

Begin your hike near the old lighthouse at the Bayside Trail sign. The paved road soon turns to a gravel and dirt path. When you reach Ballast Point, you will turn around and start back. First, notice the military defense installations. Nuclear-powered submarines sit below Ballast Point, while across the water, you can clearly see North Island Naval Air Station. You may be entertained by planes and helicopters taking off and landing.

The hike is easy and suitable for all fitness levels, though coming back up the bluff means a 340-foot elevation gain. Benches along the way allow you to rest while the lovely view spreads before you.

Allow 1 to 2 hours for this hike. Dogs are not allowed.

Pro Tip: For World War II buffs, be sure to find the concrete bunker at the top on the ocean side of the land. And if you have time, include a tour of the inside of the historic lighthouse while you are here.

3. Walk Wide Open Spaces At Santa Ysabel Reserve

The Santa Ysabel Open Space Preserve sprawls on rolling land just outside the mountain town of Julian. Reached by a 45-minute drive from San Diego, the Julian area features a miners’ settlement built in the 1800s. Surrounding the small town are acres of oak woodlands, native grasslands, and, in springtime, fields of wildflowers.

The Preserve is a nature sanctuary that covers more than 4,600 of these lovely acres. Fifteen miles of trails crisscross the land, open to hikers, cyclists, and equestrians. Gentle hills rise around the meadows, and a creek runs through the woods. Wildlife you may see includes hawks, eagles, lizards, snakes, bobcats, and coyotes. Dogs can hike with you but keep them on a leash for their safety.

Enter the Preserve by going east of the town on Farmers Road. The San Diego County Parks and Recreation service provides an excellent map . Plan whether you will take loop trails or head right to the crest, where you’ll enjoy a spectacular view.

Note that Julian occasionally experiences snow. If more than a half-inch of rain or snow falls in the area, the Preserve is closed until the trails dry out.

Autumn Sky Photography / Shutterstock

4. Challenge Yourself At Iron Mountain

For a moderate hike, head to Iron Mountain Trail , located near Poway, California, just off State Route 67. This 5-mile trail looks easy from the parking lot, but you will start winding uphill after the beginning. You’ll marvel at the views out to the ocean. And spring flowers abound to cheer you on as you huff and puff upward. The trail offers no shade, so plan ahead and take a hat and sunscreen.

Mountain bikers are allowed, so watch for them as you hike. You can take your pooch, but leashes are required.

Pro Tip: Start early to avoid crowds. This will also allow you to hike up and be back down the mountain before the days heat up in the summer.

Wildnerdpix / Shutterstock

5. Climb High At Mission Trails Regional Park

For a hike up a mountain not far from downtown San Diego, choose from the options at Mission Trails Regional Park . Located 8 miles from downtown, this former home of the Kumeyaay includes five peaks, and four of them rise above the San Diego River. The four are Pyles Peak at 1,389 feet, Kwaay Paay at 1,200 feet, South Fortuna at 1,094 feet, and North Fortuna at 1,291 feet. To hike these, park at the visitor center.

The fifth peak is across Mission Gorge Road and is the highest at 1,600 feet. Known as Cowles Mountain, this peak is the most well-traveled and will give you a fabulous view out to the ocean. Park at the base along Golfcrest Drive.

Allow about 2 hours to climb up and back down Cowles Mountain. A viewpoint at the top offers a 360-degree view of San Diego — and welcomes you to catch your breath before you start back down.

Check out the San Diego Park System’s map of the five peaks before your hike so you can figure out how far and how steep you want to go.

Pro Tip: Sunrise and sunset atop Cowles Mountain can be breathtaking. Remember your flashlight if you’re on the mountain in the dark.

bonandbon / Shutterstock

6. Amble Along Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail

A busy loop trail, Los Penasquitos Canyon is 7.3 miles long and is near Poway. The draw is a waterfall. And the trail is fairly flat, so hikers of any skill level will enjoy this one. The hike winds through both shady and sunny areas. Take your choice of single-lane trails that shoot off the main path and then rejoin.

If you are short on time or have young ones in your group, this is a good place for a nature hike.

