28 Fantastic Beach Resorts in San Diego [2024]

Best Beach Resorts in San Diego

Oh, the beach! There are so many amazing beaches in San Diego that it is a very popular beach destination and because of that, there are a lot of beach resorts in San Diego. But which one to choose? No worries, I’ll help you with that. I am a San Diego local and would love to share my favorite San Diego beach resorts with you.

But each tourist has a different travel style, budget, and preferences. But no worries, I got you covered. I will share the top waterfront hotels in San Diego for every travel type and budget, no matter if you are looking for a coming to San Diego for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a budget-friendly weekend trip.

Also read: Best San Diego Vacation Rentals

🥇Top Rated Beach Resort in San Diego

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Before you go here are some questions to ask yourself:

• Are you traveling with your dog? Is the resort pet-friendly?
• Where should I stay in San Diego? >>Read our guide on the best neighborhoods for tourists in San Diego.
• What is my budget?
• Which beach am I closest to?
• What kind of ambiance do I want?
• Can/should I bring my family?
• I’m planning my wedding, is this a good spot for it?
• Will I have to deal with bad service?
• Maybe a luxury beach house for rent would be a better option?

These are some fair questions and I know researching can take forever! Or at least it can feel like it’s taking forever. But no need to fear, I’ve made myself an expert on the matter so you don’t have to deal with the hassle. I visited and researched the best San Diego beach resorts for you, to ensure that they offer great value and good customer service.

All you have to do is pick which of these San Diego beach resorts you like and book it. Take a look at the area and if you like it, explore those hotel options. Let’s begin.

Best Beach Resorts in La Jolla

Before we get into which of these La Jolla hotels we like best, let me tell you why you should stay there. La Jolla is one of the most beautiful parts of town. The beach is lively but it’s usually not crowded as locals tend to stick to Ocean Beach. You can even see seals lounging around parts of the beach. These seals are protected (and can be dangerous) so take pictures but don’t touch.

Not only does La Jolla have beautiful beaches, it has a pretty great downtown scene. Their restaurants are gourmet and there are a lot of small businesses you can support around. My sister, who is an avid supporter of Ocean Beach, loves working up there. When you roam this area, take a look at the amazing houses on the streets. I find myself in awe most of the time. They’re all very different but most are incredibly beautiful and unnecessarily large.

Pantai Inn San Diego

1003 Coast Blvd S, La Jolla, San Diego, 92101
Book A Room With Your Dream Beach View Here
5-Star Hotel | $$$$ | Complimentary On-Site Breakfast & Parking | Pool
+1 (858) 224-7600

The 30-room Pantai Inn has been voted one of the best beach resorts in San Diego due to the immaculate 5-star accommodations they offer each guest. From the moment you walk in, you will be in awe of the elegance on display but the thing that will truly knock you off your feet is the excellent service.

Each guest is treated like royalty from the rooms that include bathrobes, amazing skincare products, flatscreens, free WiFi, and a mini-fridge to the amenities around the hotel. Guests can feel free to book one of the countless activities available like tennis, jet skiing, and scuba diving. Maybe you want to just sit back and relax. That’s okay too! There’s a cafe you are free to lounge in. 

The beach is a short walk away but you’ll be able to see and hear the crashing waves from your room. If you’d like to do something a little more touristy, that’s good too. Nearby there are plenty of downtown La Jolla attractions from gift shops to museums and restaurants.

Tags: beachfront, free breakfast, resort, great views, family-friendly

Grande Colonial La Jolla

910 Prospect Street, La Jolla, San Diego, 92037
Select A Grande Beach Room Here
4-Star Hotel | $$$ | Complimentary Morning Beverage | Accessible
+1 (888) 828-5498

Not only is the Grande Colonial by the beautiful beach, but it’s also a historic hotel that was opened in 1913. It still holds that historical air despite being recently renovated. Apart from those standard amenities offered to every guest at a 4-star level, more are available for a $20 hospitality service charge per night. It may seem ridiculous but it allows you to take advantage of in-room, property, recreation, food & beverage, and business services.

