23 Best Boutique Hotels in San Diego, California

Planning a trip to San Diego? Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, I have the inside scoop on the most charming and trendy boutique hotels San Diego County has to offer.

I also have special relationships with some on this list where I can add value-added benefits to your stay at no extra cost to you. Choices run the spectrum of luxury to budget, on the beach, in downtown, but are mostly concentrated in the popular tourist areas.

Note from Katie: We independently choose all featured hotels. Booking methods mentioned are popular with our readers or ones we think offer the best value. If you book through select links, we may earn a commission and appreciate you supporting our business. Prices and amenities are subject to change. Our editorial guidelines.

What Is a Boutique Hotel?

A boutique hotel is smaller in overall size than a standard hotel. Most boutique hotels have 200 rooms or fewer, which results in a more intimate atmosphere. You’ll also find different customized experiences and guest services from one boutique hotel to the next.

Travelers who value exceptional customer service and enjoy being catered to find that boutique hotels are more likely to deliver the standard of care they desire.

San Diego’s boutique hotels are mostly located in downtown near the airport, while some are scattered along the beaches.

I have an insider’s perspective regarding which hotels deserve to be included in the list of best boutique hotels San Diego offers. This stems from personal stays and reviews from our clients. Here are my favorites.

1. Pendry San Diego

Location: Downtown San Diego
Hotel class: Luxury

Pendry San Diego is one of my top picks for downtown San Diego hotels. You’ll find that the staff delivers impeccable service (and I can vouch for their expeditious service behind the scenes as well), excellent dining options, and luxurious rooms with enormous glass showers. Guests also receive priority entrance to the onsite Oxford Social Club.

The hotel features a gorgeous pool, an impressive fitness center, and a full-service spa. Petco Park and the San Diego Bay are just a few streets away. And it’s easy to reach San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park.

Free high-speed internet is available for guests, and pets are allowed with no extra fees. It’s also one of my kid-friendly hotels in San Diego picks for downtown, as they have been great about securing connecting rooms for Virtuoso guests.

The best way to book is as a Virtuoso guest, which you can do through me.

Reservations: The BEST way to book Pendry San Diego is through Virtuoso, which you can do on your own or with my help.

2. Alila Marea Resort Encinitas

Location: North Encinitas
Hotel class: Luxury

This is the most luxurious option if you’re looking for San Diego boutique hotels on the beach. Alila Marea Resort Encinitas offers 130 rooms, many with stunning ocean views. I particularly like the ones with private patios that have fire pits and wrap-around sofas — perfect for long summer nights or wintery evenings.

Beach butler service sets up guests on the beach with towels, chairs, and umbrellas. You can also book surfing lessons through the concierge a few paces north at South Ponto Beach.

I’ve had families stay here and enjoy it, but it’s most suited to adults. The swimming pool is a bit small, and there aren’t a ton of kids’ amenities.

The onsite restaurant, Vaga, is extremely popular with locals, and therefore, reservations are highly encouraged as soon as you know your stay dates. You’ll also love the full-service spa.

Reservations: We can book you in with Hyatt Prive benefits that include the below.

3. La Valencia Hotel

Location: La Jolla
Hotel class: Luxury

Old-world luxury describes La Valencia Hotel perfectly. The coastal suites and villas are both spacious and cozy. Choose from ocean, garden, or Village views, and enjoy the coveted location within walking distance of the water. The hotel also has a spa tub, outdoor pool, and fitness center.

La Valencia is located in the heart of downtown La Jolla, just across the street from La Jolla Cove, and is surrounded by shopping opportunities and restaurants. The hotel has two on-site restaurants that serve delicious California-American and Modern European food and offer dreamy views of the ocean.

My two favorite rooms are the Classic King Ocean and Villa King Ocean. The villas are quieter and closer to the ocean. La Valencia Hotel is a member of the Preferred Hotels and Resorts hotel group.

Reservations: La Valencia doesn’t participate in our VIP programs, but they often run credit card based promotions and other deals on their website. If you need help deciding which room to stay in (there are many), you can use my form, and I can help book it for you at the same price as LaValencia.com — I know the hotel quite well.

