San Diego is a California hotspot best-known for its year-round sunshine, picturesque beaches and the San Diego Zoo, but scratch under its bronzed-skin surface and you’ll discover a burgeoning craft beer scene, thriving nightlife and array of scenic hikes found along its postcard-worthy coast. Pack your favourite flip-flops and board shorts and head to “America’s Finest City”, whether for a family holiday or romantic getaway.
With over 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve explored this cool surf town and found the best luxury resorts offering gourmet restaurants, lavish spas and chic bars. These heavenly hideaways also have easy access to the city’s championship golf courses, museums and art galleries.
Fairmont Grand Del Mar
Set on 161 hectares of a pristine coastal canyon, Fairmont Grand Del Mar embodies the charm of an old-world Mediterranean estate. Rooms feature golf course or Los Penasquitos Canyon views, flat-screen TVs and soaking tubs, while Suites add separate living spaces. For a personal butler, full kitchen and outdoor Jacuzzi, splurge for the three-bedroom Villa Brisa.
Practise your swing on the Tom Fazio-designed golf course or get pampered in the luxury spa. Pools, tennis courts and yoga classes are also available. Visit Addison restaurant for Michelin-star cuisine or enjoy the Grand Afternoon Tea in the Library. Ready for a coastal stroll? Drive to nearby Torrey Pines State Beach.
Hotel Highlights
- The spa’s restorative massages, facials, body wraps and beauty services.
- A Tom Fazio-designed golf course backed by Los Penasquitos Canyon.
- Live music, guest DJs and creative cocktails at Club M.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 502 – USD 2,679
Guest Rating: 9.9
Address: 5300 Grand Del Mar Court, Carmel Valley, San Diego, United States
Pendry San Diego
Pendry San Diego is in the heart of the Historic Gaslamp Quarter, near dozens of bars and eateries, nightlife and shopping. Enjoy San Diego bay and downtown views in a Superior Room, which also features a king-size bed and ocean-inspired colour palette, or upgrade to a Grand Suite for a separate living room and 180-degree views of the bay.
Foodies are spoilt for choice, from modern coastal cuisine at Lionfish to Southern California-driven seasonal fare at Provisional. Afterwards, sip cocktails at the elegant Fifth & Rose or local craft beer at Nason’s Beer Hall, which also has a Tailgate Brunch and Taco Tuesday.
Hotel Highlights
- The spa’s rooftop pool, fitness centre and massage and beauty treatments.
- VIP tables and a craft cocktail menu at Oxford Social Club.
- A few blocks from the San Diego Convention Center and Petco Park.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 323 – USD 1,298
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: 550 J Street, Downtown San Diego, San Diego, United States
The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Dating back to 1910, The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel is three kilometres from the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park. Let your cares melt away at the luxury spa or enjoy a glass of Chablis at Rendezvous, while Grant Grill serves seasonal dishes in an Art Deco setting.
Rooms are adorned with modern art and include plush pillow-top beds and marble bathrooms with soaking tubs, while Suites add separate living spaces. For top-floor downtown San Diego views and a spacious bar, upgrade to the opulent Penthouse Suite.
Hotel Highlights
- French-inspired decor with handcrafted cocktails and French wine at Rendezvous.
- Seasonal dishes crafted from California produce and Pacific seafood at Grant Grill.
- The on-site Bivouac Ballroom was once a Prohibition-era speakeasy.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 169 – USD 1,116
Guest Rating: 9
Address: 326 Broadway, Horton Plaza, Downtown San Diego, California, San Diego, United States
L’Auberge Del Mar Resort and Spa
Located in the heart of Del Mar, L’Auberge Del Mar Resort and Spa features rooms with village, garden or coastal views. The romantic abodes also include flat-screen TVs, mini fridges and sitting areas, while Coastal King Fireplace rooms add marble fireplaces. To wake up to ocean views, stay in a Pacific Suite.
Hotelscombined visitors rave about the Pacific Ocean views and sustainably-sourced cuisine at Coastline, as well as the cool libations at Bleu Bar. Unwind at Spa L’Auberge, a top spa in the United States with a selection of massages, body wraps and facials.
Hotel Highlights
- Plush couches and local musicians at The Living Room.
- The large living room, fireplace and three balconies with coastal views in the Del Mar Suite.
- A five-minute drive from the Del Mar Racetrack.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 321 – USD 1,504
Guest Rating: 8.3
Address: 1540 Camino, Del Mar, California, United States
Kimpton Hotel Palomar San Diego
Located in the trendy Gaslamp Quarter, Kimpton Hotel Palomar San Diego is a boutique property with a rooftop pool and on-site Mexican restaurant with a late-night taco window. If that’s not enough, the hotel also has in-room spa services and bikes for cruising around town.
Airy rooms feature spacious work areas with writing desks, walk-in rainforest showers, flat-screen TVs and yoga mats, while the Skyline Corner Studio Balcony King adds a furnished balcony with city views. Celebrating something special? The Spa Suite boasts an oversized soaking tub, separate seating area and a furnished balcony.
