The fifteen best family hotels in San Diego County that I review below are vetted by me, clients, and readers for vacations and staycations. They are beachfront or near the beach and close to attractions. They do an excellent job of striking a balance between fun kids’ amenities and relaxation for parents.
Before you book kid-friendly hotels in San Diego, you’ll want to read this article in detail. There are things to know that only someone like me, who specializes in helping plan San Diego family vacations, can tell you.
If there’s a clear way to book that will give you the best value, I’ve mentioned it. Through me, you have access to great perks at some of these hotels. At others, you can save more with San Diego vacation packages that bundle your stay with theme park tickets or even Hotels.com. If it makes sense to book direct, I’ve mentioned it. If you book hotels using the links below, I may be compensated. Do check with the hotels directly to see if offerings are modified during your stay.
See also: Guide: The Best Things to Do in San Diego with Kids
1. Fairmont Grand Del Mar
Neighborhood: Carmel Valley (East of Del Mar)
Kids’ club: Yes. The Explorer’s Club offers half-day, full-day, and evening sessions for kids ages 5–12 year-round. It is free for two hours when parents book a spa treatment, whether you’re staying overnight or not.
Hotel class: Luxury
Why go: Fairmont Grand Del Mar is the best hotel in San Diego for families in the five-star category. In fact, this kid-friendly San Diego luxury hotel is one where many stay put to enjoy the amenities. This is my top pick.
Its central location with easy access to the I-5 freeway makes exploring attractions like LEGOLAND California to the north and San Diego Zoo to the south a breeze.
Beach access: Reserve The Grand Beach Service 24 hours in advance, which includes round-trip transportation to Del Mar’s 18th Street beach (fantastic). They’ll take you with chairs, towels, bottled water, and umbrellas.
Good to know: Guests receive twice-daily housekeeping, in-room bottled water, and coffee, free WiFi, daily newspaper, free parking (self-parking) included in a $49/night plus tax resort fee that is charged at check-out. The resort fee usually does not appear in rate quotes.
There is not a lot to do within walking distance so a rental car is advisable for sightseeing off of the resort. I’ve never had anyone complain about this because the resort is so nice and fun for families.
Awards: #1 on TripAdvisor, AAA Four Diamonds, three Forbes five-stars each for Addison, the hotel, and spa. Addison has one Michelin star.
Reservations: You have access to special Virtuoso amenities that add value to a stay and include daily free breakfast for two, an activity credit, upgrades, occasionally a 3rd night free, and more.
*You may need to be on the desktop version of Virtuoso.com to search rates and book online. To enable the desktop version of a hotel page from a mobile device, scroll down to the navy blue section at the bottom of the web page and click “Full Site.” When searching rates, do not input children ages 17 and under as they will be priced as adults. I’m notified when you book and will add them when I contact you about your reservation.
See also: 10 Reasons Why Families Choose Fairmont Grand Del Mar
2. Hotel del Coronado
Neighborhood: Coronado
Kids’ club: Yes. DelVentures offers 1-hour activities and daily evening activities between 6–9 p.m. so that parents can enjoy dinner onsite in peace at this beachfront resort.
Hotel class: Moderate-Luxury
Why go: The red roof of this historic San Diego hotel has become one of the city’s icons. The roster of Hollywood celebrities, U.S. Presidents, and other dignitaries who have stayed at Hotel del Coronado since its opening in 1888 is nothing short of impressive.
Of the San Diego family resorts on the beach, this is the best because it’s full-service and Coronado Central Beach is considered one of America’s best beaches by the Travel Channel.
See also: 15 Things to Do at Hotel del Coronado
Beach access: Coronado beach is right in front of the hotel. It’s gorgeous.
Good to Know: This is a busy resort. Most of the time, the service is very good, and the guests are pleased. During peak seasons, it’s advisable to make spa and dining reservations (including breakfast during winter break) before arrival.
