13 Best San Diego Luxury Hotels & Resorts That Deserve Five Stars Reviewed

If you’re looking for luxury hotels and resorts in San Diego, you’re in the right place. I know them better than anyone, thanks to the thousands of clients I’ve booked and my colleagues onsite at most of these properties who take care of them. My expertise also stems from five years of living in a luxury hotel. So, I know what travelers are looking for when they say they want recommendations for five-star hotels in San Diego.

You might not see properties mentioned here that are designated as luxury hotels in San Diego on other lists. We have tons of great hotels. Many are in what I would call the high four-star range, or they are boutique hotels that can’t offer robust amenities due to space constraints.

But, if you tell me you’re used to staying at Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental, The Ritz-Carlton, Montage, and similar brands (like I am), you’ll be happiest referring to the list below. It’s based on property offerings, service, quality of the rooms, personal stays, reader feedback, client reviews, and critical insider information from sources inside these hotels and resorts.

Through me, you have access to VIP perks at most of these properties. I’ll tell you which San Diego luxury hotels my benefits apply to. If not, you’ll find a link to check the best prices directly across multiple travel sites or the hotel directly.

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.

1. Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa

Location: Rancho Santa Fe

Why go: You’d like to stay put and enjoy a quiet getaway in luxurious and large villas with access to tennis courts, pickleball courts, a state-of-the-art spa, fitness programming, and peaceful surroundings in the luxury of a Relais & Chateaux property.

Given its wellness offerings, it’s also a great spot to recharge your batteries. And guests can look forward to golfing at some of the region’s best golf courses, including some that are otherwise private.

In other words, there’s a good reason Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa has been ranked the #1 California Resort by U.S. News & World Report Travel and earned a Five Star rating from Forbes Travel Guide. When you stay here, you won’t lack for anything. A lot of people book in and just stay put.

See also: Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa Review

Hotel amenities:

• Complimentary games, bocce ball, ping pong, bikes, and more for family-friendly fun
• Yoga pavilion, Pilates studio, and fitness center onsite with classes
• An awesome spa with couples spa treatment rooms
• An excellent tennis program with lessons and clinics
• Access to private and public golf courses, including The Farms, Torrey Pines Golf Course, Del Mar Country Club, and more.
• Four heated swimming pools, including an adults-only pool, two saline pools, and a family pool
• Loaner Bentleys for resort guests
• All-suite hotel (though some are one-room suites)

Good to know: If you are planning on spending a lot of time off-property, Rancho Santa Fe might be a bit too inland for you. A car is definitely necessary. Agave and Olive Suites have sunken living rooms in the same open space as the bedroom. Palm Suites and above have fully separate living rooms and bedrooms.

Awards: TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Award, AAA Five Diamond Hotel, #1 Tennis Resort by Tennis Magazine

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2. Beach Village at The Del

Location: Coronado Island (Beach Village is a private enclave inside Hotel Del Coronado)

Why go: This San Diego luxury hotel offers our very best beachfront experience. Beach Village is a gated community within the larger Hotel del Coronado resort. Its accommodations comprise of newly renovated designer cottages and villas ranging from larger hotel rooms to three-bedroom villas.

Beach Village guests receive an elevated level of service and many VIP amenities. They have access to its swimming pools and common areas but also everything else on the busier main resort. It’s popular for groups and multigenerational travel because many accommodations have full kitchens.

If your idea of true luxury is privacy, then you’ll definitely find that this is one of the best luxury hotels in San Diego. It feels more residential and private than the main resort or Shore House at The Del because accommodations are spread across multiple buildings.

