Where To Stay In San Diego – Best Neighborhoods & Areas (2024)
Southern California has some nice cities, and San Diego is among the most stunning cities alongside the West Coast of the United States. With San Diego’s beautiful beaches, nice tradition, incredible meals, and wealthy historical past, San Diego is a type of cities that may be loved by individuals of all ages and households too.
Often known as the birthplace of California, San Diego was as soon as a Mexican fort that grew its means into the eighth largest metropolis in America. Located near the Mexican border, you may really feel the affect of its southern neighbor in virtually each a part of town. It’s what offers it its attraction.
There isn’t any scarcity of things to do in San Diego. From catching some rays on the seashores of La Jolla, taking in Balboa Park’s 17 museums, or strolling the boardwalk at Mission Seashore, you will see that one thing that pursuits every member of the household.
Finest Areas to Keep in San Diego
San Diego is among the most secure cities within the nation, in order that helps slim down the place to remain for first-timers. There are tons of locations to remain, from hostels for finances vacationers to boutique motels for the extra refined traveler to upscale resorts for individuals who need to stay massive in resorts and trip leases. If you need historic magnificence, contemplate staying at a luxurious assortment lodge like The US Grant, which is a part of the Marriott Luxurious Assortment.
Earlier than selecting the world you need to base your self in, it’s best to get oriented with town. The map of San Diego beneath will enable you get the lay of the land and provide you with a common thought of the place the neighborhoods are. As soon as you might be oriented, Let’s get into the perfect locations to remain in San Diego, California.
1. Coronado
Coronado Island is a good place to remain in San Diego for a lot of causes. For golfers, Torrey Pines Golf Course is true down the road. The views, seaside, and small-town really feel make it a favourite amongst guests. Coronado Seashore is among the high seashores within the US, with white sand, light waves, and Pacific Ocean views. The neighborhood additionally has the historic Resort del Coronado, a beachfront lodge since 1888.
In addition to its pure magnificence, Coronado has a number of issues to do. You may stroll across the downtown space, which has boutiques, artwork galleries, and eating places. The Coronado Ferry Touchdown is a fast and scenic solution to get to downtown San Diego, with views of town skyline. The neighborhood has nice bike paths, so you will get round on two wheels.
Staying in Coronado is a steadiness of rest and comfort. Shut sufficient to downtown San Diego to benefit from the metropolis’s sights but far sufficient to be a retreat. The neighborhood is walkable, stunning and pleasant so it’s the proper place for guests.
Getting Right here: In case you’re driving, you will get to Coronado by taking the San Diego-Coronado Bridge. The bridge connects downtown San Diego to Coronado and has nice views of the bay. From downtown San Diego, take CA-75 South, and it’ll take you proper over the bridge and into Coronado. The drive is 10-Quarter-hour, relying on site visitors.
In case you’re taking public transit, you may take the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) bus. From downtown San Diego, you may catch the Route 901 bus on the Broadway and Pacific Freeway cease. The bus goes over the Coronado Bridge and thru the guts of Coronado with a number of stops alongside Orange Avenue, the primary road in Coronado. The journey is half-hour.
Finest Luxurious Resort in Coronado:
Hotel del Coronado: With its historic attraction and trendy facilities, this iconic lodge has beachfront entry, a spa, a number of eating choices, and rooms with ocean views. It’s a traditional.
Finest Mid-Vary Resort in Coronado:
Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa: This lodge options Snug lodging, a full-service spa, outside swimming pools, and views of the San Diego skyline.
Finest Finances Resort in Coronado:
Glorietta Bay Inn: Keep right here is certainly a candy deal. A captivating boutique lodge in a historic mansion with cozy rooms, free breakfast and seaside, and native sights proper at your step.
2. La Jolla -Finest Place to Keep in San Diego for Seashore Lovers
In case you have been born to be on the seaside, you’ll love La Jolla (say it with me, La Hoya). That is the place all of the San Diegan celebrities stay and the place Dr. Seuss drew a lot of his cartoons.
