So, you’re a Hilton Honors member comparing Hilton hotels in San Diego. With so many good options, you may be having trouble narrowing down where to stay.
I’ve put together this quick run-down on the most popular Hilton hotels and resorts in San Diego County. This includes mention of nearby attractions and why you might want to stay at each property on this list.
| Hotel | Where | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel del Coronado | Coronado | Beachfront icon with fire pit rooms and Virtuoso benefits |
| Beach Village at The Del | Coronado | Cottages and villas on the sand that sleep up to 14 |
| Shore House at The Del | Coronado | Villas of one to three bedrooms with their own pool |
| The Bower Coronado | Coronado | A 39-room boutique hotel with a rooftop restaurant |
| Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown | Little Italy | Rooftop drinks and a 28,000-square-foot fitness club |
| Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach | Carlsbad | A beach resort with a spa, near LEGOLAND |
| Hotel La Jolla | La Jolla Shores | A walk to the beach and a rooftop ocean view |
| Hilton San Diego/Del Mar | Del Mar | Across from the racetrack and fairgrounds |
| The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe | Rancho Santa Fe | A historic inn with a spa, pickleball and homes |
| Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines | La Jolla | Golf at Torrey Pines and ocean views |
| The Cassara Carlsbad | Carlsbad | A walk to LEGOLAND through a private gate |
| Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach | Carlsbad | Across the street from the beach, with a hot tub |
| Hilton San Diego Mission Valley | Mission Valley | Shopping malls and freeway access |
| Hilton San Diego Airport/Harbor Island | Harbor Island | A free airport shuttle and harbor views |
| Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter | Gaslamp Quarter | Nightlife, Petco Park and the loft suites |
| Hilton San Diego Bayfront | Downtown | The Convention Center, with a heated bayfront pool |
| Hilton Garden Inn & Homewood Suites Bayside | Downtown | Full kitchens and a free hot breakfast |
| Embassy Suites San Diego Bay Downtown | Downtown | Two-room suites, an indoor pool and free breakfast |
1. Hotel del Coronado, Curio Collection by Hilton
Location: Coronado Island
You want:
- A full-service luxury beach resort.
- To stay on Coronado Island.
- To stay in a historic (and haunted) hotel.
- Multiple dining options and a full-service spa.
- A room with a beachside fire pit.
- Renovated rooms.
Hotel del Coronado is one of the Hilton resorts in San Diego (and all of Southern California) that readers book most, and there is a good reason for it.
It’s a San Diego icon with its red roof and a long roster of celebrity fans. Not to mention the oceanfront resort is located on a Coronado beach that is considered one of the best beaches in the nation.
We residents love this Hilton resort. It recently finished a six-year revitalization that revamped the main pool, some restaurants, the spa, and the lobby, adding new spots like the Ice House Museum.
Some renovated rooms in The Cabanas and The Views buildings have fire pits on their terraces, a nice place for room service and relaxation. Before you book, read my very detailed Hotel del Coronado review.
It’s usually more advantageous, even for Hilton Diamond status members, to book with the Virtuoso benefits. You’ll still earn Hilton Honors points for your stay.
Virtuoso amenities:
Also featured in: Best San Diego Beach Hotels, Best Coronado Island Hotels, Best Kid-Friendly Hotels in San Diego, and Best San Diego Luxury Hotels.
What Is Hilton for Luxury?
Hilton for Luxury
Hilton for Luxury is Hilton’s VIP program for travel advisors. Book the hotels on this list that take part through me and you pay the same rate as booking direct, your stay earns double Hilton Honors points, and your special requests carry more weight than they do on a credit card booking.
2. Beach Village at The Del, LXR Hotels & Resorts
Location: Coronado (one of Hotel del Coronado’s two luxury enclaves)
You want:
- The most luxurious beach vacation in San Diego possible.
- A quieter experience than the main Hotel del Coronado resort.
- To stay in a designer villa or cottage.
- To enjoy an elevated level of service.
- A private enclave with access to full resort amenities.
- To stay on the beach in Coronado.
- Multiple bedrooms.
- Room for a larger group (the largest cottages and villas sleep up to 14).
Beach Village at The Del is the private enclave of Hotel del Coronado that is only accessible to Beach Village guests. If you have the means or the points, check in here.
You’ll have all the benefits of the main resort but in quieter quarters with a personal concierge. Beach Village guests also get exclusive access to Breezes at the Oval Pool. Some of the villas and cottages have outdoor hot tubs and full kitchens with designer appliances. Read my Beach Village at The Del review.
