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First opened as a sportsman’s lodge in the early 1960s, The Pearl Hotel has transformed into a stylish and popular boutique property in San Diego’s Point Loma neighborhood. My Pearl Hotel San Diego review covers why we like this retro-inspired and budget-friendly gem and an overview of the rooms and amenities.
We also know who it’s the best fit for. Simply put, its mid-century design, eco-friendly ethos, and lively social scene attract young-at-heart travelers looking for a stylish yet affordable stay close to the harbor, top seafood spots, and downtown San Diego.
Here’s what to expect before you book.
Quick Overview of The Pearl Hotel San Diego
- Location: Point Loma, San Diego (5 minutes from SAN Airport)
- Rooms: 23 mid-century modern guest rooms and suites
- Dining: Ponyboy (casual dining, craft cocktails, seafood, and classic American fare)
- Amenities: Saltwater pool, dive-in movie nights, happy hour, boutique-style accommodations
- Family-Friendly: Best suited for adults and couples; limited family-friendly features
The Pearl Hotel San Diego Reservations
Check Hotels.com for availability or book direct.
1410 Rosecrans St, San Diego, CA 92106
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The Pearl Hotel Rooms and Suites
All 23 accommodation types have been recently renovated and are furnished in a mid-century modern, minimalistic style.
There’s lots of wood, handmade decor and art, and soft, warm desert hues. And the eco-friendly theme is carried throughout.
The rooms are smaller and quite close together, but the clean, comfortable styles make for private and relaxed sleeping spaces.
In each room, you will find:
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Flat screen TVs
- Natural wood platform bed (size varies depending on room choice)
- Writing desk
- Locally made ceramics
- Original and vintage art
- Built-in wardrobe
You will also be spoiled with only the finest bedding and toiletries, including:
- Parachute bedding
- Certified organic bath products – Mooncloth x Casetta
- Custom-designed Finery x Casetta bathrobes
Suites
Pearl Junior Suite
Slightly smaller than the Pearl Suite, the Junior is no less luxurious. A stylish retreat with extra space and a view of the pool’s movie screen—perfect for couples.
- Capacity: 2
- Size: 250 sq. ft.
- Features: King-size bed, extra room to roam, designer furnishings, original art, local ceramics, ensuite bathroom with walk-in rain shower.
Pearl Suite
The Pearl Suite is a winner for anyone wanting a little extra space and luxury. The suite has its own private balcony, a large walk-in shower, and a lounge area.
- Capacity: 4
- Size: 360 sq. ft.
- Features: King-size bed, pull-out sofa bed, designer furnishings, original art, local ceramics, ensuite bathroom with walk-in rain shower
King Rooms
Grand Pearl
Although the Grand Pearl rooms are the same size as the Classics, these rooms come with a private balcony or terrace for guests to enjoy.
- Capacity: 2
- Size: 250 sq. ft.
- Features: King-size bed, writing desk, custom furnishings, original art, ensuite bathroom with walk-in rain shower.
Classic Pearl
Classic Pearls offer attention-to-detail decor and an easy-going comfort ambiance. Great for a luxurious touch to a business trip or a weekend away that calls for a bubble bath.
- Capacity: 2
- Size: 230 sq. ft.
- Features: King-size bed, writing desk, custom furnishings, original art, ensuite bathroom with shower-bath combo
Queen Rooms
Mini Pearl
The smallest of the rooms, these are cozy and intimate. They’re perfect for solo travelers or couples who don’t need much of space.
- Capacity: 2
- Size: 112 sq. ft.
- Features: Raised queen-size bed, custom bathrobes, designer furnishings, vintage pieces, ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
Queen Pearl Plus
These rooms are ideal for families traveling with small children since they offer a pull out bed in addition to a queen-size bed. The en-suite bathroom includes a shower and bath combo, and there’s a dressing space.
- Capacity: 4
- Size: 260 sq. ft.
- Features: Queen-size bed, pull-out sofa bed, writing desk, custom furnishings, original art, ensuite bathroom with shower-bath combo
Accessible Room
Queen Pearl ADA
The Pearl’s ADA-accessible guest room offers a walk-in shower and all other typical room amenities. Sleep soundly in your stylish room and enjoy all the amenities of the hotel outside.
- Capacity: 2
- Size: 230 sq. ft.