4. The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, a Tribute Portfolio Resort & Spa

Location: Rancho Santa Fe

The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe is tucked away in the affluent inland community of Rancho Santa Fe. The breathtaking grounds provide the perfect backdrop for photographs, and the Spanish-California architecture invokes romance and relaxation. It’s also a popular wedding destination (I have been to several there), and you can play on an exclusive golf course or two nearby.

Located on 21 acres of highly manicured and beautifully landscaped grounds, this hotel is a great destination if you want to escape busy city life without being too far from it. It takes about 15 minutes to reach the I-5 freeway. Free parking and free high-speed internet are available.

Reservations: I don’t have a preferred method for booking this hotel just because they don’t run a ton of direct promotions.

5. Andaz San Diego

Location: Downtown San Diego
Hotel class: Moderate

Make the most of your time in America’s Finest City by checking in to the Andaz San Diego. Located within the attractive and historic Gaslamp Quarter, this trendy hotel features stylish, fully updated bedrooms and bathrooms.

Book an Andaz Cabana, Star, Sweet, or Andaz Suite, and you’ll enjoy a large yet intimate seating area with a flatscreen television and big windows.

A long, narrow rooftop pool gives you impressive, panoramic views of the city.

When you’ve worked up an appetite, head to the sophisticated Rooftop by STK restaurant with breathtaking views and an upscale-casual dress code. The hotel’s ground-level restaurant, STK, is a renowned steakhouse that offers mouthwatering menu options such as tender bone-in filets, crispy calamari, and beef tartare.

Reservations: The BEST way to book Andaz San Diego is with Hyatt Prive benefits that I can secure for you. And we book this hotel a lot because it tends to price really well and we can usually upgrade at the time of booking if the next room up is available.

6. The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Location: Downtown San Diego
Hotel class: Moderate

If you’re looking for cool hotels in San Diego, The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel should make it on your list. From the ornate, highly decorated entryway to the refreshing and simplistic design of the interior guest rooms, this hotel induces feelings of nostalgia for a time gone by. There are various dining options on-site, including Mediterranean cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients.

Bicycle rentals are available here and allow you to explore the city up close. Valet parking is also available, as well as conference facilities (the San Diego Convention Center is also nearby). Free high-speed internet is a staple in each guest room.

Reservations: I can add Marriott Luminous benefits to your stay if it is two nights or longer. However, also check Marriott.com in case they’re running a sale rate.

7. 1906 Lodge Coronado

Location: Coronado
Hotel class: Moderate

Craving a quiet and romantic luxury hotel setting? You can’t go wrong with the 1906 Lodge. Located just minutes from Coronado Beach, Orange Avenue shops, and a variety of top-rated restaurants, this historic hotel puts you in the center of it all. It’s also one of our top picks for best Coronado Island hotels.

The 17 comfortable guest rooms are each individually furnished so that no two are the same. We like the Grand King Spa Guestrooms with huge spa tubs and plenty of space to lounge.

This hotel offers a complimentary breakfast buffet every day, bottomless mimosas, and freshly baked cookies every afternoon. Complimentary Wi-Fi access is also available; guests can borrow umbrellas, bicycles, bags, and beach chairs.

I very much like this boutique hotel as a quieter alternative to Hotel del Coronado.

Reservations: They sometimes run direct promotions.

8. Pacific Terrace Hotel

Location: Pacific Beach
Hotel class: Moderate

Pacific Terrace Hotel is one of the popular beach hotels in San Diego. Guests walk down a short set of stairs to the sand and watch epic sunsets from the pool. or ride a bike down the boardwalk. The hotel also offers beach chairs, umbrellas, and beach towels to guests.

The rooms are updated with comfortable Tommy Bahama style decor to make you feel even more like you’re on holiday. While there isn’t a restaurant on site, they offer breakfast and a limited in-room dining menu. However, the bars and casual restaurants of Pacific Beach are just steps away.

It’s on the north end of PB, so a little more insulated from the beach bar scene (though not totally). Family-friendly Law Street Beach is steps away to the north as well. If you’re visiting San Diego with kids and need to stay in Pacific Beach, I like this hotel as an option.