Marcos E Ramos Ponciano / Shutterstock

7. Tackle The Three Sisters Trail

Are you up for a challenge? The Three Sisters hike is a great choice. This trail rewards your efforts with a variety of ecosystems and three large waterfalls. Once you reach the falls, you can swim in the cool water of the pools.

In the past, the trail has required scrambling over rocks and going down an eroded hillside. But it recently underwent an upgrade by the U.S. Forest Service. Now, you can hike to the falls on a marked trail the entire way. You and the environment are better off. The hike is still demanding, though. And if you want to rock climb or crawl over rocky outcrops, you can still do that.

The Three Sisters is known as an “inverted” hike. You first go down about 1,000 feet into a canyon. After reaching the falls and going for a swim, you will still need the energy to climb back up at the end of your hike. Also, the canyon can reach high temperatures in the summer, so take plenty of water and a hat.

Not only is the terrain hilly, but also the trail is sometimes narrow and rocky. And the granite slabs around the waterfalls are slippery because they are wet.

So, this hike is for experienced hikers who are in fairly good physical condition. Take snacks, wear good hiking shoes, and go slowly. The waterfalls, pools, and hilly landscape can make for a memorable hike, as long as you take precautions to stay safe.

If you want to slow things down a bit and go on a leisurely walk instead, here is a list of seven fascinating walks in the area . Whether you are looking for a leisurely hike in meadows, a hike with ocean and bay views, or a hike that allows you to conquer the heights, you can find it in San Diego. Check out online maps before you go and take water and snacks. Then head out to refresh your mind and spirit as you explore the wonders of nature.

Related Articles:

• 10 Fantastic Hidden Gems To Explore In San Diego
• The Best Things To Do On San Diego Bay
• 10 Fantastic Experiences In Old Town San Diego
• 11 Best Things To Do In Beautiful La Jolla, California

As the owner of the travel blog, Exploring Our World , Sharon enjoys taking her readers on a journey with her. Articles often delve into the history of a place, and by adding in a generous number of photos, she inspires others to explore for themselves. In her early travels, she was most frustrated by coming back home and learning that she had missed a fascinating sight or a hidden gem. Now she helps travelers prepare for a trip by passing along travel tips, pointing out lesser known things to see, and alerting them to enjoyable day trips from major cities.

Her travel articles have been published by Stripes Europe Newsletter and the World War 2 Writing and Research Center. Whether she's discovering more about her hometown of San Diego, California or flying to faraway places, she enjoys sharing with travel lovers around the world.

The Best Breakfast Spots In San Diego

photo credit: Deanna Sandoval

Sabrina Medora

June 6, 2024

San Diego is a city that wakes up to surf, hike, and beat the traffic to work. But breakfast here is more than just crab cake benedicts and avocado everything, even though you can still find plenty of that. Imagine more exciting morning options: giant latkes hidden within office complexes, crunchy chilaquiles, and biscuit boards after swimming in the Pacific Ocean. Whether you’re the early bird that catches the worm—or, in this case, the breakfast burrito—or the type of person who wakes up after noon wanting pancakes, these are the breakfast spots worth checking out.

And if you’re looking for places to check out after 11am, we have a guide to San Diego’s best restaurants , too.

Gold Finch Modern Delicatessen

After finally nailing down Tuesday breakfast plans with that one illusive friend, don’t be alarmed when you roll up to Gold Finch and find an office building. Inside is this dining hall-esque, modern Jewish deli with green shakshuka you can eat while sunbathing on their huge patio. We love the loaded giant latke because of the meaty mushrooms, golden caramelized onions, fried egg, and a dollop of horseradish cream—it’s so filling you won’t even need the lox add-on. You’ll probably already have a bit of leftovers, but grab the apricot rugelach and daily babka bun on your way out.

Normal Heights

If brunch favorite Madison is the chic older sister, Madi is the bouncy younger sibling who turned a kaftan into a crop top on TikTok and now has 65,000 followers. That’s to say (stick with us): It’s a colorful, retro restaurant always packed with friends splitting pitchers of blood orange mimosas with activated charcoal. Go for the blackberry and goat cheese pancakes that’ll hit you with a bit of fruity sweetness before a semi-tangy finish, and, if you need something savory, try the breakfast sandwich amped up with apricot habanero jam. When it comes to the drinks, who knew that the secret to making orange juice even better is kale? Of course Madi did. 

