10 Most Romantic Hotels in San Diego for Your Couples Getaway

Whether your idea of paradise involves sunset views, poolside cocktails, or couple’s massages, you’ll find a perfect getaway for two at one of the most romantic hotels in San Diego.

There truly is something for every type of couple, ranging from the urban oasis of the Gaslamp Quarter to the glamour of Coronado Island and even cozy lodge getaways.

It doesn’t matter if you’re visiting from thousands of miles away or on the hunt for a romantic staycation. Either way, luxurious hotels and resorts in La Jolla, downtown San Diego, and Coronado Island are sure to please. As you plan your escape or honeymoon, consider booking into one of these romantic hotels in San Diego.  

1. The Lodge at Torrey Pines 

Location: La Jolla (UCSD/Torrey Pines area)
Hotel class: Luxury

Why go: Active couples adore The Lodge at Torrey Pines, which is conveniently located near some of San Diego’s finest outdoor opportunities. As its name implies, it is situated just south of the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, making it easy to reach this beloved hiking destination for a quick trek.

And, not to mention, the hotel is adjacent to the world-famous Torrey Pines Golf Course. The stellar golf services team can help secure tee times if you’d like to play it.

Get that adrenaline going with a spirited outing before relaxing in your cozy hotel room. It won’t take long to discover why Sunset Magazine has distinguished The Lodge at Torrey Pines as not only the top hotel in the West but also “one of the most beautiful hotels anywhere.”

Rejuvenation can quickly be found in the spa. While it’s not as large as some other spas in the area, what it lacks in square footage, it makes up for in style and serenity. Dark wood details give the space a sophisticated feel, while treatments such as couples massages are sure to please.

Beyond its idyllic location, The Lodge at Torrey Pines provides a charming California Craftsman atmosphere that brings the best of the north woods to San Diego. Inside and out, its lodge aesthetic should appeal to couples who love to cuddle. Hardwood decor abounds, as do fireplaces and exceptional views. 

Hotel amenities:

• Signature lemongrass-scented bath products
• Plush robes
• Egyptian linens
• Authentic down feather duvets
• Keurig coffee machines
• Complimentary coffee and tea
• Flatscreen television with DIRECTV
• Hairdryer
• Ironing board
• WiFi
• Laptop-sized safe 
• Fitness center with Peloton bikes
• Full-service spa
• Fireplaces in Palisade rooms and some suites
• Balconies

Good to know: While several excellent restaurants are located within a short drive of The Lodge at Torrey Pines, there’s something to say about dining onsite. Enjoy panoramic golf course views from the vantage point of The Grill at Torrey Pines (the Drugstore Burger is legendary), where you’ll find an excellent patio with fire pits. AR Valentien is also one of the best restaurants in all of San Diego. You’ll want to book dining reservations as soon as possible.

PALISADE ROOMS ARE THE MOST ROMANTIC

The best rooms are Palisade rooms which have fireplaces. Most rooms also have furnished balconies. Be sure to request one because the sunsets from them are lovely.

Reservations: Through me, you have access to a discount (you need to create or log into a Virtuoso account and log in to see the discounted price) and Virtuoso amenities that include the below.

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2. Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa

Location: Rancho Santa Fe
Hotel class: Luxury

Why go: Discover a new take on San Diego paradise at this luxury hotel, where you can stay in a lovingly curated hacienda. With fewer than 50 suites, the resort has an exclusive feel, making it the preferred choice when you and your significant other want tranquility above all else.

Rustic chic style makes your accommodations at Rancho Valencia feel both comfortable and refreshing. The same can be said of thoughtful touches such as fresh-squeezed orange juice and morning newspaper deliveries. The overarching goal is to fuel a dream-like escape — and it only takes a few minutes at this romantic San Diego hotel to achieve an impressive sense of serenity. 

Let’s not forget the full-service, five-star spa, tennis courts, and long list of fitness classes, including TRX and yoga in the onsite yoga pavilion.