See also: Why Beach Village at The Del Is San Diego’s Best Beach Vacation

Hotel amenities:

• Beach Village guests have access to Hotel del Coronado resort amenities (not vice versa)
• Complimentary use of beach chairs and umbrellas at Del Beach (half-moon cabanettes and day beds are available for rental) where it’s also possible to enjoy drink and food service on the sand.
• Villa rooms with two queen beds and a queen-sized sofa sleeper — enough room for families up to six people
• Early morning yoga on the beach and outdoor beachside spinning classes.
• A beachside boardwalk in front of the hotel perfect for riding bikes and surreys (rentals are available)
• Private beach bonfires with s’more roasting (additional fee applies)
• Boogie board, surfboard, and skimboard rentals
• Personal Concierge service
• VIP Entrance
• Priority reservations across the resort
• Pools with cabanas and lounge chairs for Beach Village guests only
• Ground-floor cottages with fire pits on the patio
• Designer cottages with designer appliances
• All-day access to the Ocean Concierge Club (services are paid for a la carte)

Good to know: The cottages closest to the beach border the boardwalk, so you will see people on bikes, walking, etc. — but they do have the best beach and Pacific Ocean views and are the most popular.

Reservations: Beach Village at The Del is a part of Hotel del Coronado and, therefore a Virtuoso property with these amenities (online booking is unavailable, so you’ll need to request a Virtuoso rate from me):

You can also take a look at the discounted Hilton Honors rate.

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3. Fairmont Grand Del Mar

Location: Carmel Valley (East of Del Mar)

Why go: Fairmont Grand Del Mar is considered one of the best five-star hotels in San Diego and has graced many lists of best luxury hotels in the United States.

It’s one of a handful of Forbes fifteen-star properties worldwide (for the hotel, spa, and Addison restaurant). Addison is the only three-Michelin-star restaurant in San Diego. I can tell you from personal experience that it’s fantastic.

You may not want to leave, which is why it’s also a perfect staycation or vacation choice for couples, families, or solo travelers who need pampering. The decor is Mediterranean-style, and the suites, in particular, are beautiful, plentiful, and often surprisingly reasonable for those who need a bit more space. You feel like you’re on vacation in a huge Tuscan villa.

See also: Fairmont Grand Del Mar Review

Hotel amenities:

• State-of-the-art supervised Explorers Club with daily scheduled programming or drop-in use for kids ages 5-12 that includes the latest video games, fully-stocked arts and crafts center, traditional games, foosball, ping pong, and more (check for opening hours)
• Horseback riding lessons at the onsite Equestrian Center
• Children’s pool with wading area
• Family pool with underwater music and sand play area
• Adults-only rooms (Signature Terrace) and pool
• Seasonal activities such as s’mores and family movie nights
• Private Tom Fazio-designed golf course with exclusive access for hotel guests and junior golf programs for kids ages 13–17 (junior golfers play at half-price)
• One of San Diego’s best spas, complete with gorgeous lounging areas, couples treatments, a salon, and a private pool
• Addison, a three-Michelin-star restaurant regarded as San Diego’s best restaurant
• Two pro-style tennis courts complete with instructors and clinics for adults and kids
• Designer boutiques
• Guided canyon hikes
• Business center
• Bikes for riding along the nearby trails in the Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve
• Top-notch service everywhere
• Seasonal beach butlers to drive guests to the beach and set up chairs/umbrellas
• Spacious rooms with marble bathrooms, some with verandas or patios.

Good to know: A rental car is advisable because this family-friendly San Diego luxury hotel is located a bit inland without much to do within walking distance. A central San Diego location with easy access to the I-5 freeway makes it easy to get to attractions like LEGOLAND to the north and Balboa Park, Mission Bay, or San Diego Zoo to the south. Also, the Signature Terrace guest rooms are adults-only and surround the adults-only pool.

Awards: AAA Four Diamonds (2009 – 2023), three Forbes five-stars each for Addison, the hotel, and spa (2012 – 2023), and many others.

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4. Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara, North San Diego

Location: Aviara (Carlsbad)

Why go: Stay here if you’d like a home away from home with the usual flawless Four Seasons service. Most of the villas at Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara have kitchens or kitchenettes. The villas offer separate bedrooms and living areas that provide travelers with plenty of space (Superior King guest rooms do not) for (usually) a reasonable price for what you get.

This is one of the best hotels in San Diego, CA, for extended stays and multigenerational travel, though a stay of any length will be enjoyable. The dining at Seasons Restaurant is lovely and changes seasonally — and sometimes daily as the local farmers’ markets inspire the Chef de Cuisine — so there’s always something new.