ASA Bakery & Café

East Village

Walk into this East Village bakery and you’ll be hit by the smell of the curried beef and butter that’s used for some of the best savory baked goods in SD. Whether you’re grabbing snacks before work or planning on taking a seat in their café, the move is to always get their curry pan—crispy and flaky on the outside, and generously filled with soft bits of vegetables and meat mildly spiced by curry paste. And if you’re looking for something sweet, the macadamia pie is a sticky, sugary delight. Monday morning around 9am is the best time to swing by this neighborhood hotspot, when you’ll have a better chance of snagging street parking and avoiding the line that often wraps around the block.

Liberty Station

San Diego is just 20 miles from the Mexican border, so naturally, it takes chilaquiles very seriously. Cocina 35 says they have the “best chilaquiles in town,” and they actually deliver. The La Bomba is a winner all the way from the bottom up: crunchy, perfectly salted tortilla chips doused in a habanero-cilantro salsa, a sprinkle of red onions for a nice zing, and a scoop of tender cochinita pibil with avocado. There are a couple locations—the Otay Mesa, Barrio Logan, and Downtown ones great for a quick breakfast—but the Liberty Station spot is best for party group brunches, club bangers, and sparkler-topped churros for birthdays.

photo credit: Breakfast Republic

Breakfast Republic

Breakfast Republic has classics like omelets and scrambles, along with more creative things like a turkey meatloaf smash or vegan breakfast burrito with plant-based eggs. That’s to say, there’s something that’ll please everyone. At the top of our go-to list are the crab and crawfish cakes. The patties are generously packed with seafood, and the creamy hollandaise sauce balances out the nice bit of heat from guajillo chilis and blackberry tang. Breakfast Republic has become so popular that there are now a couple throughout town, but the one Downtown makes for an easy meeting point whether you’re in town for a bachelorette or something at the convention center. Every location has a Christopher Walken sign at the entrance cheekily reiterating, “No reservations, Walkens only.” 

Brockton Villa Restaurant

Plenty of spots in La Jolla offer great views of the Pacific Ocean, but none of them do french toast the way Brockton Villa does. Their Coast Toast is made by preparing baguette bread soufflé style, making for a thicker, more custardy bite with crisp edges. It’s the perfect base for toppings like berry jam and a hint of orange on their classic option, or the bananas foster version with rum butter sauce and walnuts for some extra crunch. Parking might be hard to find, and there will likely be some flustered families on vacation with the kids, but it’s all worth it to sit on their covered patio facing the water, watch the sea lions from afar, and cut into some top-tier french toast.

Café Madeleine

Sit under the red umbrellas on Café Madeleine’s patio for a relaxed breakfast while joggers dash by headed to Balboa. This spot has a much better food selection than your average coffee shop, like lamb merguez sausage sandwiches and crepes smothered in nutella and fresh fruit. It’s also a solid move for a meal a little later in the day—go with the spinach or prosciutto crepe, which have a creamy bechamel sauce so smooth it could talk its way out of a speeding ticket. Everything goes down well with their refreshing, mint-spiked French lemonade.

Café Coyote

For over two decades, Cafe Coyote has been an Old Town legend, with an excellent breakfast burrito and the famous tortilla ladies, who knead, roll, and sling tortillas all day long. These piping hot, soft, and sturdy shells are used for many of the restaurant’s dishes, and can also be purchased separately to take home. The breakfast highlight is the Machaca Burrito filled with shredded beef, eggs scrambled with peppers and onion, and melted cheese holding everything together like the eldest sibling. They also have a vast tequila collection—if you want a boozy breakfast, get the Coyote margarita, which is basically a tequila sunrise punched up with pineapple juice.

