The 10 Best Beach Hotels in San Diego for 2024

San Diego, known for its sunny beaches and lively beach culture, has some of the most luxurious beach hotels in Southern California. Whether you want a relaxing getaway or are eager to hit the waves, the best beach hotels in San Diego offers a perfect mix of relaxation and fun.

Imagine lounging on a private balcony with stunning ocean views, enjoying top-notch amenities, and savoring fresh seafood as the sun sets over the Pacific. From chic, modern stays to classic coastal resorts, these beachfront havens promise the ultimate coastal escape.

Let’s explore the top choices for an unforgettable beach vacation in San Diego!

Table of Contents

10 Best Beach Hotels in San Diego

Hotel del Coronado

Rating: 4-star
Address: 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118, USA.
Year of Establishment: 1888, renovations in 2022.
Location and Accessibility: located on Coronado Island, just across the bay from San Diego, California. It’s easily accessible from San Diego International Airport, Coronado Bridge and downtown San Diego.
Services and Amenities: Fitness center, Beach access with cabana and chair rentals, Kids’ and teen clubs, On-site shopping boutiques, Historic tours of the property, Event and conference spaces, including wedding venues.
Awards: National Historic Landmark, Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure.

The hotel is famous for its Victorian architecture, particularly its iconic red-turret roof. It has hosted numerous celebrities, royalty, and U.S. presidents over its long history. With a stay at the hotel, you will be just a few minutes drive from Coronado Ferry Landing and Petco Park.

Hotel del Coronado was featured in the classic film “Some Like It Hot” starring Marilyn Monroe & offers a unique mix of historical charm and modern luxury, with many original features still intact.

Guest rooms feature free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, along with minifridges and coffee makers; some provide ocean views. Family suites add themed kids’ rooms with bunk beds. Some upgraded rooms are set in a secluded location off the beach. Room service is provided 24/7.

You can enjoy amenities like a spa with an infinity pool, plus a fitness center, 2 outdoor pools and a hot tub. There are also multiple bars and restaurants, including an ocean-view seafood eatery, an open-air pizzeria, and a lounge with live music.

Check availability here to make reservations!

La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club

Rating: 4-star
Address: 2000 Spindrift Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
Year of Establishment: 1935, Renovated (2016).
Location and Accessibility: located directly on La Jolla Shores Beach, a prime location with access to the Pacific Ocean, San Diego International Airport, La Jolla Cove and the Birch Aquarium.
Services and Amenities: Private beach with beach chairs, umbrellas, and food & beverage service, A championship-level tennis club with 12 courts, Golf course on-site (par-3), Outdoor heated swimming pool, Water sports, including kayaking and paddleboarding.
Awards: Condé Nast Traveler and Forbes for its outstanding beachside location and high-quality service. It is also regularly featured in lists of the best tennis resorts in the U.S.

The club’s private beach access, which is a rare feature in Southern California, offers a secluded and exclusive experience for guests. The hotel is located near popular attractions such as Birch Aquarium and La Jolla Cove. The resort’s rich tennis history makes it a premier destination for tennis enthusiasts, offering world-class facilities and tournaments.

The relaxed, airy rooms feature coffeemakers, iPod docks, and flat-screen TVs with DVD players. Wi-Fi is complimentary. Some rooms have kitchenettes, while upgraded rooms provide ocean views. Suites add full kitchens and separate living areas with pull-out sofas.

Guests can enjoy a private beach with fireplaces and BBQ grills, championship tennis courts and a 9-hole golf course, plus an outdoor pool and a gym. Also, there are multiple dining options, including a seafood restaurant with an open-air patio and the Marine Room is a famous dining establishment where guests can enjoy waves crashing against the windows during high tide, creating a unique dining atmosphere.

Check availability to book your stay at La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club!

Tower23 Hotel

Rating: 4-star
Address: 723 Felspar St, San Diego, CA 92109, USA.
Year of Establishment: 2005, renovated 2023.
Location and Accessibility: Located on Pacific Beach, It is just a few drive from San Diego International Airport and close to popular attractions like Mission Beach, SeaWorld San Diego, and Belmont Park.
Services and Amenities: Rooftop deck with lounge areas and ocean views, Bike rentals for exploring Pacific Beach, Meeting and event spaces with beachfront views, 24-hour concierge service, Beach chair and umbrella rentals available
Awards: Condé Nast Traveler is one of the top beach hotels in Southern California, Travel + Leisure’s list of best boutique hotels.

