Best San Diego Waterfront Hotels 2024
& Beach Vacation Rentals

Best San Diego Waterfront Hotels, Pacific Terrace InnThe Pacific Terrace Hotel

Updated January, 2024

These are the best San Diego waterfront or beach hotels. These beachfront hotels and accommodations will make your San Diego beach vacation the best it can be. Simply walk to the beach and enjoy the peace and serenity that only waves lapping the shore and an ocean breeze can bring.  Is this not what a San Diego beach vacation is all about? 

Best things to do in San Diego: San Diego beaches are some of the best on the west coast of USA! Find out more about these on our San Diego Beaches page! The USS Midway Museum is one of the most popular stops for Navy and Air Force personnel. For nature lovers, you will love the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is great but the kids will love the San Diego Zoo! Here are some of the best things to do in San Diego!

Safety in San Diego: Good news... San Diego has a lower crime rate than many of the larger cities.  That being said it is always best to check with the hotel concierge to ensure you stay away from areas in San Diego that have higher crime rates. Be a savvy traveler and take all precautions such as late night walks on your own etc..

Transportation in San Diego: Public transit is by far the cheapest mode of transportation in San Diego. However, Uber and Lyft are a great alternative to Taxis. We love the Uber App and payment is easy with your credit card. Renting a car is very convenient and gives you the greatest freedom. Using Waze App is one of the best apps for finding your way around by car.

Best time of year to visit San Diego: Best time of year to visit San Diego is September for couples or retired people. By September the water is warmer and the beaches and other attractions are far less busy when the kids are back to school. Families can enjoy July and August. However San Diego has pretty good weather all year. Here are the San Diego annual weather averages to make your planning easier. Enjoy!

B.W.D. Booking Tip:  Always check how far the beach is from any accommodation you are considering. Many so called "San Diego beach hotels" may be separated by streets or possibly highways.

Related Pages: California Beaches, San Diego Beaches

Best San Diego Waterfront Hotels
San Diego City (Beach Hotels)


Pacific Terrace Hotel (Reviews and Pricing Link)

With fantastic guest reviews, the Pacific Terrace Hotel is a 4 Star as well as T/A Traveler's Choice award waterfront hotel located on Pacific Beach in San Diego. Seaworld to the South and beautiful La Jolla to the North. Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo is a 20-30 minute drive.

A boardwalk offering great evening strolls, cycling or rollerblading just outside beckons you to come out and play. An oceanview swimming pool, spa tub, and fitness center simply add to your beach vacation. A Best Waterfront Destinations top pick for best San Diego waterfront hotels!

Address: 610 Diamond Street, San Diego, Phone: 800-344-3370

Tower23 Hotel (Reviews and Pricing Link)

This San Diego waterfront hotel offers modern and contemporary room designs. Rated as 4 Star as well as 2023 T/A Traveler's Choice award recipient will assure you of a luxurious stay.
The boardwalk is ready for you as well as a lovely pier. Award winning  JRDN Restaurant. Beautiful sundeck with fire pit and sweeping ocean views will be the perfect end to your day.

Address: 723 Felspar Street Pacific Beach, San Diego, Phone: 1 858 270 2323

Crystal Pier Hotel Cottages (Reviews and Pricing Link)

San Diego Waterfront Hotels, Crystal Pier Hotel CottagesCrystal Pier Hotel and Cottages

For something completely different why not try the Crystal Pier Hotel Cottages? Directly on the pier, you will enjoy a truly unique hotel of all the San Diego waterfront hotels! Equipped with small kitchens and up to 2 bedrooms, this is a great option for small families.

