Where to stay in San Diego

Why we picked it

What convinced us is that the beach and the history come together here: a wide sandy beach in front, a restored 1888 Victorian lobby behind, and a kids club, heated pools and an oceanfront spa in between. We would book a Victorian room for the character, spend the mornings on the sand and take the ferry across the bay to downtown.

• The red-roofed 1888 Victorian hotel on Coronado Beach, restored in a six-year, $550 million project completed in 2025
• Pools heated to about 80–85°F year-round, an oceanfront spa and Ocean Explorers Kids Club for ages 4–12
• A choice of five areas, from restored Victorian rooms to beachfront cottages and villas

• Coronado BeachBeach chairs, umbrellas and day beds to rent
• Heated poolsAbout 80–85°F year-round, with cabanas
• Oceanfront spaSteam room, jacuzzi, spa terrace and pool with ocean view
• Fitness centerCardio and strength equipment, group classes, beach yoga
• Ocean Explorers Kids ClubHalf- and full-day sessions for ages 4–12
• RestaurantsNobu Del Coronado, Serẽa, Veranda, Sun Deck and more
• History toursDaily tours from the Ice House Museum
• Water sportsSurf and sailing lessons, paddleboarding, kayaking
• Wi-FiComplimentary, part of the nightly resort charge
• ParkingSelf-parking $59 or valet $79 per night
• EV chargingAvailable on site
• Pet-friendlyDogs up to 40 lbs, $150 cleaning fee per stay

Why we picked it

What convinced us is the history and the location for a mid-range price: a hotel where Wyatt Earp stayed as a guest for seven years, rebuilt from its own bricks on the edge of the Gaslamp Quarter, with a fireplace in the room and the trolley at the door. We would book a King room with a balcony over the courtyard and walk to the Gaslamp’s restaurants and Petco Park.

• Two 1880s hotels, taken apart brick by brick and rebuilt around a courtyard, reopened in 1986
• Rooms with Victorian furniture, armoires and gas fireplaces
• The San Diego Trolley stops in front of the hotel

• Gas fireplacesIn the King and Two Queen rooms
• Salt & WhiskeyRestaurant and bar; happy hour daily 4–7 pm
• CourtyardBrick-floored courtyard beneath a canopy of trees
• Wi-FiComplimentary throughout the hotel, including rooms
• Fitness centerOpen daily 5 am–10 pm
• Business centerOpen 24 hours, free computer use and printing
• 24-hour pantrySnacks, drinks and sundries
• Air-conditioningWith ceiling fan and mini-fridge in rooms
• Family-friendlyKids 12 and under stay free; free cribs on request
• Dog-friendly roomsUS$75 per stay, maximum two dogs
• Valet parkingUS$62 per day with in-and-out privileges