10 Best Resorts in San Diego for the Perfect Getaway

Welcome to Sunny San Diego, where the city boasts the perfect weather year-round. This west coast state can offer an intense selection of family-friendly activities. Grab some surf lessons, sprawl out in the sand, visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo, or indulge in San Diego’s coastal cuisine.

If someone told me to close my eyes and imagine my favorite spot, I’d instantly think of San Diego. It’s safe to say I probably have a slight obsession with this beautiful piece of paradise.

The local cuisine stole my heart. (80% of my internet search history is Southern California recipes, and I eat a lot of avocados.)

According to the San Diego City website, the city welcomes 28.8 million tourists annually. Join the crowd, book your flight, and before you know it, you’ll be maxin and relaxin.

The first thing to do before planning your trip to San Diego is to get yourself some travel insurance and give yourself peace of mind. You might also want to consider car rental – it’s hard to get around without one in the city, and you’ll want to have the freedom to explore the area.

Whether you’re planning to bring the family, have a girl’s trip, or travel solo, this city has the perfect resort tailored to your needs. First, take a look at all the best neighborhoods and decide where to stay in San Diego. Then, let’s look at some of the best resorts in San Diego to plan for your next visit.

TL;DR

Best San Diego Resorts

1. Fairmont Grand Del Mar

Address: 5300 Grand Del Mar Court, San Diego, CA 92130

Fairmont Grand Del Mar is one of the top-rated luxury resorts in San Diego County. If you’re eager to know what living the dream truly looks like, take a gander at Fairmont Grand Del Mar.

This secluded resort is a 5-star hotel and is nestled alongside the Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve. See why this is one of the best luxury vacation resorts in San Diego County.

The guestrooms are luxurious dreams come true and the perfect backdrop for your romantic getaway. If you need some added romance on a honeymoon retreat, check in to the Signature Poolside Room. Celebrate tying the know with champagne on the private patio.

Need a little adventure? Grab your cowboy hat and boots. Yeehaw! Horse lovers will love trail riding through the Del Mar Canyon scenery. After your picturesque exploration with these majestic creatures, lounge by the firepit while sipping hot cocoa.

I highly recommend renting a car because there aren’t many tourist attractions within a short distance of Fairmont Grand Del Mar.

Things to Do Nearby

• Torrey Pines Golf Course
• Torrey Pines State Beach
• San Diego Coastal driving tour

Pros

• Secluded Del Mar resort
• Deep soaking tubs
• The onsite restaurant is a 3-star Michelin
• Full-service spa and award-winning spa
• 18-hole private golf course designed by Tom Fazio

Cons

• Not many attractions in the area
• No ocean views
• An almost 40-minute drive away from San Diego International Airport

2. Rancho Bernardo Inn

Address: 17550 Bernardo Oaks Drive, San Diego, CA 92128

Rancho Bernardo is a scenic area in the northern hills of San Diego County. If you’re looking for quiet resorts in San Diego, California, look no further than Rancho Bernardo Inn.

Finding cheap resorts in San Diego is no easy feat. Want the best bang for your buck? Check in to Rancho Bernardo Inn, one of the best resorts in the San Diego area, for your budget.

Take a step into Europe right in your backyard; 19 handmade, imported fountains beautifully surround the walkways and gardens. Rancho Bernardo Inn is one of many breathtaking resorts near San Diego.

Bask in the sun with the resort’s three swimming pools. Cabana rentals are also available for a serene and private experience.

Rancho Bernardo Inn is the place to hold your next meeting or conference, no questions asked. Would you rather discuss daily happenings in a boring office space? Doesn’t an elegant indoor ballroom or spacious outside lawns sound much more inviting and productive? After the meeting, indulge your employees with some bonding.

See who the office champion is with a friendly game of golf. Imagine finishing off the day with a group alcohol tasting. Try not to get too crazy, though, so you forget your name or hotel room.

If you’d like to explore more of San Diego and see some tourist attractions, I’d recommend picking up a San Diego CityPass. Rancho Bernardo is more of a scenic area that’s ideal for hiking, and you may want to branch out.

Things to Do Nearby

• Toast at Bernardo Winery
• Hike at the Old Coach Trail
• Take some photos at In-Ko-Pah County Park

Pros

• Best budget resort in the San Diego area
• Plenty of options for guest rooms
• Great packages and options for meetings and conferences
• William Francis Bell-designed championship golf course
• Rooms come with private patios and private balconies

Cons

• Not many tourist attractions nearby
• Not a lot of activities for kids at the resort

3. Paradise Point Resort

Address: 1404 Vacation Road, San Diego, CA 92109

Paradise Point is a serene island resort located in Mission Bay. This 4-star hotel-class resort is just minutes from downtown San Diego. Be sure to grab a San Diego City Pass to save on some of the top attractions.

