The 12 Finest Hotels in San Diego

Kona Kai San Diego Resort

This pet-friendly modern hotel, located at one end of Shelter Island, offers easy access to a non-swimming private beach perfect for bean bag tossing, building sandcastles, and enjoying evening bonfires (don't forget to request a s'mores kit at the front desk).

The hotel boasts an adults-only pool and Zybra bikes (complete with helmets and locks) available for two hours at no cost; situated in a bike-friendly area, it's a fantastic way to explore the surroundings. SpaTerre features a distinctive alpha-quartz sand bed, along with a fitness center for those who prefer indoor workouts. Kona Kai San Diego was recognized in our World’s Best Awards in 2023.

Key Information:

• Location: Shelter Island
• Distance to Airport: 3 miles
• Nearby Attractions: The beach, USS Midway Museum, Liberty Public Market
• Accessibility: Accessible guest rooms and most hotel features
• Rates: Starting at $134
• Wi-Fi: Included in the $45 resort fee
• Parking: Yes, $45 per night
• Pet Policy: Two dogs up to 65 pounds allowed with a non-refundable pet fee of $100 for up to 3 nights or $150 for up to 7 nights

Pendry San Diego Hotel

This upscale hotel located in the Gaslamp Quarter earned recognition in our World’s Best Awards in both 2023 and 2021. Just a few blocks from the San Diego Convention Center, Petco Park, and numerous dining and nightlife options, the atmosphere here is both chic and luxurious. Featuring 317 guest rooms, including 36 suites, 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 come with premium Fili D'Oro linens and stunning views of the bay and downtown.

Key Information:

• Location: Gaslamp Quarter
• Distance to Airport: 3.6 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Petco Park, Maritime Museum, Balboa Park
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and suites available
• Rates: Starting at $334
• Parking: Yes (valet only), $60 per night
• Pet Policy: Two dogs of any size welcome for an additional fee of $100 per stay

Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa

This renowned Spanish Colonial Hacienda-style resort in Rancho Santa Fe is well-established and often celebrated; it was named the no. 2 resort in California in our 2024 World's Best Awards, and has consistently ranked in our 2023, 2022, and 2021 editions. The property features 49 luxurious guest casitas, each with private patios and fireplaces, spread across 45 acres of lush gardens and citrus groves.

Highlights include the Spa at Rancho Valencia, tennis and pickleball courts, convenient golf access, a variety of daily resort activities, and The Pony Room restaurant, which offers fresh and sustainable coastal ranch cuisine with outdoor seating.

Key Information: 

• Location: Rancho Santa Fe
• Distance to Airport: 18 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Farms golf course, hiking trails, Del Mar Racetrack
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and public areas available
• Rates: Starting at $524
• Parking: Yes, valet only, complimentary
• Pet Policy: A $250 pet fee applies to all pet reservations

The Guild Hotel, San Diego, part of the Tribute Portfolio

Housed in the century-old Armed Services Building, this hotel seamlessly combines historic charm with modern amenities for a comfortable and conveniently located stay. Just steps away from Little Italy, the Bayfront, the USS Midway Museum, and close to the Gaslamp District, the property features soaring ceilings, original tilework, and exposed brick walls, with rooms that are minimalist yet stylish. The Guild serves up craft cocktails and Mediterranean dishes. This hotel was also recognized in T+L’s World’s Best Awards in 2023.

Key Information:

• Location: Downtown San Diego
• Distance to Airport: 1.8 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Museum of Contemporary Art, Santa Fe Depot train station, Gaslamp Quarter
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms available
• Rates: Starting at $135
• Parking: Yes, valet only, $56 per day
• Pet Policy: Pets up to 40 pounds allowed per room (combined weight for multiple pets). A $250 cleaning fee applies for rooms needing extra pet cleanup at checkout.

Park Hyatt Aviara

Set across 200 lush acres by the sea and next to the Batiquitos Lagoon wetland preserve, this wellness-focused resort features both adults-only and family pools, top-notch tennis facilities, and Southern California’s exclusive coastal Arnold Palmer signature golf course, Aviara Golf Club.

