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This isn’t a review based on a single visit. It reflects years of personal stays, many successful client bookings, and a long-standing relationship with the hotel’s team. Manchester Grand Hyatt isn’t just another waterfront hotel—it’s a twin-towers icon on the San Diego skyline.
With over 1,600 rooms, its scale is a major asset and, for some, a bit overwhelming. That’s where my guide comes in. I’ll walk you through the multi-million-dollar renovation in progress, help you choose the right room, and explain how to access VIP perks that aren’t available when booking on your own.
My goal is to move beyond a simple recitation of amenities and provide curated, actionable advice for a great stay.
Renovated bay view room
Unrenovated bay view king
Make Manchester Grand Hyatt VIP Reservations
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1 Market Place San Diego, CA 92101
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The 2025-2026 Transformation: A New Era of Waterfront Luxury
The Manchester Grand Hyatt is in the middle of a sweeping, property-wide renovation that reimagines nearly every aspect of the guest experience.
Led by the award-winning firm Parker Torres Design, the refresh draws from San Diego’s maritime spirit—think polished yacht vibes meets West Coast warmth. Some of our guests have given us positive feedback on the new rooms. Expect a palette of soft blues, rich wood accents, and an overall look that feels both luxurious and true to its waterfront setting.
Here’s what to know about the renovation timeline:
- Dining Venues: Sally’s Fish House & Bar has already reopened with a fresh coastal concept. The iconic Top of the Hyatt lounge is slated to close for renovation in late 2025 and reopen in early 2026..
- Seaport Tower Rooms: The first wave of redesigned Deluxe guest rooms debuted in June 2025 and are now available to book. The rest of the Seaport Tower is expected to wrap up by late 2025.
- Harbor Tower Rooms: Renovations will next shift to the Harbor Tower, with updated rooms launching in phases, and full completion is expected by summer 2026.
- Recreation Spaces: A new adults-only pool is scheduled to open in winter 2025, with a reimagined family pool following by late 2026. The fitness center and rooftop sports courts will also see upgrades, targeted for mid-2026.
Rooms and Suites: Your Guide to the Best Views and Stays
Renovated bay view room
Unrenovated bay view king
Choosing the right room is critical, especially during the renovation. The hotel has simplified this: any room with “Deluxe” in its name is a newly renovated space with the sophisticated, yacht-inspired decor. For the best experience, always prioritize a “Deluxe” room.
The two most important factors are renovation status and view. A “1 King Bed Bay View” is a legacy room, while a “1 King Bed Deluxe Bay View” is a fully renovated room with the same stunning view. The following table breaks down the key options to help you choose which of the 1,522 guest rooms and 76 suites is right for your trip.
| Room Tier | Bed Type(s) | View Options | Approx. Sq. Ft. | Key Features & Insider Tips |
| Newly Renovated Deluxe Room | 1 King, 2 Queens, 2 Doubles | City, Bay, Partial/Varies | 340 | This is the renovated category. Features the new yacht-inspired decor. Book a “Deluxe” room to guarantee a modern experience. Located in Seaport Tower first, then Harbor Tower. |
| Corner Deluxe Room | 1 King | Panoramic City or Bay | 380 | The best non-suite views. Offers expansive, panoramic vistas from two sides and extra space. A premium renovated room. |
| Standard Room | 1 King, 2 Queens, 2 Doubles | City, Bay, Partial/Varies | 340-344 | This is the unrenovated category. Features the hotel’s legacy decor. These rooms will be phased out as the Harbor Tower renovation completes in mid-2026. |
| Grand Club Room | 1 King, 2 Doubles | City or Bay | 340 | Located on high floors (30+) with access to the exclusive Grand Club Lounge and its complimentary food and beverage offerings. |
| Suites | 1 King, 2 Doubles | Varies | 700-1,050+ | Separate living areas, various configurations (Signature, Grand, Presidential). Ideal for families or luxury stays. Some connect to adjacent rooms. |
The Grand Club Lounge: An Exclusive Retreat
Located on the 33rd floor of the Harbor Tower, the Grand Club Lounge offers panoramic views, dedicated service, and solid value—especially for families or longer stays. Access is limited to guests who book a Club-level room or use a World of Hyatt Club Access Award. You can’t add it to a standard room for a fee.
