San Diego is one of the largest and most vibrant cities in the United States, overlooking the majestic Pacific Ocean. This bustling and exciting metropolis in sunny California has so many different neighborhoods that you’ll be spoilt for choice.
There is a natural deep-water port, which means the city has a fascinating naval history. There are plenty of beaches to choose from, giving you the chance to soak up the sun with a coke in hand.
Due to its location on the Mexican border, the Spanish influence on the city is not to be missed, with delicious food, music and culture to explore. Of course, a great city comes with great accommodations, and we’ve picked out the best hotels.
1. San Diego Marriott Marquis and Marina
This excellent hotel is a 4 star hotel for a reason. It boasts stunning views of the San Diego Bay waterfront, and you can take a dip in the outdoor pool and hot tub.
The on-site restaurant serves a smorgasbord of Asian fusion dishes, as well as a traditional American breakfast to fill you up before a day of exploring.
Location: Located in downtown San Diego, this will give you easy access to some of the city’s main attractions. The Gaslamp Quarter – known for its restaurants and lively nightlife – is just 10 minutes away and the famous San Diego Zoo is just 3 miles away.
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2. Wyndham San Diego Bayside
This superb modern hotel is closer to the bay.
Not only can you enjoy a delicious meal at the on-site steakhouse, but you can also relax in the state-of-the-art fitness center and rent a bike to explore the city further.
Location: Nearly every room at this hotel has stunning views of San Diego Bay – the ocean is at your fingertips! You’ll be across from the San Diego Bay Cruise Terminal and the hotel offers shuttles to the zoo and airport.
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3. 23 Towers Hotel
If you are looking for a beach getaway, this is the place for you.
White sandy beaches on your doorstep, fine seafood restaurants on-site, and the chance to try surfing, sailing and hiking – what more could you want?
Location: This hotel is located near Pacific Beach. You can practically set foot on the beach, which is only two minutes away. You can also access the boardwalk around the coastline from here. It’s a little further from the city center, but only a 15-minute drive from Sea World.
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4. Sheraton San Diego Marina Hotel
This is an eco-friendly hotel with three outdoor swimming pools, modern décor and excellent service.
They pride themselves on the quality of their in-house restaurant, Harbour, which serves over 90 different wines, a variety of cocktails and delicious food – all of which you can enjoy while taking in views of the marina.
Location: You’re almost next door to the airport, so getting here is not at all troublesome. You can rent a bike or even a sailboat to explore San Diego Bay, which is where this fabulous hotel is located.
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5. Sunset Cliff Inn
This hotel offers you the unique opportunity to have your own suite with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
It’s modern and stylish yet still comfortable, exudes a beach shack vibe and offers you a range of water activities.
Location: If this hotel was closer to the sea, it would be inside. In the famous Point Loma, just steps from the Pacific Ocean, the location of this stunning hotel is worth the price.
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6. Humphreys Half Moon Inn
Sip a cocktail at the poolside bar or relax in your room with feature windows overlooking San Diego Bay.
This is the ultimate leisure hotel with superb marina views. It offers a fantastic range of concerts throughout the summer.
Location: Here you will have the advantage of being close to the sea without being too far from downtown San Diego. In your own little oasis, you’ll feel relaxed and at ease while having access to the hustle and bustle of the city, if you like.
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7. Lafayette Hotel
Featuring a fitness center, Olympic-sized outdoor pool and coffee maker in every room – this hotel is perfect for the energetic, free-spirited guest.
This is an eco-era hotel that offers great on-site amenities such as a great restaurant and ultra-fast Wi-Fi.
Where: The San Diego Zoo is just five minutes away; you can make some furry friends during your stay. The San Diego Natural History Museum is also just 5 minutes away, so you can learn about all the animals you just encountered! The airport is just over ten minutes’ drive from the hotel.
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8. Crown City Inn Coronado
Crown City Inn offers a variety of amenities to make your stay as luxurious as possible, including a stunning outdoor pool, free bike rentals and a bistro.
This is a Greek style, comfortable and luxurious hotel that makes you feel like you are on a Caribbean island.
Location: In fact, you are on an island! Coronado is an island in the middle of San Diego Bay that is sought after by thousands of vacationers every year. There are beaches within a mile. Don’t worry; the island is connected by a bridge so you can drive around the city with ease.
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9. Bristol Hotel San Diego
This is a stylish and modern hotel, ready to meet all your needs.
It doesn’t have much bells and whistles, but it’s simple, comfortable, and has stunning views of downtown San Diego.
Location: The location of this hotel is its selling point. Walking distance to many of San Diego’s best attractions, such as the Seaport and the USS Midway Museum. Just a 5-minute walk from the San Diego Civic Theater, you can catch a show and then grab a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant.
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10. The Avenue Hotel
This is another hotel on the popular Coronado Island. It’s simple and charming, with a lovely heritage and cozy vibe.
The outdoor pool means you can relax in the sun and have a drink, but if you live here, the beach is just around the corner.
Location: Since this hotel is located in the Upper Village area of the island, you will be close to all the quaint restaurants, theaters and shops.
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11. Ocean Beach Hotel
This hotel really lives up to its name: a lovely hotel overlooking the sea and close to the beach.
Each room is large and has an ensuite. There is a delightful garden to sit and have a drink or two.
Location: San Diego International Airport is just over 3 miles away and a short walk from beautiful white sand beaches. Other attractions such as Cabrillo National Monument are just over 15 minutes’ drive away.
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12. Dana at Mission Bay
An oceanfront bar, two outdoor pools and two hot tubs – stay at The Dana and you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Each room has a flat-screen TV, and some overlook the hotel’s charming marina.
Location: The hotel offers bicycle and car rental services to make getting around with ease. SeaWorld is 0.6 miles away and Mission Beach is 1 mile away. San Diego International Airport is just over three miles away.
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13. Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Airport
An outdoor pool with a fire pit makes this hotel a great place to watch the sun go down and the stars come out.
Adjacent to 46 acres of parkland, you can jog, hike or bike right from the front door.
Location: Since it’s right next to the airport, you can get here right after your flight. Once you’re here, you can see boats passing your window due to its waterside location. The San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld are just minutes away, perfect if you’re an animal lover!
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14. Hilton San Diego Bayfront
The open-air swimming pool and dining area means you can take a dip in this luxury hotel before feasting on gourmet food.
Right on the waterfront, nearly every room has a spectacular view, plus a large TV and fast Wi-Fi access.
Location: This splendid hotel is adjacent to the San Diego Convention Center and just minutes from PETCO Park. This is the perfect choice if you’re looking to play baseball.
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15. Ocean Villas
The heated outdoor pool is the heart of this pet-friendly hotel, right on the beach – as you might have guessed the name!
If you’re lucky, your room will have a balcony overlooking the sea or a patio opening out to a lovely garden.
Location: You’ll find Ocean Villas just one mile from SeaWorld and eight miles from the Zoo. The local setting around Ocean Beach is beautiful, with antique shops, traditional restaurants and some great seaside activities such as sailing and surfing.
Check Prices & Reviews Where to Stay: Best Hotels in San Diego, CA (CA)
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