Dinogo Readers' Top 3 Hotels in San Diego for 2023

San Diego stands as California’s second-largest city, offering a unique coastal charm that sets it apart from other urban areas in the Golden State. With nearly 1.5 million residents, it still maintains a laid-back atmosphere. Picture sipping coffee in La Jolla and then relaxing on the sandy shores of Marine Street Beach, creating a vibe reminiscent of a quaint seaside village. For those seeking vibrant nightlife, downtown beckons with its lively bars and restaurants, especially in the historic Gaslamp Quarter. Meanwhile, neighborhoods like North Park present a cozy feel, filled with coffee shops, taco stands, and breweries that invite repeat visits. San Diego is brimming with entertainment options for travelers who know what to seek and where to stay. Rest assured, the city boasts an abundance of fantastic hotels in San Diego.

Understanding the Voting Process

Each year, during our World's Best Awards survey, T+L reaches out to readers to gather their insights on travel experiences worldwide—inviting them to voice their opinions on top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and much more. In 2023, nearly 165,000 T+L readers participated, reflecting a 25 percent rise compared to pre-pandemic voting. Over 685,000 votes were cast across more than 8,500 distinct properties (including hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

Hotels were categorized as resort hotels, city hotels, or safari lodges based on their locations and amenities. They were evaluated specifically on the criteria listed below:

Room quality/amenities
Proximity
Staff assistance
Culinary offerings
Cost-effectiveness

Respondents rated each feature as excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores reflect the average of these ratings.

Highlights from Readers

T+L readers are fans of San Diego's vibrant downtown waterfront, particularly praising Intercontinental San Diego. Located just across from Broadway Pier, this hotel is noted for its “exceptional rooms and excellent service.” Voters have labeled this second-ranked property as being in the “ideal spot” and the “top choice for pre-cruise stays.” Regardless of which winning hotel you decide to book, you'll be mere steps away from Petco Park, The New Children’s Museum, and the lively Gaslamp Quarter.

The Champion

Pendry San Diego

Image courtesy of Pendry San Diego

This top-rated hotel marked the launch of Pendry in 2017, showcasing the brand's core principles: refined, contemporary design, outstanding service, and a strong local identity. The 317-room hotel features accommodations that radiate coastal elegance with wooden decor and blue accents, all situated in the vibrant heart of downtown, where energy pulses late into the night. Inside, the atmosphere is lively; Fifth & Rose serves expertly crafted cocktails in a dazzling lobby corner and has a street entrance that invites locals to join the fun. The onsite beer hall offers vintage games, TVs for sports fans, and a selection of local brews.