Amenities include but aren’t limited to; 10% of food and drinks in the NINE-TEN restaurant, unlimited WiFi, poolside towel & water service, beach gear, newspapers, daily guest pass to the La Jolla Sports Club, use of hotel bikes, copy & fax services, complimentary morning coffee or tea to-go, local transportation around La Jolla in a golf cart or London cab, and much more

The Grande Colonial is a mere walk away from the beach and they make it super easy if you’re planning a big event. They also have a plethora of activities you can organize through the hotel. Visitors can enjoy views of the town or views of the ocean as both are just as beautiful. La Jolla is a picturesque part of San Diego after all. Not to mention the history behind it that you can explore further in the local museums.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a fun time, the Colonial isn’t that far from the local comedy club where laughs are pretty much guaranteed. As the saying goes, “Live, laugh, and love” they’re all possible in picturesque La Jolla, San Diego.

Tags: Meetings, weddings, romantic getaway, great on-site restaurant, instagrammable, boutique hotel, excellent service

Empress Hotel San Diego

7766 Fay Avenue, La Jolla, San Diego, 92037
Reserve Your Imperial Suite Here
3-Star Hotel| $$$ | Valet Parking $ | Complimentary WiFi & Breakfast | Pet-Friendly $
+1 (858) 454-3001

There are plenty of romantic getaways you can take in San Diego but none quite have the ambiance of the 4-star Empress Hotel in La Jolla. Couples and other visitors are welcome to relax in comfortable rooms equipped with private bathrooms, beautiful views, and great safety features to ensure that you can a lovely stay. Of course, if you just can’t live without your furry friends, the hotel is pet-friendly and happy to make sure your companion has a great stay too.

Around the hotel, you can find a plethora of opportunities for relaxation from the lovely Italian restaurant on-site to the spa & wellness center, fitness room, and golf course. Book a couple’s massage and a table with amazing vino. Or explore the local La Jolla area. 

This hotel is located in downtown La Jolla where a lot of action happens. Locals and visitors alike can enjoy the array of local grub from bar to fine dining. Grab a beer at the nearby comedy club or a coffee at the local cafes. Explore the history of La Jolla through museum tours or walking tours. The concierge at the Empress is sure to find you something incredible to do.

Tags: Pet-friendly, weddings, free breakfast, romantic getaway

The Bed And Breakfast Inn at La Jolla

7753 Draper Avenue, La Jolla, San Diego, 92037
Book Your Relaxing Beach Getaway Here
3-Star B&B | $$ | Tasty Breakfast | Pet-Friendly $ | Accessible
+1 (858) 456-2066

Among the luxurious resorts and major hotel chains, I felt like it was my personal duty to add this charming B&B into the mix. Not just because it’s small and quaint but because it offers a different kind of luxury to its guests.

The luxury I’m talking about is peace and quiet. The small amount of rooms ensures that there will be no screaming children or large groups of people. It also allows for a boost in customer service since there aren’t so many people that the employees need to take care of.

Oh, and the breakfast? It’s a three-course gourmet meal guaranteed to start your day off great. If that hasn’t sold you, then how about the nearby beach. As you walk through the hotel gardens, you may just hear the lovely peaceful crashing of the waves or the chipper of people walking around too.

The employees are also happy to tell you where the best spots to explore are or where you can get a lovely dinner. They’re so accommodating that they allow pets. At the Bed & Breakfast Inn, there’s nothing but serenity and cozy relaxation.

Tags: romantic getaway, pet-friendly, bed & breakfast, excellent service, great location, great views, super relaxing

Scripps Inn

555 Coast Blvd South, La Jolla, San Diego, 92037
Reserve Your Luxury Getaway Here
4-Star Hotel | $$$$ | Complimentary Breakfast | Pet-Friendly $ | Accessible
+1 (888) 387-9907

These gorgeous beachfront studios are available in La Jolla. They are literally right across the street from the shores and offer stunning views from every room. The 4-star accommodations include access to the tennis court, BBQ area, terrace, and a short distance to everything downtown La Jolla has to offer.

Scripps Inn is the perfect spot for a quiet getaway with your significant other when life gets a little too stressful. Staying here will feel like you’re living here. It allows you the freedom to either stay in bed all day or go explore the town. No judgment, I would also stay in bed and just listen to the water hit the cliffs as I occasionally look over the room service menu while debating if ordering is worth it. Spoiler alert, it totally is!

