The Best Luxury Hotels in San Diego

 

A fabulous SoCal vacation calls for fabulous SoCal digs. Fortunately, San Diego is blessed with many wonderfully premium hotels to compliment the surf and sun. Whether you’re visiting for the amazing beaches, stellar nightlife, or breweries galore, find everything from boutique accommodations to charming beach bungalows with some of the best luxury hotels in San Diego.

Cool doesn’t begin to describe this urban gem. Located downtown in the heart of the Historic Gaslamp district and packed to the gills with amenities, Pendry keeps guests pampered so they can enjoy the surrounding beaches, shopping, and nightlife. Perks include the in-house spa, rooftop pool (featuring happy hour and pool-parties), six restaurants and bars, and the new and bustling nightclub, the Oxford Social Club. Guests might be pressed to find a reason to leave the hotel, as Pendry is the complete package. 

The Spanish Colonial Hacienda-inspired villas of Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa are a paradise of gardens, trails, and olive groves, where relaxation can be found around every corner. Guests can enjoy a craft cocktail from their private terrace, or unwind in the newly-renovated spa that includes an expanded fitness center with complimentary yoga/pilates classes, as well as a craft juice bar. The rustic rooms are an artful blend of comfort and privacy, where weary travelers can wake up in a plush featherbed to a fresh-squeezed glass of orange juice- a little oasis in the excitement of San Diego. 

This opulent hotel certainly lives up to its name. The elegant Mediterranean furnishings overlook the hotel’s four heated pools, two tennis courts, and sprawling golf course. The property is not only home to an award-winning luxury spa, but is the home of Addison, San Diego’s only two Michelin-starred restaurant, arguably the most renowned place to eat in the city.

The iconic pink hotel by the sea is as lovely as the day it opened in 1926, reaffirming itself as one of the nicest luxury hotels in San Diego. The decadently modern suites overlook La Jolla’s gorgeous beach, just a short walk from all the upscale shopping, art galleries, golfing, and scuba diving this coastal paradise has to offer. For a hotel with vintage style, coastal charm, and phenomenal Mediterranean cuisine, La Valencia checks all the boxes.

While this resort is most known for hosting the LPGA Kia Classic Tour on its distinguished golf course, Park Hyatt Aviara’s accommodations are nothing to scoff at. The view of the pacific, two sparkling pools, and three fabulous restaurants elevate the already plush lodging experience. For first time visitors, Chef Richard Blais’ Ember & Rye is a must-try for their creative steak and seafood dishes and weekly dinner specials.

When it comes to hotels, newer is often better, and The Seabird Resort is one of the newest luxury hotels in San Diego. Recently opened in 2021, the stylish hotel’s decor pays homage to San Diego’s thriving surf culture. The expansive pool deck has ocean views, and the spa is fully-equipped for all your favorite treatments; there’s even a rotating art-gallery, as well as a peculiar but welcome library, so guests can lounge about with a good book.

For travelers looking for a home away from home, the Four Seasons always delivers with flawless service, but the accommodations at the Residence Club San Diego go the extra mile. Each villa has a functioning kitchen or kitchenette, king sized beds, and easy access to the pool, spa, surf concierge, and endless amenities guaranteed by the Four Seasons brand. 

Intimate, immaculate, and planted right next to both the fabulous Torrey Pines Golf Course, and Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. The Lodge at Torrey Pines’ California craftsman style makes for a welcoming place of respite, surrounded by nature, but with premium amenities. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or family vacation, the quaint cabin-style rooms are sure to fit the bill.