Paradise Point Resort is one of the best resorts in San Diego, California for families. Bring your little ones to the Kids Zone. Creative youngsters will enjoy seashell and rock painting, tie-dye, canvas painting, and more.

This resort is an incredible choice for families, especially those traveling with kids. Check in to a spacious bungalow and enjoy relaxing views of the San Diego Bay or the resort’s lush tropical gardens. 

Get active or get wet with the vast amount of activities at Paradise Point Resort. Play a mean game on the tennis courts, break a sweat at the fitness center, or rent a quadricycle.

The resort offers a wide variety of water activities, both in and out of the water. Get you up and close to San Diego’s roaring waters. Paradise Point Resort is jam-packed with five swimming pools.

Take advantage of the full-service marina at the resort. Try your hand at a kayak, paddleboard, jet ski, or other options.

Finish off the night with some ooey-gooey smores. This San Diego resort has over 12 beach bonfire pits. Grab your friends, watch the sunset, and get cozy near the fire. You’ll have a memorable stay at Paradise Point Resort.

Things to Do Nearby

• Say hello to marine life at SeaWorld San Diego
• Get up close and personal with whale-watching excursions
• Relax on a San Diego Harbor Cruise
• Satisfy your hunger with a Gaslamp Quarter Food Tour

Pros

• Amazing resort for families
• Loads of activities both on and off the resort
• Very close to central San Diego
• Plenty of dining venues that offer kid’s menus

Cons

• Not suitable for those looking for a quiet retreat
• Don’t offer babysitting services
• No free shuttle service from San Diego airport

4. Hotel del Coronado

Address: 1500 Orange Avenue, Coronado, CA 92118

If you’re in search of a unique experience, look no further than Hotel del Coronado. This Victorian architectural masterpiece has been welcoming guests since February 1888.

It’s basically an attraction in its own right! While I haven’t stayed here, I’ve personally walked through the property, and the pictures don’t do it justice. This Coronado Island gem is one of the best resorts near San Diego for families, couples, and weddings.

Each of the guest rooms offers a distinctive experience. No two rooms are alike in the original and iconic Victorian Guestrooms.

Each room has its own personality and is loaded with a magical history. Get the authentic California experience with a cottage or villa rental at Beach Village.

Checking in and getting settled can stir up quite the appetite. The resort has an impressive selection of dining options.

Expand your palate with coastal eats or satisfy hungry kids with casual classics. Bump up the ambiance with live music at the Beach + Taco Shack or Babcock & Story Bar.

This is one of the best San Diego resorts to host your wedding. What better place to tie the knot than at the iconic Hotel del Coronado? The venues are absolute fairytales, from a casual beach setting or a dreamy indoor ballroom.

If I ever get married, I’m definitely having my wedding here, hands down. Hotel del Coronado is a magical place where dreams come true.

Prefer to explore outside the resort? Check out the complimentary shuttle service. Bike rentals are also available to see Coronado Island, and you get some exercise. Bonus!

Things to Do Nearby

• Explore with an electric bike tour of Coronado Island
• Learn Coronado’s history with a casual guided tour of the island
• 4-hour guided tour through San Diego and surrounding areas

Pros

• Variety of accommodations, including villa and cottage rentals
• Plenty of resort activities that change seasonally
• Magical wedding venues and incredible packages
• In-room babysitting is available
• 20-minute drive to downtown San Diego

Cons

• Not suitable for those looking for a quiet resort
• The beach is near a military base, so it can get noisy

5. Bahia Resort Hotel

Address: 998 West Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, CA 92109

Bahia Resort Hotel is another of the best resorts in San Diego for families. TripAdvisor awarded the hotel as one of the top 10 resorts in the United States. The resort is minutes from many popular San Diego attractions.

An outdoor swimming pool is a must-have for any San Diego resort. Resort guests can soak in the views of the bay while sliding their toes in the sand at the Beach Lounge.

Beach chairs are complimentary for guests but are on a first-come, first-serve basis. After absorbing your daily dose of Vitamin D, stroll through the lush tropical gardens and admire the exotic plant life that calls Bahia home.

Bahia Resort Hotel has lots of activities for all ages. Kids can enjoy interactive games at the swimming pool or embrace their inner artiste at the Craft Corner. Adults will have a blast with 60s and 70s-themed games, Happy Hour, and live music at the dockside.