Hilton for Luxury amenities:
Also featured in: Best San Diego Beach Hotels, Best Coronado Island Hotels, Best San Diego Hotels for Large Families, Best Kid-Friendly Hotels in San Diego, and Best San Diego Luxury Hotels.
3. Shore House at The Del, LXR Hotels & Resorts
Location: Coronado (one of Hotel del Coronado’s two luxury enclaves)
You want:
- A villa with one, two or three bedrooms.
- A personal concierge.
- An oceanfront pool.
- Room for a larger group (the biggest villas sleep up to 11).
- To be next door to the main resort.
Shore House is The Del’s enclave of residential-style villas, with its own oceanfront pool and a personal concierge. The villas run from one to three bedrooms and the largest sleep up to 11, and you’re still next door to the main resort’s restaurants, spa, and beach. Read my Shore House at The Del review for the room guide before you book.
Hilton for Luxury amenities:
4. The Bower Coronado, an SLH Hotel
Location: Coronado (Orange Avenue, across from Hotel del Coronado)
You want:
- A 39-room boutique hotel.
- To stay across the street from Hotel del Coronado.
- A rooftop bar and restaurant with Pacific views.
- A pet-friendly room (ask for a ground-floor Lanai room with a patio).
The Bower is part of Hilton’s partnership with Small Luxury Hotels of the World, so Hilton Honors members can earn and redeem points here when they book through Hilton’s website or app with their Honors number.
There’s no pool or spa, but the rooftop bar and restaurant, Dive, has open-air seating and Pacific views. Read my Bower Coronado review for room picks and the VIP benefits we can add.
You may also search the Curated by Internova Rate on our new Hotel Booking Tool (request the password on the below page).
5. Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton
Location: Little Italy
You want:
- To be able to walk to Little Italy San Diego and other things to do in downtown San Diego.
- Access to an incredible fitness center.
- To stay in a boutique hotel.
- To sip cocktails in a rooftop bar.
This chic boutique hotel sits on the edge of Little Italy, where some of our finest restaurants and shops await. From here, you can also walk just a few blocks to the Embarcadero, where many San Diego harbor cruises depart from and where the USS Midway Museum is located.
One highlight is the hotel’s connection to Fit, a 28,000-square-foot fitness facility with classes and a heated saltwater pool. For food and drinks, the hotel has Canvas Café and Lounge downstairs and Lily Rooftop up top.
Also featured in: Best San Diego Boutique Hotels and Best Little Italy San Diego Hotels.
6. Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort & Spa
Location: Carlsbad
You want:
- A beach vacation that might cost less than La Jolla or Coronado.
- To spend a day at LEGOLAND California.
- To do some serious outlet shopping.
- A hotel in North County San Diego.
- Easy access to Carlsbad Airport or Orange County.
- A pet-friendly hotel.
This is one of the most popular Hilton hotels in San Diego for those who want to be near the water in North County. It’s located across the street from a family-friendly Carlsbad beach and has a full-service spa, outdoor swimming pool, and Chandler’s Oceanfront Dining, which serves California coastal cuisine with ocean views.
Cape Rey runs a local shuttle within a 5-mile radius when it’s available (ask the valet), and LEGOLAND California is less than 5 miles away. Some suites have private balconies with ocean views. Read my full Cape Rey Carlsbad review.
Also featured in Best Hotels Near LEGOLAND California and Best Hotels in Carlsbad, CA.
7. Hotel La Jolla, Curio Collection by Hilton
Location: La Jolla
You want:
- A La Jolla hotel walking distance to La Jolla Shores Beach.
- A usually less expensive La Jolla Shores hotel than the two beachfront options.
- Easy freeway access.
- Panoramic ocean views from the hotel restaurant or your room.
- Restaurants within walking distance (in the La Jolla Shores business district).
- A hotel near UCSD.
Hotel La Jolla is conveniently located in the La Jolla Shores neighborhood, right where the 52 freeway ends in La Jolla. This means it’s easier to get out of La Jolla from here than it is from other parts of the community. You’re about a 10-minute walk to La Jolla Shores Beach, but the hotel also has bikes to rent which can shorten the journey. They also have a rooftop restaurant, Sea & Sky, with panoramic views of La Jolla Shores and the Pacific Ocean.
