Last updated on July 13th, 2025
From the historic elegance of beachfront resorts to the modern luxury of downtown towers, San Diego offers accommodations that blend California cool with world-class hospitality. Whether you seek ocean views, championship golf, or award-winning spas, these top San Diego hotels deliver unforgettable experiences in America’s Finest City.
Here are the best hotels in San Diego for every type of traveler.
Why Stay at San Diego’s Luxury Hotels?
San Diego’s finest hotels offer:
🏨 Oceanfront pools with Pacific views
🍽️ Michelin-starred dining and fresh seafood
🏒 Championship golf courses and tennis courts
💆 World-class spas with coastal-inspired treatments
🌆 Prime locations near beaches, zoos, and Balboa Park
Best Hotels in San Diego
1. The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego
The historic US Grant has hosted presidents and celebrities since 1910. My evening cocktail in the Grant Grill Lounge, surrounded by Jazz Age elegance, was unforgettable. The rooftop views and marble bathrooms exemplify San Diego luxury.
- Area: Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter
- Highlights: Historic architecture, speakeasy bar, luxury spa
- Perfect for: History buffs and urban explorers
2. Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa
My weekend at Rancho Valencia felt like a private Spanish hacienda retreat. The casita-style suites with outdoor showers and the championship tennis courts make this one of San Diego’s most exclusive resorts.
- Area: Rancho Santa Fe
- Highlights: 45-acre property, Forbes Five-Star spa, clay tennis courts
- Perfect for: Romantic getaways and active travelers
3. Pacific Terrace Hotel
The Pacific Terrace Hotel offers one of San Diego’s best beachfront locations. Waking up to waves crashing just steps from my balcony was pure California bliss.
- Area: Pacific Beach
- Highlights: Direct beach access, heated pool, complimentary breakfast
- Perfect for: Beach lovers and families
4. Fairmont Grand Del Mar
The Fairmont Grand Del Mar is San Diego’s only Forbes Five-Star hotel. My afternoon at their Tom Fazio-designed golf course followed by dinner at Addison (Southern California’s only Five-Star restaurant) was perfection.
- Area: Del Mar
- Highlights: 400-acre property, equestrian center, kids’ club
- Perfect for: Luxury seekers and golf enthusiasts
5. The Lodge at Torrey Pines
Overlooking the famous Torrey Pines Golf Course, The Lodge at Torrey Pines channels Arts & Crafts elegance. My morning rounds with Pacific views were unforgettable.
- Area: La Jolla
- Highlights: PGA Tour course access, Craftsman-style architecture, spa
- Perfect for: Golfers and architecture enthusiasts
6. The Bower Coronado
This boutique gem, The Bower Coronado, combines modern design with island charm. My morning bike ride to the famous Hotel Del along the beach was pure Coronado magic.
- Area: Coronado
- Highlights: Complimentary bikes, rooftop deck, walkable location
- Perfect for: Design lovers and couples
7. Hotel del Coronado
The iconic Hotel del Coronado has welcomed guests since 1888. My sunset cocktail on the beachfront deck, watching the famous “green flash,” was a highlight of my San Diego visit.
- Area: Coronado
- Highlights: Historic charm, beachfront dining, seasonal ice rink
- Perfect for: First-time visitors and history lovers
8. Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego
Dominating the downtown skyline, Manchester Grand Hyatt offers unparalleled bay views from its twin towers. My dinner at the Top of the Hyatt with panoramic city lights was unforgettable.
- Area: Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter
- Highlights: 40th-floor lounge, convention center access, rooftop pool
- Perfect for: Business travelers and convention attendees
9. La Valencia Hotel
The “Pink Lady” of La Jolla, La Valencia Hotel, has been a coastal landmark since 1926. My afternoon watching seals from the ocean-view terrace was pure Southern California magic.
- Area: La Jolla
- Highlights: Mediterranean architecture, Whaling Bar, cliffside location
- Perfect for: Romantic getaways and coastal charm seekers
10. Rancho Bernardo Inn
This Spanish-style retreat, Rancho Bernardo Inn, offers a peaceful escape with championship golf and a renowned spa. My couples massage in their garden cabana was heavenly.
- Area: Rancho Bernardo
- Highlights: 18-hole golf course, farm-to-table dining, wellness center
- Perfect for: Golfers and spa enthusiasts
FAQs About The Best Hotels in San Diego
Final Tips for Booking
– Beachfront hotels command premium prices but offer unforgettable views
– Downtown hotels provide easy access to attractions and nightlife
– Book golf tee times and spa treatments well in advance
– Check for seasonal packages that include amenities
Whether you choose a historic landmark or a modern luxury resort, the best hotels in San Diego promise an unforgettable California experience with perfect weather year-round.
Best Travel Tips
Book Your Flight
Find the cheapest flight by using Skyscanner. For over a decade I've found it to nearly always offer the best deals.
Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hotel or guesthouse with Agoda as it consistently has the best rates.
Always Use Travel Insurance
Travel insurance safeguards you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations, providing peace of mind if anything goes wrong. My top pick for excellent service and value is SafetyWing (best for all age groups.)
Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip?
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Economy to Mid-Range
- TripAdvisor
- Get Your Guide Mid-Range to Luxury
- TRAFALGAR
Stay Connected While Traveling
Cheapest Way to Transfer Money
I’ve been using XE for all my international money transfers, and it’s been a game changer. The fees are super low, and I get the real exchange rate which saves a lot. The normal fee is usually just a couple dollars per transaction.
Ready to Book Your Trip?
Take a look at my resource page for top travel companies and tips. I’ve listed all my personal favorites that I've used over years of full-time travel, each best in class, so you can’t plan your trip wrong!