Restaurants and shops on Orange Avenue are within walking distance, and there is a ferry from downtown San Diego to Coronado Island on the other side of the island (a quick Uber or 30-minute walk from the hotel). There is also quite a bit to do during the holidays at Hotel del Coronado, from a fun seaside ice skating rink (on pause for 2020) to other special programming.
I have also written a very detailed guide to Hotel del Coronado that you should read. It addresses how to select rooms and much more. A $400 million renovation is underway, and construction is visible around the resort. You need to know the following before making a reservation for your family trip:
- Do not book property enhancement view rooms because they face renovation work.
- Renovated Cabana and Views king rooms have a pull-out sofa beds (so do the Victorian Studio Suites). My favorite rooms are the Ocean View Cabana Terrace Fire Pit rooms.
- Read what to expect during your visit.
- If you’re considering a specialty suite at Hotel del Coronado, take a look at Beach Village at The Del as pricing can be similar.
- Guests continue to book in despite the renovation and limited reopening offerings and have a great time!
Awards: AAA Four Diamonds (2005-2019); Top 10 Best Hotels in San Diego, U.S. News & World Report, 2019; and many more.
Reservations: You have access to Virtuoso amenities that include daily breakfast for two, a $100 food and beverage credit, room upgrade (subject to availability), and VIP status. You will also earn Hilton Honors points (Virtuoso rates are nearly always more advantageous than the Hilton Honors discount).
*You may need to be on the desktop version of Virtuoso.com to search rates and book online. To enable the desktop version of a hotel page from a mobile device, scroll down to the navy blue section at the bottom of the web page and click “Full Site.” When searching rates, do not input children ages 17 and under as they will be priced as adults. I’m notified when you book and will add them when I contact you about your reservation.
3. Beach Village at The Del
Neighborhood: Coronado
Kids’ club: Yes. Guests also use DelVentures at Hotel del Coronado.
Hotel class: Luxury
Why go: You want the most luxurious beach vacation possible in San Diego County.
Plus, as the sister property to adjacent Hotel del Coronado, you’d have access to amenities on the main resort mentioned above, but main resort guests do not have access to Beach Village amenities. Only Beach Village guests can access the property’s pools and exclusive Windsor Beach Club. Accommodations here are outfitted like designer residences.
Beach access: The beautiful beach is right in front of the hotel.
Good to know: Expect prices over $799/night plus $35/night resort fee and tax for a double queen villa room, the entry-level accommodations. Larger families can fit into these accommodations as the double queen Coastal View and Ocean View Villa Rooms have two queen beds and a single sofa sleeper. The Windsor Beach Club is for guests and locals with memberships. It can be crowded due to the latter.
Hotel del Coronado is going through an exciting multi-stage renovation through 2021. If you want to enjoy the main resort’s activities with the least possible risk of disruption, please stay at Beach Village between now and 2021.
Reservations: The Virtuoso amenities you can book in with through me at Beach Village at The Del are the same as Hotel del Coronado. It is usually more advantageous than Hilton Honors rates if you will eat breakfast on the property. You’ll need to request a rate as Beach Village is unable to be booked online through Virtuoso. You will earn Hilton Honors points with either method.
4. Park Hyatt Aviara Resort & Spa
Neighborhood: Aviara (Carlsbad)
Kids’ club: No
Hotel class: Luxury
Why go: You want to base the family in a secluded San Diego luxury resort in North County with exquisite service, excellent golf, and an award-winning spa.
The resort offers suites and connecting guest rooms at reasonable prices. They’ve just finished renovating the guest rooms, swimming pools, lobby, and some dining. It’s gorgeous.
Beach access: The resort offers tound-trip shuttle service to Moonlight Beach in Encinitas or Tamarack Beach in Carlsbad ($10 per person charge).
Good to know: This incredibly beautiful part of Carlsbad is inland of the I-5 freeway, so you’ll need to drive to the beach. Park Hyatt Aviara usually has VERY reasonably-priced suites and can guarantee connecting rooms. Read about our recent stay at Park Hyatt Aviara Resort.
