We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Destinations The 12 Best Hotels in San Diego Choose from our list of editor-loved properties and T+L award winners. By Alesandra Dubin Alesandra Dubin Alesandra Dubin is an LA-based lifestyle writer and editor. As a veteran digital journalist, she's covered travel, food, parenting, and more for over 15 years. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy, and countless other online and print outlets. An avid traveler, she often trots the globe with her husband and their twins. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter at @alicedubin. Alesandra holds a master's degree in journalism with an emphasis on cultural reporting and criticism from NYU, and a bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines Updated on March 27, 2024 Photo: Travel + Leisure / Hotel Coronado California’s second-largest city — and the eighth-largest in the country — San Diego is a sprawling metropolis with lodging options for every traveler. The urban center and its environs are home to wide-ranging accommodation options, from iconic hotels of historical and architectural significance to meandering beachside resort properties that beckon visitors with world-class golf and tennis. Ready to plan your next getaway in sunny San Diego? Read on to discover the best hotels and resorts in the region, from beachy retreats to walkable city stays. A Southern California-based and -bred travel writer, I curated this list with expert recommendations from Travel + Leisure editors, contributors, and readers, along with winners from our World’s Best Awards and It List. (Bonus: almost all the hotels on our list are pet-friendly, too). Kona Kai San Diego Kona Kai San Diego Book Now Also available to book at Hotels.com What We Like This intimate and unfussy hotel has a welcoming vibe, a private beach, and bikes for rent to explore the area. What to Consider Rooms may be noisy, and added costs (such as parking and a resort fee) can add up. This pet-friendly contemporary hotel located at one end of Shelter Island has easy access to a non-swimming private beach for bean bag tossing, sandcastles, and nightly bonfires (ask for a s'mores kit at the front desk). It features an adults-only pool and Zybra bikes (including helmets and locks) available to rent for two hours free of charge; the hotel is located in a super bike-friendly part of town, so it's a great way to explore. SpaTerre offers a unique alpha-quartz sand bed, plus a fitness center if you prefer to get your sweat on indoors. Kona Kai San Diego ranked in our World’s Best Awards in 2023. The Details: Neighborhood: Shelter IslandDistance from Airport: 3 milesNearby Attractions: The beach, USS Midway Museum, Liberty Public MarketAccessibility: Accessible guest rooms and most property featuresRates: Starting at $134Wi-Fi: Included in the $45 resort feeParking: Yes, $45 per nightPet Policy: Two dogs up to 65 pounds with a non-refundable pet charge of $100 for up to 3 nights or $150 up to 7 nights Pendry San Diego Pendry San Diego Book Now What We Like Pendry’s vibe and amenities are luxurious, stylish, and just plain cool, and its location can't be beat for access to Petco Park and the convention center. What to Consider Rates are steep, especially on peak dates, and extra fees like parking add up to a hefty folio. This luxury hotel located in the Gaslamp Quarter scored a place on our World’s Best Awards in 2023 and 2021. Situated just blocks away from the San Diego Convention Center, Petco Park, and a variety of restaurants and nightlife, the vibe here is cool and luxurious. There are 317 guest rooms including 36 suites, plus six restaurants and bars, a rooftop pool with private cabanas, a fitness center, and the full-service Spa Pendry. Rooms start at 350 square feet, and feature top-end linens from Fili D'Oro and views of the bay and downtown. The Details: Neighborhood: Gaslamp QuarterDistance from Airport: 3.6 milesNearby Attractions: Petco Park, Maritime Museum, Balboa ParkAccessibility: Accessible rooms and suitesRates: From $334Parking: Yes (valet only), $60 per nightPet Policy: Two dogs of any size for an additional fee of $100 per stay Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa Book Now What We Like This iconic property is comprised of standalone casitas and has posh resort amenities including a high-end spa, tennis, and excellent golf access. What to Consider The location is serene and sprawling, but not walkable or convenient to sightseeing attractions. Plus a hefty daily resort fee of $60 adds to the overall cost. This iconic Spanish Colonial Hacienda-inspired resort