Hotel amenities:

• Minibars
• Soaking tubs
• Commissioned artwork
• Flatscreen TVs
• In-room safes
• Walk-in closets 
• Full-service spa and a salon
• Tennis courts
• Bentley house cars for guest use
• Fitness center with classes
• Basketball courts
• Loaner bikes

Good to know: When booking your romantic getaway, pay close attention to the size and layout of each suite or casita. Many are designed with families or small groups in mind. Top options for couples include the large one-room Agave Suite, and the Palm Suite, which provides a separate living room and bedroom — both offer plenty of privacy and sophistication.

Fine dining is a central component of the Rancho Valencia experience, so don’t miss out on the coastal cuisine from Veladora. Take an evening to let loose at The Pony Room, where you and your date can treat yourselves to high-end wine, tequila, or craft cocktails.  

Reservations: Through me, you have access to Virtuoso amenities that include the below.

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3. Fairmont Grand Del Mar

Location: East Del Mar
Hotel class: Luxury

Why go: Elegance is the name of the game at Fairmont Grand Del Mar, where sophisticated furnishings and decor give couples a taste of the high life. Combining elements of coastal style with a touch of Old Hollywood, this elite destination will have you feeling pampered every moment of your stay.

Like several romantic hotels in San Diego, these accommodations are best suited to couples who want to relax within a vast resort rather than walk to nearby neighborhoods on foot.

If possible, book one of the Signature Terrace Rooms, where you’ll enjoy easy access to the adults-only pool, plus a large private terrace where you can relax in style with your significant other. Better yet, luxury suites include fireplaces, exquisite parlors, and awe-inspiring views of the resort.

While relaxation opportunities abound within each room and at the pool, nothing eases stress quite like The Fairmont Spa. Its wide array of treatments encourages you and your partner to shift your focus away from the various sources of stress in your day-to-day life.

Hotel amenities:

• LCD TV
• Wireless internet
• Plush robes
• Italian-woven towels
• Goose-down pillows
• Private bar
• Laptop-sized in-room safe
• Nespresso coffee machine
• Bottled water
• European-style soaking tub
• Dual sinks
• Full-service spa
• Equestrian Center
• Loaner bikes for the nearby trails
• Chocolate-covered Oreos at turn-down service

Good to know: One of San Diego’s only Michelin-star restaurants, Addison, is located onsite. You must make a reservation months before your stay, but it’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner.

Reservations: I can book you in with Virtuoso amenities that include the below.

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4. 1906 Lodge Coronado

Location: Coronado
Hotel class: Moderate

Why go: The modern-day 1906 Lodge Coronado is a far cry from its origin as an aviation school boarding house. These days, the hotel appeals to history buffs and romantics alike.

Upscale features like fireplaces make many of the 1906 Lodge’s rooms and suites feel inherently romantic. That being said, the most appealing hotel features involve meals served beyond the comfy confines of your accommodations.

The signature breakfast provides mouthwatering entrées, baked goods, and bottomless mimosas to start the day on the right note.

Simply strolling through the hotel is a treat, as its unique architecture captures several distinctive styles. As a boutique hotel, this small location provides an intimate, wonderfully romantic environment just steps from the most popular Coronado beach.

Hotel amenities:

• Private balconies and patios
• Refrigerator
• Complimentary coffee and tea
• Daily fresh-baked cookies
• Complimentary happy hour featuring wine and hors d’oeuvres
• Complimentary breakfast prepared by the innkeepers each morning
• Bicycles and beach accessories to borrow
• Rental golf carts available 

Good to know: All rooms are individually decorated, so it’s possible to return and enjoy a completely different (but equally amazing) experience.

When you want to move beyond the hotel and explore, you can borrow a bike or simply check out the various shops and restaurants within walking distance of your Coronado home base. 

Reservations:

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5. Inn at Rancho Santa Fe

Location: Rancho Santa Fe
Hotel class: Moderate

Why go: This historic boutique hotel in the inland, upscale Rancho Santa Fe community offers stunning pools and gardens that make up for the lack of sandy beaches.

Originally known as the Morada, the hotel began with just a few guest rooms nearly a century ago. The property has since added several cottages but has retained the refined, Spanish-inspired aesthetic that it’s carried from the beginning. 