If you’re a fan of Four Seasons (I work with many people who only stay in FS properties), this might be the best luxury hotel in San Diego, California, for you.

See also: Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara Review

Hotel amenities:

• Kids Club 760 with fun activities such as arts and crafts, ping pong, video games, and dive-in movies (unstaffed)
• Board games to check out and use in the villas
• Two swimming pools and a special children’s pool
• Childproofing, high chairs, and other accessories available upon request
• A full-service resort spa and fitness center
• Babysitting services
• Special coastal tours (the kids can come, too) in a vintage Woody by reservation
• Seasons barista bar for gourmet coffee drinks and to-go items
• A Two-Bedroom Villa that sleeps up to 8 people.

Good to know: Park Hyatt Aviara is next door, so guests can enjoy dining there, too. Aviara is an inland residential/golf community, so it helps to have a rental car. This hotel is outstanding. Of all the top luxury hotels in San Diego, this is one that I haven’t had a single complaint about. Self-parking is included in the resort fee.

NOT A SPRAWLING RESORT

It isn’t going to feel like a Four Seasons Maui or even one of their urban hotels. It’s quiet, luxe, and you can even bring your pets. And, it can be great value.

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5. The Lodge at Torrey Pines

Location: La Jolla (Torrey Pines/UCSD area)

Why go: You want an intimate, highly-rated, luxury boutique hotel right next to Torrey Pines Golf Course and Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. You’ll need to appreciate its California craftsman style. The Lodge at Torrey Pines boasts ocean views and excellent customer service. I book many repeat guests and was reminded of how beautiful it is during a recent personal stay.

The Lodge at Torrey Pines is often mentioned in national publications as not only one of the top luxury hotels in San Diego, but also one of the top hotels in all of California.

The spa and its farm-to-table restaurant, A.R. Valentien, are excellent. They even offer complimentary luxury car service to guests within a five-mile radius, which includes beaches and the Village of La Jolla. I truly believe that The Lodge at Torrey Pines deserves its AAA Five Diamond rating. It’s my favorite La Jolla hotel and popular with parents visiting students at the University of California, San Diego.

See also: The Lodge at Torrey Pines Review

Hotel amenities:

• Outstanding dining via room service and at the restaurants
• Full-service spa
• Torrey Pines Golf Course (the Golf Services team can help secure tee times)
• Outdoor fireplaces and fire pits
• Heated pool and hot tub
• Weekend yoga classes and croquet
• Spacious guest rooms that range in size from 500 square feet to more than 1500 square feet
• Luxury suites up to 2500 square feet
• Egyptian cotton linen and quilted duvets
• Suites with fireplaces and balconies available
• Keurig coffee brewers with complimentary tea and coffee
• Complimentary shoeshine service
• Children’s menus at all restaurants
• The farm-to-table A.R. Valentien restaurant — one of San Diego’s best

Good to know: This La Jolla hotel overlooks the renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course. Golfers should stay here because Golf Services can make tee time reservations at other private golf courses around the county. The spa is not huge, but it’s a very, very good one (I go for massages there sometimes). Palisade Rooms are my favorite because they have ocean horizon views.

Awards: AAA Five Diamonds, Forbes 4-Star recipient, Condé Nast Traveler Readers Choice Award

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6. Pendry San Diego

Location: Downtown San Diego (Gaslamp Quarter)

Why go: Pendry San Diego is by far one of the top luxury hotels in San Diego. The boutique hotel’s specialty is blending modern with traditional throughout the entire hotel, including in rooms, the beer hall, social club nightlife experience, pool and rooftop bar, elegant street level hotel bar, and signature farm-to-table restaurant.

It’s not a small hotel either, with 317 guest rooms, including 36 suites. With its attention to detail, luxury linens, stylish decor, city views, and excellent service, Pendry San Diego is a top choice for those who want to stay in the city center or downtown San Diego Gaslamp Quarter area. You can walk to PETCO Park and the San Diego Convention Center.

There’s even a pool concierge (you’ll get his email when you book through me). A pool suite that you can book overnight opens up to the outdoor swimming pool.