Awards: AAA Five Diamonds, Forbes Five Star
Reservations: I have access to Virtuoso amenities at Park Hyatt Aviara that include daily breakfast for two, a room upgrade at check-in (subject to availability), a $100 food and beverage credit and more. You will also earn World of Hyatt points.
*You may need to be on the desktop version of Virtuoso.com to search rates and book online. To enable the desktop version of a hotel page from a mobile device, scroll down to the navy blue section at the bottom of the web page and click “Full Site.” When searching rates, do not input children ages 17 and under as they will be priced as adults. I’m notified when you book and will add them when I contact you about your reservation.
5. La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club
Neighborhood: La Jolla Shores
Kids’ club: Seasonally in summers only
Hotel class: Moderate
Why go: You’d like a unique San Diego, CA experience with access to one of the state’s few remaining private beaches. Or, you’re traveling with a large family or extended family. They have accommodations for up to eight guests in a room. La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club is an exclusive, members-only club with 99 guest rooms and suites, some of which are as close to the beach as you can get in San Diego.
This is one of the best hotels in San Diego for families because the experience is intimate and one that generations of families return for annually. It’s next door to the La Jolla Shores Hotel, and the La Jolla Shores shops and restaurants are a short walk away.
Beach access: Beachfront and about as close to the sand as a San Diego hotel can get.
Good to know: This property is incredibly popular for multigenerational trips. The buildings have an older appearance on the exterior, but accommodations have been recently refreshed on the interior. It is considered a three-star property but appeals to luxury travelers because of the private beach and intimate experience.
They also have two-bedroom accommodations for larger families. The beachfront rooms and suites are so close to the beach that you will hear the ocean at night, and the occasional BBQ smoke may waft into your room. Light sleepers may want to book rooms in the garden area.
Reservations:
6. La Jolla Shores Hotel
Neighborhood: La Jolla
Kids’ club: No
Hotel class: Moderate
Why Go: You’d like to base the family in La Jolla at a fun beachfront San Diego family hotel that won’t break the bank. Here, La Jolla Shores Beach is one of the best for beach activities like learning how to surf, stand-up paddleboard, or kayaking La Jolla’s rare 600-acre underwater ecological reserve.
It is effortless to take the kids to the beach for an hour or two, rest a little bit in the room, and return to the sand again in the afternoon. We staycationed at La Jolla Shores Hotel a few years ago and loved it, but the rooms have all been refreshed since then.
Beach access: A small boardwalk separates the hotel from the beach. You can run back and forth from your room to the sand with ease.
Good to know: The outdoor swimming pool isn’t huge. It’s not a fancy hotel, but it’s family-owned and operated, which means that things like sandy bare feet are okay when going from beach to room. They want you to have a relaxed San Diego family vacation and not to sweat the small stuff.
The awesome shops and restaurants on Avenida de la Playa are a short walk away, including Piatti, the Cheese Shop, Surf Diva, and more. As the name implies, this great hotel is located in the La Jolla Shores neighborhood and not in the main village of La Jolla. It’s much quieter over here, and the beach is miles better for SoCal sunbathing and swimming — there’s something for nearly everyone to do.
See also: Guide to La Jolla Shores
Awards: TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence
Reservations:
7. Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara, North San Diego
Neighborhood: Carlsbad
Kids’ club: No, but they do have a sizeable game room.
Hotel class: Luxury
Why go: Most villas at Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara, North San Diego have kitchens or kitchenettes, separate bedrooms, and living areas. They feel like a home away from home and are excellent for extended stays in addition to large families.
This Four Seasons in Southern California offers upscale touches present in sister properties worldwide and excellent service, which fans of the brand will appreciate. This another top pick for kid-friendly hotels in San Diego County that earns a lot of repeat guests.
Beach access: Drive or take an Uber.
Good to know: The Park Hyatt Aviara is next door so guests can enjoy dining there, too. Aviara is located inland from the beach, so a rental car is advised. I’ve only received positive feedback from guests at this hotel. It’s somewhat of a hidden gem, but people love it. They have a $25/night hotel fee that includes self-parking.
