Top Oceanfront Hotels in San Diego

We checked thousands of reviews on and to find the best hotels for your stay
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Alan Reid

Updated: 02 January 2024 · 6 min

Nestled along the sparkling Pacific coastline, San Diego stands as a beacon for travelers seeking a perfect blend of urban charm and natural beauty. This sun-drenched city is not just about its renowned zoos and vibrant nightlife; it's also home to some of the most spectacular oceanfront hotels that cater to every whim and desire of the modern traveler. With their stunning views, exceptional service, and unbeatable locations, San Diego's oceanfront hotels promise a stay that’s as refreshing as the ocean breeze.

Choosing the right accommodation can elevate your San Diego experience from good to unforgettable. The city's oceanfront hotels offer a front-row seat to breathtaking sunsets, immediate beach access, and the soothing sound of waves to lull you to sleep each night. From luxurious resorts with all the amenities to cozy, boutique options where the staff knows your name, there’s an oceanfront hotel in San Diego that’s perfect for your vacation style and budget.

Beyond the unparalleled views and easy beach access, San Diego’s oceanfront hotels are gateways to the city's rich maritime heritage and vibrant oceanic life. They serve as an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions, such as the historic USS Midway Museum, the lively Gaslamp Quarter, or going on a whale watching adventure. With insights and recommendations tailored to enhance your stay, let us guide you through the best oceanfront hotels in San Diego, ensuring your vacation is as majestic as the Pacific Ocean itself.
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Our Top 10

(Sorted by rating & number of reviews)

1. Pacific Terrace Hotel
2. Hotel Indigo San Diego - Gaslamp Quarter, An Ihg Hotel
3. Catamaran Resort Hotel And Spa
4. The Dana On Mission Bay Hotel
5. The Wayfarer San Diego
6. Hotel Del Coronado, Curio Collection By Hilton
7. Tower 23 Hotel
8. Fairmont Grand Del Mar Hotel
9. La Jolla Shores Hotel
10. Ocean Beach Hotel

Luxury San Diego Ocean Front Hotels

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San Diego
Jan 17, 2026 - Jan 18, 2026

Pacific Terrace Hotel

9.0

Good

(695 Reviews)

+ 203 photos
Overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean, the Pacific Terrace Hotel offers a luxurious escape for families. Situated atop a bluff in Pacific Beach, the hotel provides stunning ocean views and direct access to the boardwalk and beach below. The outdoor pool is heated and faces the ocean, offering a stunning spot for relaxation while the kids play. Bike rentals available on-site encourage families to explore the boardwalk together. The hotel’s warm, thoughtful service and spacious, comfortable rooms - some with bunk beds for kids - make it a family favorite. At the Pacific Terrace Hotel, families can enjoy a blend of luxury and convenience with the beach just steps away.
Address: 610 Diamond Street
Rating: Good 9.0 (695 Reviews)
Rooms: 73
Price: From 378$

Hotel Indigo San Diego - Gaslamp Quarter, An Ihg Hotel

8.3

Good

(1519 Reviews)

+ 179 photos
While not directly on the oceanfront, Hotel Indigo in the Gaslamp Quarter deserves a special mention for its exceptional pet-friendly policy and proximity to downtown San Diego's coastal activities. This boutique hotel welcomes pets of any size without any additional fees, a rarity among urban hotels. The hotel’s staff is known for going the extra mile for their four-legged guests, providing amenities such as dog beds, bowls, and treats. Nearby, pet owners can find several parks and outdoor spaces for walks, including the scenic Embarcadero. For travelers seeking a blend of urban exploration and coastal access with their pets, Hotel Indigo offers the perfect base.
Address: 509 9Th Avenue
Rating: Good 8.3 (1519 Reviews)
Rooms: 210
Price: From 189$

Boutique San Diego Ocean Front Hotels

The allure of San Diego's oceanfront is not limited to its grand luxury hotels; the city's boutique hotels offer a more intimate and personalized seaside experience. These unique establishments combine exceptional service with distinct design elements, creating an ambiance that’s both stylish and comfortably casual. Nestled along the coast, these boutique hotels provide easy access to the beach, letting you experience the ocean's majesty up close and personal. Dive into a world where personalized service meets breathtaking ocean views, and every stay promises a unique story. Discover our selection of boutique San Diego ocean front hotels, where charm and character meet the waves.

