Question 1

What is the best area to stay in San Diego?

Accepted Answer

The best areas to stay in San Diego are La Jolla for a luxurious coastal escape and the Gaslamp Quarter for a lively urban experience.

La Jolla is an upscale seaside community known for its stunning coastline, beautiful beaches, and sophisticated atmosphere. It's built around La Jolla Cove, a picturesque spot for marine life viewing, and features a main street, Prospect Street, lined with high-end boutiques, art galleries, and acclaimed restaurants. The area offers a relaxed, refined pace of life with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.

Couples seeking a romantic and relaxing getaway will find La Jolla particularly appealing. You can enjoy strolls along the coastal walk, explore the tide pools, or simply relax on one of the pristine beaches. Many hotels here offer ocean views and amenities like spa services and fine dining, great for a special occasion.

The Gaslamp Quarter, located in downtown San Diego, is a historic district known for its Victorian-era buildings, now home to a wide array of restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. It's a very walkable area, centred around Fifth Avenue, which is often bustling with activity, especially in the evenings. It's also conveniently close to Petco Park and the San Diego Convention Centre.

For solo travellers looking for an energetic and convenient base, the Gaslamp Quarter is an excellent choice. Its central location means easy access to public transport, and there's always something happening, whether it's live music, a show, or simply enjoying a meal at one of the many eateries.

Question 2

What are the best hotels in San Diego that travellers recommend?

Accepted Answer

For highly recommended hotels in San Diego, consider the Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Pendry San Diego, or Alma San Diego Downtown, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel.

The 5-star Fairmont Grand Del Mar, with an exceptional 9.6 rating, is praised for its quiet location and exceptional staff. Guests appreciate the 24-hour room service, the poolside bar, and the on-site golf course. The hotel also features designer toiletries and premium bedding.

Another excellent choice is the 5-star Pendry San Diego, rated 9.2. This hotel is commended for its modern, clean rooms and friendly, helpful staff. It offers a poolside bar and rainfall showerheads, and is conveniently located near Pantoja Park and the New Children's Museum.

The 4-star Alma San Diego Downtown, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, with a 9.0 rating, also comes highly recommended. Guests frequently mention the spacious, clean rooms and the great, friendly staff. The hotel provides deep soaking bathtubs, designer toiletries, and Frette Italian sheets, and is close to Pantoja Park and the New Children's Museum.

Question 3

What are the best family hotels in San Diego?

Accepted Answer

For family-friendly accommodation in San Diego, consider the Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Town and Country San Diego, Paradise Point Resort & Spa, San Diego Mission Bay Resort, or Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Hotel Circle/SeaWorld Area.

The 5-star Fairmont Grand Del Mar, with an exceptional 9.6 rating, is an outstanding choice for families. It offers a children's club, supervised childcare, and pools suitable for children, along with connecting rooms and babysitting services. Guests frequently highlight the exceptional and attentive staff, the quiet and great location, and the excellent bar.

The 4-star Town and Country San Diego, rated 8.6, provides a range of amenities for children, including games, a playground, and children's pools. It is conveniently located near Fashion Valley Mall and Presidio Park. Customers consistently praise the friendly staff, comfortable rooms, and great location.

Another excellent option is the 4-star Paradise Point Resort & Spa, with an 8.6 rating. This resort features pools, children's meals, child-friendly window designs, connecting rooms, and games for children. It is close to Sail Bay and Bahia Point Beach. Guests often comment on the helpful staff, spacious rooms, and superb location.

The 4-star San Diego Mission Bay Resort, rated 8.4, offers pools for children, a pool gate, games, and bed guards, making it very suitable for families. It is situated near Mission Bay Park and SeaWorld. Travellers frequently mention the comfortable and clean rooms, the exceptional staff, and the beautiful pool.