Reservations: I can book you in as a Four Seasons Preferred Partner guest, which means that your reservation will include daily breakfast for two, a $100 food and beverage credit, and more. (I lived in a Four Seasons hotel, stay in them regularly, have written for Four Seasons Magazine, and can tell you in detail about nearly every property in their portfolio.)
8. Omni La Costa Resort & Spa
Neighborhood: La Costa (South Carlsbad)
Kids’ club: Yes. They have a nursery for kids ages 6 months–3 years old (two hours only). Kids ages 3 years and older (who are bathroom independent) may join for half-day, full-day, and evening programs year-round.
Hotel class: Moderate
Why go: Omni La Costa Resort & Spa provides a well-rounded kid-friendly San Diego family vacation spot because they do golf, spa, dining, and family activities each extremely well. LEGOLAND California Resort is just minutes away by car, as is the beach. It’s a popular choice for family hotels in San Diego, CA, because of its awesome splash pad and swimming pools.
Beach access: Drive or take an Uber.
Good to know: It’s more of a four-star property. Many first floor rooms have French doors that open to a nice patio. Signature rooms and La Costa suites are closest to the family pool (location can be requested but not guaranteed). La Costa rooms are a further walk to the lobby and family pool.
I have written a detailed Omni La Costa Resort & Spa review that addresses selecting a room and other important details. Food and drink service at the family pool is seasonal, and the pools can close early during the off-peak season based on occupancy.
Awards: Golf Digest Editor’s Award (2019), Condé Nast Traveler – 15 Best Hotels in San Diego, 2018
Reservations: I find that most readers prefer to book using Omni sale rates or hotels.com. They would rather pay a low price for the room than pay a bit more for inclusions like breakfast for two that I can offer.
9. Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa
Neighborhood: Rancho Santa Fe
Kids’ club: No
Hotel class: Luxury
Why go: You’d like a luxury family resort with a long list of activities where you can mostly stay put. Rancho Valencia is an all-suite property and a wellness destination due to its famous spa, fitness classes, and yoga pavilion. It’s also a Relais & Chateaux property, which means you can feel confident that the food is outstanding.
Beach access: It takes a bit less than 20 minutes to drive to the beach (depending on which beach you’re going to). The resort does not offer beach service, so you’ll need to drive. The nearby beach is Del Mar City beach.
Good to know: It’s about a 15-minute drive inland from the I-5 freeway to the resort. The swimming pools here are saline. It’s an all-suite property but if you need a fully separate bedroom from the living room, book the Palm Suite or higher.
Awards: #1 Relais & Chateau property in California, AAA Five Diamond award (2018), Forbes Five-Star hotel and spa (2018)
Reservations: I have access to Virtuoso amenities at Rancho Valencia that include daily free breakfast for two, a $100 resort credit, and more.
*You may need to be on the desktop version of Virtuoso.com to search rates and book online. To enable the desktop version of a hotel page from a mobile device, scroll down to the navy blue section at the bottom of the web page and click “Full Site.” When searching rates, do not input children ages 17 and under as they will be priced as adults. I’m notified when you book and will add them when I contact you about your reservation.
10. Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa
Neighborhood: Pacific Beach
Kids’ club: No
Hotel class: Moderate
Why go: You’d like a casual San Diego family resort near the beach at a (usually) lower price point than most on this list. Catamaran Resort Hotel & Spa is located on a waveless bay beach, but it also just a few blocks away from the ocean beach in Pacific Beach. They offer the most activities of any Mission Bay resort. Plus, its Polynesian vibe makes you feel like you’re on a tropical getaway.
Good to know: Catamaran Resort guest rooms have recently been refreshed, but the building exteriors still have a dated look. Book Bayfront Rooms or Bayfront Suites on the ground floor for direct access to the beach. Bayfront Suites also have sofa beds in the living room and a choice of either a king or two double beds in the bedroom.
Awards: TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence
Reservations: The Catamaran Resort offers specials on its own website that are better than many offers online. You can also save with Hotels.com.
11. Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego
Neighborhood: Downtown San Diego
Kids’ club: Yes. Camp Hyatt is seasonal and has summer hours.
Hotel class: Moderate
Why go: You want one of the San Diego hotels for kids in downtown with water views and don’t mind the size. This hotel is huge, with over 1600 rooms spread over two towers.
However, it’s located on the San Diego Bay and within walking distance to some of San Diego’s best restaurants, attractions, the Gaslamp Quarter, USS Midway Museum, Seaport Village, San Diego Convention Center, and PETCO Park ballpark. Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo are also a short drive away.
Beach access: You’ll need to drive or take a ferry to Coronado beaches. Or, drive to La Jolla. If you plan to spend a lot of time at the beach, downtown isn’t the best spot.
Good to know: Again, Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego is large and a bit corporate due to its location right next to the San Diego Convention Center, but families love having so much to do within walking distance at this downtown hotel.
I’ve written a detailed Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego review that goes over the various room types and more. Guests should not expect personalized five-star service and amenities as the hotel is too big. The Club Lounge can be busy, but overall the hotel is a good choice for a family vacation.
Reservations: I can add Hyatt Prive benefits that include a room upgrade at the time of booking (subject to forecasted availability), daily free breakfast for two, and more. You’ll earn World of Hyatt points, too.
12. Bahia Resort Hotel
Neighborhood: Mission Bay
Kids’ club: No
Hotel class: Budget
Why go: Bahia Resort Hotel is voted one of the top 10 best value hotels in the nation and it’s easy to see why. The well-rounded San Diego family resort boasts a convenient Mission Bay location with easy access to water sports and beaches.
Hotel rooms are comfortable and the staff is friendly. Bahia shares some amenities with sister property The Catamaran Resort (mentioned above), and they do earn quite a few repeat guests.
Beach access: It’s about a while also being about a 10-minute walk to Belmont Park and Mission Beach.
Good to know: The resort just finished some property and room enhancements and is one of the excellent San Diego resorts for families on a budget.
Reservations: You can check Hotels.com for pricing.
13. Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina
Neighborhood: Mission Bay
Kids club: No
Hotel class: Moderate
Why go: You would like a well-priced family-friendly hotel with water slides, beach access, and the ability to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points. Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina rooms have been recently refreshed, and there are water views from many.
Beach access: It takes about 20 minutes to walk to Belmont Park and Mission Beach.
Good to know: It’s our top pick for hotels near SeaWorld San Diego because while it’s still a 20-minute walk, you can walk. There isn’t a bay beach or a Regency Club here. The rooms in The Tower have the best view. Height restrictions apply for the water slides.
Reservations: While I can offer extra benefits at this property through Hyatt Prive, I am finding that people are either booking sale rates directly through Hyatt or on online travel sites like Hotels.com.
14. Loews Coronado Bay Resort
Neighborhood: Coronado
Kids’ club: Yes, but it’s offsite at the Crown Cove Aquatic Center and available on certain dates
Hotel class: Moderate
Why go: You want to stay at a family Coronado resort near Silver Strand State Beach with water sports onsite. You don’t mind driving to outside restaurants, or you want a fun resort San Diego family vacation or staycation that you don’t have to leave.
Loews Coronado Bay Resort is located on its own San Diego Bay peninsula about 4 miles south of the main Coronado business district. The resort is designed so that guests can experience the best of San Diego without leaving.
Beach access: Silver Strand State Beach (gorgeous) is about a 5-10 minute walk from the resort, where they have seasonal complimentary umbrellas and chairs for hotel guests. A hotel cart shuttles guests to and from the beach at regular intervals.
Good to know: Many families choose this kid-friendly hotel in San Diego because it’s in Coronado and at a lower price point than Hotel del Coronado.
Reservations: Loews online usually has the best packages and rates but I find that with this hotel also people tend to choose Hotels.com.
