The 13 Best Hotels in San Diego, California

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures 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

Aerial view of the Bahia Resort Hotel and surrounding water (left) and view from a room at the Bahia Resort Hotel overlooking the water (right)

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.

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.)

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.

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.

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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