Let’s talk business. Bahia Resort Hotel is a great choice for business travelers and hosting group events.

Your employees will love to brag about the fact they took a cruise along Mission Bay or finished a meeting with a whirlpool dip. See who the workplace champions are with team building exercises. Employees can bond over a game of volleyball, beach Olympics, or timed challenges.

Things to Do Nearby

• Head to La Jolla for a kayak excursion
• Get spooky with the San Diego Ghosts and Gravestones Tour

Pros

• The newlywed hotel suite is on the house
• Great for hosting group and business events
• Discounted rooms for wedding guests
• Lots of resort activities for adults and kids
• Minutes away from downtown San Diego

Cons

• Limited dining options; more focus on grab and go
• No onsite spa

See Related: Best Hotels & Rentals In La Jolla, California

6. Catamaran Resort Hotel

Address: 3999 Mission Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92109

The Catamaran Resort Hotel is one of the more unique resorts in San Diego. This San Diego resort is a taste of the tropics.

The Polynesian-themed hotel is covered in tiki torches, koi ponds, waterfalls, and lush greenery. This is one of the best resorts in San Diego if you’re looking for a fun adventure.

The Catamaran Spa is the only beachfront spa in San Diego. Enjoy treatments influenced by Asian and South Pacific cultures. After reaching full relaxation, dive in the hot tub, which overlooks the bay.

You’ll never be bored with the resort’s endless activities. Cruise down Mission Bay upon the Bahia Belle, soak in the whirlpool, make a new friend at the daily bird encounters, or have a toast on Sundays at Champagne Brunch.

Embrace the open waters and get active with watersport rentals. Kayak, surfboards, paddle boards, and boat rentals are available for resort guests.

California and coastal food are soulmates. For seafood galore, check out Moray’s Outdoor Lounge. Enjoy casual food while being surrounded by tiki torches and a tropical ambiance.

Oceana Coastal Kitchen is a must-try if you’re staying at the resort. Enjoy waterfront dining as you dig into your Shrimp Rigatoni or Caramelized Scallops.

Adventure seekers will love the Catamaran Resort Hotel. Within a 15-minute radius, explore downtown San Diego or visit the serene beach town of La Jolla.

Things to Do Nearby

• Let your wild ones (kids) loose at the San Diego Zoo
• See the beauty of Balboa Park
• Guided snorkeling tour at La Jolla
• Petco Park Stadium Tour
• See even more animals at SeaWorld San Diego

Pros

• Unique resort
• Endless resort activities
• Watersport rentals
• Full service spa
• Awesome location and very close to downtown San Diego

Cons

• Limited dining options
• Not suitable for those looking for a quiet retreat
• Daily parking fees

7. Omni La Costa Resort & Spa

Address: 2100 Costa Del Mar Road, Carlsbad, CA 92009

One of my favorite places in California is the coastal city of Carlsbad. The beaches are peaceful, and the views of the Pacific Ocean are breathtaking. 

Omni La Costa Resort & Spa is one of the best resorts in San Diego County for a peaceful and quiet vacation. This resort is an awesome choice for seniors and families craving a tranquil getaway away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Treat yourself from head to toe at the Omni La Costa Spa. Close your eyes and enjoy an anti-aging facial, feel the heat with a hot stone massage, or pamper your nails with a shellac manicure. After you feel refreshed, visit the Spa Café for a light snack or a delectable smoothie.

Omni La Costa Resort has not one, not two, but eight swimming pools. Kids of all ages will love making a splash at the two 100-foot waterslides, Splash Landing, and toddler slide.

After a long day at the swimming pool, take your kids to the Kidtopia Kids Club. The resort activities change weekly, so there’s always something new and exciting.

Finish off the day with some Omni La Costa eats. Savour some Mediterranean cuisine while you gaze upon the resort’s never-ending golf courses at the Bar Traza.

Dishes contain local and organic ingredients. Try the grilled lemongrass chicken or the Caprese sandwich. Your stomach will thank you.

Things to Do Nearby

• Dig in with a Carlsbad Food and Wine Tasting Tour
• Experience the quaint surroundings of Carlsbad on an electric bike
• See the Pacific Ocean on Carlsbad Beach

Pros

• Peaceful surroundings and a quiet resort
• Kids under 15 can learn and play golf for free
• Resort activities change weekly, lots for kids
• Two championship golf courses

Cons

• Not many attractions nearby
• San Diego International Airport is an hour’s drive

8. Loews Coronado Bay Resort

Address: 4000 Coronado Bay Road, Coronado, San Diego CA 92118

Are you craving a stay on Coronado Island, but you’d like something more budget-friendly than Hotel del Coronado? Let me introduce you to Loews Coronado Bay Resort.