Following a $60 million renovation, the resort has refreshed all public areas and guest rooms and introduced new amenities like Topgolf Swing Suites and the newly opened Miraval Life in Balance Spa Aviara. It was recognized by T+L readers as the 13th best hotel in California in our 2024 World's Best Awards.

Key Information:

• Location: Carlsbad
• Distance to Airport: 33 miles
• Nearby Attractions: State beaches, Legoland California, Museum of Making Music
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms available
• Rates: Starting at $375
• Parking: Yes, $65 for overnight or $55 for day valet service only
• Pet Policy: $150 fee per pet, per stay. Dogs cannot exceed 50 pounds each or 75 pounds total (maximum of two dogs per room).

The US Grant, A Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego

This historic building, established over a century ago in downtown near the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter, has welcomed many presidents and dignitaries since its opening in 1910. Its restaurant, Grant Grill and Lounge, has been a staple since 1951, featuring elegant fleur de lis banquettes and rich mahogany details in an Art Deco ambiance, along with live music. The guest rooms here are grand and luxurious.

Key Information:

• Location: Downtown San Diego
• Distance to Airport: 2 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego Symphony, USS Midway Museum
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and facilities, including elevators
• Rates: Starting at $303
• Parking: $60 per night (valet service only)
• Pet Policy: A non-refundable pet fee of $150 applies, with a maximum pet weight limit of 35 pounds.

Hotel Del Coronado

This legendary Victorian-style hotel, now part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, has been a destination for visitors for 135 years. The resort comprises five unique neighborhoods, with Beach Village and Shore House being the most sought-after stays at the moment. It boasts an extensive range of amenities, including a full-service spa, private pool cabanas, a retail collection, and various resort activities.

The property is undergoing a significant $550 million restoration — a comprehensive five-year endeavor. Exciting new features set to debut in 2025 include a Nobu restaurant and the revitalized Victorian building.

The Details:

• Neighborhood: Coronado Island
• Distance from Airport: 3.7 miles
• Nearby Attractions: The beach, Glorietta Bay Marina
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and resort amenities
• Rates: Starting at $314
• Wi-Fi: Included with a $35 resort fee
• Parking: Yes, $55 for self-parking or $75 for valet overnight
• Pet Policy: Pets up to 40 pounds allowed, with a maximum of 2 per room and a non-refundable fee of $125 per stay

The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe

Nestled in Rancho Santa Fe, The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe unveiled a complete property transformation across its 11 beautifully landscaped acres in November 2023. The refreshed inn features 85 luxurious suites, bungalows, and residences, along with Lilian’s restaurant and Bing’s Bar.

In a groundbreaking collaboration between a beloved spa owner and a luxury skincare brand founder, this property features The Mila Moursi Spa at The Inn. It also boasts premier golf, tennis, and a variety of outdoor activities. Notable Hollywood legends like Bing Crosby, Charlie Chaplin, Douglas Fairbanks, and Mary Pickford have enjoyed stays here.

The Details:

• Neighborhood: North County
• Distance from Airport: 20 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Del Mar Race Track, San Diego Botanic Garden, Del Mar Dog Beach
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms available
• Rates: Starting at $481
• Parking: Available, with valet and self-parking options ($25)
• Pet Policy: Two dogs up to 50 lbs for an additional fee of $125 per stay

La Valencia

Boasting a history of nearly a century, this iconic hotel with its signature pink exterior and Spanish-tiled tower stands as a landmark in La Jolla. Perched on the scenic Prospect Street, it offers stunning views of the ocean and La Jolla Cove, perfect for exploring local beaches and shops. Amenities include the ocean-view Mediterranean Room restaurant, the La Sala Lounge, and a fitness center equipped with Peloton bikes.

The Details:

• Neighborhood: La Jolla
• Distance from Airport: 9.3 miles
• Nearby Attractions: La Jolla Cove, La Jolla Caves, La Jolla Village
• Accessibility: Accessible accommodations and facilities
• Rates: Starting at $242
• Wi-Fi: Available with a $39 resort fee
• Parking: Valet service available ($30 overnight or $18 for the day)
• Pet Policy: Up to two pets allowed per room, with a fee of $50 per pet

Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa

This La Jolla hotel has just finished a significant renovation of its 210 guest rooms and suites, as well as its expansive lawn areas, and introduced a new apiary and chef’s garden. The extensive grounds feature 10 acres of gardens, winding stone paths, peaceful courtyards, and soothing fountains. Amenities include a full-service spa, a spacious pool area with cabanas, wellness programs such as outdoor yoga and barre classes, and three dining options on-site.

