Where to Stay in San Diego – Best Places and Hotels For All Budgets

San Diego is one of the most idyllic cities in the United States. Its proximity to Mexico, incredible beaches, and rich history make this one of the top destinations in the world. From museums and shopping to family-friendly activities and vibrant nightlife, visitors from around the world flock to the area looking for the next big adventure.

San Diego draws people from all over the world and there are plenty of incredible vacation homes in San Diego. One of the biggest challenges to visiting San Diego is narrowing down what to do and, by default, where to stay. When deciding where to stay in San Diego, it is important to unpack what you are wanting from your holiday escape. With so much diversity, knowing how you want to spend your time will help narrow down where to stay. Here are a few of the best places to stay in San Diego.

The Best Places to Stay in San Diego at a Glance

• Mission Bay: Best for families and people interested in watersports
• Mission Beach: Best for young people
• Downtown San Diego: Best for first-timers
• La Jolla: Best for couples, retirees, and luxury travellers
• Coronado: Best for resort lovers
• Pacific Beach: Best for young people and college students
• Del Mar: Best for luxury travellers

Where to Stay in San Diego

Mission Bay

Ocean lovers will enjoy this beautiful area located just minutes from Downtown. Perfect for families, this area provides opportunities for enjoying a variety of water sports including sailing, stand-up paddle-boarding, and even kit surfing and jet skiing. On land, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy time with the family as well. Shopping, dining, bike rentals, and other outdoor activities fill the area. Mission Bay is also home to SeaWorld San Diego.

Mission Beach

Looking for less kids and more adult action? Mission Beach is home to San Diego’s 20-somethings crowd. Home to an abundance of nightclubs, restaurants, funky surf shops, bars and cafes, this area is a magnet for the young and hip. If you stop in here, make sure you check out the boardwalk and Belmont Park for a rid on the Giant Dipper.

Where to stay in Mission Beach and Mission Bay

Downtown San Diego

The heartbeat of the San Diego area is found in its exciting Downtown area. During the day, visitors can enjoy plenty of cultural, outdoor, and sporting attractions, such as The New Children’s Museum, Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, or even enjoy a game at Petco Park, home to the San Diego Padres. The Embarcadero waterfront boasts the USS Midway Museum, the Star of India and the Maritime Museum of San Diego.

After dark, the downtown area comes alive with high-end nightclubs, music venues, and an abundance of rooftop bars. Restaurants, activities and so much more make the Downtown area one of the best neighborhoods to stay in San Diego.

Read next: 12 Best Vacation Rentals in Downtown San Diego

Where to stay in Downtown San Diego

La Jolla

Couples and friends looking for a more intimate escape will enjoy the La Jolla region of San Diego. Luxury vacation homes, plenty of dining and shopping, and pristine beaches make this the place to stay for a memorable holiday. Antique lovers will feel right at home in this area.

Enjoy a show at Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center or take a stroll through one of the many contemporary Fine Arts Galleries found in the area. With a variety of high-end and casual dining and hotel accommodations, La Jolla is a perfect destination for a romantic getaway.

Where to stay in La Jolla

Coronado

With a slogan like “Where Main Street Meets Bare Feet”, it just doesn’t get any better than Coronado. This coastal community knows how to define relaxation. Beautiful beaches, water sports, biking, and just enjoying the California sunshine define Coronado.

After a relaxing day at the beach, visitors can enjoy one of the many restaurants, plenty of shopping, or enjoy a day at the Coronado Museum of History and Art. Like to play golf? Coronado boasts some of the best golf courses in southern California. Perfect for families or retirees, Coronado is one of the most relaxing destinations in the area.

Where to stay in Coronado

Pacific Beach

One of the most well-known beaches in the Mission Beach / Mission Bay area is Pacific Beach. Home to some of the best surfing in the area, this region is popular among college students and young adults.

Not only does this beach have access to plenty of parking and hotels, but there are also restrooms and changing areas on-site for guests looking for a fabulous day’s adventure. With access to fabulous restaurants, exciting nightlife, and plenty to see and do, this is the best area to stay in San Diego for young adults.

Where to stay in Pacific Beach

Del Mar

Located about 20 miles north of San Diego sits a quaint village with a more European flair. Del Mar offers visitors beautiful beaches, a vibrant, small-town feeling, and plenty of outdoor activities. Made famous during the golden era of the movie industry, this village offers plenty to see and do. Cute boutique hotels, plenty of independently owned shops, and a mix of both upscale and casual restaurants make this area great for guests seeking a relaxing vacation destination.

There are plenty of seasonal activities and events held in Del Mar throughout the year such as the Summer Solstice, Twilight Summer Concert Series, and even a Taste of Del Mar. Looking for a little action? Check out the Del Mar Racetrack and experience the thrill of thoroughbred racing events or stop in at the San Diego County Fair.

Where to stay in Del Mar