It’s a popular wedding site, but many honeymooners appreciate the cozy rooms with terraces and fireplaces in addition to its usually moderate pricing.

Hotel amenities:

• Access to a Jacuzzi and a heated saltwater pool
• Flatscreen TV offering access to premium movie channels
• In-room safe
• High-speed wireless internet
• Dedicated workstation
• Fireplaces in select rooms
• Pet-friendly rooms with amenities such as water bowls and cleanup bags 

Good to know: As hotel guests, you and your sweetheart will enjoy playing privileges at the Rancho Santa Fe Golf Club. Once the preferred golfing destination of Bing Crosby, this par-72 course continues to provide pristine views that attract a variety of visitors.

If golf isn’t your thing, feel free to face off at the Rancho Santa Fe Tennis Club, where you’ll also receive playing privileges.

After a full day of golf, tennis, or San Diego exploration, you’ll be thrilled to return to a stunning suite, particularly if it’s been elevated with one of the hotel’s amenity bundles. The Romancing option is the obvious choice for a romantic getaway, as it delivers rose petals, chocolate-covered strawberries, and Prosecco.  

Reservations:

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6. L’Auberge Del Mar

Location: Del Mar
Hotel class: Moderate

Why go: Often referred to as the heart of Del Mar, this estate-style hotel provides a sophisticated setting without detracting from all that makes the picturesque village special.

This coastal destination was once a prime spot for celebrity sightings, including the likes of Jimmy Durante and Desi Arnaz. After the original Stratford Inn fell into disrepair, it was reimagined as L’Auberge Del Mar — a romantic seaside escape that is across the street from the Del Mar beach at 15th Street.

When you need even more relaxation, you can hit the Spa L’Auberge for treatments that will have you looking and feeling amazing. Couples massages are available in a dedicated suite. If you arrive early enough, you can relax together in the steam room or the whirlpool.

Dining can also be an intimate experience at L’Auberge Del Mar. In the morning, you’ll be excited to grab your favorite beverage at Lyric Coffee, followed by an unforgettable patio lunch at Adelaide and exquisite cocktails from The Living Room to end the day. In-room dining provides a wonderfully romantic option when you prefer to remain curled up in bed.

Hotel amenities:

• Complimentary use of Zybra beach cruiser bikes for two hours
• Fire pits with sunset views
• Use of balls and racquets at the onsite tennis courts
• Village shuttle with a two-mile radius
• High-speed wireless internet
• Fitness center access, plus classes
• Electric vehicle chargers
• Complimentary use of beach chairs, towels, and umbrellas 

Good to know: Take your relaxing hotel experience outside with an exclusive cabana. These rentals offer outstanding views, plus chilled bottled water and an assortment of delicious snacks. Relax together on the sofa as you take in the scenery or watch your favorite programming on the TV.

Like many romantic hotels on this list, L’Auberge Del Mar is a dog-friendly property. Of particular interest to visiting couples, however, is the opportunity for dogsitting, which grants you alone time so you can hit the town for a romantic date.  

Rooms do not offer full ocean views despite being located across the street from the beach. The best you can do is in the Coastal View category, which is more of a partial ocean view.

Reservations: I can book you in with Noble Select benefits that include the below.

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7. Rancho Bernardo Inn 

Location: Rancho Bernardo
Hotel class: Moderate

Why go: Don’t let Rancho Bernardo Inn’s quaint name or distance from downtown San Diego keep you from checking out this unique resort setting. It is inland near some of our popular wineries and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

If you’re willing to trade the sand for the garden, you can stroll hand-in-hand along perfectly manicured paths or kick back together by the swimming pool. This romantic San Diego hotel invites you to take a step back and truly live in the moment. 

Golf can be a great bonding activity, but nothing compares to a day at the resort’s exclusive spa. Offering a unique take on the spa experience, this memorable opportunity incorporates the outdoors to great effect, thanks to its many sun lounges and temperature-controlled casitas.