Hot Tip: If you do stay in this area, consider walking down to the Scripps pier. Underneath there’s a great spot to sit in and watch the waves crash in and out. You can’t walk on the pier but it is significantly quieter around this area than others.

Tags: romantic getaway, great on-site restaurant, family-friendly, great location, amazing views, pet-friendly, boutique hotel, instagrammable

La Valencia Hotel

1132 Prospect Street, La Jolla, San Diego, 92037
Get Your Luxury Room Before It’s Gone Here
4-Star Hotel | $$$$ | Stunning Pool | Free Valet One-Night | Pet-Friendly $
+1 (855) 476-6870

Picture this: you wake up in the morning laying in a plush bed under a comforter that feels like a hug. You stretch out then make your way down to a fitness center that can help maintain that awesome bod. You go back up to your room and shower in your private bathroom whilst feeling like royalty.

Then, you head to breakfast and sip your morning beverage as you look at the morning sun gracing over the gorgeous ocean. You spend your day getting massages, facials, room service, and sitting by the pool. How could you possibly get all that in real life though? You book at the Valencia Hotel.

The amenities at the Valencia are 4-star quality and very vast. Beautiful weddings are held here so it’s all but in writing that you’ll have a great visit. If you aren’t the kind of person to stay at the hotel all day despite how many activities are available, then you can roam around the nearby museums, parks, shops, and restaurants. But don’t forget to visit the beach.

Tags: romantic getaway, weddings, meetings, pet-friendly, on-site restaurant

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego La Jolla

4550 La Jolla Village Drive, University City, San Diego, 92122
Book Your Getaway Here
3-Star Resort | $$$ |Free & Tasty Breakfast | Stunning Pool | Pet-Friendly $
+1 (858) 453-0400

The Embassy has the same customer service practices as the Hilton. It would make sense since Hilton owns the Embassy. The reliable company provides its guests with complimentary breakfast, family packages, laundry facilities, a fitness center, a pool, and much more. If you aren’t satisfied with that then ask the lovely concierge about what activities are offered near the hotel. They’d be happy to help.

Being in the La Jolla area means that the hotel and the guests can fully bask in the location. The shores are close enough to walk but don’t forget to eat breakfast beforehand. It is free after all. If you happen to bring along your four-legged company (or three-legged) they will also happily accommodate you.

Tags: family-friendly, pet-friendly, free breakfast, great location

La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club

2000 Sprindrift Drive, La Jolla, San Diego, 92037
Book Your Cozy Beach Residence Here
3-Star Resort | $$$ |Two Pools | Beautiful Beach and Views
+1 (888) 828-0948

This is a resort for those who want to get away, no matter how big or small your travel gang is. The on-site restaurant makes for an easy yet delicious meal experience. There’s a golf course on-site for all my golf lovers. On top of all the leisure activities, there are also plenty of kid-friendly activities to do. Since the club is so prestigious, they also have their very own private beach for all their guests. It’s also located in the tourist part of La Jolla so all the hotspots are close by.

It’s a fairly large resort but the rooms are spacious enough that you won’t have to listen to your neighbors and you’ll feel as if you’re in a world of your own. If you like meeting new people then you can head down to the beach or hit a few balls on the golf greens. Spread those wings and explore the grounds and La Jolla.

Tags: family-friendly, romantic getaway, great location, beautiful views, on-site restaurant

La Jolla Shores Hotel

8110 Camino Del Oro, La Jolla, San Diego, 92037
Reserve Your Elegant Room Here
3-Star Resort| $$$ | Pool | Superb Dining | Free WiFi
+1 (855) 923-8058

About 20 minutes from the San Diego airport and pretty much right on the beach, the La Jolla Shores Hotel offers luxury 3-star accommodations for all of their guests. Families can book family-friendly activities and games or you can all enjoy a reserved spot on the beach or relax in the heated pool. If you want to explore then, by all means, go for it! There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and attractions to visit.

The rooms have a lovely beachside vibe that brings serenity and brightness into your vacation. The views from the rooms are spectacular and previous guests shout praise from the top of their lungs when asked about the hotel.