Catamaran Resort Hotel And Spa

7.2

Good

(325 Reviews)

+ 264 photos
The Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa is a tropical haven situated on the shores of Mission Bay and merely steps from the Pacific Ocean. Its Polynesian-themed resort ambiance, complete with lush gardens, koi ponds, and palm trees, provides a unique backdrop for family vacations. The hotel offers a range of spacious rooms and suites, many of which are equipped with kitchenettes, making them ideal for families. With on-site activities like stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, and seasonal kids’ programs, there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy. The Catamaran’s outdoor movies and luaus further enhance the vacation experience, making it a standout choice for families staying in San Diego.
Address: 3999 Mission Boulevard
Rating: Good 7.2 (325 Reviews)
Rooms: 310
Price: From 194$

The Dana On Mission Bay Hotel

8.0

Good

(1168 Reviews)

+ 330 photos
For pet owners looking for a scenic oceanfront stay, The Dana on Mission Bay offers a gorgeous setting where pets are warmly welcomed. Nestled on the shores of Mission Bay, this hotel provides easy access to waterfront walking paths that are perfect for morning walks with your dog. The hotel’s pet-friendly policy accommodates pets for a nominal fee, ensuring they're as comfortable as you are during your stay. With its beautiful bay views, direct access to the water, and comfortable accommodations, The Dana represents the ideal choice for pet-loving travelers seeking a memorable stay in San Diego.
Address: 1710 W Mission Bay Dr.
Rating: Good 8.0 (1168 Reviews)
Rooms: 271
Price: From 99$

Family-Friendly San Diego Ocean Front Hotels

For families seeking the perfect blend of fun, comfort, and ocean-inspired adventures, San Diego's coastline offers a selection of family-friendly oceanfront hotels. These establishments not only provide easy beach access but also feature amenities and activities designed to entertain guests of all ages. From kid-friendly pools and activity programs to spacious accommodations and dining options that cater to the whole family, these hotels ensure a memorable seaside getaway for everyone. Delve into the best of San Diego’s family-friendly ocean front hotels, where each day brings a new discovery by the sea.

The Wayfarer San Diego

8.5

Good

(1469 Reviews)

+ 127 photos
Nestled on the sands of Pacific Beach, the Blue Sea Beach Hotel offers an idyllic escape with its prime oceanfront location. This boutique hotel strikes the perfect balance between relaxed beach vibes and thoughtful amenities, making it an ideal choice for travelers looking for both adventure and comfort. Each room and suite is designed to maximize the stunning beachfront views, with many featuring private balconies where guests can enjoy the ocean breeze. The oceanfront pool and spa provide a tranquil space to unwind while still feeling connected to the beach's vibrant energy. Offering direct beach access, the Blue Sea Beach Hotel encapsulates the spirit of San Diego's coastal lifestyle, providing a personalized and intimate stay. It’s a charming haven for those who dream of waking up to the sound of waves and the scent of salt in the air.
Address: 707 Pacific Beach Drive
Rating: Good 8.5 (1469 Reviews)
Rooms: 126
Price: From 314$

Hotel Del Coronado, Curio Collection By Hilton

7.2

Good

(432 Reviews)

+ 539 photos
Hotel Del Coronado is not just an icon of luxury but a living legend in San Diego's oceanfront hospitality scene. Nestled on the pristine shores of Coronado Island, this Victorian masterpiece has been captivating guests since 1888 with its opulent charm and timeless elegance. Each of its rooms and suites offers breathtaking views of the Pacific, marrying historic grandeur with modern luxury. The hotel boasts a private stretch of beach, multiple restaurants with oceanic backdrops, and activities that range from sunset sailing to beach bonfire nights. Whether it's relaxing in their world-class spa or dining under the stars, guests are treated to an unparalleled experience. The Del, as it’s affectionately known, is a sumptuous sanctuary where luxury and ocean vistas merge in harmony.
Address: 1500 Orange Ave
Rating: Good 7.2 (432 Reviews)
Rooms: 658
Price: From 424$

Pet-Friendly San Diego Ocean Front Hotels

Traveling with pets can be challenging, but in San Diego, several oceanfront hotels welcome four-legged family members with open arms. These pet-friendly establishments not only offer amenities for human guests but also ensure that pets have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. From providing pet beds and bowls to offering easy access to dog-friendly beaches and parks, these hotels are perfect for vacationers who don’t want to leave their furry friends behind. Explore San Diego's best pet-friendly ocean front hotels, where pets receive as warm a welcome as their owners.