OB Surf Lodge

Ocean Beach

At Ocean Beach’s OB Surf Lodge, surfboards hang from the ceiling, pups chill on the patio, and the wetsuit-wearing crowd come in for a bite after hitting the waves. There are a lot of great breakfast options, but nothing beats the huge, flaky biscuits. The biscuit board includes plain, churro, and jalapeño cheddar, so you can try a combination of flavors before slathering them with spreads like whipped maple or rosemary-thyme butter. For something a little lighter but packed with protein, the Surf Side Power Bowl with salmon or seared ahi is great before some beach volleyball. 

Harry's

This family-owned coffee shop has been serving breakfast for over 60 years, and it remains a perfect slice of old school La Jolla. Known as a locals hangout, the place buzzes with regulars reading the newspaper in their beloved bar seat during the week, and families checking out the black-and-white photos of San Diego hanging above their leather-cushioned booths on weekends. Their standout dish, the B.W. Benny, brings together a bunch of typical breakfast foods for something great: a golden-brown bacon waffle is piled high with poached eggs, grilled ham, creamy hollandaise, and a drizzle of maple syrup for good measure. It’s a diner we wouldn’t mind spending all day in , but they’re only open from 7am to 2:30pm.

Suggested Reading

The Best Restaurants In San Diego

Our favorite spots for super fresh seafood and juicy burgers near the beach.

The Best Restaurants & Bars In Oceanside

Come to this city that's just north of San Diego for the beach and a great meal in your flip-flops.

The Best Restaurants & Bars In North Park

A French bistro that’s been around for over a decade, somewhere to try absinthe, and more in San Diego’s hippest neighborhood.

The 25 Best Restaurants In LA

Meet our 25 highest-rated restaurants.

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Painting Corners: Best MLB Prop Bets Today (Bet on Luis Arraez to Have Big Game vs. Diamondbacks)

Iain macmillan | jun 6, 2024.

It's travel day in MLB with some teams heading to whichever city they'll play their weekend series, but we still have 10 games across the Majors for us to watch and bet on today.

If you're like me and you find more value in betting on player props when it comes to baseball, you've come to the right place. I've narrowed in on three prop bets that I'm locking in for Thursday's slate.

Let's dive into them.

MLB Best Prop Bets Today

• JP Sears OVER 4.5 strikeouts (-122)
• Hunter Green OVER 2.5 walks (+150)
• Luis Arraez OVER 2.5 Hits+Runs+RBIs

Mariners vs. Athletics Prop Bet

We're going to continue to make the same bet in almost every single Seattle Mariners game. We'll once again take the OVER on the strikeout total for the pitcher they're facing, which this time is JP Sears.

The Mariners have the highest strikeout rate in MLB, striking out on 27.4% of their plate appearances. That's 1.3% higher than the next worst team.

Sears isn't exactly known as a strikeout pitcher, but he's gone over this number in four different starts already this season including his most recent start against the Atlanta Braves. There's no reason why he can't reach five strikeouts against the Mariners' bats.

Odds for this bet are via FanDuel Sportsbook

Pick: JP Sears OVER 4.5 strikeouts (-122)

Cubs vs. Reds Prop Bet

Hunter Green of the Cincinnati Reds has had a bit of an issue with his command of late. He's allowed at least four walks in three of his last six starts including his most recent start which came against this very same Cubs team. He gave up five walks in 6.0 innings pitched.

With his walk total set at just 2.5 with the odds set at +150, I won't hesitate to bet on him to hit the over on his walk total against the Cubs once again.

Odds for this bet are via DraftKings Sportsbook

Pick: Hunter Green OVER 2.5 walks (+150)

Diamondbacks vs. Padres Prop Bet

We've already placed two pitcher prop bets, so now let's bet on a hitter. The Arizona Diamondbacks take on the San Diego Padres in the final game of the night and we're going to narrow in on Luis Arraez of the Padres.

He has been on fire lately, ranking 17th in the Majors in batting average amongst all batters with at least 15 plate appearances over the past 14 days. In that stretch, Arraez is batting .367. he also has eight runs and six RBIs in that time frame.

He and the rest of the Padres will face Slade Cecconi of the Diamondbacks, who has a poor ERA of 5.59 on the year.

I'm going to bet on Arraez to record at least three hits, runs, and RBIs.