The Details:

• Neighborhood: La Jolla
• Distance from Airport: 11 miles
• Nearby Attractions: UC San Diego, Black’s Beach, La Jolla Cove, Torrey Pines State Reserve, Salk Institute
• Accessibility: Accessible accommodations and features available
• Rates: Starting at $257
• Parking: Valet parking is available for $48 per night; self-parking for overnight guests is $40 per night
• Pet Policy: All sizes and breeds are welcome with a non-refundable pet fee of $150 due at check-in

Alila Marea Beach Resort

This oceanfront resort, part of the World of Hyatt collection, features 130 guest rooms, most of which offer spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. The resort fee includes various appealing perks such as transportation within a 3-mile radius, daily yoga sessions, and rentals for e-bikes, surfboards, and wetsuits. First-floor rooms with fire pits provide spacious patios designed for year-round relaxation.

The Details:

• Neighborhood: Encinitas
• Distance from Airport: 25 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Ponto Beach, Encinitas Town, San Diego Botanic Garden
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and most hotel features available
• Rates: Starting at $497
• Wi-Fi: Included with the $55 daily resort fee
• Parking: Valet only at $60 per night
• Pet Policy: Pets are not allowed.

The Lodge at Torrey Pines

Perched on the cliffs of Torrey Pines State Beach in La Jolla, The Lodge boasts stunning views of both the ocean and the Torrey Pines Golf Course. Its design features post-and-beam architecture inspired by the early 1900s Craftsman style, akin to Pasadena’s Gamble and Blacker houses.

The Lodge comprises 170 guest rooms and suites, along with the expansive 9,500-square-foot Spa at Torrey Pines. Additional amenities include a croquet lawn, a heated outdoor pool with cabanas, a whirlpool, and a terrace equipped with lounge chairs, plus access to hiking trails in the state reserve and golfing at the renowned 36-hole course that hosts the PGA Tour’s annual Farmers Insurance Open.

The Details:

• Neighborhood: La Jolla
• Distance from Airport: 15 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Del Mar Race Track, Scripps Aquarium, La Jolla Playhouse, Torrey Pines Golf Course
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms available
• Rates: Starting at $422
• Parking: Yes, options include self-parking for $55 per day or 24-hour valet service for $65 per day
• Pet Policy: One dog under 50 pounds or two smaller dogs (with a combined weight of 75 pounds or less) are allowed; a non-refundable cleaning fee of $150 is required at check-in.

Important Information

Be prepared for varying beach weather

Although San Diego enjoys warmer winters compared to much of the country, it may still be too cool for beach lounging, with daytime temperatures typically in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit. If you're visiting during cooler months, consider planning some non-beach activities. Nevertheless, January can surprise you with an occasional sunny beach day, so layering your clothing is advisable.

Renting a car is a good option

Though downtown is quite walkable, San Diego is a vast city where many locals depend on their cars. If you plan to hike or visit other areas in the county, having your own vehicle will make getting around much easier. Be prepared for traffic and factor it into your timeline planning.

What’s the best way to get to San Diego?

San Diego International Airport (SAN) is conveniently located near downtown, making arrivals and departures relatively hassle-free. If you're coming from another part of California, consider taking Amtrak’s Surfliner, which is one of the most scenic train journeys in the U.S., covering over 350 miles along the coast from San Luis Obispo to San Diego. For those driving, the main freeways leading into the city are the 5, 8, and 15.

How We Selected These Hotels

Alesandra Dubin is a travel and lifestyle journalist who has both lived and grown up in Southern California. The hotels featured here were selected based on her expertise, research, and the firsthand experiences of Dinogo editors and contributors. Many have also received votes in their categories in the World’s Best Awards from T+L readers, aligning with our T+L Hotel Values.