Southern California has some great cities, and San Diego is one of the most beautiful cities along the West Coast of the United States. With San Diego’s gorgeous beaches, great culture, fantastic food, and rich history, San Diego is one of those cities that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and families too.
Known as the birthplace of California, San Diego was once a Mexican fort that grew its way into the 8th largest city in America. Situated close to the Mexican border, you can feel the influence of its southern neighbor in almost every part of the city. It’s what gives it its charm.
There is no shortage of things to do in San Diego. From catching some rays on the beaches of La Jolla, taking in Balboa Park’s 17 museums, or strolling the boardwalk at Mission Beach, you will find something that interests each member of the family.
Best Areas to Stay in San Diego
San Diego is one of the safest cities in the country, so that helps narrow down where to stay for first-timers. There are tons of places to stay, from hostels for budget travelers to boutique hotels for the more refined traveler to upscale resorts for those who want to live large in resorts and vacation rentals. If you want historic elegance, consider staying at a luxury collection hotel like The US Grant, which is part of the Marriott Luxury Collection.
Before choosing the area you want to base yourself in, it is best to get oriented with the city. The map of San Diego below will help you get the lay of the land and give you a general idea of where the neighborhoods are. Once you are oriented, Let’s get into the best places to stay in San Diego, California.
1. Coronado
Coronado Island is a great place to stay in San Diego for many reasons. For golfers, Torrey Pines Golf Course is right down the street. The views, beach, and small-town feel make it a favorite among visitors. Coronado Beach is one of the top beaches in the US, with white sand, gentle waves, and Pacific Ocean views. The neighborhood also has the historic Hotel del Coronado, a beachfront hotel since 1888.
Besides its natural beauty, Coronado has lots of things to do. You can walk around the downtown area, which has boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. The Coronado Ferry Landing is a quick and scenic way to get to downtown San Diego, with views of the city skyline. The neighborhood has great bike paths, so you can get around on two wheels.
Staying in Coronado is a balance of relaxation and convenience. Close enough to downtown San Diego to enjoy the city’s attractions yet far enough to be a retreat. The neighborhood is walkable, beautiful and friendly so it’s the perfect place for visitors.
Getting Here: If you’re driving, you can get to Coronado by taking the San Diego-Coronado Bridge. The bridge connects downtown San Diego to Coronado and has great views of the bay. From downtown San Diego, take CA-75 South, and it will take you right over the bridge and into Coronado. The drive is 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.
If you’re taking public transit, you can take the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) bus. From downtown San Diego, you can catch the Route 901 bus at the Broadway and Pacific Highway stop. The bus goes over the Coronado Bridge and through the heart of Coronado with several stops along Orange Avenue, the main street in Coronado. The trip is 30 minutes.
Best Luxury Hotel in Coronado:
Hotel del Coronado: With its historic charm and modern amenities, this iconic hotel has beachfront access, a spa, multiple dining options, and rooms with ocean views. It is a classic.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Coronado:
Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa: This hotel features Comfortable accommodations, a full-service spa, outdoor pools, and views of the San Diego skyline.
Best Budget Hotel in Coronado:
Glorietta Bay Inn: Stay here is definitely a sweet deal. A charming boutique hotel in a historic mansion with cozy rooms, free breakfast and beach, and local attractions right at your doorstep.
2. La Jolla -Best Place to Stay in San Diego for Beach Lovers
If you were born to be at the beach, you’ll love La Jolla (say it with me, La Hoya). This is where all the San Diegan celebrities live and where Dr. Seuss drew many of his cartoons.
Imagine spending sunny days lounging on the big beach of La Jolla Cove, sandy beach, kayaking through the La Jolla Caves, shopping in boutiques, eating fresh Mexican food, and having a cocktail from a rooftop bar as the sun goes down. This is an outdoor person’s paradise.
Like all of San Diego, there are many types of accommodations in La Jolla, but it’s most famous for its luxury hotels.
Getting Here: There are a few ways to get to La Jolla. If you’re taking public transit, then public bus #30 runs from downtown San Diego to La Jolla. Also, remember the main streets in La Jolla are La Jolla Village Drive, Prospect Street, Avenida de la Playa, and Girard Avenue, so you can get dropped off at the right spot.
Best Luxury Hotel in La Jolla:
Pantai Inn San Diego: It is located just a 4-minute walk from La Jolla Shores. Balinese decor in a romantic setting. this is the perfect place to stay for couples looking for that romantic setting.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in La Jolla:
Inn By the Sea: This hotel is perfectly situated 5 min from La Jolla Sores. Each room has a balcony to enjoy the fresh seabreeze, lots of dining options nearby a pool and free wifi. a great place to base yourself when exploring San Diego.
Best Budget Hotel in La Jolla:
The Shoal La Jolla Beach: Central location, cute, clean and affordable rooms. You’re within walking distance to the beach. Modern decor, each room has a small fridge and microwave. perfect for a weekend stay.