See also: Pendry San Diego Review

Hotel amenities:

• Rooms with luxury linens, custom amenity program from renowned parfumerie MiN New York, Waterworks bath accessories, 50″ televisions, fully-stocked mini bar
• An awesome pool suite that opens up to the outdoor pool
• 6 Restaurants and bars including Nason’s Beer Hall, Provisional Kitchen, and Lionfish
• Rooftop pool
• 24-hour fitness center
• Spa Pendry (I had a really great massage during my last stay)
• Pet-friendly

Good to know: Pendry San Diego is one of the many top luxury hotels in San Diego that welcomes families (kids receive a special welcome amenity) and also offers connecting hotel rooms. However, you’ll want to check the pool party schedule to avoid these when your kids want to swim.

Hotel guests receive expedited entry into the social club. It’s also easy to walk to Petco Park if you’re a baseball fan or to the San Diego Bay for tours and museums on the Embarcadero. I love working with my contacts here because they spoil my guests.

ROOM BOOKING TIP

The rooms are the same size but what differentiates them is the view. I would book Bay or Skyline View rooms and above to get further up from Gaslamp Quarter street noise if you are a light sleeper.

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7. Shore House at The Del

Location: Coronado Island (Shore House is a private enclave inside Hotel Del Coronado)

Why go: Shore House at The Del is another separately booked property within the main Hotel del Coronado resort. It’s a U-shaped boutique hotel within a larger hotel; only Shore House guests can access its amenities.

The centerpiece is a large pool area with a pool bar. It’s designed to be more intimate than the Main Resort, yet more social than Beach Village. Luxurious coastal accommodations range from two queen rooms (there are no king rooms) to three-bedroom villas with designer kitchens.

I advise that guests choose oceanfront or ocean view accommodations here to avoid street and possible noise from the event center behind the resort. Plus, these views are the best!

Hotel amenities:

• Separate entrance and check-in
• VIP concierge services
• Shore House Bistro — only for Shore House guests
• Chefs table for artisan demonstrations
• Most residences have outdoor fireplaces
• One-, two-, and three-bedroom residences have designer kitchens
• Beachside fire pits (first come, first served)
• Access to activities, dining, pool, and spa on the main resort

Good to know: Multigenerational families choose Shore House because of its larger accommodations. However, they can’t guarantee that you’ll be located in the same wing or on the same floor. Also, rooms here can be priced similarly to rooms at the Main Resort. Ocean view rooms and residences actually have an angled or side ocean view.

Reservations: You can also take advantage of our Virtuoso amenities.

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8. Park Hyatt Aviara Golf Club and Spa

Location: Aviara (Carlsbad)

Why go: You want to base your stay in a North County San Diego luxury hotel with excellent golf and an award-winning spa. Or, you would like to earn or redeem Hyatt points. Park Hyatt Aviara one of the best resorts for families because they usually can guarantee connecting hotel rooms in addition to a family pool with a splash pad and two water slides. They’ve also recently updated the lobby, rooms, and marble bathrooms to more of an upscale standard.

If you’re traveling during the Christmas season, this is one of the best luxury hotels in San Diego for holiday decor. Their holiday displays are usually epic, and the Festival of Wreaths — a silent auction of professionally decorated wreaths and trees benefiting Semper Fi Fund — is a sight to see. 

Hotel amenities:

• An awesome Miraval Spa with fitness classes, diverse treatments, lounge area, and more
• Bird watching over the wetlands
• Seasonal junior tennis clinics
• Outdoor family swimming pool with underwater lights, an adults-only pool, a water play area, and two water slides (kids must be 42″ to ride with an adult and 48″ to ride alone)
• Surf concierge, including transportation to Ponto Beach and 2 hours of boogie board or surf lessons for ages 6 and above
• Arnold Palmer designed golf course
• Six state-of-the-art lighted tennis courts
• TopGolf Swing Suite
• Exquisite, varied dining across multiple restaurants
• Frette robes and pillow-top beds
• Two bed guest rooms have two king beds in them

Good to know: As mentioned above, this incredibly beautiful part of Carlsbad is inland off of the I-5 freeway, so you’ll need to drive to the beach. Read about our recent stay at Park Hyatt Aviara Resort.