Odds for this bet are via BetMGM Sportsbook

Pick: Luis Arraez OVER 2.5 Hits+Runs+RBIs

Odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.

You can check out all of Iain's bets here !

IAIN MACMILLAN

Iain hails from Nova Scotia, Canada where he grew up a die-hard sports fan. Iain's fandom developed into a passion for sports betting and he's been working in the industry since 2018. His beloved Falcons and Leafs break his heart on a yearly basis.

Follow iainmacbets

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San Diego Padres infielder Tucupita Marcano hit with lifetime ban for betting on baseball

Marcano is the first active mlb player to be banned for gambling since 1924, article bookmarked.

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Major League Baseball player Tucupita Marcano has been permanently banned from the organization after an inquiry found that he had been betting on the sport.

The MLB announced the ban on Tuesday, according to ESPN .

Marcano, 24, who currently plays for the San Diego Padres , is the first active player to be banned for gambling since New York Giants outfielder Jimmy O'Connell was barred for betting in 1924.

"The strict enforcement of Major League Baseball's rules and policies governing gambling conduct is a critical component of upholding our most important priority: protecting the integrity of our games for the fans," MLB commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement. "The longstanding prohibition against betting on Major League Baseball games by those in the sport has been a bedrock principle for over a century. We have been clear that the privilege of playing in baseball comes with a responsibility to refrain from engaging in certain types of behavior that are legal for other people."

The league says Marcano placed 387 baseball bets, including 231 relating to Major League Baseball, between October 16, 2022 and November 1, 2023. In total, he bet more than $150,000.

MLB said that of those bets, 25 were wagers on Pittsburgh Pirates games he made while he was a player on the team. He did not play in any of the games he bet on because he was injured at the time.

Marcano lost on nearly all of his MLB bets, winning only 4.3 percent of the time.

Under MLB's Rule 21, if a player, umpire, league official or team employee bets on a game that they are not a part of, they will receive a one-year suspension. If they bet on a game they are involved in, they'll receive a lifetime ban. Rule 21 is named after the edict in 1921 by then commisisoner Kennesaw Landis who banned members of the 1919 Chicago White Sox from the sport after they threw the World Series.

Marcano was signed by the Padres in 2016 as an amateur free agent from Venezuela. In 2021, he was traded to the Pirates along with Jack Suqinski and Adam Frazier. He returned to the Padres last November on waivers.

Last summer, he tore his ACL and has not played in a game since.

In addition to Marcano's ban, Oakland Athletics pitcher Michael Kelly was also given a year suspension on Tuesday for betting on major league baseball while he was playing in the minors.

Jay Groome of San Diego, Jose Rodriguez of Philadelphia, and Andrew Saalfrank of Arizona — all minor leaguers — were also banned for a year for betting on major league games, according to MLB.

The league said it learned of Marcano's gambling through a tip by a sports betting operator.

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Video: MLB Picks and Predictions - Arizona Diamondbacks vs San Diego Padres, 6/8/24 Free Best Bets & Odds

Posted on June 8, 2024

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MLB Picks and Predictions - Arizona Diamondbacks vs San Diego Padres, 6/8/24 Free Best Bets & Odds

San Diego Padres vs Arizona Diamondbacks picks and predictions 6/8/24. The Arizona Diamondbacks travel to San Diego, CA to face the San Diego Padres at 8:40PM EST at PETCO Park. Doc's Sports provides MLB picks, predictions, tips and MLB odds on this matchup of Arizona Diamondbacks vs San Diego Padres

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MLB investigating Padres' Tucupita Marcano for gambling on games in 2023

Major League Baseball’s biggest nightmare since sports gambling's widespread legalization has come to fruition: An active player faces a suspension and potential lifetime ban for betting on baseball.

Tucupita Marcano , a utility player on the San Diego Padres’ injured list, is under investigation by MLB for gambling on baseball, according to the Wall Street Journal. Marcano, a 24-year-old native of Venezuela, reportedly placed the bets in 2023, when he was a member of the Pittsburgh Pirates .