Think about spending sunny days lounging on the massive seaside of La Jolla Cove, sandy seaside, kayaking by means of the La Jolla Caves, buying in boutiques, consuming contemporary Mexican meals, and having a cocktail from a rooftop bar because the solar goes down. That is an out of doors particular person’s paradise.
Like all of San Diego, there are various varieties of lodging in La Jolla, but it surely’s most well-known for its luxurious motels.
Getting Right here: There are a number of methods to get to La Jolla. In case you’re taking public transit, then public bus #30 runs from downtown San Diego to La Jolla. Additionally, keep in mind the primary streets in La Jolla are La Jolla Village Drive, Prospect Avenue, Avenida de la Playa, and Girard Avenue, so you will get dropped off on the proper spot.
Finest Luxurious Resort in La Jolla:
Pantai Inn San Diego: It’s situated only a 4-minute stroll from La Jolla Shores. Balinese decor in a romantic setting. that is the proper place to remain for {couples} on the lookout for that romantic setting.
Finest Mid-Vary Resort in La Jolla:
Inn By the Sea: This lodge is completely located 5 min from La Jolla Sores. Every room has a balcony to benefit from the contemporary seabreeze, a number of eating choices close by a pool and free wifi. an excellent place to base your self when exploring San Diego.
Finest Finances Resort in La Jolla:
The Shoal La Jolla Beach: Central location, cute, clear and reasonably priced rooms. You’re inside strolling distance to the seaside. Fashionable decor, every room has a small fridge and microwave. good for a weekend keep.
3. North Park – Hippest Neighborhood in San Diego
North Park is among the most enjoyable and eclectic neighborhoods in downtown San Diego, with road artwork, bars, bizarre eating places, and cultural sights in every single place. Right here, creativity is inspired, and the locals aren’t afraid to attempt new issues. Lots of the bars in North Park have rooftop bars with nice views and drinks.
It’s the type of place that serves beer cocktails, lattes with foam artwork, and paint pallets as plates. In case you’re on the lookout for the best place to remain in San Diego, that is the neighborhood for you. North Park is inside strolling distance of many cultural hotspots like Balboa Park, the Ray Avenue Arts District, and the North Park Theatre.
If you wish to expertise the cultural aspect of San Diego, that is positively the place you need to keep.
Getting Right here: By automotive – From I-805: Exit College Avenue. Flip left onto College Avenue. From I-5: Exit Pershing Drive and go onto Upas Avenue. Parking in a storage on twenty ninth Avenue. In case you desire public transit Bus #2 runs alongside thirtieth Avenue.
Finest Luxurious Resort in North Park:
The Lafayette Hotel: Positioned a 5-minute drive from the San Diego Zoo, this eco-friendly Colonial-style lodge options an Olympic-size pool and Free WiFi.
Finest Mid-Vary Resort in North Park:
Berkshire Motor Hotel: Nice location for Balboa Park, the Zoo, and North Park. Free WiFi with easy decor. Every room is clear and cozy.
Finest Finances Resort in North Park:
ITH Zoo Hostel is situated between North Park and Hillcrest, one other nice neighborhood of San Diego. It has cool decor, free WiFi, and Free breakfast.
4. Ocean Seashore – The place to Keep for Households
Our good mates free-spirited grandfather used to take me to Ocean Seashore as a baby and wistfully say, “O.B. — the place you reside blissful and free” as quickly as we stepped out of our automotive. At present, the sentiment nonetheless rings true. Ocean Seashore is a laid again neighborhood the place different existence aren’t solely tolerated however inspired. Mission Bay is only a brief stroll away with household pleasant actions like water sports activities and seaside adventures.
Stroll down the primary road previous eating places, boutiques promoting tie-dye every thing, therapeutic crystal outlets, and taco stands. Avenue artwork covers the clean partitions, and the solar normally comes out after midday — as soon as the marine layer of fog burns off.
Tide swimming pools, ocean swimming, and strolling on the Ocean Seashore Pier are simply a number of the cool issues to do on this neighborhood.