Tags: romantic getaway, family-friendly, great views, great location, on-site restaurant

Inn by the Sea at La Jolla

7830 Fay Avenue, La Jolla, San Diego, 92037
Start Your Beach Vacation the Right Way Here
3-Star Inn| $$ | Delicious Food | Pool | Accessible | Parking $
+1 (858) 459-4461

It’s pretty rare to find something like this in La Jolla. This hotel is humble as it caters to its many guests. While it is understated, it doesn’t hold back when it comes to the comfort of their guests. They will guarantee a great trip with access to San Diego attraction tickets and even discounts depending on your situation. And, of course, the pool is open for your enjoyment, it’s even heated.

Tags: family-friendly, great location, excellent service, business traveler, cheap but clean, great value

Mission Bay Beach Resorts

Okay, I will admit that this part of the town is a little confusing. Mission Bay, Mission Beach, and Pacific Beach are all kind of meshed together in this area so it has the biggest variety.

First things first, there’s an amusement park right on the beach with rides and arcades and tons of fun stuff to do. You only have to pay to ride rides and buy things. If you want, you can just walk around.

What I find the most awesome about this part of town is all the nooks and crannies around. It’s a beautiful part of town with millions of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa

3999 Mission Boulevard, Mission Beach, California, San Diego, 92109
Get A Beachfront Room Here
4-Star Resort | $$$ | Pool & Spa |Pet-Friendly $ | Self-Parking $$
+1 (858) 488-1081

The Catamaran is known around San Diego as a beautiful resort with a private secluded beach and beautiful rooms with spectacular views. It’s a Polynesian themed hotel that aims to bring Polynesia to San Diego.

Guests of this resort have access to deluxe amenities like a jacuzzi, heated pool, spa facilities, and more. There’s a daily breakfast available to guests along with access to plenty of local breakfast spots. I recommend packing a breakfast to go and taking a 10-minute walk to the beach to eat there.

Tags: beachfront, romantic getaway, instagrammable, family-friendly, weddings

Bahia Resort Hotel

998 West Mission Bay Drive, Mission Beach, California, San Diego, 92109
Snatch That Room Right By the Beach Here
3-Star Resort | $$$ | Stunning Pool | Free Parking | Pet-Friendly $
+1 (858) 488-0551

This luxury resort is a short walk away from Belmont Park and the shores of Pacific Beach and Mission Bay. Guests can enjoy the local grub and activity surrounding the hotel as well as their 3-star amenities.

The restaurant is available for guests as well as the relaxing jacuzzi and pool. If you’re the adventurous type then I recommend asking about the water activities they offer. It’s a can’t miss.

Tags: resort, waterfront, family-friendly, romantic getaway, excellent service, great views, great location

Paradise Point Resort & Spa

1404 Vacation Road, Mission Bay, San Diego, 92109
Book Your Luxury Spa Vacation Here
4-Star Resort | $$$$ | 5 Pools | Luxury Spa | Pet-Friendly $ | Firepits | Golf
+1 (858) 274-4630

If you want a resort then you’ve got it. The Paradise Point Resort & Spa is a 44-acre property surround by a mile of sandy beach. There are 5 pools including an adult-only one for those who want a kid-free getaway. The WiFi is hotel-wide so you won’t have to worry about getting a deadzone room (I dread them too). There are multiple dining options around the hotel so you don’t have to get bored eating one type of cuisine. This is all just the beginning.

The resort is a perfect place for those who just want to get pampered and relax. They have an island-inspired spa and salon. If you’re there for a wedding or honeymoon, they provide intimate couples’ bungalows to really…get to know each other. There are many more but find them out for yourself.

Tags: family-friendly, resort, beachfront, weddings, meetings, romantic getaway, great location, pet-friendly

San Diego Waterfront Hotels in the Downtown Area

Personally, this is my favorite part of town. You get the best of both worlds: the beach and downtown. The Marina is right across the street from the Gaslamp District, one of the most lively and diverse places in town. You can get the peace of the water and beach with the vibrancy of the city. I love walking around down there because there are so many options. It’s like being a kid in a candy store.