property in Rancho Santa Fe is long established and frequently awarded; it’s even ranked on our World’s Best Awards in 2023, 2022, and 2021. Here, there are 49 luxe guest casitas with their own patios and fireplaces, plus three opulent private residences, all situated across 45 acres of verdant gardens and citrus groves. Highlights include the Spa at Rancho Valencia, tennis and pickleball courts, easy access to golf, an array of resort activities on the daily schedule, and The Pony Room restaurant showcasing fresh and sustainable coastal ranch fare with outdoor dining. The Details: Neighborhood: Rancho Santa FeDistance from Airport: 18 milesNearby Attractions: Farms golf course, Hiking trails, Del Mar RacetrackAccessibility: Accessible rooms and public spacesRates: From $524Parking: Yes, valet only, includedPet Policy: A $250 pet fee applies to all pet reservations The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel The Guild Book Now What We Like This hotel is historically significant and well-located near Little Italy and the Gaslamp District. What to Consider Rooms are on the smaller side without abundant storage space. Downtown's century-old Armed Services Building houses this hotel, which blends historic and modern touches for a comfortable and well-located stay. Steps from Little Italy, the Bayfront, the USS Midway Museum, and near the Gaslamp District, the building features high ceilings, original tilework, and exposed brick walls with rooms that are sparse and chic. The Guild dishes up craft cocktails and Mediterranean cuisine. This hotel also featured on T+L’s World’s Best Awards in 2023. The Details: Neighborhood: Downtown San DiegoDistance from Airport: 1.8 milesNearby Attractions: Museum of Contemporary Art, Santa Fe Depot train station, Gaslamp QuarterAccessibility: Accessible rooms availableRates: From $135Parking: Yes, valet only, $56 per dayPet Policy: Pets permitted up to 40 pounds max per room (if you’re bringing more than one pet, that’s the combined total weight). A $250 cleaning fee applies to any rooms requiring extra pet cleanup at the end of the stay. Park Hyatt Aviara Hotels.com Book Now What We Like This property recently underwent a total overhaul; among the standout features are large, graciously appointed rooms and the Miraval Life in Balance Spa. What to Consider This family-friendly resort may not appeal as much to those traveling without kids who are seeking a serene stay. Sprawling over 200 green acres along the sea and adjacent to the natural wetland preserve Batiquitos Lagoon, this wellness-driven property offers adults-only and family pools, excellent tennis facilities, and Southern California’s only coastal Arnold Palmer signature golf course, Aviara Golf Club. The resort recently unveiled an updated look following a $60 million overhaul, in which it updated all of the public spaces and guest rooms and suites, and added new amenities such as a Topgolf Swing Suites and the recently debuted Miraval Life in Balance Spa Aviara. The Details: Neighborhood: CarlsbadDistance from Airport: 33 milesNearby Attractions: State beaches, Legoland California, Museum of Making MusicAccessibility: Accessible rooms availableRates: From $375Parking: Yes, $65 overnight or $55 day rate (valet only)Pet Policy: $150 per pet, per stay. Dogs may not exceed 50 pounds each or 75 pounds combined (up to two dogs per room). The US Grant, A Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego The US Grant Book Now What We Like This property dates back more than 100 years and radiates historic charm. What to Consider Although the rooms have been updated, they may feel dated, with underwhelming views from the windows. This century-old property located downtown near the lively Gaslamp Quarter exudes historic significance and charm; opened in 1910, it has hosted its share of presidents and dignitaries. Its on-site restaurant, Grant Grill and Lounge, dates back to 1951, with fleur de lis banquettes and mahogany wood details in an Art Deco setting; the space also hosts live music. Rooms here are stately and opulent. The Details: Neighborhood: Downtown San DiegoDistance from Airport: 2 milesNearby Attractions: Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego Symphony, USS Midway MuseumAccessibility: Accessible rooms and features, including elevatorsRates: From $303Parking: $60 per night (valet only)Pet Policy: $150 non-refundable pet fee required, maximum pet weight is 35 pounds. Hotel Del Coronado Hotel Del Coronado Book Now What We Like This sprawling resort with recognizable Victorian architecture is an icon with a storied history dating back to 1888. What to