3. North Park – Hippest Neighborhood in San Diego
North Park is one of the most fun and eclectic neighborhoods in downtown San Diego, with street art, bars, weird restaurants, and cultural attractions everywhere. Here, creativity is encouraged, and the locals aren’t afraid to try new things. Many of the bars in North Park have rooftop bars with great views and drinks.
It’s the kind of place that serves beer cocktails, lattes with foam art, and paint pallets as plates. If you’re looking for the coolest place to stay in San Diego, this is the neighborhood for you. North Park is within walking distance of many cultural hotspots like Balboa Park, the Ray Street Arts District, and the North Park Theatre.
If you want to experience the cultural side of San Diego, this is definitely where you should stay.
Getting Here: By car – From I-805: Exit University Avenue. Turn left onto University Avenue. From I-5: Exit Pershing Drive and go onto Upas Street. Parking in a garage on 29th Street. If you prefer public transit Bus #2 runs along 30th Street.
Best Luxury Hotel in North Park:
The Lafayette Hotel: Located a 5-minute drive from the San Diego Zoo, this eco-friendly Colonial-style hotel features an Olympic-size pool and Free WiFi.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in North Park:
Berkshire Motor Hotel: Great location for Balboa Park, the Zoo, and North Park. Free WiFi with simple decor. Each room is clean and comfortable.
Best Budget Hotel in North Park:
ITH Zoo Hostel is located between North Park and Hillcrest, another great neighborhood of San Diego. It has cool decor, free WiFi, and Free breakfast.
4. Ocean Beach – Where to Stay for Families
Our good friends free-spirited grandfather used to take me to Ocean Beach as a child and wistfully say, “O.B. — where you live happy and free” as soon as we stepped out of our car. Today, the sentiment still rings true. Ocean Beach is a laid back neighborhood where alternative lifestyles are not only tolerated but encouraged. Mission Bay is just a short walk away with family friendly activities like water sports and beach adventures.
Walk down the main street past restaurants, boutiques selling tie-dye everything, healing crystal shops, and taco stands. Street art covers the blank walls, and the sun usually comes out after noon — once the marine layer of fog burns off.
Tide pools, ocean swimming, and walking on the Ocean Beach Pier are just some of the cool things to do in this neighborhood.
Ocean Beach is pet-friendly. If you’re looking for places to stay in San Diego with pets, you’ll find Ocean Beach is about as pet-friendly as it gets. Don’t forget to check out the Ocean Beach Farmers Market. It’s got organic food stalls and live music!
Getting to Ocean Beach: By car – From the I-5, to the 8/Sunset Cliffs Boulevard and follow that to Bacon Street. Free street parking is available in residential areas of Ocean Beach, and metered parking is available in the main areas. By bus – Bus #35 from Old Town (major public transportation hub) to Ocean Beach. Bus #923 from downtown San Diego to Ocean Beach.
Best Luxury Hotel in Ocean Beach:
Ocean Beach Hotel: This iconic hotel is only a one-minute walk from the beach. It has free Wi-Fi, free parking, and is also close to the airport.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Ocean Beach:
The Inn at Sunset Cliffs: This hotel has a great location. It is only a 15-minute walk to the beach. It also has an outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, and is close to many attractions.
Best Budget Hotel in Ocean Beach:
USA Hostels Ocean Beach: This hostel is perfect for the budget traveler. It has your choice of private or dorm rooms, and it has free WIFI, and you will love the funky decor. Add that it is only a 4 min walk from the beach, and you know why we recommend it.
5. Gaslamp Quarter – Best Neighborhood in San Diego for nightlife
San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter is a 24/7 neighborhood. If you’re looking for where to stay in San Diego and want to be in the middle of downtown, the Gaslamp Quarter is the way to go.
The Gaslamp Quarter, on San Diego Bay, has a wild west history with tales of tavern brawls and shootouts. The quarter was once home to the city’s red light district, casinos, and 1860’s Chinatown. Many residents believe the ghosts of Gaslamp’s past still linger here today.
There are over 90 historic buildings in the Gaslamp Quarter which makes it a nice contrast to the rest of downtown San Diego’s high rises.
Aside from its history the Gaslamp Quarter has restaurants, bars and is walking distance to the San Diego Convention Center, Petco Park, Balboa Theatre and Horton Plaza.
If you’re looking for a little bit of fun and want to be near many of San Diego’s best landmarks, choose the Gaslamp Quarter as your base.
Getting Here: By car – The Gaslamp Quarter is in the middle of downtown San Diego and runs along 5th and 6th Avenue. Parking is tough and expensive in the Gaslamp Quarter. By trolley – All trolley lines service the Gaslamp Quarter. The stations are Gaslamp Station and Fifth Avenue Station. By pedicabs – The Gaslamp Quarter is serviced by pedicabs, bicycle powered rides with music blasting out of a boom box. These are a fun way to get around downtown.