What’s Included
- Breakfast: Hot items like eggs and potatoes, plus fruit, pastries, yogurt, and oatmeal.
- Midday Snacks: Cookies, trail mix, yogurt, juices, and coffee are available throughout the day.
- Evening Hors d’Oeuvres: A generous spread that often includes sliders, sushi, salads, and desserts—enough for a light dinner.
- Alcohol: Complimentary beer and wine during service hours, followed by an honor bar (with nominal charges).
What to Know
- Club Access Can Pay Off: For families or business travelers planning to use the lounge daily, the food and convenience often outweigh the premium.
- One of Hyatt’s Largest Lounges: Spacious by design, but can still feel crowded at peak times like breakfast or early evening.
- View Quality Varies: Some tables offer gorgeous bay views, others look inward.
How to Access the Grand Club Lounge
There are three ways to secure Grand Club access:
- Book a Club-Level Room: Reserve a Club King or Club Double room, which also includes premium views.
- Add Access at Check-In: Guests in any room category can purchase access upon arrival. As of now, pricing is typically $100/night for two adults or $150/night for a family of four, but this can vary.
- Hyatt Globalist Perk: World of Hyatt Globalist members receive complimentary lounge access during their stay.
Important Note:
Standard suites do not include Club Lounge access unless specifically booked as Club Suites. In most cases, booking a Club-level room in advance is more cost-effective than adding access later. Also, Club Double rooms include two double beds—not queens—so plan accordingly if bed size is a priority.
Resort-Style Amenities: Pools, Fitness & Spa
As part of its multi-year transformation, the Manchester Grand Hyatt is redefining what it means to be an urban resort. Its extensive recreational offerings—already a standout for a downtown hotel—are being fully reimagined to elevate the guest experience.
Rooftop Pools
Two distinct pool areas will offer something for every traveler:
- Adults-Only Pool (Coming Winter 2025): Located on the third floor, this new pool will offer a peaceful, elevated setting with panoramic harbor views, craft cocktails, and full-service amenities.
- Family Pool (Reopening Late 2026): The existing fourth-floor pool deck is being redesigned into a vibrant, family-friendly space with updated features for all ages.
Until both projects are complete, the current pools remain open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
StayFit Fitness Center
Open 24/7, the Hyatt StayFit gym is one of the largest and best-equipped fitness centers in downtown San Diego. It features:
- Precor cardio machines and strength equipment
- Peloton bikes
- Free weights up to 100 lbs
Renovation upgrades are expected by mid-2026, further enhancing its size and offerings.
KIN Spa
Tucked away on the third floor of the Harbor Tower, KIN Spa offers massages, advanced skincare, body wraps, and salon services—all with a local, coastal-inspired touch. One highlight: poolside cabana massages overlooking the bay.
Rooftop Sports Courts
For guests seeking active recreation, the hotel’s basketball and tennis courts are also being refreshed. Located on the rooftop with city skyline views, they’re a rare perk in a downtown setting.
Rooftop Cinema Club: Open-Air Movies with a View
On the hotel’s 4th-floor rooftop, Rooftop Cinema Club Embarcadero offers a standout movie night experience. Guests watch cult classics, new releases, and fan favorites under the stars, with skyline and bay views as the backdrop.
Lounge-style chairs, personal wireless headphones, a full bar (21+), and classic concessions like popcorn and candy round out the experience. The Summer 2025 lineup includes themed weeks like “Summerween,” Comic-Con screenings, sing-alongs, and dog-friendly nights.
Note: This is separate from the hotel’s Poolside Cinemas, a seasonal, family-friendly movie series held on select Saturday nights.