Reservations: Add-ons like $5 extra per night for mimosas and a $30 breakfast credit (though famous breakfast burritos at Kono’s are a 5-minute walk away) are only available when booking direct.

However, since families do choose this hotel, Pacific Terrace participates in a number of vacation package deals with theme park tickets and sightseeing passes through aRes Travel that you may want to check out.

9. Hotel Republic San Diego

Location: Downtown San Diego
Hotel class: Moderate

Hotel Republic San Diego is a highly-rated boutique hotel with thoughtful amenities and large guest rooms. An air of relaxed sophistication dominates this popular traveler’s destination.

A topside terrace kitchen and bar are easily accessible, exposing you to the city’s temperate weather and vibrant energy. Choose from a city view, corner executive, or presidential suite. Club floors are also available to those with keyed access.

Located just minutes from East Village, the Maritime Museum of San Diego, USS Midway Museum, and the San Diego International Airport, this hotel places you in the middle of all the action.

Want to bring a furry companion along with you? Book the Pups & Paws Package, and hotel staff will treat your pet like royalty.

Reservations: I can add Marriott Luminous benefits to your stay if it is two nights or longer. However, also check Marriott.com in case they’re running a sale rate.

10. TOWER23 Hotel

Location: Pacific Beach
Hotel class: Moderate

TOWER23 Hotel derives its name from a nearby lifeguard tower and is the nicest hotel on Pacific Beach. One can ride one of their cruiser bikes down to Mission Beach and Belmont Park or even to the casual boutiques and bars dotting the nearby streets.

Book an upper “Surf Pad” room on the west side of the hotel, and you’ll be privy to stunning ocean views. In the mood for cocktails and lunch by the sand? Stop by TOWER23 Hotel’s JRDN Restaurant, which is popular for both tourists and locals.

Free Wi-Fi is available in public areas, in guest rooms, and one of the meeting rooms. Free laptop-compatible safes and newspapers are also available. The hotel doesn’t have a pool, but it is popular for getaways with friends and couples.

Reservations: Tower23 is part of The Guestbook network of hotels, which means you can earn 5% cash rewards that you can spend or donate to charity. Book directly through the hotel website if you wish to take advantage of this program.

See also: 20 Best Things to do in Coronado

11. Hotel Marisol Coronado

Location: Coronado
Hotel class: Moderate/Budget (for the area)

The Hotel Marisol Coronado is family-owned and operated, and just as beautiful outside as it is inside. The exterior style is Spanish Eclectic and has a light and airy appearance.

The interior has been recently updated, and all rooms feature color palettes that are simultaneously energizing and relaxing. This hotel has just 15 rooms, making it easy for the staff to dote on you shamelessly.

Free public parking is available nearby, and a complimentary, buffet-style breakfast is included. Free high-speed internet is also available.

It’s also just a block away from the best Coronado beach.

Reservations: I find that rates are usually the same no matter where you book, but remember that the hotel is so small it sells out quickly.

12. Kimpton Alma San Diego

Location: Downtown San Diego
Hotel class: Moderate

When you drive up to the Kimpton Alma, you’ll immediately perceive that this is a hip, high-energy hotel. The distinct, urban chic design invites you to kick back and relax. 

All rooms feature comfortable beds with trendy bedding. The bathrooms in both suites and non-suites include oversized tubs that make it easy to soak away travelers’ aches and pains. Head to the rooftop pool and lounge area to bronze your skin or hang out with fellow travelers.

Kimpton Alma San Diego makes the list of top cool hotels in San Diego because it is also one of the best San Diego pet-friendly hotels with no pet size or weight limit.

Reservations: Kimpton is a part of IHG Hotels and Resorts. Join IHG Rewards (free) and book the discounted member rate.

13. Pantai Inn

Location: La Jolla
Hotel class: Moderate

It’s not difficult to see why Pantai Inn is a popular La Jolla boutique hotel with its unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean. They are also known for taking excellent care of guests, and accommodations are decorated comfortably in Balinese style.