Said the Pirates in a statement: "We are aware of the matter that’s under investigation and are fully cooperating. We will refrain from further comment at this time."

Marcano suffered a torn ACL in his right knee in July 2023 and has been on the injured list since. The Padres, who originally signed him out of Venezuela in 2016, claimed him off waivers from Pittsburgh in November.

Under MLB’s gambling policy, players face a one-year ban for betting on a major league game and a lifetime ban if they placed bets on games involving their own team. The Journal reported that he placed bets on games involving the Pirates.

Follow every MLB game: Latest MLB scores, stats, schedules and standings.

"We are aware of an active investigation by Major League Baseball regarding a matter that occurred when the player in question was a member of another organization and not affiliated with the San Diego Padres," the Padres said in a statement released to news outlets, including USA TODAY Sports. "We will not have any further comment until the investigative process has been completed."

MLB’s relationship with illegal gambling – dating to the 1919 World Series infamously thrown by the Chicago White Sox, through the shame of all-time hits leader Pete Rose earning a lifetime ban for betting on games he managed for the Cincinnati Reds – has given way to an uneasy embrace, since the 2018 Supreme Court decision that left legalized gambling up to the states.

The league – and virtually every team – has signed multiple official agreements with online and physical casinos, while maintaining a ban on baseball betting for its players.

"DO NOT BET ON BASEBALL," reads a placard in major league clubhouses, with a QR code sending them to a web site that spells out baseball’s gambling policy. It states that players may not bet on baseball at any level, nor can they ask others to place bets on their behalf.

Yet the Marcano investigation is the league’s second high-profile scandal just two months into the season. Ippei Mizuhara, the longtime interpreter for dual-threat superstar Shohei Ohtani, was fired by the Los Angeles Dodgers and has reached a plea agreement with federal prosecutors after he allegedly stole nearly $17 million from Ohtani.

Mizuhara has said he has an online account with DraftKings and assumed the bets with the alleged bookmaker were legal.

That federal probe also sparked an investigation into longtime major league infielder David Fletcher, who introduced Mizuhara to the alleged bookmaker and, ESPN reported, placed bets on sports other than baseball with the bookie. Fletcher is currently with the Atlanta Braves’ Class AAA team.

Since the 2018 Supreme Court decision, 38 states, including Pennsylvania, and the District of Columbia have legalized sports gambling. MLB has official partnerships with online casinos FanDuel, DraftKings and MGM.

Marcano made his major league debut for the Padres in 2021 and has played in 149 career games, with a .217 average, five home runs and a .589 OPS. He was traded along with outfielder Jack Suwinski to Pittsburgh in July 2021 in exchange for infielder Adam Frazier.

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San Diego Padres’ Tucupita Marcano gets lifetime ban from MLB for betting; 4 others get year suspensions

FILE - Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop Tucupita Marcano takes a throw down to second base during the fifth inning of a baseball game against the Arizona Diamondbacks, July 7, 2023, in Phoenix. San Diego Padres' Marcano is under investigation by Major League Baseball for allegedly betting on baseball and could be subject to a possible lifetime ban, according to a person familiar with the probe who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the investigation is ongoing. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin, File)

NEW YORK — San Diego Padres infielder Tucupita Marcano was banned from baseball for life for betting on the sport and four others were suspended for one year by Major League Baseball on Tuesday in the game’s biggest gambling scandal in decades.

MLB said Marcano placed 387 baseball bets totaling more than $150,000 in October 2022 and from last July through November with a legal sportsbook. He became the first active player in a century banned for life because of gambling.

Oakland Athletics pitcher Michael Kelly was suspended for one year for betting on baseball while in the minor leagues and three minor leaguers also were banned for one year for betting on big league games: pitchers Jay Groome of San Diego and Andrew Saalfrank of Arizona, and infielder José Rodríguez of Philadelphia. Each of those four players wagered under $1,000. Saalfrank and Rodríguez played previously in the majors.

“The strict enforcement of Major League Baseball’s rules and policies governing gambling conduct is a critical component of upholding our most important priority: protecting the integrity of our games for the fans,” baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement. “The longstanding prohibition against betting on Major League Baseball games by those in the sport has been a bedrock principle for over a century. We have been clear that the privilege of playing in baseball comes with a responsibility to refrain from engaging in certain types of behavior that are legal for other people.”