La Jolla Shores is also home to excellent fine and casual dining, water sports tours and rentals, and an overall laid-back vibe. You do save money by staying here versus the beachfront hotels in the area and the guest rooms are a bit more contemporary at this boutique hotel. Read my full Hotel La Jolla review.
Also featured in Best La Jolla Hotels.
8. Hilton San Diego/Del Mar
Location: Del Mar
You want:
- To win some $ at the Del Mar races.
- To attend anything else at the Del Mar Fairground.
- Close proximity to the freeway, Carmel Valley, Solana Beach, or Rancho Santa Fe.
- Convenient access to nearby golf courses.
- A pet-friendly hotel.
The Del Mar Hilton is a popular choice for travelers on the go, due to its proximity to the Del Mar Fairground/Del Mar Racetrack (it’s across the street).
Use it as a base for your activities. However, this San Diego hotel does have a restaurant and is within walking distance of the Fish Market, Red Tracton’s, and a handful of other excellent options. You’ll have to drive to the beach and almost everywhere else. A fun driving range and mini-golf course are also next door.
Also featured in: Best Del Mar Hotels
9. The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, an SLH Hotel
Location: Rancho Santa Fe
You want:
- A historic inn in Rancho Santa Fe.
- A spa (Mila Moursi Spa at The Inn).
- Four private pickleball courts, plus access to the Rancho Santa Fe Tennis Club.
- A home with its own kitchen and private backyard.
Book The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe
The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe is the second Small Luxury Hotels of the World property on this list, so Hilton Honors members can earn and redeem points here, too, when they book through Hilton. The whole property has been renovated, and along with its suites, it offers homes with bedrooms, kitchens, and private backyards.
10. Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines
Location: La Jolla
You want:
- To visit someone at UCSD.
- Close location to the La Jolla Village and freeways.
- To play Torrey Pines Golf Course.
- A location for a big event.
- To hike Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.
- Gorgeous views.
Book Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines
The Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines sports breathtaking views of the ocean and the famous Torrey Pines golf course. Nearby are the Birch Aquarium and La Jolla Shores Beach (you’d drive to both), one of San Diego’s most family-friendly beaches where you can learn to surf or hang out.
Planning a meeting or wedding? This is a great hotel for events due to the gorgeous setting and large spaces. From mid-April through mid-September, the chairs at the Lookout face the 18th hole of Torrey Pines at sunset. It’s also at a low price point for a hotel in La Jolla. Read my full Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines review.
Also featured in: Best La Jolla Hotels and Best Hotels Near UCSD
11. The Cassara Carlsbad, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Location: Carlsbad
You want:
- A Hilton hotel within walking distance of LEGOLAND California.
- A boutique hotel.
- Views of The Flower Fields (in spring).
- A family pool with a kids’ splash pad.
LEGOLAND California is a short walk away through the hotel’s private guest gate, and back at the hotel there are two pools: a Quiet Pool with coastline views and a Family Pool with a kids’ splash pad. The Cassara Kitchen & Bar is the lobby bar, with poolside views.
Also featured in: Best Hotels Near LEGOLAND California and Best Hotels in Carlsbad, CA.
12. Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach
Location: Carlsbad
You want:
- A Hilton hotel across the street from the beach in Carlsbad.
- To be within a mile of The Flower Fields and Carlsbad Premium Outlets.
- A large pool, a hot tub, and a fireplace courtyard.
Book Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach
Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach sits across the street from the beach, and LEGOLAND California is about ten minutes away. It has a restaurant and bar on site, and rooms with two queen beds and a full ocean view.
Also featured in: Best Hotels Near LEGOLAND California.
13. Hilton San Diego Mission Valley
Location: Mission Valley
You want:
- To mall shop until you drop.
- Easy access to 5 major freeways.
- A Mission Valley hotel.
- To visit the San Diego Zoo (and shop).
Book Hilton San Diego Mission Valley
Mission Valley/Hotel Circle is where premium shopping is located. Choose between Fashion Valley Mall, Westfield Mission Valley Mall, Off 5th (Saks Fifth Avenue outlet), Nordstrom Rack, and countless other great stores. It’s also where many businesses are located, about 15 minutes from San Diego International Airport and in an artery where several of our major freeways intersect.
It’s near the restaurants and shops of Hillcrest, Old Town San Diego, and even the San Diego Zoo, though you’d have to drive. If you need to be in downtown San Diego, I might choose one of the two Hiltons down there, depending on the price, but Mission Valley hotels tend to be less expensive than those close to the beach or downtown.