Tower 23’s beachfront location provides easy access to the Pacific Beach boardwalk, making it ideal for beachgoers and those looking to enjoy San Diego’s coastal vibe. Its contemporary design and architecture stand out, with glass walls, sleek lines, and minimalist decor.

The amenities feature include wireless internet access, concierge services, a television in a common area, and discounted use of a nearby fitness facility. JRDN Restaurant, with its open-air design and oceanfront seating, is a popular spot for both hotel guests and locals and the Sky Deck offers stunning sunset views over the Pacific Ocean, making it a prime spot for relaxing or hosting private events.

Guestrooms feature private balconies or patios, minibars, flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Suites add extra living spaces; some have whirlpool tubs, and guests can access other amenities like meeting facilities and a rooftop lounge with fire pits. The on-site steakhouse serves upscale Californian cuisine.

Check availability!

Pacific Terrace Hotel

Rating: 4-star
Address: 610 Diamond St, San Diego, CA 92109, USA.
Year of Establishment: 1985, renovations in 2018
Location and Accessibility: Located directly on Pacific Beach, offering direct access to the beach and boardwalk. It is just a few-minute drive from San Diego International Airport, La Jolla Cove, SeaWorld San Diego, and Mission Beach.
Services and Amenities: Outdoor heated pool and hot tub with ocean views, Poolside food and beverage service, In-room spa services and massages, Fitness center, Concierge services and activity planning.
Awards: AAA Four Diamond Award, Condé Nast Traveler and U.S. News & World Report.

Pacific Terrace Hotel is a modern hotel designed to meet the needs of both business and leisure travellers. Situated in the bustling of San Diego, this beach hotel is just a few minutes drive from Crystal Pier, Belmont Park, Mission Beach and La Jolla Cove.

The hotel’s amenities which include the outdoor pool area, which overlooks the beach, is one of the highlights, providing a relaxing setting for guests to enjoy the oceanfront atmosphere, It is known for its warm hospitality, personalized service, and tranquil, upscale atmosphere compared to the more bustling nearby beachfront hotels.

Guests get to choose from rooms with exterior entrances that come with microwaves, minifridges, coffeemakers and free Wi-Fi; some offer kitchenettes and/or ocean views to suites featuring full kitchens, balconies or patios, and living areas with pull-out sofas.

Furthermore, enjoy a heated outdoor pool and hot tub offering ocean views, as well as massage services and secure underground parking for a fee. The daily resort fee includes bike rentals and 24/7 access to the fitness room.

Check availability here!

Paradise Point Resort & Spa

Rating: 4-star
Address: 1404 Vacation Rd, San Diego, CA 92109, USA.
Year of Establishment: 1962, renovations in 2010.
Location and Accessibility: Located on a 44-acre private island in Mission Bay, just a short drive from downtown San Diego, San Diego International Airport, Old Town San Diego, and Balboa Park.
Services and Amenities: Mini-golf course, tennis courts, and basketball courts, Water sports facilities offering kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat rentals, Beachfront fire pits for evening bonfires, Fitness center, bike Meeting and event spaces, including large venues for weddings.
Awards: Condé Nast Traveler has been featured in the U.S. News & World Report’s list of best hotels in San Diego.

The Paradise Point Resort & Spa is one of the best deals for travellers who want to stay in San Diego, it is situated near some of the most popular locations such as Mission Bay, Mission Beach Boardwalk and the University of San Diego.

Paradise Point offers a variety of water sports and beach activities, making it ideal for active travelers or families. In addition, there are 5 pools and 4 restaurants, including a breezy waterfront grill, plus a spa for guests seeking relaxation, a marina and an 18-hole golf course as well as a fitness center, lawn games, and tennis and basketball courts.

Guest rooms feature flat screens, Wi-Fi, minifridges, refrigerators, coffeemakers and patios; some provide bay views. Suites offer sitting areas, microwaves, some add fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. Bungalows offer separate sitting rooms and dining tables, and an upgraded suite includes a kitchen. This resort has space consisting of a conference center and meeting rooms.

Check availability to book the Paradise Point Resort & Spa!