Consider just roaming around and looking through stores or at displayed restaurant menus. Stop at one of the many fun brunch places in downtown for a perfect start in the day. It’s a lot of fun and you’ll find yourself discovering or trying something you might not have otherwise. Wear some comfy shoes if you’re going to explore this area because there are a lot of hills around. But at least you get your cardio for the day.

Explore The Gaslamp, Marina, and Downtown Here

Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

333 West Harbor Drive, Marina, San Diego, 92101
Reserve Your Lounger by the Pool Here
4-Star Hotel| $$$ | Great Location | Accessible | Pool & Spa | Food Delivery
+1 (619) 234-1500

Now, I have never stayed at the Marquis but I have been inside and walked around. It’s gorgeous and luxurious. Along with super clean rooms, guests have access to WiFi, coffee and tea services, and all the other standard amenities at a luxurious level. In the summer, you can chill out poolside while you enjoy the pool services and the amazing staff serving you whatever you want. If that’s not enough, every room has a view, either of the city or the beautiful bay.

From the airport or train station, you can get to the hotel really easily. The Marquis is not even a quarter-mile from the nearest trolley station. It’s literally across the street. You also have easy access to the amazing restaurants and attractions in the Gaslamp Quarter.

Tags: Weddings, beachfront, great views, romantic getaway, resort, excellent service, shopping options

Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

1 Market Place, Marina, San Diego, 92101
Get The Best Deals on Your Marina Stay Here
4-Star Hotel | $$$$ | Pet-Friendly $ | Pool & Spa | Accessible
+1 (619) 232-1234

A short trip from the Sante Fe Depot trolley station, the Grand Hyatt eagerly awaits your arrival. Their stunning pool and cozy yet elegant atmosphere welcome you happily. The elegant aura of the hotel doesn’t take away from the luxury comfort provided with its amenities.

Guests of every shape, size, and species (that means your furry friends) can enjoy the beautiful views from their room. Not to mention the on-site restaurant that features stunning dishes daily and in-room massage sessions available. The multilingual employees make vacationing easy and the accessible nightlife makes it fun.

Tags: weddings, meetings, beachfront, on-site restaurant, pet-friendly, family-friendly

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown

601 Pacific Highway, Marina, San Diego, 92101
Reserve Your 3-Star Luxury Stay Here
3-Star Hotel | $$$ | Fast Check-In | Indoor Pool | Accessible | Pet-Friendly $
+1 (619) 239-2400

The reliable Hilton company provides its guests with complimentary breakfast, family-friendly packages, laundry facilities, a fitness center, a pool, and much more. If you aren’t satisfied with that then ask the lovely concierge about what activities are offered near the hotel. They’d be happy to help. This particular location is near the very heart of San Diego, the downtown area. There are plenty of things to do in and around the hotel so guests can feel free to roam.

Tags: family-friendly, pet-friendly, free breakfast, great location

Hilton San Diego Bayfront

1 Park Boulevard, Barrio Logan, San Diego, 92101
Book Your Beach Resort Room Here
4-Star Hotel | $$ | Fast Check-In | Stunning Pool |Pet-Friendly $
+1 (619) 564-3333

The Hilton is synonymous with a nice easy vacation. Their prices are hard to beat and usually, their locations are prime. This is particular Barrio Logan location is no different. Their amenities make for a comfortable stay and easy planning. There is something for every kind of visitor from kid activities and family rooms to the business center and fitness room. You’ll find all the necessities and desires for a great affordable vacation at the Hilton.

Tags: family-friendly, great location, great value, cheap but clean, big groups welcome, conference hotel

Hilton San Diego Airport/Harbor Island

1960 Harbor Island Drive, Midway District, San Diego, 92101
Book Your Ocean View Hotel Here
3-Star Hotel | $$ | Wonderful Staff | Fast Check-In |Pet-Friendly $
+1 (619) 291-6700

This hotel, like many other of the Hilton hotels, lives up to their reputation. Not only is it elegant but it’s affordable for almost every budget. Their rooms offer comfortable amenities but the location is probably the biggest amenity they have. It’s located incredibly close to the airport and all the best spots for foodies and nightcrawlers. This Hilton location is accessible, pet and family-friendly, and, of course, at easy access to the rest of the city.