For a slightly more budget-friendly option, the 3-star Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Hotel Circle/SeaWorld Area, with an 8.8 rating, is a great choice. It provides rollaway extra beds, sofa beds, games for children, and a pool. This hotel is close to Presidio Park and Old Town San Diego State Park. Guests appreciate the spacious rooms, friendly staff, and amazing free breakfast. Find more child-friendly accommodations in San Diego

Question 4

What are the best 5-star hotels in San Diego?

Accepted Answer

For an exceptional 5-star experience in San Diego, consider the Fairmont Grand Del Mar, the Pendry San Diego, or The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego.

The 5-star Fairmont Grand Del Mar, with an outstanding 9.6 rating, is an excellent choice for a luxurious stay. Guests frequently praise the exceptional and attentive staff, the quiet location, and the great facilities. This hotel offers a wide range of amenities including an onsite golf course, multiple restaurants with golf course views, a poolside bar, and 24-hour room service. For those seeking relaxation, there is a massage service and couples dining options.

Another highly-rated option is the 5-star Pendry San Diego, boasting a 9.2 rating. This hotel is known for its modern and clean rooms, as well as its friendly and helpful staff. Guests particularly enjoy the great pool and the amazing customer service. Amenities include a poolside bar, champagne service, and rainfall showerheads. The hotel is conveniently located near San Diego Bay, Pantoja Park, and the New Children's Museum.

Finally, The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego, a 5-star hotel with a 9.0 rating, is another fantastic choice. Its beautiful rooms, excellent service, and wonderful staff are often highlighted by guests. This Beaux-Arts property offers amenities such as Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, and 24-hour room service. It is ideally situated near points of interest like Copley Symphony Hall, Lyceum Theatre, and Balboa Park. Find more luxury hotels in San Diego

Question 5

What are the best spa hotels in San Diego?

Accepted Answer

For an exceptional spa experience in San Diego, consider the Fairmont Grand Del Mar or the Paradise Point Resort & Spa.

The 5-star Fairmont Grand Del Mar, with an outstanding 9.6 rating, offers a range of spa treatments including deep tissue, Swedish, and hot stone massages, as well as aromatherapy, body wraps, and facials. Guests frequently praise the exceptional and attentive staff, as well as the great facilities.

Another excellent choice is the 4-star Paradise Point Resort & Spa, rated 8.6. This resort provides a full-service spa with diverse treatments like aromatherapy, deep tissue massages, and body scrubs. It is conveniently located near Mission Bay and Belmont Park, and guests often highlight the superb location and spacious, clean rooms. See all spa hotels in San Diego

Question 6

Which beach resorts in San Diego do travellers love?

Accepted Answer

For beach resorts in San Diego that travellers highly recommend, consider the Catamaran Resort and Spa, Paradise Point Resort & Spa, and Bahia Resort Hotel.

The 4-star Catamaran Resort and Spa, with an 8.6 rating, offers a wonderful experience with its convenient beachfront location and sea views. Guests frequently praise the spacious rooms, friendly staff, and excellent service. The resort also features an outdoor pool with sun loungers and a poolside bar, superb for relaxation. It's located just 0.9 km from Mission and Pacific Beaches and 0.7 km from Sail Bay.

Another excellent choice is the 4-star Paradise Point Resort & Spa, also rated 8.6. This resort is known for its full-service spa, offering a wide range of treatments including aromatherapy, Swedish, deep tissue, and hot stone massages, as well as body scrubs and facials. Guests appreciate the spacious and clean rooms, the great service, and its superb location near Bahia Point Beach, only 0.6 km away.

The Bahia Resort Hotel, a 3.5-star property with an 8.6 rating, is another popular option. It boasts an outdoor pool and offers convenient self-parking and accessible parking, including electric car charging stations. Travellers frequently highlight the friendly staff, great service, and spacious, clean rooms. Its proximity to Bahia Point Beach, just 0.3 km away, is a significant advantage. See more stays near the beach in San Diego

Question 7

What hotels in San Diego offer free breakfast?

Accepted Answer

Several highly-rated hotels in San Diego offer complimentary breakfast, including Samesun Ocean Beach - Hostel, Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Airport/Liberty Station, Ocean Park Inn, Hampton Inn & Suites San Diego Airport Liberty Station, and Old Town Inn.