There’s no better way to cap off a busy day at Rancho Bernardo than to visit one of the resort’s acclaimed restaurants. Outdoor dining is a clear priority here, with both the Veranda Fireside Lounge and AVANT Restaurant providing a pleasant patio atmosphere.

While golf opportunities abound throughout San Diego, the Rancho Bernardo Inn goes above and beyond by providing an 18-hole championship golf course just steps from the main lobby. This course offers serious challenges but should still be accessible to beginners intent on playing casually.

Hotel amenities:

• Plasma TV
• Hairdryer
• Minibar
• Refrigerator
• High-speed internet
• DVD player and use of the resort’s DVD library
• Grab bars or roll-in showers within accessible rooms
• Private balconies and patios
• Bottled water
• Complimentary coffee and tea
• Digital newspapers and magazines via Press Reader
• Beautiful views of the garden, spa, or golf course 

Good to know: No matter how you spend your time together, you’ll want to make the most of the many romantic add-ons this San Diego resort provides. Up the ante with decorating packages that add red roses, truffles, or sparkling wine to your already gorgeous hotel room. Other packages provide champagne, curated Charcuterie boards, or even breakfast in bed. 

Reservations:

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8. La Valencia Hotel La Jolla

Location: La Jolla
Hotel class: Moderate-Luxury

Why go: Embrace a luxury experience at this boutique hotel, which has frequently welcomed Hollywood’s greatest stars during its illustrious history. Often referred to as the Pink Lady of La Jolla, this grand hotel combines the best of vintage style with modern amenities.

La Valencia appeals most to couples who desire more of an urban experience than a beach-based adventure. Yes, many rooms provide great ocean views, but this is not the central appeal of the La Valencia Hotel.

Despite all this, La Valencia is absolutely worth a visit. There’s no better way to get a taste of Old Hollywood. You’ll also discover the perfect starting point for exploring the Village of La Jolla. After a whirlwind of a day, you’ll return to upscale amenities and various romantic touches.

For the ultimate brunch, check out The MED, which is conveniently located onsite. This hotspot is best known for its extremely popular brunch, for which reservations are strongly recommended. While anything ordered during brunch will get your mouth watering, it’s best enjoyed as a couple if you share a brunch board as you sip on Piper-Heidsieck champagne.

Glamorous dining is also available at La Sala, located in the opulent grand lobby. Order the signature Pink Lady cocktail and make the most of this cinematic setting. 

Hotel amenities:

• High-speed wireless internet
• In-room safe
• Luxury linens
• Keurig coffee machine
• Work desk
• Irons and ironing board
• Smart TVs with Netflix access
• Plush robes
• Standing shower featuring dual shower heads
• Private Juliet balconies for select rooms
• C.O. Bigelow bath amenities
• Suites include living rooms with elegant decor and designer furniture
• Wet bars in select suites 

Good to know: This pet-friendly hotel provides a Pampered Pooches package so that your loyal canine is just as comfy as you and your beloved human companion. When you dine in style on the outdoor patio, your dog will be served gourmet dishes from an exclusive pet menu.

Space can also be a drawback in the small Vintage rooms, as the rooms can most generously be described as cozy. Pay attention to room size and layout when you book.

Reservations:

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9. THE US GRANT in Downtown San Diego

Location: Downtown San Diego (edge of the Gaslamp Quarter)
Hotel class: Luxury

Why go: Nothing says downtown sophistication quite like a stay at THE US GRANT, which has turned heads since it was first established over a century ago by the son of President Ulysses S. Grant.

Located in the heart of downtown San Diego, this upscale hotel encourages you and your partner to explore the city’s most iconic attractions before returning to a comfortable, yet classy space where you can recharge.

This centrally located downtown gem is conveniently situated between Balboa Park and the San Diego Convention Center. That being said, you could stick exclusively to the Gaslamp District and still have an excellent time. When convenience is a priority, few romantic hotels in San Diego compare to THE US GRANT hotel. 

Take in the Art Deco vibes at the Grant Grill, which offers a fresh interpretation of several California classics. You’re also welcome to unwind together with a handcrafted cocktail from the French-inspired Rendezvous bar.