Tags: excellent service, great location, cheap but clean, family-friendly, romantic getaway, fun with friends, pet-friendly, on-site restaurant

Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego Downtown

1747 Pacific Highway, Harborview, San Diego, 92101
Pick Your Favorite Downtown Room with an Ocean View Here
3-Star Hotel | $$$ | Free & Tasty Breakfast | Pet-Friendly $ | Accessible
+1 (619) 338-8200

The Residence Inn provides a relaxing smoke-free area for families, couples, and friends to enjoy. Being in the Downtown area, there are a lot of restaurants and activities to enjoy and explore.

The hotel itself goes out of its way to provide a comfortable stay with dedicated staff, large clean rooms, on-site laundry, and daily housekeeping. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. If you feel the need or desire for pampering then there is a beauty shop on site and the concierge can point you in the direction of a lovely nearby spa. Then they’ll be kind enough to ask, “Can I help you with anything else?”

Tags: family-friendly, excellent service, pet-friendly, free WiFi, complimentary breakfast

Best Western Plus Bayside Inn

555 West Ash Street, Little Italy, San Diego, 92101
Book Your Bayside Room Here
3-Star Hotel | $$ | Free & Tasty Breakfast | Accessible |Outdoor Pool
+1 (619) 233-7500

Best Western is known for some great deals on rooms and is usually one of the best options for a bang for your buck kind of situation. This location is in the Little Italy area of Downtown, where pretty much the whole section is dedicated to Italy. There are MANY Italian restaurants and some pretty awesome markets and dessert places. It’s a foodie paradise.

The hotel itself provides a heated pool, many comfortable in-room amenities, a full complimentary breakfast and much more. It’s not hard to find since it’s a short walk from the City Centre/Little Italy trolley station. Being so close to the trolley station makes the rest of the city super easy to access. You won’t really need an Uber or Lyft.

Tags: family-friendly, great location, complimentary breakfast, great views, excellent service, great value

WorldMark San Diego

1110 A Street, East Village, San Diego, 92101
Reserve a Luxurious Downtown Room Here
4-Star Hotel | $$$ | Great Location | Large Rooms | Valet Parking $
+1 (619) 795-4000

This awesome brick building may seem very humble but on the inside, it’s a beautifully elegant, 3-star downtown hotel. Each room is large and impressive. It’ll make you feel like you’re one of those people on House Hunters that has a weird carrier but can afford multi-million dollar houses. The view of downtown and the water is spectacular and visitors praise it as well as the employees who are dedicated to giving you a great stay.

It’s a short drive from the airport and a leisurely 10-minute walk from Balboa Stadium, the Gaslamp District, and the harbor. The private beach makes it all the more worth it as well as the rooftop terrace that overlooks the beautiful city of San Diego. You can actually feel like you’re living in the city while on vacation, it’s refreshing and delightful on tops of being in the Downtown area.

Tags: romantic getaway, family-friendly, great location, excellent service, amazing views,

Coronado Beachfront Hotels

Much like La Jolla, Coronado is a bit more upscale and boogie than everywhere else in San Diego. Many of the Coronado Hotels are luxurious and upscale, but you also find some cute little motels as well. It’s a little island you can get to by car over the bridge. For locals, it’s a treat to go there. It’s developed San Diego’s diversity but it has a charm of its own that needs to be explored in person to fully understand. I like to call it a city within a city. It’s up there with La Jolla as one of the most beautiful spots in town.

I would recommend walking or using Lyft/Uber to get to the Coronado beach because parking is a nightmare. On the bright side, not having to keep track of your car makes it easier to explore the area and get blissfully and strategically lost. Getting a little lost makes for some great discovery around this part of the city.

Explore Coronado On Foot Here

Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa

2000 Second Street, Coronado, San Diego, 92118
Book Your Island Room Here
4-Star Hotel | $$$$ | Great Location | Stunning Pool | Parking $
+1 (619) 435-3000

Marriot is a lovely chain that has proved to be pretty reliable quality-wise. However, Coronado is a prime location. Within San Diego, Coronado is a whole different beach world. You can walk on the boardwalk and discover your sea legs on boat tours and other elegant activities. While Coronado is considered a little boogie, the quality of service and beauty is worth it.