15. LEGOLAND Hotel and LEGOLAND Castle Hotel
Neighborhood: Carlsbad
Kids’ club: No
Category: Moderate
Why go: You want to please the LEGO enthusiast in your life by immersing him or her in a land of Minifigures and colorful bricks. You don’t mind that it’s a little (a lot, in some places) chaotic. I’ve put both LEGOLAND hotels together here because which you check-in to depends on the theme your kids prefer (and availability). They are both right next to the theme park entrance.
Beach access: You will need to drive to the beach.
Good to know: LEGOLAND Hotel and LEGOLAND Castle Hotel are more of a win for kids than for parents. I would recommend no more than a night or two at the most. It’s a little overwhelming on the senses for travelers who aren’t used to hotels overflowing with kids and all of the sounds that come with that. But it is a fun, kid-friendly getaway. Don’t forget that the resort is made up of the theme park, water parks, and SEA LIFE Aquarium, so there is a lot to do here.
Reservations: Most people book directly through LEGOLAND California, but you can try Booking.com. They’re the only online travel agency that you can book these hotels through.
Kid-Friendly Hotels in San Diego on a Map
This illustrated map will give you a rough idea where these hotels and resorts are located across San Diego County relative to popular kid-friendly tourist attractions like the San Diego Zoo, La Jolla seals, and others.
You may download a letter-sized printable version of this map here.
FAQs About the Best Family Hotels in San Diego
I spend a good chunk of my days talking to families about where to stay in San Diego with kids. These are the questions that I am asked the most.
Where should a family stay in San Diego?
There are three major factors that weigh into this decision that include:
- what you plan to do in San Diego.
- what kind of accommodations you prefer.
- how important beach access is.
When it comes to choosing San Diego family hotels, you will have to find the right balance between the three. The answer often isn’t clear cut.
As you can see above, some of the best kid-friendly hotels in San Diego are not on the beach. Also, a lot of the most popular tourist attractions in San Diego are scattered widely around the county.
In general, if your plan is to hit most of the city’s top attractions and go carless, look at downtown San Diego hotels (or maybe even Coronado hotels).
If you want to stay right on the beach — and maybe learn to surf — without putting too much of a dent in your budget, then La Jolla Shores is a wonderful choice (though it can get pricey during peak season).
If you want a full-service resort on the beach, Hotel del Coronado and Beach Village at The Del are hands-down the way to go.
Families who prioritize luxury accommodations should check out Fairmont Grand Del Mar, one of the best hotels in San Diego and tops for family-friendly activities. Mission Bay resort hotels tend to provide the most value. Those in search of lower rates at larger resorts should look here.
Where should I stay in San Diego with a baby?
The family hotels in San Diego that I work with (my portfolio is here) provide complimentary cribs or Pack ‘n Plays. Babysitting is available. If you’re looking for a kids’ club that takes babies, guests of Omni La Costa can reserve two hours per day of supervised play for ages 6 months to three years through its Kidtopia nursery (extra fees apply).
Many of these hotels also can provide microwaves and refrigeration for baby milk in addition to babyproofing and other helpful baby amenities by request.
Which parts of San Diego are best for young kids?
If the beach is important to you, the best places to stay in San Diego with young kids are La Jolla Shores or Coronado.
Year-round lifeguards staff both family-friendly beaches. A beachfront location makes it very easy for families to run back and forth from the sand to the room for naps, diaper changes, and snacks. Here are some differences between these very safe neighborhoods.
Two very family-friendly La Jolla beachfront hotels are on this list: La Jolla Shores Hotel and La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club. They’re owned by the same family and deliberately very casual, so a little squeal here and there isn’t a big deal. La Jolla Shores here is a gorgeous, wide, sandy beach with designated swimming and surfing areas in addition to seasonal tide pools and a lovely beachside playground.
Coronado is also a popular choice for families. They tend to choose Hotel del Coronado and Beach Village at The Del (they are more upscale choices than La Jolla hotels above) for easy access to lots of hotel amenities, onsite shops, and the stunning Coronado beach. The properties are larger and usually busier, especially when holiday activities are in full swing. It’s easy to take a stroller along Orange Avenue to shops and restaurants.