If you love indulging in spa services as much as you do quality cuisine, you’ll be excited to book private treatment rooms at one of San Diego’s most romantic hotels.

The couples massage is unique in that you can select any two of the other massage services provided. The result? A luxury spa experience that considers your unique needs as a couple. Top options for the ultimate San Diego spa excursion include soothing aromatherapy and stone massages.  

Hotel amenities:

• Marble bathroom
• Robes and slippers
• Bottled water
• Coffee maker
• Hot water and complimentary tea
• Iron and ironing board
• Cable and satellite TV
• Pay-per-view movies available
• Select suites offer balconies and kitchen features 

Good to know: THE US GRANT does not have a swimming pool or full-service spa, but rather the spa services happen in a couple of treatment rooms.

Reservations:

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10. Hotel del Coronado 

Location: Coronado
Hotel class: Moderate

Why go: Sometimes referred to as The Del, this iconic Coronado Island destination is housed in a stunning structure built in 1888. Nearly a century later, the waterfront hotel was designated as a National Historic Landmark in recognition of its distinctive Queen-Anne architecture, complete with eye-catching red turrets.

Today, Hotel del Coronado provides a dreamy escape for couples in desperate need of recharging. This is the place to go when you want to stay somewhere iconic on the beach in San Diego. You’ll discover for yourself why this has been Coronado Island’s top destination for generations of beach-based fun. 

The comfort of your preferred accommodations can extend to the beach environment, where cabanettes and daybeds are available for rent. Food and beverage service are provided right on the sand, so you can sip a sunset cocktail as you snuggle with your sweetheart.

Hotel amenities: 

• High-speed WiFi
• Keurig coffee machine
• Luxurious bath amenities
• Electric vehicle charging stations
• Business center with workstations and postal services
• Many rooms offer ocean views
• Gourmet kitchens in cottages
• Private balconies for select rooms and cottages
• Secure parking, with room keys doubling as parking passes
• Easy access to a variety of dining destinations, ranging from casual to formal 
• Full-service spa and fitness center with classes like beach spin and beach yoga
• Del Beach with food and drink service
• Beach Village and Shore House luxury enclaves have amenities just for their guests

Good to know: Your experience can differ dramatically depending on which section of the hotel you call home during your stay. There are five neighborhoods: The Victorian, The Cabanas, The Views, Beach Village and Shore House. The latter two are separate boutique hotels within the main resort.

This is a family resort. Couples looking for a quieter experience tend to book into Beach Village.

POPULAR ROOMS FOR COUPLES

Couples tend to book the Beachfront Cottage Junior Suite at Beach Village for its outdoor soaking tub. On the main resort, couples tend to book Ocean View Victorian rooms, Oceanfront Cabana rooms and Oceanfront Views rooms.

Reservations: I can book you into Hotel del Coronado and Beach Village at The Del with a little bit of a discount plus the amenities below. For Beach Village, you’ll need to request rates from me through this form. For Hotel del Coronado you can book directly using the button.

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• Daily breakfast credit of $45 per person, for up to two guests per bedroom, served in Serẽa restaurant (credit is non-cumulative, restrictions if applicable)
• $100 USD Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
• Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Sign in or create a free Virtuoso account to see the discounted rate! When booking on Virtuoso.com use the number of adults traveling to get the correct rates. Kids may otherwise be priced as adults. We will add them after we follow up to collect your arrival details. If you see multiple rates for the same room type, choose the lowest rate. Check the status of ocean swimming in front of Coronado Lifeguard Tower as it changes. This is the testing station in front of Hotel del Coronado.

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You Deserve a Romantic Getaway at One of the Finest San Diego Hotels

By now, it should be clear that there are many different definitions of the idyllic couple’s escape — and that every vision of perfection can be fulfilled thanks to the sheer variety of romantic San Diego hotels.

Treat yourself and the love of your life to a luxurious, intimate experience. Romantic San Diego hotels will help you make cherished memories that you’ll always hold dear.

For more inspiration, check my other lists of top San Diego hotels.