Best Spa Hotels in San Diego

Occupying its own 44-acre island in Mission Bay, Paradise Point offers guests a wide variety of ways to pass the time. Not only is the island flanked by quiet beaches, the resort also boasts five pools (including one reserved just for adults), an 18-hole mini-golf course, a surf school, five tennis courts, a spa and a basketball court. Travelers appreciate the resort's sense of isolation, despite its busy location near SeaWorld and Mission Beach Park. While guests were thoroughly appreciative of the resort's address, accommodations get mixed reviews, with some saying rooms needed an update, or a good cleaning. Guests say to really sink your teeth into this resort experience, book a room with a private lanai. As for dining, Paradise Point houses four restaurants serving a variety of cuisines, from fresh seafood to pizza.

Located on Coronado Island, this Loews resort offers plenty in the way of beachfront fun. The property offers easy access to Silver Strand State Beach, as well as bike and water sports equipment rentals. Back at the property, you'll find three outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts and the full-service Sea Spa. The views from the guest rooms aren't half bad either, though some guests wish the private balconies and patios were slightly larger. (Accommodations also feature deep soaking tubs, high-speed internet access and beachy decor.) For dining, head to the main restaurant, Crown Landing, which serves casual Californian cuisine by the water. Despite all its physical offerings, guests cite Loews Coronado Bay Resort's whimsical atmosphere as a reason to return. After all, this is the property that hosts an annual dog surfing competition. 

On the northwest shore of Mission Bay, the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa attracts visitors looking for a bit of R&R. The property is visibly older than other modern luxury accommodations in the San Diego area. However, each of the guest rooms features a plasma TV and an iPod docking station. Still, some guests can't help but remark that the rooms need an upgrade. But the on-site amenities are better received, with travelers praising the Catamaran Spa for its soothing ambiance and its long list of treatments. Recent guests also commend the hotel staff members for their friendly nature and eagerness to help out. And for many, the resort's Sunday Champagne Brunch was a highlight of their visit. The property charges a $25 resort fee, which covers amenities like hotel-wide Wi-Fi access, in-room water and towel service.

The Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa & Marina offers guests a convenient home base near Mission Beach, just a short drive from downtown. Guest rooms here feature bright green accents, flat-screen TVs, high-speed internet access and ample space to spread out. Previous visitors say that the views from the rooms are great (make sure to ask for accommodations on a higher floor overlooking the water). If you aren't satisfied with the scenery outside your room, you can enjoy the surroundings while dining on coastal cuisine at Red Marlin Restaurant & Terrace – an experience many recent guests recommend. This Hyatt property also boasts three pools (complete with waterslides for the kiddos), a fitness center and the Blue Marble Spa. However, some travelers say that this property could be better, with some citing costly parking fees as reasons they may think twice about returning. Members of the brand's loyalty program can offset fees by cashing in accumulated points.

About 20 miles north of central San Diego in Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar offers coastal California visitors a hearty helping of luxury from the moment they enter the lobby. Guests rave about the incredibly spacious guest rooms, saying that the deep-soaking tubs, Nespresso coffee makers and rich Tuscan decor makes for a relaxing stay. And if that isn't enough, there's also a five-star spa, swimming pools and a Tom Fazio-designed golf course. The Grand Del Mar also receives high marks for its cuisine; the hotel's Addison and Amaya restaurants serve award-winning French and Mediterranean fare coupled with regional wines. Add to that the hotel's consistently friendly customer service, and it's easy to see why guests frequently refer to their stays here as five-star experiences. As a member of the AccorHotels portfolio, this hotel allows guests to earn and redeem Le Club AccorHotels perks.

The Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa sits on Coronado Island about 5 miles from downtown San Diego (and the San Diego Convention Center), so it's a popular choice among business travelers. But its picturesque bay views are enjoyed by all who stay here. Guests also laud the resort's spacious guest rooms, which include private balconies or patios, high-speed internet access (for a fee) and flat-screen TVs. This Marriott's proximity to the Ferry Landing also earns praise (guests can take water taxis to San Diego from Coronado if they'd prefer not to drive). Those who prefer to stay nearby can take advantage of the in-house spa, three heated pools and easy access to the beach. Plus, guests who choose to bed down here can earn and redeem Marriott Bonvoy points toward free stays and other perks.

At the center of the Del Mar Village north of San Diego, L'Auberge Del Mar offers lavish comforts in a relaxed setting. Recent guests say that the friendly staff – particularly behind the front desk – were always eager to lend a hand. With plush beds and a light color palette, the rooms exude a quaint rather than ritzy atmosphere, according to visitors. The property also encourages visitors to take advantage of the treatments offered at Spa L'Auberge and the fresh seafood served at both KITCHEN 1540 and Coastline. But travelers say L'Auberge's best asset is its proximity to the beach – just a short downhill walk. And the hotel's location also places guests near boutique shops, golf courses and Del Mar Racing track. Though there are hefty resort and parking fees at this hotel, other amenities like a fitness center, business center and complimentary shuttle service make staying here worthwile. 