The Pantai suites have fully equipped kitchens and large bathrooms with rain showers. The balconies are large and inviting.

Free parking, breakfast (no onsite food service outside of breakfast), and high-speed internet are all offered with a stay at Pantai Inn.

I think that this hotel is ideal for people who want to stay in a central location that’s within walking distance of top attractions (Children’s Pool Beach is to the left and La Jolla Cove to the right if facing the ocean), including the best La Jolla shopping and restaurants.

Reservations: No matter where you book, you should check the Pantai Inn website to get a feel for the accommodations. Each one is different, and they’re not often named properly on other sites.

14. Beach Terrace

Location: Carlsbad
Hotel class: Moderate

The family-owned Beach Terrace Inn is the only truly beachfront hotel in Carlsbad. Travelers love the spacious, updated rooms and incredible balcony views of the ocean.

When Beach Terrace Inn was originally constructed in the 1960s, it was an apartment building. This explains why the rooms are generously sized and accommodating.

Choose from ocean- or courtyard-facing rooms and spend time blissfully soaking up the sun on the private beach.

Beach valet and towel services are available, as well as Wi-Fi, free parking, and a stunning pool. This San Diego boutique hotel was recently renovated, too.

Reservations: Since they are close to LEGOLAND California, check for LEGOLAND vacation packages and direct packages as well.

15. Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton

Location: Downtown San Diego (Little Italy)
Hotel class: Moderate

Carte Hotel is ideal for those looking for chic accommodations that are walkable to the waterfront and Little Italy restaurants in just a few blocks. Modern rooms boast incredible floor-to-ceiling windows, and we love the water refill stations on every floor.

The lovely rooftop terrace (part open-air and partly covered by a copper rooftop), Above Ash Social, offers comfortable seating and a large screen to showcase sports and must-see broadcasts in addition to craft cocktails and San Diego inspired cuisine.

The Carte Hotel is unique because it’s integrated with a 28,000-square-foot upscale, full-service fitness club. Complimentary Wi-Fi is also included in each room, as well as a 55-inch flat-screen HDTV.

I can tell you that the sea-to-table food at Watercolors, the full-service Carte Hotel restaurant, is excellent, especially when paired with soothing live music and a craft cocktail.

Reservations: Join Hilton Honors and book the member rate.

16. Grande Colonial Hotel

Location: La Jolla
Hotel class: Moderate

The Grande Colonial Hotel is a modernized historic building that’s situated on Prospect Street in the heart of the La Jolla Village.

The hotel has elegant, recently renovated rooms with goose-down bedding, flat-screen TVs, and contemporary European-inspired decor.

World-class shopping, entertainment, and dining are all within walking distance. This trendy boutique hotel is home to one of my favorite La Jolla restaurants, NINE-TEN Restaurant & Bar, with its farm-to-table menu options (order the half-baked chocolate cake) and award-winning wine cellar.

Reservations: They often have a $50 off Ocean View sale rate on their website that isn’t available elsewhere. You can also search dates on our aRes Travel page to combine your room with San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, LEGOLAND, or SeaWorld tickets.

See also: La Jolla Travel Guide

17. The Pearl Hotel San Diego

Location: Point Loma

The Pearl Hotel San Diego is a little piece of paradise. This mid-century modern hotel features a charming, oyster-shaped pool and a top-rated restaurant called Charles + Dinorah.

With just 23 guest rooms, this hotel provides a very comfortable and intimate experience. All the rooms overlook the pool and have modern styling. All rooms have an urban, contemporary vibe, from the cozy studio room to the large grand suite.

18. Hotel Indigo San Diego Gaslamp Quarter

Location: Downtown San Diego
Hotel Class: Moderate

Hotel Indigo is one of the most popular hip hotels San Diego has to offer to energetic travelers. Located in the Gaslamp Quarter, this hotel is both classy and refreshingly modern.

The rooms are very spacious and feature huge windows that let in plenty of light. Depending on where your room is located, you may also be treated to a stunning view of Petco Park.

The hotel offers free Wi-Fi, a sizeable business center, and paid parking. There’s also a generous fitness room on-site and an attractive bar and lounge area where you can enjoy an evening cocktail. It’s also pet-friendly.