Hotel Highlights
- Mexican street food, a margarita menu and ceviche bar at Curadero.
- A rooftop Level Four Pool Deck and Lounge with a pool and cocktail menu.
- A hangout space with vintage arcade games, foosball and pool tables in Arriba Room.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 268 – USD 1,243
Guest Rating: 8.3
Address: 1047 5Th Avenue, Core-Columbia, San Diego, United States
Hotel del Coronado
You can’t miss the iconic Hotel del Coronado, as it’s housed in a grand 1888 Victorian property on the beach. Rooms boast flat-screen TVs, mini fridges and Wi-Fi, while Suites add extra bedrooms and ocean-view balconies. Family Suites are also available with kids’ rooms and toys.
This 5-star hotel has got it all, from a luxury spa with ocean-inspired treatments and swimming pool to several ocean-view restaurants and bars, including a pizzeria, beach taco shack and a gourmet food truck next to Del Beach. For a Prime Tomahawk carved tableside, head to Sheerwater restaurant.
Hotel Highlights
- Yellowfin tuna poke bowls and a bicycle blender with Peach-Mango slushy cocktails at On the Rocks.
- The ocean-inspired kids’ bedroom with bunk beds, bean bag chairs and video games in the Victorian Family Suite.
- Live music, seafood platters and classic cocktails at Babcock & Story Bar.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 283 – USD 2,320
Guest Rating: 8.1
Address: 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, San Diego, United States
Omni San Diego
Connected to Petco Park baseball stadium via a skywalk, Omni San Diego boasts an outdoor terrace with a pool, hot tub, fireplace and tanning deck. Sunbathe and enjoy poolside cuisine at Palm Terrace or indulge in fresh seafood or prime steaks at the refined McCormick & Schmicks.
Unwind after a day of adventure in one of the contemporary-style rooms, which offer San Diego Bay, downtown skyline or Petco Park views. Rest easy on the pillow-top mattress, watch a movie on your LED TV and catch up with emails with complimentary Wi-Fi and a work desk.
Hotel Highlights
- A coffee, craft beer and wine bar at Zumbido.
- Iconic baseball memorabilia displayed on the 1st, 4th, 5th and 6th floors.
- A five-minute drive from the USS Midway Museum.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 174 – USD 681
Guest Rating: 9
Address: 675 L Street, East Village, San Diego, United States
Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina
Overlooking San Diego Bay, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina is a waterfront hotel with a private marina. Rooms boast reading chairs and flat-screen TVs and some also include private balconies. Upgrade to a Concierge-level room for Lounge perks, including free breakfast.
Swim in one of the outdoor pools or visit the poolside Tequila Bar & Grille for Baja Mexican cuisine. Marina Kitchen Restaurant & Bar serves American comfort food favourites, while Roy’s has fresh seafood and sushi rolls. Afterwards, book a massage in a poolside cabana or at The Hideaway spa.
Hotel Highlights
- One of the largest tequila menus in the world at Tequila Bar & Grille.
- Every room and suite overlooks the city, San Diego Bay or the Pacific Ocean.
- A five-minute drive from the shops, eateries and outdoor entertainment at Seaport Village.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 191 – USD 1,560
Guest Rating: 9
Address: 333 West Harbor Drive, Marina, San Diego, United States
The Westgate Hotel
The elegant Westgate Hotel is where French elegance meets San Diego hospitality, particularly at its fine-dining restaurant, Westgate Room, known for gourmet French-inspired cuisine. Treat yourself to Sunday Brunch at the prestigious Fontainebleau Room or relax at the rooftop pool and hot tub or in the day spa.
Large rooms feature floor-to-ceiling views of downtown San Diego, step-out balconies and flat-screen TVs, while Premier Rooms boast higher-level views between the 11th and 18th floors. Live like royalty in a Suite, which features palatial living spaces, opulent decor and a private terrace.
Hotel Highlights
- Club chairs, live music and cocktails at Plaza Bar.
- Hosts Sunday Brunch, live music in Plaza Bar and outdoor Yoga and Mimosas.
- Only a five-minute walk from the San Diego Civic Theatre.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 148 – USD 326
Guest Rating: 9
Address: 1055 Second Avenue, Core-Columbia, San Diego, United States
Rancho Bernardo Inn
Rancho Bernardo Inn is a Spanish-style resort with spacious rooms and suites that include a private balcony or patio. Families can take advantage of the two queen-size beds in the Terraza Two Queen Beds or upgrade to a three-bedroom Presidential Suite with a living area, Keurig machine and outdoor patio with a fireplace.
Swim in one of the pools, visit the spa or indulge in seasonal dishes at Avant restaurant or Mediterranean cuisine at Veranda. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at the championship golf course, while vino lovers can visit Bernando Winery, only a five-minute drive away.