Address: 4500 Ocean Blvd, San Diego, Phone: (800) 748-5894 

Family Cruises from $599pp

Bahia Resort Hotel (Reviews and Pricing Link)

The Bahia Resort Hotel is a premier family friendly 14-acre waterfront property located  in San Diego’s scenic Mission Bay. Guests enjoy the beautiful tropical gardens and views of the Pacific Ocean and may choose deluxe studios and suites, each with its own balcony or patio. Some rooms  include kitchenettes, direct access to the beach and views of the sparkling bay and tropical gardens. This 3 Star San Diego waterfront hotel is better reviewed than some 4 star hotels in San Diego and is recipient to the 2023 T/A Traveler's Choice award. 

Address: 998 West Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, Phone: 1 (858) 264-0131

The Inn at Sunset Cliffs (Reviews and Pricing Link)

San Diego Waterfront Hotels, Inn at Sunset CliffsThe Inn at Sunset Cliffs

The Inn at Sunset Cliffs is a very clean waterfront hotel in sunny San Diego. The sandy beaches are just a few minutes walk away. Focused on wedding packages, you will be delighted by its beautiful location. The 24 suites are comfortable and modest. Good value pick. Watch a video here!

Address: 1370 Sunset Cliffs Blvd, San Diego, Phone:  1-619-222-7901

Best San Diego Waterfront Hotels
Closest to Cruise Terminal 

InterContinental San Diego (Reviews and Pricing Link)

San Diego Waterfront Hotels, Intercontinental San DiegoConvenience to Cruise Terminal at Intercontinental

A contemporary San Diego waterfront hotel close to the San Diego Cruise Terminal just .4 mile away. Experience modern luxury, with contemporary coastal decor and well-appointed guest rooms with floor to ceiling windows where guests can enjoy peaceful water views and sunsets. Guests can enjoy the relaxation pool with cabanas as well as the 3300 sq. ft. fitness centre.

If you plan to stay in San Diego a few days prior to your cruise you will be happy to know that many very popular tourist attractions in the area. Rated as 4 Star as well as T/A 2023 Traveler's Choice award recipient ensures a quality stay to start your cruise vacation or business trip.

Address: 901 Bayfront Court, San Diego, Phone: 1 (619) 501 - 9400

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown (Reviews and Pricing Link)

San Diego Waterfront Hotels, Embassy SuitesGreat central location at the Embassy

The Embassy Suites offers terrific water views and location. It is excellent for those who enjoy having all activities nearby! Shopping, restaurants, museums, baseball. A complimentary breakfast is served. Each spacious 2 room suite offers a microwave and eating area. For the business traveler they offer a good work area as well. Located just .6 mile from the Cruise ship terminal. This (close to waterfront) San Diego hotel is rated as a 3 Star hotel and recipient of 2023 T/A Traveler's Choice award. This makes it a great all around choice.

Address: 601 Pacific Highway, San Diego, Phone: 1 (855) 605-0319

Best San Diego Waterfront Hotels
Town of Carlsbad

These San Diego waterfront hotels are approximately forty minutes from downtown San Diego. Located in the beach town of Carlsbad. For great shopping, you will find Carlsbad Premium Outlet Stores. Just minutes to Legoland and great beaches! Great for the kids.
Here are the best things to do in Carlsbad.

Beach Terrace  (Reviews and Pricing Link)

Best San Diego Waterfront Hotels, Beach TerraceNewly renovated Beach Terrace

This San Diego waterfront hotel has been family owned for over 60 years and was beautifully renovated in May 2022. It is the only hotel in Carlsbad that is directly on the beach and has great reviews. The rooms are spacious with an average of 600 sq. ft.. The Beach Terrace Inn offers a petit breakfast, free WiFi, swimming pool and beach valet to ensure you are comfortable. Logoland is only 5 minutes away and is a kid's favorite! A 3 Star as well as 2023 T/A Traveler's Choice Award recipient

Here is one review. “Loved this wonderful beach resort! Classy chic in the perfect location. The rooms were large with tasteful decor and gorgeous, breathtaking views...there was nothing but sand between ourselves and the ocean ...”

Address: 2775 Ocean St, Carlsbad,  Phone: 1 (800) 433 5415

Save up to $500 when you book your flight +hotel!