Tower 23 Hotel

9.0

Good

(192 Reviews)

+ 97 photos
Positioned directly on the vibrant shores of Pacific Beach, Tower23 Hotel offers a sophisticated yet laid-back oceanfront experience. Named after the lifeguard tower 23 that stands watch nearby, this modern hotel is a sanctuary for those who love the surf, sun, and a boutique approach to luxury. The sleek, minimalist design of the rooms and suites allows the stunning ocean views to take center stage, complemented by private balconies that invite the ocean breeze in. Guests can enjoy contemporary Californian cuisine at the hotel’s acclaimed restaurant, or simply relax on the sun deck overlooking the boardwalk and the Pacific beyond. Tower23 Hotel distills the essence of San Diego's beach culture into an exquisite boutique experience, making it a jewel among San Diego ocean front hotels.
Address: 723 Felspar St
Rating: Good 9.0 (192 Reviews)
Rooms: 17
Price: From 345$

Fairmont Grand Del Mar Hotel

9.1

Good

(72 Reviews)

+ 673 photos
The Fairmont Grand Del Mar is a Mediterranean-inspired oasis that stands as a beacon of luxury among San Diego oceanfront hotels. Its design elegantly combines the old-world charm with the natural beauty of San Diego’s coastal landscape. Beyond the sophisticated accommodations, the hotel features an award-winning spa, Tom Fazio-designed golf course, and Michelin-starred dining, all within a stone's throw from the ocean. The attention to detail is evident in every corner, offering a secluded haven that whispers luxury in every whisper of the ocean breeze. Guests can indulge in bespoke experiences, from horseback riding through Los Peñasquitos Canyon to enjoying the serenity of their private terraces overlooking the lush grounds and beyond. At the Fairmont Grand Del Mar, luxury is not just experienced; it's lived.
Address: 5300 Grand Del Mar Court
Rating: Good 9.1 (72 Reviews)
Rooms: 227
Price: From 643$

La Jolla Shores Hotel

8.2

Good

(57 Reviews)

+ 72 photos
Located in the heart of the beautiful La Jolla Shores community, the La Jolla Shores Hotel is perfectly positioned on one of the most family-friendly beaches in San Diego. With direct beach access, families can easily go from their room to building sandcastles, surfing, or exploring the tide pools. The hotel offers complimentary beach amenities, including chairs, umbrellas, and toys for children, making beach days hassle-free. In addition, the family-friendly Kellogg Park is just next door, offering playgrounds and grassy areas for picnics. The hotel’s spacious rooms and beachfront dining options make it an excellent choice for families seeking a relaxed and engaging oceanfront stay.
Address: 8110 Camino Del Oro
Rating: Good 8.2 (57 Reviews)
Rooms: 128
Price: From 289$

Ocean Beach Hotel

8.0

Good

(409 Reviews)

+ 141 photos
The Ocean Beach Hotel is a laid-back, pet-friendly destination located in the lively heart of San Diego’s vibrant Ocean Beach community. This hotel champions a relaxed attitude toward traveling with pets, providing easy access to the adjoining dog beach where pets can romp freely in the waves. The hotel’s garden area is another peaceful spot for pets to enjoy. With its comfortable accommodations and prime location near various pet-friendly cafes and shops, the Ocean Beach Hotel ensures that both you and your pet have a stress-free beachfront experience.
Address: 5080 Newport Ave.
Rating: Good 8.0 (409 Reviews)
Rooms: 56
Price: From 230$

Pantai Inn

8.4

Good

(511 Reviews)

+ 354 photos
The Pantai Inn offers a distinct blend of Balinese-inspired luxury right at the edge of La Jolla's famed coastline. With its ornately carved furniture, lush gardens, and stunning ocean views, the Pantai Inn transports guests to a tranquil paradise. Each suite and cottage is uniquely decorated, featuring hand-selected Indonesian furnishings and modern amenities. The property's oceanfront location provides direct access to the beaches and coves of La Jolla, allowing guests to experience the beauty of the Pacific in a serene, intimate setting. Morning breakfasts with ocean views and the sound of waves crashing against the shore enhance the inn’s enchanting atmosphere. For those seeking a boutique hotel experience infused with exotic charm, Pantai Inn stands out as a serene retreat among San Diego ocean front hotels.
Address: 1003 Coast Boulevard
Rating: Good 8.4 (511 Reviews)
Rooms: 25
Price: From 329$