Consider The resort is currently undergoing renovations. This iconic Victorian-style hotel, now part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, has welcomed visitors for 135 years. The resort features five distinct neighborhoods; Beach Village and Shore House are the hottest places for a stay right now. On site are a full suite of amenities including a full-service spa, private pool cabanas, a retail collection, and an array of resort activities. The property is currently undergoing a massive $550 million restoration — a comprehensive five-year project. Among the exciting new additions slated to emerge in 2025 include a Nobu restaurant and the overhauled Victorian building. The Details: Neighborhood: Coronado IslandDistance from Airport: 3.7 milesNearby Attractions: The beach, Glorietta Bay MarinaAccessibility: Accessible rooms and resort featuresRates: From $314Wi-Fi: Included with $35 resort feeParking: Yes, $55 overnight for self-parking or $75 overnight for valetPet Policy: Pets weighing up to 40 pounds with a maximum of 2 per guest room and a non-refundable pet charge of $125 per stay The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe Book Now What We Like This intimate property recently debuted a luxurious overhaul. What to Consider This property is 20 miles from the airport and generally not walkable to other attractions; it’s useful to have a car. Set in Rancho Santa Fe in North County, The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe debuted a total property overhaul across its 11 lush acres in November 2023. The reimagined inn offers 85 luxurious suites, bungalows, and residences, plus Lilian’s restaurant and Bing’s Bar. In the first-ever hotel partnership from a celebrity-favorite spa owner and luxury skincare line founder, the property is also home to The Mila Moursi Spa at The Inn. Here, there’s also world-class golf, tennis, and other outdoor activities. Hollywood heavyweights known for stays here include Bing Crosby, Charlie Chaplin, Douglas Fairbanks, and Mary Pickford. The Details: Neighborhood: North CountyDistance from Airport: 20 milesNearby Attractions: Del Mar Race Track, San Diego Botanic Garden, Del Mar Dog BeachAccessibility: Accessible rooms availableRates: From $481Parking: Yes, valet and self-parking available ($25)Pet Policy: Two dogs up to 50 lbs for an additional fee of $125 per stay La Valencia La Valencia Book Now What We Like You can’t beat this prime La Jolla location, walkable to beaches, shopping, and restaurants; it’s one of La Jolla’s only hotels located within walking distance to both the beach and downtown. What to Consider The room sizing can feel cramped, and noise can be an issue. With a nearly century-long history, this recognizable hotel with a signature pink facade and Spanish-tiled tower, remains a landmark in La Jolla. Situated on distinctive Prospect Street, atop the bluffs with views of the ocean and La Jolla Cove, the location is prime for exploring beaches and local businesses. On site are the Mediterranean Room ocean-view restaurant as well as the La Sala Lounge and a Peloton-equipped fitness center. The Details: Neighborhood: La JollaDistance from Airport: 9.3 milesNearby Attractions: La Jolla Cove, La Jolla Caves, village of La JollaAccessibility: Accessible rooms and property featuresRates: From $242Wi-Fi: Included with $39 resort feeParking: Yes, valet ($30 overnight or $18 for the day)Pet Policy: Maximum of two pets per room with a fee of $50 per pet Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa Book Now What We Like With a location ideally situated for visitors to the University of California, San Diego, this recently renovated property is verdant and peaceful. What to Consider While we love the mission-style architecture of the property, the room design is a bit underwhelming in comparison. This La Jolla property recently completed a major renovation of its 210 guest rooms and suites, plus its multiple lawn spaces, and added a new apiary and chef’s garden. The sprawling property includes 10 acres of gardens, stone pathways, serene courtyards, and fountains. The hotel also features a full-service spa, a large pool deck and cabanas, wellness programs which include outdoor yoga and barre classes, and three on-site dining destinations. The Details: Neighborhood: La JollaDistance from Airport: 11 milesNearby Attractions: UC San Diego, Black’s Beach, La Jolla Cove, Torrey Pines State Reserve, Salk InstituteAccessibility: Accessible rooms and property featuresRates: From $257Parking: Yes, valet parking is available for $48 per night and self-parking at $40 per night for overnight guestsPet