Samesun Ocean Beach - Hostel, with an exceptional 9.6 rating, provides a free grab-and-go breakfast and a free regular breakfast, along with free WiFi and a terrace. Guests frequently mention the extremely helpful staff and its great location right on the beach, close to Ocean Beach Park and South Mission Beach.

The 3-star Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Airport/Liberty Station, rated 9.4, offers a complimentary buffet breakfast. This hotel is praised for its spacious and clean rooms, excellent staff, and a great location near the New Americans Museum and Rock Church.

Another excellent choice is the 3-star Ocean Park Inn, which has a 9.4 rating and provides a free self-serve breakfast. Guests appreciate the friendly and helpful staff, comfortable rooms, and its great location near Sail Bay and Tourmaline Surfing Park.

Hampton Inn & Suites San Diego Airport Liberty Station, with a 9.2 rating, also features a free buffet breakfast. This hotel is known for its friendly staff, comfortable rooms, and a superb location, also close to the New Americans Museum and Spanish Landing Park.

Finally, Old Town Inn, rated 9.2, offers a free continental breakfast. Travellers frequently highlight its comfortable and clean rooms, friendly staff, and convenient location near Presidio Park and Old Town San Diego State Park. Find more hotels with breakfast in San Diego

Question 8

What are the top pet-friendly hotels in San Diego?

Accepted Answer

For top pet-friendly hotels in San Diego, consider the InterContinental San Diego by IHG, Palihotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, and Ocean Beach Hotel.

The 4-star InterContinental San Diego by IHG, which has an excellent 9.2 rating, welcomes pets and provides amenities such as dog exercise areas and food and water bowls. Guests consistently praise the amazing staff, beautiful and clean rooms, and the excellent service. It is conveniently located near San Diego Bay, Pantoja Park, and the New Children's Museum.

Another excellent choice is the 4-star Palihotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, rated 8.8. This hotel is also pet-friendly, offering food and water bowls for your companions. Customers frequently highlight the friendly staff, comfortable rooms, and the great on-site food and restaurant. It is situated close to San Diego Bay and the New Children's Museum.

The 3-star Ocean Beach Hotel, with an 8.6 rating, is a fantastic option where pets stay free and are provided with food and water bowls. This hotel offers lovely outdoor spaces like a patio, yard, furnished patio, terrace, and furnished balcony. Guests love its amazing location near Ocean Beach Park and Mission Beach Boardwalk, as well as the nice rooms and friendly staff. See more pet-friendly hotels in San Diego

Question 9

What are the top boutique hotels in San Diego?

Accepted Answer

For top boutique hotels in San Diego, consider The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego, The Guild Hotel, San Diego Downtown, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, or Granger Hotel Gaslamp Quarter, A Member Of Design Hotels.

The 5-star The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego, with a 9.0 rating, offers a luxurious experience with its Beaux-Arts property design, premium bedding, and Egyptian cotton sheets. Guests frequently praise its beautiful rooms and excellent service. It is conveniently located near Copley Symphony Hall and the Lyceum Theatre.

The 4-star The Guild Hotel, San Diego Downtown, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, rated 9.0, is known for its Art Deco design. Guests appreciate the complimentary breakfast and the helpful staff. It is situated close to Copley Symphony Hall and The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park.

Another excellent option is the 4-star Granger Hotel Gaslamp Quarter, A Member Of Design Hotels, which boasts an impressive 9.2 rating. This hotel is also praised for its Art Deco property design and offers a complimentary buffet breakfast. Its location is considered superb by guests, and it's just a short distance from Copley Symphony Hall and the Lyceum Theatre. See all boutique hotels in San Diego

Question 10

What are the best budget hotels in San Diego?

Accepted Answer

For excellent budget hotels in San Diego, consider the Hampton Inn San Diego Del Mar, Residence Inn San Diego Rancho Bernardo/Scripps Poway, or the Holiday Inn Express San Diego - SeaWorld Area by IHG.