Hotel Highlights
- Multiple pools, including the spa’s saline pool, a family-friendly pool and adults-only pool.
- Family fun activities for the kids, including in-room “S’mores & Snores” camping.
- The spa’s private cabanas, massages and skincare treatments.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 211 – USD 386
Guest Rating: 8.8
Address: 17550 Bernardo Oaks Drive, Rancho Bernardo, San Diego, United States
Loews Coronado Bay Resort
Perched on a six-hectare peninsula, Loews Coronado Bay Resort boasts three heated pools, a hot tub spa and dry sauna. Tempt your taste buds with Southern California coastal cuisine at Crown Landing, then visit Cays Lounge to enjoy signature cocktails and local craft brews by the fire pit or hit the beach for a jet ski, sailboat or kayak excursion.
Rooms are adorned with island-chic decor and include flat-screen TVs, coffee makers and views of the Pacific Ocean, Coronado Bay or pool. Suites add private balconies and living areas, while the Presidential Suite includes a Peloton bike, fireplace and baby grand piano.
Hotel Highlights
- The spa’s indoor/outdoor treatment rooms, Jacuzzi and beauty salon.
- A family pool, adults-only pool, Pool Concierge and fun poolside activities.
- Complimentary shuttle service to Silver Strand State Beach and downtown Coronado Village.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 252 – USD 613
Guest Rating: 8.8
Address: 4000 Coronado Bay Road, Coronado, San Diego, United States
La Valencia Hotel
La Valencia Hotel embodies Hollywood glamour with its signature pink exterior. The “Pink Lady” has been delighting guests since 1926 and boasts an ocean-view pool, saltwater spa and signature restaurant, The Med, which pairs fresh-caught seafood with Pacific Ocean views.
Travel to a bygone era in the chic Vintage rooms, where king-size beds, Euro-style bathrooms and honour mini bars highlight the Old Hollywood-style. Luxury abounds in the Villa King Suite Ocean, which has a spa tub, separate parlour with club chairs, a fireplace and a furnished balcony.
Hotel Highlights
- Fresh catch-of-the-day and brunch specials, such as Spiny Lobster Benedict, at The Med.
- An ocean-view outdoor pool with poolside dining and drinks.
- The 180-degree ocean views and open living and dining area with large wet bar in the ICON Sky Suite.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 379 – USD 964
Guest Rating: 8.8
Address: 1132 Prospect Street, La Jolla, San Diego, United States
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego features the brand’s typical rock ’n’ rock-themed decor along with decked-out studios and suites. Elite Float Studios feature a king-size bed and private patio, while Suites boast a separate lounge area with a mini bar and HD TV.
Take advantage of the rooftop pool, which features private poolside cabanas and a rooftop bar. On-site dining is highlighted by sushi and celebrity sightings at Nobu and American-style favourites at Maryjane’s Diner. Don’t forget to pick up music memorabilia at the Rock Shop.
Hotel Highlights
- A rooftop pool with private cabanas and a lively party scene at night.
- The outdoor terrace and lounge at 207 and rooftop views from Float.
- A large living room with an entertainment centre and private terrace overlooking the city in the VIP Rock Star Suites.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 173 – USD 443
Guest Rating: 8.8
Address: 207 5th Avenue, Downtown San Diego, San Diego, United States
Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa
Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa offers a tropical escape, as the Polynesian-themed resort is surrounded by palm trees, tiki torches and koi ponds. The entry-level Garden Room features one king or two queen-size beds, a mini fridge and flat-screen TV, while Tower Rooms add balconies or patios overlooking Mission Bay. You can also upgrade to a Studio for a dining area and kitchenette.
Sunbathe at the beach or relax by the pool, then rejuvenate in the hot tub overlooking the bay or join a paddleboarding excursion. Book an 80-minute signature massage at the spa, then visit Oceana Coastal Kitchen for California cuisine and panoramic Mission Bay views.
Hotel Highlights
- Direct access to Mission Bay’s beach and boardwalk in a Bay Front Suite.
- Craft beer, cocktails and share plates at the tropical-themed Morays.
- A 15-minute drive from San Diego International Airport.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 164 – USD 333
Guest Rating: 8.6
Address: 3999 Mission Boulevard, Mission Beach, California, San Diego, United States
Hotel Location
Learn more about San Diego’s neighbourhood: Where to Stay in San Diego: Best Areas & Hotels from $90
Coastal Scenery Meets California Cool at San Diego’s Luxury Resorts
The sun-drenched city of San Diego is one of California’s crown jewels, where adventurers and sun-seekers enjoy beautiful beaches, seaside strolls and delectable Mexican cuisine. Add a dose of luxury to your West Coast itinerary by staying at one of these top San Diego resorts, which typically offer lavish spa treatments, Southern California-inspired cuisine and rooms with city or ocean views.
Where do you want to stay in San Diego? Let us know in the comments below.