Awards: AAA Five Diamonds

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9. Hotel del Coronado, Curio Collection by Hilton

Location: Coronado Island

Why go: We’ve already mentioned the two separately bookable luxury hotels within the Hotel del Coronado. So, if you’d like a waterfront hotel with a bigger list of offerings at a lower price point than Beach Village or Shore House, you’ll stay at the main resort.

The red roof of this historic San Diego hotel has become one of the city’s icons. The roster of Hollywood celebrities, U.S. Presidents, and other dignitaries who have stayed at the Hotel del Coronado since its opening in 1888 is nothing short of impressive.

It’s San Diego’s best beachfront resort that is full-service, but I would call it four-plus stars. However, it’s the San Diego hotel that people book most through me because it does offer a well-rounded slate of activities.

Plus, Coronado Central Beach, in front of the hotel, has beautiful and expansive white sand. It’s one of the best places to go to the beach in San Diego. You can also walk to the shops and restaurants on Orange Avenue from the resort, though it has enough things to do onsite that you may not want to leave.

See also: Detailed Hotel del Coronado Review

Hotel amenities:

• Full-service beach area (with seasonal chairside food and drink ordering) called Del Beach with luxury lounge chairs, umbrellas, half-moon cabanettes, and day beds for full-day rental
• Stand-up paddleboard and surf lessons (arranged through the concierge)
• Morning beach yoga and outdoor beachside spinning classes.
• A beachside boardwalk in front of the hotel that is perfect for riding bikes and surreys (rentals are available near the hotel)
• Private daily roasts can be arranged for beach s’mores
• Boogie board, surfboard, and skimboard rentals
• Ocean Explorers kids club for kids ages 5-12 (seasonal dates and times)
• Delicious ice cream parlor on-site
• Water toys and fun in the main outdoor swimming pool
• Multiple shops to browse
• Several waterfront dining and cocktail areas that are amazing venues during sunset
• Full-service resort Spa at The Del
• Renovated rooms and suites in The Cabanas and The Views buildings — some have patio fire pits.

Good to know: Restaurants and shops on Orange Avenue are within a short walk. There is a ferry from downtown San Diego to Coronado Island (the ferry is about a 30-minute walk from the hotel or a short Uber ride). The resort can feel very busy during peak times as residents and tourists visit the shops and restaurants during the day. It is not a good choice for people looking for a quiet getaway, but it is one of San Diego’s icons and the hotel that readers most request on this site. The Victorian Building is closed until mid-2025 for renovation.

I recommend making dining reservations (including breakfast) and spa reservations in advance if traveling during a holiday week. Speaking of holidays, there is also quite a bit to do during the holidays at Hotel del Coronado from a seaside ice skating rink to other special programming. I have also written a very detailed guide to Hotel del Coronado that addresses how to select a room and much more.

Awards: AAA Four Diamonds, Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award, and many more

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10. THE US GRANT, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego

Location: Downtown San Diego (Gaslamp Quarter)

Why go: Ulysses S. Grant, Jr. spent $1.9 million (a lot in 1910) to build this hotel in honor of his father, President Ulysses S. Grant. Fourteen U.S. Presidents and countless celebrities have stayed here. It was also a speakeasy and a place where women’s rights were won.

Now, after a careful restoration that combined old with new, THE US GRANT, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego, is better than ever. It is one of the top San Diego luxury hotels for historic hotel enthusiasts and history buffs searching for a unique stay in my city.

It’s also the best choice for those who want to earn or redeem Marriott Bonvoy points. The recently-refreshed rooms have a contemporary look to them with stunning original modern artwork over the beds. And the hotel’s Grant Grill has some of the best cocktails around.