The Hampton Inn San Diego Del Mar, with a 9.0 rating, offers complimentary breakfast and free WiFi. Guests describe the rooms as comfortable and clean, and the staff as excellent. This hotel is conveniently located near several nature reserves, including the Ellen Browning Scripps Nature Preserve and Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.

Another highly-rated option is the 3-star Residence Inn San Diego Rancho Bernardo/Scripps Poway, also with a 9.0 rating. This hotel provides a free continental breakfast with a good variety, and complimentary grocery shopping service. Customers frequently praise the comfortable, clean rooms and the exceptional staff. It is also praised for its free and easy parking.

The Holiday Inn Express San Diego - SeaWorld Area by IHG, rated 8.8, is a great choice offering free self-parking and a complimentary to-go breakfast. Guests appreciate the clean, big rooms and the friendly staff. Its central location is often highlighted as excellent, and it is close to attractions like Old Town San Diego State Park and Mission Bay. View all budget hotels in San Diego

Question 11

What are the most romantic hotels in San Diego for couples?

Accepted Answer

For couples seeking a romantic escape in San Diego, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Pacific Terrace Hotel, Tower23 Hotel, Kasa Little Italy San Diego, and The Wayfarer San Diego are all highly recommended.

The 5-star Fairmont Grand Del Mar, with an exceptional 9.6 rating, offers a luxurious experience for couples. It features a full-service spa with hot tubs, couples treatment rooms, and a sauna, superb for shared relaxation. Guests frequently praise the exceptional and attentive staff, the quiet and great location, and the excellent bar. It is also conveniently located just 0.3 km from Meadows Del Mar Golf Club.

The 4-star Pacific Terrace Hotel, also rated 9.6, provides a wonderful seaside setting with many rooms offering ocean views and balconies. The hotel has a hot tub and is located very close to the beach, just 0.2 km from Pacific Beach and 0.9 km from The Promenade at Pacific Beach. Guests consistently praise the friendly and great staff, the beautiful and clean rooms, and the superb location.

Another excellent choice is the 4-star Tower23 Hotel, which has a 9.6 rating. This hotel boasts balconies, some with ocean views, and a terrace, including a rooftop terrace, offering lovely spots for couples to relax. It is ideally situated near the beach, only 0.1 km from Pacific Beach. Reviewers highlight the clean and amazing rooms, the friendly and great staff, and the superb location.

The 4.5-star Kasa Little Italy San Diego, rated 9.6, offers spacious rooms with furnished balconies and kitchens, providing a comfortable and private stay. The property includes an outdoor pool and 24-hour fitness facilities. Its location is praised for being superb and great, with Copley Symphony Hall just 0.9 km away.

Finally, The Wayfarer San Diego, a 4-star hotel with a 9.4 rating, is another fantastic option for couples. Many rooms offer beach or ocean views, and some include balconies. The hotel features an outdoor pool and is very close to the ocean, with Pacific Beach just 0.9 km away. Guests often mention the friendly and great staff, the superb and great location, and the comfortable and clean rooms. See all romantic hotels in San Diego

Question 12

What are the best hotels in San Diego near The Promenade at Pacific Beach?

Accepted Answer

For hotels in San Diego near The Promenade at Pacific Beach, consider the Tower23 Hotel and the Pacific Terrace Hotel.

The 4-star Tower23 Hotel, with an excellent 9.6 rating, is a fantastic choice. Guests consistently praise its clean and amazing rooms, as well as the friendly and great staff. The location is perfect, and many rooms feature a balcony or patio, with some offering a terrace. It is located 1.5 km from Sail Bay and 1.0 km from Tourmaline Surfing Park.

Another outstanding option is the 4-star Pacific Terrace Hotel, also boasting a 9.6 rating. This hotel is known for its beautiful and clean rooms, along with its friendly and great staff. It offers a pool and accessible parking, and is located 1.7 km from Sail Bay and 0.8 km from Tourmaline Surfing Park.