You’re also near Riverwalk Golf Course, and SeaWorld San Diego is a short drive away. Rooms here have been refreshed, and there is an outdoor pool.
Also featured in: Best Mission Valley San Diego Hotels
14. Hilton San Diego Airport/Harbor Island
Location: San Diego Airport (Harbor Island)
You want:
- A place to sleep during a layover at San Diego International Airport
- Easy access to downtown San Diego without staying there.
- A complimentary ride to and from the airport.
- To be near the harbor or Point Loma.
- A pet-friendly hotel.
Book Hilton San Diego Airport/Harbor Island
Enjoy sweeping views of the harbor, business amenities, and a location just 5 minutes from the airport. The Hilton San Diego Airport/Harbor Island is certainly convenient for business travel but comfortable enough for those who want to base a vacation here.
There is an outdoor pool, and you can dine on California cuisine at the onsite Panorama Bar & Grill. This is a great choice for Hilton Honors members, and it’s one of the two hotels closest to the terminals.
Also featured in: Best San Diego Airport Hotels.
15. Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
Location: Gaslamp Quarter
You want:
- To be in the heart of the Gaslamp.
- To walk easily to some of San Diego’s best restaurants and shopping.
- To attend an event at the Convention Center.
- A short walk to a Padres game at PETCO Park.
- An exclusive loft.
- A pet-friendly hotel.
Book Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
The Lofts on Fifth Avenue are a hotel within the hotel, and they give guests the feeling of exclusivity and loft living: about 750 square feet in the king loft suite, key-coded private access, a separate living area, an oversized soaking tub, and semi-private patios with fire pits, all very fitting for the downtown location. But you can book into standard rooms and suites, too.
San Diego hipsters who want to dine out, stay up late, and experience nightlife will love this Hilton hotel. However, families choose it, too. There’s definitely an urban vibe, and it’s across the street from the San Diego Convention Center, which is convenient for business travelers. Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo are about a 10-minute drive away, and the airport is just over 5 minutes away.
16. Hilton San Diego Bayfront Hotel
Location: Downtown San Diego
You want:
- A stunning waterfront location.
- To attend an event at the San Diego Convention Center.
- To host an event or wedding.
- Six hotel dining venues (including Odysea with its craft cocktails and outdoor terrace).
- To be in downtown San Diego.
- A Starbucks inside your hotel.
- A pet-friendly hotel.
- A pool deck with a Kids Splash Zone.
Book Hilton San Diego Bayfront
It’s near the Gaslamp Quarter but a slightly heftier walk to the Gaslamp shops and restaurants than the Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter. This hotel is huge with almost 1200 rooms, making sense as it’s also adjacent to the Convention Center. The hotel has a heated bayfront pool, two whirlpools, and a Kids Splash Zone.
The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, the San Diego Symphony’s outdoor concert venue, is steps away. The San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park are about a 10-minute drive away, and the airport is just over 5 minutes away.
17. Hilton Garden Inn & Homewood Suites San Diego/Downtown Bayside (Hilton Bayside Campus)
Location: Downtown San Diego
You want:
- Extended stay accommodations with a full kitchen.
- To be within walking distance of Little Italy restaurants.
- Comfortable, moderately-priced accommodations.
- Free hot breakfast and free WiFi (at Homewood Suites).
Book Hilton Garden Inn Bayside or Book Homewood Suites Bayside
The Hilton Bayside complex includes two fantastic Hilton properties: Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Downtown/Bayside and Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Downtown/Bayside.
Which you choose really depends on whether you’d like a full kitchen or if you tend to have a preference for one of these Hilton brands over the other. Homewood Suites includes a free hot breakfast, and Hilton Garden Inn has both an indoor and an outdoor pool.
18. Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown
Location: Downtown
You want:
- To swim in an indoor pool.
- Free made-to-order breakfast.
- A complimentary evening reception.
- A two-room suite.
Book Embassy Suites San Diego Bay Downtown
Every room here is a two-room suite, and the city-view suites with two queen beds sleep six, which is why families and anyone staying a while end up here. Free made-to-order breakfast and the evening reception are included, and there is an indoor pool. You’re across from Seaport Village, less than a mile from the Convention Center, Petco Park and the USS Midway Museum, and about a 15-minute walk from the Gaslamp Quarter.
What About Hilton San Diego Resort?
If you’ve read about Hilton San Diego Resort on Mission Bay, it has been replaced with San Diego Mission Bay Resort.
*Unless noted otherwise, photos are courtesy of Hilton Worldwide