Ocean Seashore is pet-friendly. In case you’re on the lookout for locations to remain in San Diego with pets, you’ll discover Ocean Seashore is about as pet-friendly because it will get. Don’t neglect to take a look at the Ocean Seashore Farmers Market. It’s received natural meals stalls and stay music!
Attending to Ocean Seashore: By automotive – From the I-5, to the 8/Sundown Cliffs Boulevard and observe that to Bacon Avenue. Free road parking is offered in residential areas of Ocean Seashore, and metered parking is offered in the primary areas. By bus – Bus #35 from Previous City (main public transportation hub) to Ocean Seashore. Bus #923 from downtown San Diego to Ocean Seashore.
Finest Luxurious Resort in Ocean Seashore:
Ocean Beach Hotel: This iconic lodge is just a one-minute stroll from the seaside. It has free Wi-Fi, free parking, and can also be near the airport.
Finest Mid-Vary Resort in Ocean Seashore:
The Inn at Sunset Cliffs: This lodge has an excellent location. It’s only a 15-minute stroll to the seaside. It additionally has an out of doors pool, free Wi-Fi, and is near many sights.
Finest Finances Resort in Ocean Seashore:
USA Hostels Ocean Beach: This hostel is ideal for the finances traveler. It has your selection of personal or dorm rooms, and it has free WIFI, and you’ll love the funky decor. Add that it’s only a 4 min stroll from the seaside, and you already know why we suggest it.
5. Gaslamp Quarter – Finest Neighborhood in San Diego for nightlife
San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter is a 24/7 neighborhood. In case you’re on the lookout for the place to remain in San Diego and need to be in the midst of downtown, the Gaslamp Quarter is the best way to go.
The Gaslamp Quarter, on San Diego Bay, has a wild west historical past with tales of tavern brawls and shootouts. The quarter was as soon as dwelling to town’s purple gentle district, casinos, and 1860’s Chinatown. Many residents imagine the ghosts of Gaslamp’s previous nonetheless linger right here at this time.
There are over 90 historic buildings within the Gaslamp Quarter which makes it a pleasant distinction to the remainder of downtown San Diego’s excessive rises.
Other than its historical past the Gaslamp Quarter has eating places, bars and is strolling distance to the San Diego Conference Heart, Petco Park, Balboa Theatre and Horton Plaza.
In case you’re on the lookout for a bit little bit of enjoyable and need to be close to a lot of San Diego’s finest landmarks, select the Gaslamp Quarter as your base.
Getting Right here: By automotive – The Gaslamp Quarter is in the midst of downtown San Diego and runs alongside fifth and sixth Avenue. Parking is hard and costly within the Gaslamp Quarter. By trolley – All trolley traces 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 growth field. These are a enjoyable solution to get round downtown.
Finest Luxurious Resort in Gaslamp Quarter:
Kimpton Solamar Hotel: Positioned within the coronary heart of the Gaslamp Quarter and that includes Free WIFI, Rooftop Pool & free wine tasting! That is the standard Kimpton Luxurious expertise.
Finest Mid-Vary Resort in Gaslamp Quarter:
Staypineapple at Hotel Z: A romantic lodge with quirky decor. It’s pet-friendly, affords free Wifi, and is inside strolling distance of virtually every thing.
Finest Finances Resort in Gaslamp Quarter:
USA Hostels San Diego Downtown: Constructed again in 1880 this hostel affords blended dorms, free WIFI, Free Breakfast, and a vibrant new age decor.
6. Previous City – Finest Place to Keep in San Diego for First-Timers
Previous City San Diego is the birthplace of California. As you may inform from the title, it’s the oldest a part of San Diego and was the primary Spanish settlement within the early 1800s. Earlier than that, it was an vital space for the Kumeyaay Native Individuals. Previous City is on the Nationwide Register of Historic Locations.
Previous City can also be close to SeaWorld San Diego, so it’s an excellent place for households.
What’s cool about Previous City at this time is that it saved its attraction and magnificence of structure. Many San Diegans suppose Previous City is haunted, and many of the ghosts stay within the Whaley Home.