Policy: Any size or breed is welcome, $150 non-refundable pet fee required at check-in Alila Marea Beach Resort Alila Marea Book Now What We Like Most rooms in this tranquil oceanfront property feature views of the Pacific. What to Consider The hefty $55 resort fee does not include parking. This beachfront resort in the World of Hyatt portfolio has 130 guest rooms — and most of them feature Pacific Ocean views. The resort fee covers a range of properly appealing inclusions, such as transportation within a 3-mile radius, a daily yoga class, and rentals of e-bikes, surfboards, and wetsuits. First-floor fire pit rooms feature spacious patios with cozy seating for all-season enjoyment. The Details: Neighborhood: EncinitasDistance from Airport: 25 milesNearby Attractions: Ponto Beach, Encinitas Town, San Diego Botanic GardenAccessibility: Accessible rooms and most hotel featuresRates: From $497Wi-Fi: Included with the $55 daily resort feeParking: Yes, $60 per night (valet only)Pet Policy: No pets permitted. The Lodge at Torrey Pines Cory Bjork / The Lodge at Torrey Pines Book Now What We Like This charming property offers excellent access to golf, hiking, and other outdoor activities. What to Consider Some visitors noted aging finishes and rooms in need of updates. Set atop the cliffs of Torrey Pines State Beach in La Jolla, The Lodge offers views of the ocean as well as the Torrey Pines Golf Course. With its post-and-beam construction, The Lodge is modeled after Pasadena’s Gamble and Blacker houses, exemplary of early-1900s Craftsman architecture. Here there are 170 guest rooms and suites, as well as the 9,500-square-foot Spa at Torrey Pines. There’s also a croquet lawn, heated outdoor pool and cabanas, whirlpool, and terrace with chaises, plus access to hiking at the state reserve and golf at the iconic 36-hole course that hosts the PGA Tour’s annual Farmers Insurance Open. The Details: Neighborhood: La JollaDistance from Airport: 15 milesNearby Attractions: Del Mar Race Track, Scripps Aquarium, La Jolla Playhouse, Torrey Pines Golf CourseAccessibility: Accessible rooms availableRates: From $422Parking: Yes, self-parking ($55 per day) or 24-hour valet service ($65 per day)Pet Policy: One dog weighing 50 pounds or less, or two smaller dogs (with a combined weight of 75 pounds or less) are permitted; a non-refundable room cleaning fee of $150 on the day of check-in is required. Know Before You Go Don’t expect beach weather year-round While San Diego is much warmer than most of the country during the winter months, it still may not be warm enough for lounging at the beach — think daytime temperatures in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit — so plan for some non-beach activities if you’re traveling in cooler months. That said, even January surprises with the occasional beach day. Layers are always a good idea. Consider renting a car While the downtown area is very walkable, San Diego is a sprawling and spread-out city where many residents rely on cars. If you’re looking to go hiking or explore other parts of the county, you may want to have your own car for easier access. Do expect traffic, and build it into your timeline planning. What’s the best way to get to San Diego? San Diego International Airport (SAN) is conveniently located near the city’s downtown, and its manageable scale makes arriving and departing relatively sane. If you’re coming from elsewhere in California, Amtrak’s Surfliner is one of the country’s most scenic routes. It travels over 350 miles along the coast between San Luis Obispo to the north and San Diego to the south. If you’re arriving by car, the major freeways into the city include the 5, 8, and 15. How We Chose These Hotels Alesandra Dubin is a travel and lifestyle journalist currently based in and also raised in Southern California. The hotels on this list were chosen based on her expertise and research as well as the firsthand accounts of Travel + Leisure editors and other contributors. Many of these hotels have also been voted into their respective categories in the World’s Best Awards by T+L readers. All of our hotel recommendations also align with our T+L Hotel Values. Edited by Sophie Mendel Sophie Mendel Sophie Mendel is a Commerce Editor at Travel + Leisure with Dotdash Meredith where she assigns, edits and publishes the product reviews and recommendations that help guide travelers toward the best shoes, apparel and accessories for their needs. Sophie has traveled to 50 countries and has lived in five, and is bilingual in English and Spanish. She has more than five years of experience as a writer, editor and copywriter. learn more