From its miles and miles of gorgeous coast line to its eclectic array of friendly communities, San Diego is one of the country’s most visited cities and deemed America’s Finest City. A vacation here will treat you to many unforgettable experiences, including historic sights, natural attractions and outdoor fun for people of all ages. To help you plan your visit, here’s a guide to the top places to stay in the area.
Mission Valley Neighborhood
Enjoy a complimentary delicious breakfast before you head out to explore sunny San Diego at this family-friendly hotel located near many of the most popular attractions. Here, you’ll enjoy a pool and hot tub, complimentary Wi-Fi and your choice of comfortable guest rooms and suites including family suites with two bedrooms.
Comfort and luxury come together in this modern hotel located in San Diego’s well-known Hotel Circle in Mission Valley. Everything you need to relax and unwind after a day of adventure and discovery is here, including spacious rooms and suites, complimentary hot breakfast buffet, a fitness center and refreshing pool.
Also in the Hotel Circle, Extended Stay America offers all the comforts of home, including a fully-equipped kitchen, spacious bedrooms, a swimming pool, laundry services and more. Grab and go offers a complimentary breakfast to help you start your day of sightseeing off right and the fitness room ensures you won’t miss a workout.
If you’re planning on staying more than a few days, the Marriott Residence Inn will make you feel at home and ensure that you’re comfortable. Each roomy suite is equipped with a full kitchen, separate areas for living and sleeping, sleep sofas and much more. Jump in the pool to refresh after spending the day discovering San Diego’s top attractions and enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and hot breakfast every morning.
Awaken refreshed at this ideally situated family-friendly hotel and enjoy a complimentary rise and dine breakfast before heading out to sightsee. Here, you’ll love a comfortable room with mini-fridge and microwave, free Wi-Fi and splashing around in the swimming pool.
A warm chocolate chip cookie upon arrival is just the beginning of a beautiful vacation when you choose the Doubletree Club Hotel Circle. In your comfortable guest room or suite, you’ll enjoy numerous amenities and onsite you’ll have the opportunity to relax in the pool and workout in the fitness center. Located just minutes from the San Diego International Airport and top city sights and attractions, the Doubletree Club is a great starting point for your visit.
For families and groups that plan to stay a while, this relaxed, comfortable hotel has it all. Suites and guest rooms provide fully-equipped kitchens, while the property boasts a swimming pool, BBQ area, gardens with gazebo, a convenience store and laundry facilities. And, because it’s located just minutes from the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld and other popular attractions, Candlewood makes it easy to make the most out of your time while vacationing.
Family fun abounds at this retro inn located on San Diego’s Hotel Circle. Here, you’ll dine in two delightful restaurants, soak in the sun and splash in the pool while enjoying the modern, yet cozy accommodations. Get your workout in at the onsite gym, then relax and unwind in this throwback to the ‘60s surfer days in the carefree ambiance of this charming hotel.
A retro-style hotel with modern amenities, the Atwood is a welcoming destination in the Hotel Circle area of Mission Valley. Swaying palms and sunny skies surround you at the cabana-style pool and Jacuzzi and lovely guest rooms are the perfect fit for you and your family.
A tropical oasis on Hotel Circle, this lovely property offers guest rooms and suites to accommodate parties of any size. Onsite you’ll find all you need to enjoy your stay in San Diego, including a fitness center, two restaurants, a heated pool and laundry facilities. Close to all you want to see and do, the Mission Valley Resort will be your home away from home.
A fresh new Holiday Inn Express in the area, this lovely hotel will get you going each day of your San Diego vacation with a delicious complimentary hot breakfast buffet. Contemporary guest rooms and suites are full of amenities you’ll love, like free Wi-Fi and plush bedding and the property features a swimming pool, fitness center and a 24-hour sundry shop complete with beer and wine.
A quaint property with just 79 guest rooms, the Hotel Iris is the perfect family-friendly hotel with comfortable accommodations to fit your budget. Take a dip in the pool, soak in the spa and enjoy free Wi-Fi. The attentive staff here is always on, ready to ensure your every comfort.
Spacious rooms and suites are just the beginning of what you’ll love at the Courtyard by Marriott. Located near some of the most popular attractions in the city, you’ll find sightseeing a breeze. Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Bistro, workout in the fitness center and make a splash in the swimming pool.
Your San Diego vacation just got sunnier at the Days Inn! Choose from spacious guest rooms with all the amenities you’d expect or one of their suites that comes equipped with a kitchenette. When hunger hits, enjoy a burger and milkshake at the onsite restaurant and refresh in the pool after a day of exploring the city.
Before heading out to sightsee in San Diego, start your day with a complimentary breakfast at Super 8, an affordable family-friendly hotel close to all you want to see in the area.
Here, you’ll also have the opportunity to rest comfortably in your spacious room with complimentary Wi-Fi and flat-screen TV.
The tropical landscape of the Best Western Seven Seas will remind you that you’re on vacation—as will the heated pool, hot tubs, ping-pong tables, workout room and the amenity-filled guest rooms and suites. After spending the day discovering all that San Diego is famous for, dine outside at the Seven Seas Café and sip your favorite cocktail at the bar.
Tranquil views and a laid-back ambiance make the Town and Country an ideal hideaway for your San Diego vacation. Offering an array of luxuries and comforts, the guest rooms and suites are home away from home, with enough space for everyone to relax and unwind. Swim, soak in the sun and dig into delicious meals at two onsite restaurants.
A beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, the Handlery has all you need and more to make the most of your San Diego vacation. This cozy ranch-inspired hotel boasts palm trees and tropical landscaping as well as a sparkling heated pool and fully-equipped fitness center. Retreat to your guest room or suite to relax after a day adventuring in and around the city with amenities that will ensure your comfort and enjoyment.
The Crowne Plaza is chock full of amenities that will ensure you enjoy every moment of your San Diego vacation. After sightseeing, refresh in the swimming pool, workout in the fitness center and get a good night’s sleep in your plush bed. Ideally located on Hotel Circle, the Crown Plaza is close to all you want to do and see.
Affordable comfort in a convenient location, Motel 6 is a great option for families—especially since kids stay free. Enjoy free morning coffee and an outdoor pool. Pet friendly accommodations mean you can even bring four-legged members of the family.
Known for its family-friendly service, the Comfort Inn and Suites on Hotel Circle puts you right where you want to be to discover all the most popular attractions in San Diego. Moments from SeaWorld and the San Diego Zoo, this well-priced hotel provides a complimentary hot breakfast and boasts a shimmering swimming pool and hot tub.
Overlooking the San Diego River, the Premier Inn is a favorite among families. There’s a game room onsite, outdoor pool and hot tub and the property is just minutes from Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo. Comfortable rooms feature pillow-top beds and river views.
Airport/Liberty Station
Modern accommodations moments from the airport, the Courtyard Hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites with all the amenities you’d expect—including complimentary Wi-Fi and flat screen TVs. Unwind by the fire pit after visiting all the local sights and attractions, or take a dip in the heated pool or whirlpool.
One and two bedroom suites make it easy for everyone to relax and enjoy their San Diego vacation. At Homewood Suites, you’ll have all the comforts you need, including a separate living area, Wi-Fi and a complimentary hot breakfast. There’s a basketball court, fitness center and swimming pool for hours of recreation and a complimentary evening reception that includes cocktails and refreshments each night.
Shelter Island
A tropical sanctuary on secluded Shelter Island, Humphreys Half Moon offers resort-style amenities and relaxed ambiance. The guest rooms and suites at this boutique waterfront hotel are casually elegant and feature modern amenities. Dine at the popular Humphrey’s restaurant and dance the night away at the live music club. Sit poolside to work on your tan or soak in the spa.
Graceful palms frame this lovely resort on Shelter Island. A waterfront hotel that offers all you need—accommodations that feature fully-equipped kitchens, sleep sofas and more. Onsite, you’ll have the opportunity to play tennis, bask in the sun and take a dip in the pool. An island-inspired atmosphere is sure to elevate your San Diego vacation.
Light, bright and tranquil, the Kona Kai is an upscale resort providing luxury and comfort. Here, a private beach, fitness center, swimming pool and dining await you. Contemporary rooms include private terraces with bay or marina views as well as pampering amenities to ensure your enjoyment and pleasure.
You won’t be at a loss for things to do at this waterfront gem on Shelter Island. The Sheraton Hotel and Marina has three different swimming pools, watersports rentals, a fitness center, two restaurants and a bar. The nautical accommodations include guest rooms and suites with separate living rooms and private decks—an ideal spot for watching the sunset after a day out in the city.
Mission Bay
At the Dana, you’ll feel relaxed the moment you arrive. A waterfront hotel surrounded by tropical landscaping, this resort offers well-appointed guest rooms and suites overlooking Mission Bay. Dine on site, enjoy room service and take advantage of two different swimming pools, a gym, and watersports and bicycle rentals.
A stay at the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay entitles you to panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Mission Beach and the downtown San Diego skyline. Dine by the water or by the pool and head back to your luxurious room for a restful night’s sleep. Three different pools are ideal for winding down after sightseeing and the kids will have a blast playing in the water playground, complete with slides. End your day with an indulgent spa treatment or your favorite cocktail at the poolside lounge.
Bring the family and enjoy a casual, laid back stay at the Bahia Mission Bay. Whether you have a beach or garden view, you’ll enjoy comfortable accommodations with numerous amenities, including kitchenettes and dining tables. Two restaurants offer delicious dining opportunities, while the pool and Jacuzzi, tennis courts, shuffleboard and kids game room, ensure fun for everyone.
This Polynesian-inspired resort overlooks the beach and offers rooms and suites with balconies or patios, ideal for gazing out at the shimmering water view. Swim, workout in the gym, hit the private beach or the spa – no details have been spared for your comfort and enjoyment. Dig into delicious cuisine at two onsite restaurants, including an outdoor eatery with fire pit.
At Paradise Point Resort and Spa, you’ll feel as if you’ve traveled to a secluded island hideaway. Lush tropical gardens, tranquil lagoons and a private beach are just a hint of what you’ll love about this hotel. The beach bonfire pits, five swimming pools, five dining options and recreational activities will ensure there’s never a dull moment. And the bungalow-style guest rooms are a favorite among couples and families.
Play tennis on championship courts, soak in the spa or jump in the pool; the Hilton Mission Bay is a vacation in and of itself. The resort even offers a wading pool for the little ones and private cabanas to retreat to after a day in the sun. Dining here includes two onsite restaurants including one that’s poolside and room service for in-room dining. Studios, guest rooms and suites can overlook gardens or the bay and are amenity-rich to ensure your entire family makes the most of their stay.
Whether you’re staying in Mission Valley, near the airport or on Shelter Island, the Old Town Trolley is the ideal way to discover all the best of San Diego. And, when you stay at any of these hotels, a shuttle will pick you up and transport you to where you need to go to start your tour! Remember, aboard the trolley, you’ll have the opportunity to see more than 100 points of interest and hop off and spend as much time as you wish at each stop.