The Grande Dame of Coronado, this red-roofed hotel has overlooked the Pacific from its beachfront locale since 1888. Throughout its history, the storied Hotel del Coronado has been a favorite among traveling presidents, including Benjamin Harrison, William Taft, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Richard Nixon, Jimmy Carter and Gerald Ford. Movie stars, such as Charlie Chaplin, also paid visits, and the Hotel del Coronado played the backdrop to the feature film "Some Like It Hot" in 1958. More recent guests said the property's past adds an air of romance (though some feel that room rates are too high). Accommodations have been upgraded to include modern amenities, such as high-speed internet and flat-screen TVs, and the property offers visitors access to the on-site spa, two pools and a wealth of in-house eateries. 

When you see the word "inn," you might conjure up images of floral wallpaper and lace doilies — but not here. Rancho Bernardo Inn is more resort than bed-and-breakfast with its 18-hole championship golf course, full-service spa and four on-site eateries. Despite being a good 30-minute drive from San Diego and about 20 miles from the beaches at La Jolla or Del Mar, guests still enjoy Rancho Bernardo's setting. The property's 287 guest rooms and suites all offer views of the property gardens from private patios or balconies, and they also come outfitted with flat-screen TVs and, in some cases, fireplaces. Just be aware that Rancho Bernardo charges a resort fee to cover fitness center access, Wi-Fi connection and complimentary use of courtesy vehicle within 5-mile radius.

In addition to its proximity to the convention center, Petco Park and the Gaslamp Quarter, the Hilton San Diego Bayfront wins guests over with scenic views of San Diego Bay. Similar to most Hilton properties, this hotel offers a host of amenities to make everyone happy, from business travelers to families. Rooms here are dressed in neutral decor and feature plasma-screen TVs, high-speed internet access and signature Serenity beds. The property also houses a fitness center, a pool and a full-service spa, as well as multiple in-house eateries and lounges. For those looking to see the city, the hotel concierge can help arrange guided sightseeing tours. In fact, for many recent guests, it was the Hilton's high level of customer service that will prompt them to book here again. Plus, members of Hilton's Honors rewards program can receive special perks here.

For proximity to San Diego International Airport, you won't get much closer than the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina. And considering the Sheraton's superb views of the bay, you might forget that this property is considered an "airport hotel." However, keep in mind that this Sheraton has two towers, the Marina Tower (attached to the main lobby) and the Bay Tower (which is accessible by shuttle or a 15-minute walk). Guest rooms in both sections of the hotel boast red, white and blue decor, Sheraton's signature Sweet Sleeper beds, flat-screen TVs and high-speed internet access as well as a few additional perks such as private balconies or patios. The hotel's location puts it relatively close to San Diego's popular attractions (though not close enough, according to some guests), but those who plan to stick around the property can make use of three swimming pools, the fitness center and the in-house Island Breeze Spa. And those who'd prefer to dine in will find six on-site restaurants and lounges to choose from. Because this hotel is part of the Marriott hotel family, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and use points here.

The son of Ulysses S. Grant (the 18th president of the United States) opened this luxury downtown hotel in 1910. Today, THE US GRANT, A Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego gives guests a taste of Old World glamour coupled with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, minifridges and marble bathrooms. The hotel also houses a fitness center and The Grant Grill, which is critically acclaimed and known for its fresh Californian cuisine. However, this Luxury Collection property probably isn't the ideal hotel for sun-seekers, since it's pretty far from San Diego's most popular beaches. On the other hand, it's quite close to many of the city's top attractions, and if you're a Marriott Bonvoy member looking to redeem or accrue reward points, this could be the place for you.

Situated between the convention center and the marina, the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina is an ideal base camp for both business travelers and families. The surrounding Gaslamp Quarter hosts a plethora of dining, shopping and nightlife options to keep hotel guests busy (which is nice because recent visitors say that dining at Marina Kitchen Restaurant & Bar can get expensive). Visitors praise the fitness center and two pools, and most guests were pleased with the accommodations, despite the room rates being a little steep. All rooms and suites come dressed in a neutral color palette, custom bedding and flat-screen TVs. If possible, reserve a room facing the pool and harbor for better views and to avoid the ringing bells of passing trams. Keep in mind that Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and use points by staying here.

This Hyatt property, located on the San Diego Bay, sits within walking distance of the Gaslamp Quarter and gets kudos from guests for its two rooftop pools and picturesque views. Each one of the Manchester Grand Hyatt's 1,628 guest rooms boasts large windows that open to let in the sea breeze, as well as high-speed internet access, an iHome alarm clock and a flat-screen TV. Recent guests loved the spacious digs and praised the spectacular views, although some mentioned a few customer service snafus. The Manchester Grand Hyatt also encourages visitors to take advantage of the 24-hour fitness center and the in-house Marilyn Monroe Spa. And when dinnertime rolls around, the hotel houses several restaurants and lounges to choose from, including a top-floor bar that serves up cocktails and superb views of Coronado Island. And because of its brand ties, this hotel participates in the World of Hyatt loyalty program.