You may spend your time shopping museums, visiting the Mission, consuming Mexican meals, and listening to a mariachi band. Previous City is sweet for guests of all ages who like meals, historical past, folklore and have a vivid creativeness.
Getting There: By automotive – Previous City is situated on the northern finish of downtown San Diego between the I-5 and the I-8. Exit Pacific Freeway from the I-5 and Taylor Avenue from the I-8. By bus/trolley – Buses #8, #9, #10, #28, #35, #44, #88, and #105 go to Previous City and most of San Diego. The Inexperienced Line trolley additionally goes by means of Previous City and stops on the Previous City Transit Heart.
Finest Luxurious Resort in Previous City:
Cosmopolitan Hotel: Inbuilt 1869, it options Victorian decor, free Wi-Fi, Breakfast included, and an on-site restaurant with blissful hour.
Finest Mid-Vary Resort in Previous City:
Hilton Garden Inn Old Town: An excellent worth lodge is only a 10-minute stroll to Previous City. It has an out of doors pool and free WIFI.
Finest Finances Resort in Previous City:
Old Town Inn: This stunning finances lodge affords breakfast included, an out of doors pool, a video games room, and free HBO!
7. Carlsbad
Carlsbad is a good place to remain in San Diego due to its coastal cuteness, stunning seashores, family-friendly actions, and luxurious resorts. Often known as the “Village by the Sea,” Carlsbad is a chill setting with one thing for everybody. The Carlsbad State Seashore is a giant draw, with pristine sand, nice surf, and exquisite sunsets. The seaside is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or a leisurely stroll alongside the coast.
One of many high sights in Carlsbad is LEGOLAND California Resort, a theme park that may delight children and adults with its interactive rides, reveals, and large LEGO shows. In case you like nature and flowers, the Carlsbad Flower Fields are a must-see within the spring, with rows and rows of blooming flowers creating a phenomenal panorama. The neighborhood additionally has a cute downtown space with boutique outlets, gourmand eating places, and comfy cafes, so it’s an excellent place to wander and chill.
Finest Luxurious Resort In Carlsbad:
Park Hyatt Aviara Resort: This resort has spacious rooms, a world-class spa, and an award-winning golf course. The grounds and facilities are top-notch, so that you’ll have a memorable and indulgent keep.
Finest Mid-Vary Resort In Carlsbad:
West Inn & Suites: In case you have much less of a finances, this can be a nice selection, with snug rooms and a boutique really feel. They provide free breakfast, a heated outside pool, and easy accessibility to the seaside and native sights.
Finest Finances Resort in Carlsbad:
Carlsbad by the Sea Hotel: Wanting to avoid wasting money? This lodge is the best way to go. This little lodge has cozy rooms, free breakfast and is true close to the seaside and LEGOLAND so it’s an excellent worth for vacationers.
FAQ’s About San Diego Inns
Finest areas to remain in San Diego are Downtown, La Jolla, and Coronado for the sights, seashores, and facilities. For these fascinated with {golfing}, Torrey Pines Golf is a must-visit.
Good elements of San Diego are the Gaslamp Quarter for nightlife, Pacific Seashore for seaside life, and Previous City for historical past and tradition.
You must plan to spend at the least 3-4 days in San Diego to see the primary sights and seashores.
The Gaslamp Quarter is the proper place to remain if you’re on a finances. It has a number of the most reasonably priced motels in San Diego, and you might be near most sights.
Our Suggestions
Regardless of which neighborhood you select as a house base in San Diego, you’re certain to have a spectacular time. For an opulent keep, contemplate a luxurious assortment lodge. You may simply bounce from one neighborhood to the following with out ever feeling bored or as if you’ve seen it earlier than.
The town has a well-deserved repute for being full of life and various, a mixture that pleases even probably the most high-maintenance traveler. I hope this has made the duty of discovering the place to remain in San Diego a bit simpler.
Bear in mind to pack sunscreen and brace your self for spicy Mexican delicacies. Eat an additional California burrito for us!