The hotel itself provides luxury accommodations like a fitness room, beauty center, and a view that is unlike any other in San Diego. The rest of the city is just a car ride away.

Tags: beachfront, family-friendly, great views, pool service

Hotel del Coronado Curio Collection by Hilton 

1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, San Diego, 92118
Book a Historical 5-Star Room Here
5-Star Hotel & Resort | $$$$ | Spa & Pool | Pet-Friendly $ | Parking $
+1 (619) 435-6611

Hotel Del Coronado is pretty renowned in the US. It’s recorded as one of the most haunted places in San Diego and its legend proceeds it. However, there is nothing to fear since any entity that resides there has no malicious intent.

The hotel itself is a very lovely stay too. Their 5-star accommodations are fit for royalty. Its elegance runs through every beautiful room equipped with a TV, in-room streaming, amazing skincare products, and even child-safe items. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Outside of your room, you can enjoy complimentary beach chairs, several ocean-view bars & restaurants, a literal famous Sunday brunch, full-service spa treatments, and much more. Ghosts aside, this hotel is like a dream come true. If you want one of the best beach resorts in San Diego, this is one of them.

Tags: family-friendly, romantic getaway, resort, beachfront, on-site restaurant, pet-friendly, wedding, conference, excellent service

Glorietta Bay Inn 

1630 Glorietta Boulevard, Coronado, San Diego, 92118
Reserve Your Bayside Room Here
3-Star Hotel | $$$ | Free & Tasty Breakfast | Parking $ | Pool & Spa
+1 (619) 435-3101

This elegant bayside hotel offers guests wonderful 3-star amenities, most of which are free. If you book a room, you get a complimentary breakfast, free WiFi, afternoon refreshments, bathroom amenities, and much more. Around the hotel, you can enjoy the poolside service, beach amenities, and for the families, you can even request a bedtime story for your kids. Glorietta goes above and beyond to make your stay comfortable.

Tags: romantic getaway, family-friendly, complimentary breakfast, close to attractions

Find more recommendation for Coronado Island Hotels here

Shelter Island – San Diego Waterfront Hotels

Shelter Island or La Playa holds a very special place in my heart. It’s a small island connected to the city. It’s so small that you could walk from one end to the other in less than a day. It has memorials for those who have fought for our country and is very peaceful.

I love it because I used to walk around the island with my grandparents when they came to visit. It always gave me peace of mind and serenity. There are a few restaurants on the island but above all else, this is a place to find peace and reflect.

Best Western PLUS Island Palms Hotel & Marina

2051 Shelter Island Drive, La Playa, San Diego, 92106
Book Your Island Getaway Here
3-Star Hotel | $$ | Great Location | Pool & Spa | Accessible
+1 (619) 222-0561

Yes, this is a chain hotel company but they provide some great accommodations to ensure a mess-free vacation. Their Shelter Island location in San Diego offers lovely views and comfortable 3-star amenities. There are rooms designed specifically for families as well as leisure activities like massages, jacuzzi access, and spa services.

The tropical resort feel of the hotel will make you want to stay in during your whole vacation. However, if you don’t feel like staying in to enjoy the amenities then you can explore Shelter Island. Walking around the small island is so refreshing and looking at the nearby monuments is humbling. You can even grab a bite to eat at Bali Hai, a Polynesian restaurant perfect for a quiet dinner.

Tags: on-site restaurant, family-friendly, romantic getaway, great views

Bay Club Hotel and Marina

2131 Shelter Island Drive, La Playa, San Diego, 92106
Reserve Your Marina View Room Here
3-Star Hotel | $$ | Accessible | Pool | Superb Dining
+1 (619) 224-8888

On a little San Deigo island that you can walk in about an hour and a half to two hours, the Bay Club offers lovely accommodations. Shelter Island is an itty bitty island with charm of its own. But the Club adds to the charm with its modern beachy vibe. Its charm extends to the amenities too.

Every guest can bask in the gorgeous water view from any room. They can also take advantage of discounts on tickets for San Diego attractions through the hotel. Along with the plethora of amenities, guests can indulge and treat themselves to the facilities on the island.