I’ve had the pleasure of staying at this magnificent palace and can testify that it’s worth it. Dining at the Crown Landing was a stellar experience for my tastebuds.

The service was impeccable, and one thing that was very memorable about California was that everyone was so nice. Maybe it’s because of all the sunshine they’re getting? As odd as it sounds, they also had the best coffee.

The guest rooms had a very luxurious feel to them, and I could see the marina from my own private balcony. My dad attended an annual convention, so we stayed at the Loews Coronado Bay Resort.

He was at the conference during the day, and I lounged out at the outdoor pool and took a dip in the hot tub. Vacation well spent if you ask me. I remember the resort being fairly quiet, so it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a peaceful retreat.

We did rent a car because, other than the beach, there’s not much within walking distance.

Things to Do Nearby

• Silver Strand State Beach is a 10-minute walk away
• Drive your own speedboat
• San Diego Tequila Tour
• Coronado Island Segway Tour
• Ride some waves at the Coronado Surfing Academy

Pros

• Full-service marina
• Daily classes at the fitness center
• Late checkout until 12
• Downtown San Diego is roughly 25 minutes drive away

Cons

• Limited activities for children
• Not many dining options

See Related: Best Vacation Rentals in California

9. Pier South Resort

Address: 800 Seacoast Dr, Imperial Beach, CA, 91932

Adult life can be hectic, so why not book a relaxing stay at Pier South Resort? Sleep in, order room service, and spend the day on Imperial Beach.

This resort is great for seniors or leisurely travelers who just want some peace and quiet. Many of the guest rooms have private balconies which face the Pacific Ocean.

Start your day with some complimentary yoga at the fitness center. While the hotel doesn’t have a golf course, you can spend the day at the San Diego Country Club.

It’s only 20 minutes away from Pier South Resort. Nearby, you can shop and eat at Las Americas Premium Outlets.

It’s roughly 15 minutes away from the resort. Pier South Resort is about 25 minutes away from Tijuana if you’d like to go south of the border.

Grab a chair at Sea180 Coastal Tavern, the only restaurant at Pier South Resort. Enjoy views of Coronado Island, South Bay, and Mexico while you chow down.

Indulge in Skuna Bay Salmon or some Tuna Tataki. No trip to the coast is complete without a full seafood meal.

Pier South Resort is a great choice if you’re just looking for a home away from home. It’s perfect for just lounging around while enjoying the quiet surroundings.

Things to Do Nearby

• Tijuana City Tour and Food Tasting
• Walk down the Imperial Beach Pier
• See the birds at the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve

Pros

• Quiet and peaceful location
• Free bike rentals
• Outdoor pool provides towels
• Lots of nearby restaurants

Cons

• San Diego International Airport is almost 30 minutes drive away
• Not many tourist attractions in the area
• Only one onsite restaurant
• Not many activities for children and families

10. San Diego Mission Bay Resort

Address: 1775 E Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, CA, 92109

At San Diego Mission Bay Resort, you’ll be in the center of all the action. This resort is a great choice for families who want a loaded itinerary. The events calendar is packed, and there are plenty of resort activities to keep you busy.

If that’s not enough, Mission Bay is close to San Diego’s city center, where you’ll find loads of tourist attractions. You can also head north toward La Jolla, which is only a quick 20-minute drive away.

I can promise you that you won’t run out of things to do at this resort. Rent a kayak, sailboat, or paddleboard to explore the deep waters of San Diego. Rent out a bike and check out the Mission Bay area at your leisure.

Kids of all ages can enjoy splashing around in the outdoor pool. The resort has a special wading area reserved for younger kids and babies. Finish off the night with a beach bonfire and some smores.

Bring the whole family, that includes your furry friends. Up to two dogs are allowed per room for an extra fee. Everyone will love what San Diego and Mission Bay have to offer.

Things to Do Nearby

• A San Diego Seal Tour
• Hop on Hop Off Trolley Tour
• Gaslamp Quarter Murder Mystery Scavenger Hunt
• San Diego Highlights Tour

Pros

• San Diego International Airport is only 15 minutes drive away
• Up to three kids can stay free if sharing a room with a parent or guardian
• Separate kids wading pool
• Lots of resort activities
• Very close to San Diego city center

Cons

• Limited dining options
• Not suitable for those looking for a quiet resort

Related Resources

• Most Exotic Places in California to Visit
• Best Road Trips in California (+ Scenic Drives)
• Most Famous Landmarks in California to Visit