A Culinary Journey: Where to Eat at Manchester Grand Hyatt
As part of its multi-year transformation, the Manchester Grand Hyatt has elevated its culinary offerings to match its status as a full-service urban resort. From waterfront fine dining to casual grab-and-go, the property delivers variety, quality, and memorable settings.
Sally’s Fish House & Bar
Newly reimagined with a fresh Baja Med concept, Sally’s pairs sustainable seafood with one of the best bayfront dining settings in the city. Think grilled octopus, fresh ceviche, and craft cocktails—all served on a breezy open-air terrace with fire pits and panoramic views.
Top of the Hyatt
Located 40 stories above the bay, this iconic sky lounge offers sweeping views of San Diego, Coronado, and beyond. It’s the go-to spot for a sunset cocktail or nightcap.
Note: Top of the Hyatt is scheduled to close for renovation in late 2025 and reopen in early 2026 as part of the hotel’s refresh.
The Landing
A refined lobby bar with a whiskey-forward focus, The Landing features a curated collection of high-end spirits and a Build-Your-Own Old Fashioned menu. It’s a cozy spot for a quiet drink or sophisticated meet-up.
Seaview Restaurant
The hotel’s primary breakfast venue offers a relaxed, family-friendly setting and an expansive buffet with something for everyone. Children under 5 eat free, making it a smart choice for families starting the day.
As of July 2025, the cost is $53.44 per person (for adults or children). However, there are à la carte options available on the menu that may be more suitable for children.
This is the included daily breakfast for two Hyatt Prive guests per room.
MARKET | ONE
Open 24/7, this upscale marketplace serves Starbucks coffee, fresh pastries, sandwiches, and snacks—ideal for guests on the go or looking for something quick between meetings or sightseeing.
What’s Nearby: A Convenient Base for Exploring San Diego
With a prime location on the waterfront, the hotel offers easy access to many things to do in downtown San Diego, whether you’re walking, hopping on the trolley, or taking the ferry.
Within Walking Distance
Seaport Village
Located right next to the hotel, this scenic collection of shops and casual eateries is ideal for a relaxing stroll by the bay.
The Gaslamp Quarter
Just a few blocks away, this historic neighborhood is home to many of the city’s best restaurants, bars, and nightlife spots.
USS Midway Museum
A short walk along the Embarcadero takes you to this iconic aircraft carrier turned museum.
The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park
This open-air concert venue, located in Embarcadero Marina Park, is just steps from the hotel.
San Diego Convention Center
Perfect for business travelers, the convention center is only a couple of buildings away.
Petco Park
Baseball fans can walk to the stadium and catch a San Diego Padres game with ease.
The New Children’s Museum
Families can enjoy this creative, hands-on museum about a 10-minute walk from the hotel.
A Short Trolley or Ferry Ride Away
Coronado Island
For beautiful beaches and boutique shopping, take the ferry across the bay to Coronado and enjoy sweeping skyline views along the way.
San Diego Zoo & Balboa Park
Take the nearby trolley to reach the zoo and surrounding park, which is filled with museums, gardens, and cultural attractions.
Little Italy
This vibrant neighborhood is known for its dining scene and weekend farmers market. It’s easily accessible by trolley or on foot if you enjoy a longer walk.
The Best Way to Make Manchester Grand Hyatt Reservations
One of the most valuable but least-known ways to elevate your stay is through Hyatt Privé, an invitation-only program for top luxury travel advisors. Booking through a Privé advisor grants you immediate VIP status and complimentary amenities you can’t get anywhere else.
Your Exclusive Hyatt Privé Benefits
At the Manchester Grand Hyatt, these benefits require a minimum stay of two consecutive nights and include:
* Subject to forecasted occupancy
Two Night Minimum Length of Stay required for this brand. The room upgrade, if available, happens within 24 hours of booking (however, this hotel is busy so it can take 48 hours).
For one-night stays, it’s usually best to book through Hyatt or your preferred online travel agency like Hotels.com.
Katie Dillon
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