See also: THE US GRANT San Diego Review

Hotel amenities:

• Contemporary guest rooms and suites with original modern artwork
• Elemis bath products
• 300 Thread-count sheets
• Complimentary bottled water
• 24-hour in-room dining
• Complimentary morning coffee and tea service in the lobby
• Complimentary afternoon beverage service in the lobby
• Nightly turn-down service with chocolates
• 24-hour fitness center
• PressReader subscription with 5000+ magazine and newspaper subscriptions
• Limited spa treatments (no full-service spa)

Good to know: There is no swimming pool in the hotel. The hotel is in a superb downtown location, within a short walk of some of San Diego’s best restaurants, entertainment venues, and shopping in the Gaslamp Quarter. You’ll be able to reach Balboa Park within less than 10 minutes. The hotel prices well for location and quality. Bathtubs are hard to come by in downtown San Diego, but you can book Grande Deluxe Tub rooms here.

Awards: Forbes 4-Star Award, US News and World Report Best Hotels in California, US News and World Report Best Hotels in San Diego

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11. La Valencia Hotel

Location: La Jolla (Village)

Why go: La Valencia is a boutique hotel above La Jolla Cove and in the heart of La Jolla’s main Village business and shopping district. Built in 1926, “The Pink Lady” is a great spot for people who want to go carless in La Jolla and have everything they need within walking distance.

Ocean views abound from rooms and public spaces. La Valencia is considered the best luxury hotel in La Jolla’s downtown Village, and it is a good spot for well-heeled travelers. Rooms have been renovated. There are also villas (recommend) that offer a little bit more privacy and ICON Suites.

See also: Detailed Guide to La Valencia Hotel La Jolla

Hotel amenities:

• In-room dining
• Luxurious European bath amenities
• The Mediterranean Room restaurant for brunch and more
• 4 Room types: Vintage, Classic, Villas & Icon
• “La Sala” Lounge with live music, libations, and tapas
• Oceanview heated saltwater pool and spa
• Complimentary shoeshine
• Complimentary WiFi
• 300 count imported bed linens
• Keurig coffee makers
• Les Clefs d’Or Concierge service

Good to know: This La Jolla luxury hotel is pet-friendly. Weekend brunch at Mediterannean Room restaurant is one of the most popular brunch spots in San Diego, CA, and I love lunch there, too. They have many different room and villa types starting with the Vintage King (small at 250 square feet). I think the Villa King Ocean or Villa King Ocean Suite accommodations are the nicest, as they are in a quieter part of the hotel and closer to La Jolla Cove.

Awards: TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, AAA Four Diamonds

Reservations: I would advise that you shop around a little for the best price or book direct. Unlike the other hotels on this list, the best way to book depends on what promotions they’re offering. They sometimes offer promotions for certain credit card holders and rates that include breakfast.

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12. L’Auberge Del Mar

Location: Del Mar

Why go: L’Auberge Del Mar is a luxury boutique hotel that is reminiscent of a private coastal estate. It’s the best option for people who want to stay in the heart of Del Mar to walk to great restaurants and shops.

It is across the street from the Del Mar beach but has its own walkway to the sand. The spa and dining area are excellent. I would consider it also four-plus stars hotel class, but it appeals to horse racing enthusiasts (the track is a short drive away) and people who love the upscale community of Del Mar.

Hotel amenities:

• 121 Guest rooms, including seven suites ranging from 500 – 1222 square feet
• All rooms have coastal, garden, or village views with balconies or patios, in-room coffee service, complimentary newspapers, Wi-Fi, large flat-screen TVs, sitting area/desk, iHome stereo systems
• Interiors are decorated with a beach casual, upscale chic look by the exclusive Barclay Butera
• Some guests rooms have fireplaces
• Fitness center
• Full-service, beach house-style spa
• Dogs are welcome
• Several excellent dining options
• Beach cruisers available onsite
• Two lighted championship tennis courts
• A recently debuted seasonal beach butler sets up chairs, umbrellas, towels for guests
• Beach picnics are available for ordering

Good to know: Due to the boutique hotel’s set-up and nearby landscaping, there are no rooms with full ocean views, even though the beach is across the street. I also recommend you always request a quiet room on your trip here as it’s popular for weddings, is on a street corner, and some rooms get valet parking/parking lot noise.