19. Horton Grand Hotel

Location: Downtown San Diego
Hotel class: Moderate

The Horton Grand Hotel is set in a beautiful, 19th-century building that’s remarkably elegant. It’s one of the best boutique hotels in San Diego for travelers who appreciate historic properties. It’s also a popular location for destination weddings, thanks to its intimate courtyard.

The guest rooms feature beautiful, Victorian-style furniture and offer lovely views of the courtyard or San Diego cityscape. All rooms come with a gas-burning fireplace to further add to the ambiance of the experience. Free Wi-Fi is available in all guest rooms, and breakfast is served each morning for a fee.

Reservations: Horton Grand offers a best rate guarantee on their website but participate in various theme park ticket and sightseeing pass packages.

20. The Lafayette Hotel Swim Club & Bungalows

Location: North Park
Hotel class: Luxury/Moderate

Would you prefer to get away to a celebrity-worthy hotel with expansive rooms and a gorgeous pool? The Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows offers an experience you won’t soon forget. Built in 1946, the building has an air of glamour, eclectic room decor, and a famous Weissmuller pool.

The hotel offers rooms that open up to the pool, and the interior decor is super sleek after the renovation. Many star-studded celebrities have stayed in the building over the years, including Bob Hope, Betty Grable, and Ava Gardner.

Reservations:

21. The Fin Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Location: Oceanside

Located right by the beach, The Fin Hotel is a historic boutique hotel in Oceanside and stands ready for your next adventure. The building’s rich history goes back to the 1920s, but the rooms are updated with serene, beach-themed decor.

The hotel offers plenty of complimentary services, including free internet, parking, and breakfast each morning. Laundry services are also available.

Reservations: The Fin Hotel is a Tapestry Collection by Hilton property. This means the best way to book is using the Hilton Honors discounted rate.

See also: 30 Best Things to Do in Oceanside

22. The Sofia Hotel

Location: Downtown San Diego

Like the urban bliss scene? Get ready to fall in love with The Sofia Hotel. The historic building’s exterior exudes a gothic revival vibe and is popular with business travelers.

Inside, you’re greeted by traditionally styled guest rooms, a high-ceilinged dining area, and a sizeable fitness center. VIP Suites with jetted bathtubs and living rooms provide more space.

In-room massage treatments are available to make your stay as convenient and rejuvenating as possible. Free Wi-Fi is available in guest rooms and in the hotel’s business center.

Reservations: The Sofia Hotel is part of The Guestbook network of hotels, which means that you can earn 5% cash rewards that you can spend or donate to charity. Book directly through the hotel website if you wish to take advantage of this program and further discounted rates that I have not seen elsewhere. BUT, I have recently seen secret prices on Hotels.com, and they do participate in vacation packages.

23. Hotel Z – San Diego

Location: Downtown San Diego

As soon as you arrive at Hotel Z – San Diego, you’ll see why it’s been dubbed one of the most unique hotels in San Diego. Decked in bright blue and yellow exterior colors and featuring a large glowing pineapple, this hip hotel is designed to draw attention.

This hip hotel consistently draws a crowd because it offers great value for the money and is in a great Gaslamp Quarter location. Travelers also remark about the exceptional service they receive when they stay here.

Valet parking is available for a fee, and pets are admissible in rooms also for a small additional nightly fee. Other amenities include free public internet access, beach cruisers, 24-hour front desk services, cable/satellite TV, and free local telephone calls. A dry-cleaning service is also available. So is bottomless bottled water, which I applaud.

Reservations: No strong preference here. If traveling with pets, book directly through Stay Pineapple. We’ve seen Hotels.com secret pricing, and they also participate in multiple sightseeing and theme park ticket vacation packages.

FAQs About Top Boutique Hotels in San Diego

Many of the hotels on this list have received accolades for their exceptional amenities and world-class service. Your biggest challenge now is deciding which one to book for your upcoming stay.

If you’re still unsure which one to choose, here are some features people look for.

Which San Diego boutique hotels do you like to stay in?