Marcano is the first active major leaguer banned for life under the sport’s gambling provision since New York Giants outfielder Jimmy O’Connell in 1924. Pete Rose, baseball’s career hits leader, agreed to a lifetime ban in 1989 after an investigation concluded he bet on Cincinnati Reds games while managing the team.

Major League Rule 21, posted in every clubhouse, states betting on any baseball game in which a player, umpire, league official or team employee has no duty to perform results in a one-year suspension. Betting on a game in which the person has a duty to perform results in a lifetime ban.

Marcano became the second North American athlete banned for gambling in recent months. The NBA gave Toronto’s Jontay Porter a lifetime ban in April after concluding he disclosed confidential information to bettors and wagered on games, including on the Raptors to lose.

MLB said it was tipped off in March about the betting activity by a legal sports betting operator. None of the players punished played in any games on which they wagered, and all players denied to MLB they had inside information relevant to their bets or the games they gambled on – testimonies that MLB says align with the data received from the sportsbook.

In its announcement, MLB detailed the bets alleged for each player,

Marcano’s 387 baseball bets included international games and 231 MLB-related wagers for $87,319 between Oct. 16, 2022, and last Nov. 1. Twenty-five of those bets included wagers on Pirates games while he was on the team’s major league roster. Now 24, Marcano, has not played since tearing his right ACL last July 24 and was receiving medical treatment at PNC Park last year.

Marcano bet almost exclusively on the outcomes of games and lost all of his parlay bets involving the Pirates, winning just 4.3% of all of his MLB-related bets.

Marcano made his major league debut on April 1, 2021, and has a .217 average with five homers, 34 RBIs and seven stolen bases in 149 games. He has played in both the infield and outfield.

“While the thorough investigation revealed no evidence of any games being compromised, influenced or manipulated in any way in this case, protecting the integrity of our game is paramount,” the Pirates said in a statement.

The other four players did not bet on games involving their assigned teams.

Kelly placed 10 bets on nine major league games from Oct. 5-17, 2021, while a minor league player assigned to Houston’s Triple-A Sugar Land farm team. The bets included wagers on outcomes, over/under on runs and an individual pitcher’s strikeout total. Three of the nine games involved the major league Astros. His wagers totaled $99.22 and resulted in $28.30 of winnings.

Kelly, 31, was 3-2 with a 2.59 ERA in 28 games this season, last pitching on Saturday at Atlanta. The former first-round draft pick appeared in 46 games over the past three seasons.

Groome, a 25-year-old who had been on a minor league injured list since mid-April, placed 32 MLB-related bets from July 22, 2020, through July 24, 2021, including 24 on the Boston Red Sox major league team while he was assigned to Boston’s High-A team in Greenville, South Carolina. The sport detailed he wagered $453.74 on 30 MLB games and had a net loss of $433.54, receiving payouts on only two wagers. His betting included parlays.

Rodríguez, 23, has been at Double-A Reading this season. He placed 31 bets on baseball on Sept. 30, 2021, and from June 5 through July 30 in 2022, including 28 on MLB and three on college baseball. The total included seven involving the Chicago White Sox at the time he was assigned to their Double-A team in Birmingham, Alabama. Two of the White Sox bets involved outcomes and the others were on runs scored. He bet $749.09 on baseball, of which $724.09 was on MLB-related bets that included parlays.

Saalfrank, 26, pitched in 21 games for Arizona last year between the regular season and postseason, including three World Series games, and two this year before he was optioned to Triple-A Reno on May 1. He placed 29 baseball bets from Sept. 9 through Oct. 29 in 2021 and on March 9, 2022, including 28 on MLB and one parlay on college baseball. He placed four bets on the big league Diamondbacks while on the injured list of their Low A farm team. His baseball bets totaled $445.87 on baseball, including $444.07 on MLB, and lost $272.64 on MLB bets and $1.80 on the college wager. He won just five of 28 MLB bets, which included outcomes, runs and pitcher strikeouts.