Like most Kimpton brand properties, the Hotel Palomar San Diego offers guests a stylish retreat in a convenient location. Situated in downtown San Diego, the Hotel Palomar is described by recent visitors as classy and cool. Accommodations here feature Italian Frette linens and a muted yet elegant color palette. Rooms also include high-speed internet access (which Kimpton Karma members can use for free), ETRO bath products and plasma TVs. When they're not out enjoying the bustling nightlife in the Gaslamp Quarter, Hotel Palomar visitors can take advantage of the hotel's on-site spa or relax by the outdoor pool. And though numerous eateries sit within walking distance of the hotel, previous guests strongly recommend savoring the craft cocktails and farm-to-table fare served at the Saltbox restaurant.

With easy access to SeaWorld, Mission Beach and downtown San Diego, this Hilton makes a great home base for sightseers. And the property's business center, meeting venues and Wi-Fi access make it a good choice for business travelers as well. Those who visited for work and leisure found the Hilton San Diego Resort to be an enjoyable place to stay. Recent guests praised the views afforded by the accommodations, as well as the in-room amenities (which include 42-inch flat-screen TVs and balconies or patios). Guests of the Hilton can also take advantage of the property's water sports equipment, its on-site spa and its outdoor pool. Come dinnertime, the American cuisine served at Acqua earns rave reviews, while the relaxed atmosphere at the poolside Fresco's makes it a great dining spot for those looking for good food in the sun. Some guests do lament the high price of staying here, though members of the Hilton Honors rewards program can see some of their costs mitigated with room upgrades and other perks.

For recent visitors to the Pier South Resort, Autograph Collection, there were many standout features, starting with the location. Situated on Imperial Beach, about 15 miles south of downtown San Diego, the property offers a quiet spot to catch the sunset every evening, not to mention it's within easy walking distance to several of the neighborhood's eateries. But if you'd rather stick close to the hotel for your meals, hip up Sea180 Coastal Tavern, which serves coastal cuisine alongside views of the beach. A big point of praise for recent visitors: the rooms. Accommodations are outfitted with balconies, free Wi-Fi access, Keurig coffee makers, 42-inch flat-screen TVs and fully-stocked minibars. To make the most of the property's oceanfront location, visitors suggested requesting a room with a full beach view. When you're not admiring the view, get out on the water – the hotel offers kayaks, paddleboards and bike rentals. And if you need a break from the sun and sand, Pier South Resort also boasts a pool, a spa and a fitness center with complimentary classes. Another bonus: If you're a member of the Marriott Bonvoy program, you can use or earn perks for staying here.

Overlooking the glittering San Diego Bay and rising high above the Gaslamp Quarter, the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego is all about being cool. From its trendy food options (Sunday brunch at Maryjane's and fresh sushi at Nobu) and its swanky decor, to its rooftop pool and entertainment lineup, the Hard Rock will definitely keep you occupied on a rainy day (though there aren't many in San Diego). Guests rave about the hotel's stylish guest rooms, which feature halo-illuminated beds, flat-screen TVs and ceiling-mounted Hansgrohe rain showers. Despite the deluxe digs, this hotel is not really geared towards families and relaxation (no on-site spa). But if you're one to embrace the music, take advantage of the Sound of Your Stay program, which offers free downloads, Fender guitar rentals and a chance to try your hand at being a DJ.

Most guests praise The Keating for its trendy atmosphere and its prime location in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter. Visitors are also fond of the guest room decor, which showcases red and blue hues with exposed brick walls (in some suites) and contemporary furnishings. Some of The Keating's more unique amenities include LaVazza espresso machines, Egyptian cotton sheets, mood lighting and walk-in rain showers. The hotel also offers a number of tailored stay packages, such as the romantic Amore Mio package, or the spa-tastic Dolce Vita (think: bottle of champagne before or after treatments). However, visitors say that the hotel falls short in a few key ways: Some report an icy reception from hotel employees, and many complain of street noise disturbing a peaceful night's sleep.

Sitting on the northwestern fringes of the Gaslamp Quarter, this Westin offers visitors a convenient home base, comfortable accommodations and a variety of amenities. Guests are quick to compliment the customer service, and the rooms, which feature signature Heavenly beds and ample storage space, earn a thumbs-up as well. The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter also offers a spa, a 24-hour fitness center and an outdoor pool. And Pinzimini restaurant serves up hearty portions of pizza and pasta. But one of the biggest highlights for guests is the location. From this Westin, travelers can easily reach the sights and sound of downtown by foot, as well as top attractions including Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo. And because this hotel is part of the Marriott hotel family, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and use points here.