Kona Kai Resort & Spa

Rating: 4-star
Address: 1551 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106, USA.
Year of Establishment: 1953, (renovated 2018).
Location and Accessibility: situated on Shelter Island, offering breathtaking views of the San Diego Bay and marina. It’s approximately a 10-minute drive from San Diego International Airport, and close to popular attractions such as Point Loma, Liberty Station, and Downtown San Diego.
Services and Amenities: Full-service SpaTerre, offering massages, body treatments, and wellness services, Vessel Restaurant + Bar, Fitness center and yoga classes, Watersports rentals, including paddleboards and kayaks
Awards: Condé Nast Traveler, U.S. News & World Report’s list of top resorts in San Diego.

Kona Kai Resort & Spa is an iconic expression of luxury amidst the bustling city centre, situated in San Diego, the location gives you easy access to State Park, USS Midway Museum, Cabrillo National Monument and Seaport Village. Kona Kai’s tropical landscape and waterfront setting provide a serene escape within proximity to downtown San Diego, blending island vibes with modern luxury.

SpaTerre offers unique treatments, such as Balinese massage and Himalayan saltstone therapy, making it a sought-after wellness destination. Guests can also enjoy a chic waterfront restaurant and bar with a terrace, a spa and a marina. The resort fee provides access to a private beach, an outdoor pool and a fitness center. Power boats, kayaks and bikes are available for rent.

You can enjoy contemporary rooms with patios offering 42-inch flat-screen TVs, minifridges and coffee makers. Some rooms have marina or bay views and suites add separate living rooms with dining areas. A daily resort fee covers in-room Wi-Fi. This hotel has space consisting of a conference center, ballroom and meeting rooms and parking space is available onsite.

Book your stay at Kona Kai Resort & Spa. Check Availability!

Hotel del Coronado

Rating: 4-star
Address: 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118, USA.
Year of Establishment: 1888, renovations in 2022.
Location and Accessibility: Situated on Coronado Island, offering direct access to locations such as Coronado Central Beach, San Diego International Airport and is easily accessible from downtown San Diego via the Coronado Bridge or ferry.
Services and Amenities: Multiple outdoor pools, A wide range of recreational activities, Fitness center and wellness programs, On-site shopping boutiques and a historic arcade, Extensive event and meeting spaces.
Awards: National Historic Landmark. It is also featured in Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure lists of top U.S. resorts for its historic charm and luxurious offerings.

Hotel del Coronado is an iconic, historic beachfront resort located in Coronado, California. the hotel is a few minutes drive from Coronado Ferry Landing, Petco Park, San Diego Convention Center and Balboa Park.

The hotel is known for its stunning Victorian architecture and luxurious amenities, it offers a serene and picturesque setting for guests, with direct access to the sandy shores and the Pacific Ocean. Its history includes hosting numerous celebrities, royalty, and presidents, adding to its storied past.

Guests can enjoy amenities such as a spa with an infinity pool, a fitness center, 2 outdoor pools and a hot tub. There are also multiple bars and restaurants, including an ocean-view seafood eatery, an open-air pizzeria, and a lounge with live music.

The rooms feature free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, along with minifridges and coffee makers; some provide ocean views. Family suites add themed kids’ rooms with bunk beds. Some upgraded rooms are set in a secluded location off the beach & room service is provided 24/7.

Book your stay at Hotel del Coronado today. Check Availability!

Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa

Rating: 4-star
Address: 3999 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109, USA.
Year of Establishment: 1956, (renovated: 2017).
Location and Accessibility: Located directly on Mission Bay, providing easy access to the sandy shores and calm waters of the bay. just a few minutes drive from San Diego International Airport and close to popular attractions like SeaWorld San Diego, Mission Beach, and Belmont Park.
Services and Amenities: Private beach area with beach chairs, cabanas, and water sports rentals, Fitness center and fitness classes, Tropical Garden with lush landscaping and koi ponds, Meeting and event spaces, including a beachfront venue for weddings and gatherings.
Awards: Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa has received recognition from various travel publications and websites for its excellent service and prime location.

Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa is a luxurious beachfront resort located in San Diego’s Mission Bay area. The resort’s tropical ambiance is enhanced by its lush gardens, koi ponds, and Polynesian-inspired decor, providing a unique escape from the typical hotel experience with stunning bay views.