Awards: AAA Four Diamond Award, #1 Hotel in Southern California (Conde Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice Awards)

Reservations: I can book you in with a Noble House VIP Select Rate that includes:

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13. Rancho Bernardo Inn

Location: Rancho Bernardo

Why go: When it’s easiest to stay in East County San Diego, Rancho Bernardo Inn is your place. It’s a nice boutique hotel with truly fabulous spa facilities. It is convenient to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, nearby wineries such as Bernardo Winery, and golf.

It’s quiet over here, and kids like it. I like it as a San Diego staycation resort for residents, too. One thing I love about dining at this luxury San Diego hotel is that there is a chef’s garden — many greens and herbs used in the hotel’s restaurants are gathered by staff the same day they’re served.

Hotel amenities:

• Recently-renovated 18-hole San Diego Championship Golf Course
• An incredible resort spa with products featuring organic and natural ingredients (like food)
• Saltwater pool at the spa, an adults-only pool, and a family pool
• In-room camping package that kids love
• Fitness center
• Four dining options
• A smartphone app for reservations, housekeeping, etc.
• Rooms have private balconies or patios

Good to know: Rancho Bernardo Inn is a member of Preferred Hotels and Resorts. They do host events like weddings that can be heard from some rooms so request a quiet room.

Awards: TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence

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Honorable Mentions: Hotels on Other Lists That Are Great But Not Truly Five-Star

So here’s where I get a little picky. I like these two hotels a lot, and you’ll find they are priced lower than other San Diego luxury hotels and resorts on this list that are in similar neighborhoods. However, I would classify them as more 4-star-plus range hotels rather than 5-star hotels. I would not recommend them to people who are used to staying in luxury hotels in other cities.

The Westgate Hotel

Location: Downtown San Diego (Gaslamp Quarter)

Why go: With its classic Victorian vibe, The Westgate Hotel capitalizes on the era of grand décor while providing modern amenities. You’ll enjoy big rooms, a lovely rooftop pool, and a fantastic location on the edge of the Gaslamp Quarter. Guests can also take advantage of the adjacent AquaVie Spa + Wellness Center during their stay.

There is also an extravagant Sunday champagne brunch at Le Fontainebleau (one of the city’s best). And, The Westgate Hotel is within walking distance of many popular Gaslamp Quarter restaurants and shopping. It’s popular with business travelers, solo travelers, couples, and families.

Hotel amenities:

• Access to the state-of-the-art AquaVie Fitness + Wellness Club
• Rooftop pool with views of downtown
• One of the best Sunday brunches in San Diego at Le Fontainebleau
• Luxury linens and large flat-screen TVs
• Handcrafted European furniture

Good to know: It’s not a huge hotel and can’t really be compared to five-star hotels in Paris. It is lovely for those who want to enjoy European hospitality and decor. It’s in the four-star hotel class and offers very good value for the price. I have luxury traveler readers who love it and some who think it’s just okay.

Awards: AAA Four Diamond Award, Open Table’s Diners’ Choice Winner for The Westgate Room and Brunch

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InterContinental San Diego

Location: Downtown San Diego (Embarcadero)

Why go: You are an IHG Rewards member and would like to stay in a nice hotel in Downtown San Diego that has a club lounge and pretty bay views.

Hotel amenities:

• Club InterContinental lounge
• An onsite Starbucks, plus two other good restaurants and three bars.
• A large 3300-square-foot health center
• Bay view outdoor swimming pool with cabanas
• In-room Keurigs
• Complimentary WiFi
• Housekeeping and turndown service

Good to know: So, people who are used to staying in other InterContinental properties don’t feel like this lives up to the same standard. But if you go in with the right expectations, you’ll enjoy it. It tends to price well for a hotel with a good amount of amenities and a nice view. But don’t expect five-star service.

Reservations: Book through IHG using the member rate (free to join).

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FAQs About San Diego Luxury Hotels and Resorts

Here is your TL;DR (too long; didn’t read) or a summary of everything mentioned above, including what I think are the best hotels in San Diego, CA, by travel style.

Do you have favorite San Diego luxury hotels and resorts?