- Features: Queen-size bed, writing desk, custom furnishings, original art.
The Pearl Hotel San Diego Dining Experience
If you’ve dined at The Pearl before, you may remember Charles + Dinorah, but that restaurant is no longer in operation. In its place, The Pearl has introduced Ponyboy, a fresh new concept that blends nostalgia with a modern dining ethos.
On my most recent visit, I was excited to check out the menu, which puts a creative spin on classic dishes using locally sourced ingredients from San Diego farmers, fishermen, and ranchers. The attention to detail amazes me, from the thoughtfully crafted plates to the warm hospitality that makes you want to linger.
The best way to start the evening? Golden Hour—Ponyboy’s version of happy hour—lets you ease into dinner with a cocktail and small bites as the sun sets over Point Loma.
If you’re staying at The Pearl or just looking for a great new dinner spot in San Diego, Ponyboy is well worth a visit.
Outdoor Swimming Pool
The pool is a central feature of the hotel. Its original oyster shape (it is The Pearl Hotel, after all) and modern deck chairs create a fun social space.
The restaurant and bar are adjacent, so cocktails at the pool are a welcome and easy option during sunny San Diego days.
The hotel staff strives to create a warm, vibey atmosphere for all their guests no matter where you choose to chill in this boutique hotel.
The Pearl Hotel San Diego Happenings
The hotel is close to fabulous neighborhood happenings, which we’ll explore below. But The Pearl in Point Loma also offers its own list of fun activities and amenities. As always, you’ll need to check the hotel schedule to see what is available during your stay.
Golden Hour at Ponyboy
Ponyboy puts a fresh spin on happy hour with its Golden Hour. This is a perfect way to ease into the evening with craft cocktails and small bites in The Pearl’s stylish setting.
Whether you’re kicking off a night out or unwinding after a day of exploring, this limited-time window offers a taste of Ponyboy’s seasonal, locally inspired menu at great value.
Golden Hour at Ponyboy is the place to be if you love a good cocktail and a laid-back boutique vibe.
Dive-In Movie Night
The Pearl Hotel San Diego is known for its dive-in movie nights. This event brings classic films to the poolside screen every Wednesday at sundown. Ponyboy keeps things fun with craft cocktails and themed bites, making it a great way to unwind in a relaxed setting.
Reservations are recommended, so grab a spot through The Pearl’s website, then sit back and enjoy a movie under the stars.
Artist Showcase
Support San Diego’s vibrant creative community at The Pearl’s weekly Artist Showcase. This event highlights local visual artists and musicians and offers an inspiring evening of music, art, and great company.
The Pearl Hotel San Diego’s Location
The Pearl Hotel is located in San Diego’s Point Loma neighborhood.
If you haven’t heard of Point Loma or are wondering why you should stay here, let me tell you a few things about it. I have spent A LOT of time in Point Loma because my in-laws lived in this San Diego neighborhood for decades.
It’s close to Cabrillo National Monument at the tip of Point Loma (12-minute drive). The closest San Diego beach is Ocean Beach (a 10-minute drive), where you can sunbathe, swim, learn how to surf and walk out on the pier (when it is open). You can also have one of my favorite San Diego fish tacos at South Beach and shop the antique stores on Ocean Avenue.
The Pearl Hotel San Diego guests are within walking distance of the harbor, where many fishing boats dock. As a result, I’d recommend you eat at Mitch’s Seafood and Point Loma Seafoods — many residents drive out of their way to eat at these spots.
You can also walk to Liberty Station Public Market to eat and shop. Get some exercise by taking a kayak or stand-up paddleboard out into the water from OEX or taking a scenic walk on Shelter Island. A variety of San Diego Bay tours also depart nearby.
It’s about a 5-minute drive to San Diego Airport, 10 minutes to Old Town San Diego, and 15 minutes to San Diego Zoo (don’t forget that I have a San Diego Zoo ticket discount) and Balboa Park. Most things to do in downtown San Diego are about 10-15 minutes away by car.
Final Thoughts
The Pearl Hotel San Diego is a stylish and affordable boutique hotel that embraces San Diego’s relaxed, coastal vibe. It’s perfect for couples, solo travelers, and those who appreciate mid-century design.
While it may not have extensive resort-style amenities, its central location, dining, and social atmosphere make it a fantastic option for a unique San Diego stay.
Katie Dillon
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