Question 13

When is the best time to go to San Diego?

Accepted Answer

The best areas to stay in San Diego are La Jolla, Downtown San Diego (including the Gaslamp Quarter), and Coronado.

La Jolla is an upscale coastal community known for its stunning ocean views, beautiful beaches, and sophisticated atmosphere. Prospect Street is the main thoroughfare, lined with art galleries, boutiques, and high-end restaurants. It's also home to the scenic La Jolla Cove, where you can often spot seals and sea lions.

Couples looking for a luxurious and relaxing escape will find La Jolla particularly appealing. You can enjoy strolls along the coastline, dine at acclaimed restaurants with ocean views, and explore the unique shops. The area offers a blend of natural beauty and refined leisure.

Downtown San Diego, particularly the Gaslamp Quarter, is an excellent choice for those who enjoy a lively urban environment. This historic district is characterised by its Victorian architecture and is packed with restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. Petco Park, home to the Padres baseball team, is also located here.

For solo travellers or couples who appreciate being in the heart of the action, Downtown San Diego provides easy access to public transport, museums, and a wide array of dining and nightlife options. It's a convenient base for exploring many of the city's attractions.

Coronado offers a more relaxed, idyllic island feel just a short ferry ride or drive from Downtown. It's famous for its wide, sandy beaches, including Coronado Beach, often ranked among the best in the US. Orange Avenue is the main street, featuring charming shops and eateries.

Families will find Coronado an ideal spot due to its pleasant, spacious beaches and generally quiet atmosphere.

Question 14

Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?

Accepted Answer

You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in San Diego.

Question 15

How can I save on a San Diego hotel booking with Expedia?

Accepted Answer

Members always get our best prices. Find our best San Diego hotel deals by joining Expedia’s free travel rewards program today. As a member, you can unlock instant savings and member perks when you’re logged in to your account. Another tip is to book your hotel and flights together on Expedia, where bundling can result in significant savings.

Question 16

How much is the nightly rate at a San Diego hotel?

Accepted Answer

Prices for hotels in San Diego often vary, but you can find a great deal from £56 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.

Find hotels in San Diego, CA from £56

Change your mind

Treat yourself

Be picky

Go beyond your typical stay in San Diego

Check prices for these dates

Filter by

Our top choices for San Diego hotels

Best Western Plus Marina Gateway Hotel

Hampton Inn & Suites San Diego Airport Liberty Station

TownePlace Suites by Marriott San Diego Airport/Liberty Station

Holiday Inn Express San Diego Airport - Old Town by IHG

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Diego North, CA

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego La Jolla

Sheraton San Diego Resort

HYATT house San Diego/Sorrento Mesa

Springhill Suites San Diego Mission Valley

Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Old Town/SeaWorld Area

Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Airport/Liberty Station

Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Airport/Liberty Station

Hampton Inn San Diego Del Mar

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites San Diego Otay Mesa by IHG

Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton San Diego SeaWorld Near Old Town

Hyatt Regency La Jolla

Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Hotel Circle/SeaWorld Area

Best Western San Diego/Miramar Hotel

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel San Diego - Mission Valley

Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town

Holiday Rentals in San Diego

Uptown Inn by Vantaggio - Limited Service Apart-Hotel

Where to stay in San Diego

Gaslamp Quarter

Pacific Beach

Mission Valley

Little Italy

Mission Beach

Stay near popular San Diego attractions

San Diego Zoo

Learn more about San Diego

Top San Diego Hotel Reviews

The DEXTRO Little Italy, BW Premier Collection

More cheap stays in San Diego

Heritage Inn San Diego

Hotels in San Diego with star rating

Find out more about San Diego

Top reasons to visit San Diego

Find great hotels in San Diego

Where to stay in San Diego

Things to do in San Diego

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Diego

Find the best attractions in San Diego

Best time to go to San Diego

The nearest major airports for your trip to San Diego

Frequently asked questions

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Go further with the Expedia app