Best Luxury Hotel in Gaslamp Quarter:
Kimpton Solamar Hotel: Located in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter and featuring Free WIFI, Rooftop Pool & free wine tasting! This is the usual Kimpton Luxury experience.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Gaslamp Quarter:
Staypineapple at Hotel Z: A romantic hotel with quirky decor. It is pet-friendly, offers free Wifi, and is within walking distance of almost everything.
Best Budget Hotel in Gaslamp Quarter:
USA Hostels San Diego Downtown: Built back in 1880 this hostel offers mixed dorms, free WIFI, Free Breakfast, and a vibrant new age decor.
6. Old Town – Best Place to Stay in San Diego for First-Timers
Old Town San Diego is the birthplace of California. As you can tell from the name, it’s the oldest part of San Diego and was the first Spanish settlement in the early 1800s. Before that, it was an important area for the Kumeyaay Native Americans. Old Town is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Old Town is also near SeaWorld San Diego, so it’s a great place for families.
What’s cool about Old Town today is that it kept its charm and style of architecture. Many San Diegans think Old Town is haunted, and most of the ghosts live in the Whaley House.
You can spend your time browsing museums, visiting the Mission, eating Mexican food, and listening to a mariachi band. Old Town is good for visitors of all ages who like food, history, folklore and have a vivid imagination.
Getting There: By car – Old Town is located at the northern end of downtown San Diego between the I-5 and the I-8. Exit Pacific Highway from the I-5 and Taylor Street from the I-8. By bus/trolley – Buses #8, #9, #10, #28, #35, #44, #88, and #105 go to Old Town and most of San Diego. The Green Line trolley also goes through Old Town and stops at the Old Town Transit Center.
Best Luxury Hotel in Old Town:
Cosmopolitan Hotel: Built in 1869, it features Victorian decor, free Wi-Fi, Breakfast included, and an on-site restaurant with happy hour.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Old Town:
Hilton Garden Inn Old Town: A great value hotel is just a 10-minute walk to Old Town. It has an outdoor pool and free WIFI.
Best Budget Hotel in Old Town:
Old Town Inn: This beautiful budget hotel offers breakfast included, an outdoor pool, a games room, and free HBO!
7. Carlsbad
Carlsbad is a great place to stay in San Diego because of its coastal cuteness, beautiful beaches, family-friendly activities, and luxury resorts. Known as the “Village by the Sea,” Carlsbad is a chill environment with something for everyone. The Carlsbad State Beach is a big draw, with pristine sand, great surf, and beautiful sunsets. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or a leisurely walk along the coast.
One of the top attractions in Carlsbad is LEGOLAND California Resort, a theme park that will delight kids and adults with its interactive rides, shows, and massive LEGO displays. If you like nature and flowers, the Carlsbad Flower Fields are a must-see in the spring, with rows and rows of blooming flowers creating a beautiful landscape. The neighborhood also has a cute downtown area with boutique shops, gourmet restaurants, and cozy cafes, so it’s a great place to wander and chill.
Best Luxury Hotel In Carlsbad:
Park Hyatt Aviara Resort: This resort has spacious rooms, a world-class spa, and an award-winning golf course. The grounds and amenities are top-notch, so you’ll have a memorable and indulgent stay.
Best Mid-Range Hotel In Carlsbad:
West Inn & Suites: If you have less of a budget, this is a great choice, with comfortable rooms and a boutique feel. They offer free breakfast, a heated outdoor pool, and easy access to the beach and local attractions.
Best Budget Hotel in Carlsbad:
Carlsbad by the Sea Hotel: Looking to save some cash? This hotel is the way to go. This little hotel has cozy rooms, free breakfast and is right near the beach and LEGOLAND so it’s a great value for travelers.
FAQ’s About San Diego Hotels
Best areas to stay in San Diego are Downtown, La Jolla, and Coronado for the attractions, beaches, and amenities. For those interested in golfing, Torrey Pines Golf is a must-visit.
Good parts of San Diego are the Gaslamp Quarter for nightlife, Pacific Beach for beach life, and Old Town for history and culture.
You should plan to spend at least 3-4 days in San Diego to see the main sights and beaches.
The Gaslamp Quarter is the perfect place to stay if you are on a budget. It has some of the most affordable hotels in San Diego, and you are close to most attractions.
Our Recommendations
No matter which neighborhood you choose as a home base in San Diego, you’re sure to have a spectacular time. For a luxurious stay, consider a luxury collection hotel. You can easily bounce from one neighborhood to the next without ever feeling bored or as though you’ve seen it before.
The city has a well-deserved reputation for being lively and diverse, a combination that pleases even the most high-maintenance traveler. I hope this has made the task of finding where to stay in San Diego a little easier.
Remember to pack sunscreen and brace yourself for spicy Mexican cuisine. Eat an extra California burrito for us!