West Inn & Suites Carlsbad (Reviews and Pricing Link)

Best San Diego Waterfront Hotels, West Inn & SuitesWest Inn and Suites

The West Inn & Suites is located 3 blocks away from the beach and close to great shopping, Legoland and more. Luxury and great service has made this San Diego boutique hotel a favorite! Choose from 86 spacious rooms including 36 suites with plush beds. Relax at the whirlpool and swimming pool. 

Address: 4970 Avenida Encinas,  Phone:  1-760-448-4500

Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort and Spa (Reviews and Pricing Link)

Best San Diego Waterfront Hotels, Cape Rey HiltonCape Rey Carlsbad, Hilton

The Cape Rey Carlsbad, Hilton Resort and Spa offers great location, facility and service. You will love a relaxing massage at the Ocean Crest Spa. The Ocean Crest Spa is one of the best rated spas in San Diego! Walk across the street to beach and jog the boardwalk, enjoy the beach. This San Diego waterfront hotel is a well rated 4 Star and 2023 T/A Traveler's Choice award recipient to give you peace of mind.

Address: 1 Ponto Road, Carlsbad,  Phone: 1-760-602-0800

Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach (Reviews and Pricing Link)

Best San Diego Waterfront Hotels, Hilton GardenHilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach

The Hilton Garden Inn has good location across the street from the beach. Beautiful pool and rich garden. You may never want to leave this San Diego waterfront hotel to go to the beach. Relax and enjoy. Rated modestly as a 3 Star but recipient of the 2023 T/A Traveler's Choice award recipient makes it a great choice.

Address: 6450 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad,  Phone: 1 855-618-4697

Best San Diego Waterfront Hotels 
Town of La Jolla

Located in the beautiful beach town of La Jolla, these San Diego waterfront hotels are only twenty minutes or 12 miles (19 km) North of San Diego. La Jolla delivers the best beaches in San Diego. The variety of beaches along with small beach town flavors make this a best waterfront destination! Golf is also a great attraction at the Championship Torrey Pines Golf Course.

Grande Colonial La Jolla (Reviews and Pricing Link)

Best San Diego Waterfront Hotels, Grand ColonialThe Grande Colonial La Jolla

Located a leisurely two block walk to the best beaches in La Jolla, San Diego, you will fall in love with The Grande Colonial La Jolla. There are few of these beautifully crafted hotels anywhere. The NINE-TEN Restaurant is arguably one of the most awarded fine dining restaurant  in San Diego award and serves Wine Spectator awarded wines. Breakfast and lunch are served daily and dinner is served nightly.

In 2013 this Four Diamond San Diego Hotel celebrated its 100th anniversary. Its location, historic building, award winning hotel restaurant along with superb service makes it a Best Waterfront Destinations best pick. Rated 4 Star as well as T/A Traveler's Choice award recipient ensures a luxurious stay.

Address: 910 Prospect Street, La Jolla, Phone: 1-888-828-5498

La Jolla Shores Hotel (Reviews and Pricing Link)

Located directly on the beach the La Jolla Shores Hotel is sure to bring a smile to any beach lover's face. Very close to La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club you will enjoy many activities over and above a day at the beach. La Jolla Shores Hotel is where "The Beach Is Your Playground". There is also the Kellogg Park Playground for the kids right beside it. 

Address: 8110 Camino Del Oro, La Jolla, Phone: 1 855-923-8058

La Valencia Hotel (Reviews and Pricing Link)

Best San Diego Waterfront Hotels, La ValenciaLa Valencia Hotel

Providing an oasis, the gardens of the Valencia beach hotel in La Jolla is extremely refreshing. Just steps to the popular Children's Pool this hotel (built in 1927) provides service of an era gone by. One of San Diego’s most elegant and historic hotels. Rated as a 4 Star San Diego waterfront hotel as well as T/A Traveler's choice award recipient makes it a great choice for those seeking luxury.