The classy rooms come with coffeemakers, minifridges, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi and balconies or patios. Studios have kitchens, while suites add separate living areas.

Guests can enjoy amenities including a lounge, a gym, a pool, a private beach and a spa, plus a tropical bird room and a seafood restaurant with outdoor dining. There’s also a tropical-style eatery with fire-pit tables as well as boat cruises and water sport equipment rentals for an extra fee.

Want to stay at the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa? Check availability!

The Wayfarer San Diego

Rating: 4-star
Address: 509 9th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, USA.
Year of Establishment: 2019.
Location and Accessibility: Located in the Gaslamp Quarter, an area known for its nightlife, dining, and entertainment. Approximately a 10-minute drive from San Diego International Airport.
Services and Amenities: Fitness center, Rooftop terrace with city views and a lounge area, 24-hour front desk and concierge services, Business center with meeting rooms and event spaces.
Awards: It is often highlighted in travel publications and blogs as a top choice for visitors to the Gaslamp Quarter.

This beach hotel is located in the Gaslamp Quarter and places guests in the heart of San Diego’s nightlife and dining scene, offering easy access to many local attractions such as Mission Beach Boardwalk and Hotel Circle.

The hotel’s focus on design and comfort appeals to both business and leisure travelers looking for a trendy and convenient base in downtown San Diego. Featured amenities include access to a patio area with a heated pool and a hot tub, plus beach access. The lobby area features retro video games & loaner bikes are available at a fee. Other amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage.

Guest rooms come with free Wi-Fi, furnished private balconies (most with ocean views), flat-screen TVs, designer toiletries, coffee makers and minifridges. Suites offer separate living areas.

To reserve your stay at The Wayfarer San Diego. Check availability!

The Lodge at Torrey Pines

Rating: 5-star
Address: 11480 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
Year of Establishment: 2022 (Renovated: 2023)
Location and Accessibility: Perched on a bluff overlooking the Torrey Pines Golf Course and the Pacific Ocean, providing stunning views.
Services and Amenities: Outdoor heated pool, Full-service spa, Fine dining at A.R. Valentien, a farm-to-table restaurant known for its seasonal menus and local ingredients, Fitness center and yoga classes.
Awards: AAA Five-Diamond Award, Forbes Travel Guide, Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure for its luxury offerings and exceptional guest experiences.

The Lodge at Torrey Pines is a luxurious, craftsman-style resort overlooking the world-renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course and the Pacific Ocean in La Jolla, California. Known for its stunning architecture, exceptional service, and proximity to nature, it offers an unforgettable experience for guests.

Guest rooms and suites offer luxurious touches like Mission-style furnishings, marble bathrooms, Bose stereos and minibars, plus free Wi-Fi. Most offer private balconies with ocean or golf course views & room service is available.

Hotel guests also receive preferred tee times at the on-site golf course as well as indulge in the hotel’s amenities including an upscale restaurant, a low-key grill/bar, a heated outdoor pool, a hot tub and a spa plus over 13,000 square feet of meeting space.

To secure your stay at The Lodge at Torrey Pines. Check Availability!

Conclusion

San Diego’s beach hotels offer the perfect combination of sun, surf, and luxury, making them ideal for every type of traveler. From the historic charm of Hotel del Coronado to the tropical oasis of Catamaran Resort & Spa, each property brings its unique flavor to the coastline. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly fun, a romantic getaway, or a luxurious escape with ocean views, these beachside retreats provide the ultimate setting for an unforgettable stay. With stunning locations, world-class amenities, and easy access to the best of San Diego’s beaches, these hotels are your gateway to the perfect seaside vacation.

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FAQs

Which beach in San Diego has the best nightlife?

If you are looking for stellar nightlife while still staying close to the beach, PB is a great place to check out! Pacific Beach is home to beautiful beaches and dozens of poppin’ bars. In fact, the Pacific Beach bars are some of the most famous local spots in all of San Diego!

Can you sleep overnight at the beach in San Diego?

Littering is NOT allowed on the beach, cliffs, walkways, park areas or adjacent parking lots. Disturbing noise is NOT allowed on the beach, cliffs, walkways, park areas or adjacent parking lots. Overnight camping, sleeping or parking is NOT allowed on the beach, cliffs, walkways, park areas or adjacent parking lots.

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