It’s also a real bang for your buck with the water so close and the nearby attractions within a short walking distance. There’s also the fact that they will willingly pamper you to your heart’s content.

Tags: romantic getaway, family-friendly, cheap but clean, excellent service

Humphreys Half Moon Inn

2303 Shelter Island Dr, La Playa, San Diego, 92106
Get Your Cozy Beach Room Here
3-Star Hotel | $$$ | Pool & Spa | Accessible | Rentals
+1 (619) 224-3411

I added this particular hotel for a couple of reasons. First of all, it has a very tropical boho feel to it that can really calm nerves. Second of all, the amenities and accommodations are quite plentiful. For example, each room gets crisp new bedding daily, gets have full access to the fitness room, pool, and renting bikes is free.

Third of all, Humphrey’s is close to all the big attractions in San Diego like SeaWorld, Balboa Park, and the San Diego Zoo. The fourth and final reason I chose this hotel is because my grandpa stays here every time he’s in town. He loves how friendly the staff is and the lengths they go to for veterans.

Tags: family-friendly, romantic getaway, great location, weddings, conferences

Kona Kai Resort & Spa a Noble House Resort

1551 Shelter Island Drive, La Playa, San Diego, 92106
Book A Resort Room Here
3-Star Hotel | $$$ | Stunning Pool & Spa| Pet-Friendly $ | Accessible
+1 (619) 221-8000

While looking over hotels and resorts, this one really stuck out to me because it’s not just pet-friendly but pet-loving. Their pet fee was a little lower than most of the other places and they’ve devised a full pampering program just for animals that includes beach beds, cleanup bags, water & food provided, special welcome treats, dog dining options, and special door tags for animal owners.

Right beside your furry friend, you can get pampered too. Their spa is a place where they promote the health of your mind, body, and soul. The pool is a great spot to sunbathe but the beach is amazing too. And at night, after eating at the on-site restaurant you can warm up by the firepits with the view of the city before you. This is by far, one of the best beach resorts in San Diego with the 4-star accommodations and amazingly comfortable amenities. Who would ever want to leave?

Tags: great locations, pet-friendly, romantic getaway, family-friendly, excellent service

A Few More Tips and Tricks for Your San Diego Trip

• If the room service or hotel restaurant menu is on the website, check those prices beforehand.
• When tipping, make sure to fill the whole tip line so they don’t have room to add ones and zeroes.
• Call ahead to make sure your reservation went through. Mistakes happen!
• If traveling by trolley alone, take the aisle seat.
• Before leaving your hotel room for any reason, double and triple-check for your room keys. I’ve forgotten mine too many times!
• Also before leaving, think KWP. Keys, wallet, phone. These are the basics but will get you out of any pinch.
• If you have ordered an Uber or Lyft, don’t ask them for their name. Check the license plate and/or wait for them to ask your name. Alternatively, ask them who they’re picking up.
• If you have the following: military I.D, AAA membership, AARP membership, student I.D, travel agent I.D, or credentials for airlines, trains, buses, and cruise lines, inquire about discounts. More often than not, they will have them.
• Please walk around! San Diego is the perfect city to explore on foot. If you walk around then you’ll find these hidden gems all around the city. The hidden spots are where the culture of San Diego comes alive.

AND That’s A Wrap!

Traveling for leisure can oftentimes be super stressful if you don’t know what you’re looking for and/or you don’t have help. Save yourself the stress and anxiety that trip planning can have. You have some great options for beach resorts in San Diego. So make sure you have a blast. Hopefully, this has helped you with your decisions and you can finally book your stay! Be smart, be safe, and most importantly, have fun!

And don’t forget to read more about the neighborhoods of San Diego here.

Best San Diego Beach Resorts – Pin for later:

Guide To The Best Beach Resorts in San Diego was written and edited by Hedge Metreyeon. For more San Diego Explorer posts, check out our homepage. For more of their articles visit here. Follow them on social media here.

Last Updated on February 15, 2024 by Maria Haase

The post 28 Fantastic Beach Resorts in San Diego [2024] appeared first on San Diego Explorer.