Address: 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla,  Phone: 1 855-476-6870

La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club (Reviews and Pricing Link)

Best San Diego Waterfront Hotels, La Jolla Beach and TennisLa Jolla Beach and Tennis Club

This La Jolla waterfront hotel specializes in beach weddings. Convenient for guests and wedding party alike, this could be the beginning of a great life together. The La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club will provide sunsets and sunrises to keep the romance alive.

Address: 2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla, Phone: 1 858-454-7126

Best San Diego Waterfront Hotels
Coronado Island

Coronado Beach has been regarded as one of the best beaches in San Diego. Mission Bay is sheltered from the strong waves of the Pacific Ocean. Both of these beach areas are close to the city life of San Diego. Perfect for city lovers who love beach resorts. Here are some of the best San Diego beach hotels and accommodations in this area.

1906 Lodge (Reviews and Pricing Link)














It's not on the beach. But it is so good and so close it would be a shame not to consider it! The 1906 Lodge at Coronado Beach is a romantic boutique hotel with the atmosphere of a bed and breakfast. Breakfast is included in your stay. Two blocks from San Diego's famous Coronado Beach this hotel only has 17 delightful rooms to choose from. Rated as a 3 Star as well as recipient of 2023 T/A Traveler's Choice award.

This excellent description video of this romantic boutique hotel in Coronado will give you the best idea of what makes this romantic boutique hotel so great. (Enjoy both videos)

Address: 1060 Adella Ave, Coronado,  Phone: (866) 435-1906

Coronado Beach Resort (Reviews and Pricing Link)

Best San Diego Waterfront Hotels, Coronado Beach ResortCoronado Beach Resort

This modest 3 Star Coronado waterfront hotel in San Diego offers suites with kitchenettes to give you the convenience of home away from home. Enjoy the sauna and hot tub as well as a fitness center with gym. This hotel consistently receives great reviews from travellers for their excellent service and accommodations.

Address: 1415 Orange Ave, Coronado, Phone: (877) 681-4170

Glorietta Bay Inn (Reviews and Pricing Link)

Best San Diego Waterfront Hotels, Glorietta Bay InnFabulous Glorietta Bay Inn

Only one block from Coronado Beach, The Mansion At Gorietta Bay Inn is a boutique hotel featuring 11 themed "mansion rooms" with luxurious architecture. Another 89 modern contemporary rooms will make San Diego beach vacation one of the best ever. This 3 Star Coronado Beach hotel is also recipient of 2023 T/A Traveler's Choice award.

This is a Best Waterfront Destinations best pick! (Not waterfront)

Address: 1630 Glorietta Blvd, Coronado, Phone: 619-435-3101

Beach Village at The Del Coronado (Reviews and Pricing Link)

Luxurious oceanfront cottages and seaside villas are up to 3 bedrooms. Definitely for the more "well to do" traveler, the Beach Village is part of The Del Coronado and is directly on the finest beach in Coronado offering first class accommodations and location. This iconic hotel originally built in 1888 is undergoing a major renovation to make it a world class waterfront destination and resort. See master plan video here. While some areas are fully renovated, the full 550 million dollar restoration of this iconic San Diego waterfront hotels is estimated to be in 2025. 

Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa (Reviews and Pricing Link)

This 4 Star San Diego waterfront luxury resort offers sixteen waterfront acres overlooking San Diego Bay skyline with beautiful gardens. With plenty of amenities such as a relaxing day spa, 3 beautiful pools, wellness centre and more. You can recharge in spacious, pet-friendly hotel rooms, suites and for longer stays you may choose the much larger and private cottages which feature kitchenettes, dining and living rooms. They offer vast spaces for corporate meetings or weddings.

Address: 2000 Second Street, Coronado,  Phone: 1-619-435-3000

Click Here for the Best San Diego Hotel Deals!


Vrbo