What baby gear do these San Diego family hotels offer?
The type of baby gear you can request depends on the hotel and isn’t often mentioned on their website. The family hotels in San Diego on this list that I work with all provide complimentary cribs or Pack N Plays.
One common question that I receive is about refrigeration for breast milk. Most in-room hotel mini-refrigerators are not cold enough to preserve it properly as they are designed to keep drinks cold. Some parents aren’t picky about this, but I can tell you that Fairmont Grand Del Mar, for example, will happily refrigerate it in their kitchens. If you ask, other higher-end San Diego resorts for kids can likely do the same.
If your child relies on napping in a swing or if you require specific gear, you can rent it from Toddler’s Travel (tell them I sent you). You can pick it up at their warehouse near the airport, they can meet you at the airport Car Rental Center, or they can deliver to your hotel or vacation rental.
What do you really think are the best kid-friendly hotels in San Diego?
I receive this question almost daily, mostly because families have a hard time weighing the San Diego hotel choices. I try to answer this for readers based on what they have told me are their most important criteria.
However, certain hotels on this list receive consistently rave reviews from readers and clients while also offering fantastic front-facing and behind-the-scenes service (I see the latter when I work with them). These are:
- Fairmont Grand Del Mar
- Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara
- Park Hyatt Aviara
- Rancho Valencia
- Beach Village at The Del
I believe that once Hotel del Coronado is finished renovating in 2021 that I can also put them on this list.
Is there a best time of year to book kid-friendly San Diego hotels?
Hotel occupancy rates hover at around 75% throughout the year (because there’s not really an off-season in San Diego). They can jump as high as 90% during the summer, with many properties completely selling out. You can expect even budget hotels by the beach to price like luxury hotels in other cities in summer.
When deciding the best time to visit San Diego, when it comes to hotels, the months with the lowest hotel occupancy rates tend to be January, September (after Labor Day weekend), early November, and early December (outside of winter break). Your best bet is usually to book as early as possible.
It’s not uncommon for travelers to book a flexible rate and then keep an eye on it to see if it drops so that they can either rebook or have the rate adjusted by the hotel. In the summer and during peak season, you’ll find that rates will usually increase as the check-in date gets closer.
Remember, I can give you access to exclusive VIP amenities at some San Diego family-friendly hotels on this list. You can enjoy extras like complimentary breakfasts, room upgrades, spa credits, and more at no extra cost to you.
Which San Diego family resorts have water slides?
Two San Diego kid-friendly resorts have water slides in their outdoor pool areas. Omni La Costa has a small water slide in their splash pad area while Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina has three water slides, the most of any resort town. Park Hyatt Aviara has a brand new family pool area with a two-story water slide, splash pad, and wading pool.
Which family hotels in San Diego have kids clubs?
Fairmont Grand Del Mar (ages 5–12) and Omni La Costa (ages 6 months–12) are the only kid-friendly hotels in San Diego that offer year-round supervised kids’ clubs. Many of the other hotels and resorts on this list do offer seasonal kids’ clubs and babysitting.
What do you think about Paradise Point Resort & Spa?
The main reason why Paradise Point Resort & Spa is not on this list is that it is transitioning to a Margaritaville property at some point in 2020. While the improvements will likely be welcome, I’m pretty sure they will be kid-friendly but am not certain about it.
There just isn’t a lot of information out there right now about the new resort. Even the employees I’ve spoken with do not know or can’t say much.
Either way, guests must check-in understanding the resort’s location. It’s physically close to SeaWorld San Diego, but the walk from the resort to the park’s main entrance takes about 20 minutes. Paradise Point Resort is a 44-acre island in Mission Bay with little lagoons and activities like water sports and swimming pools, but you need to drive or get an Uber to visit outside restaurants, beaches, and sights. If you are going to book, choose the bungalows on the beach or gardens.
How do I get to San Diego family hotels without renting a car?
If your kids do not require a car seat, it’s very easy to use rideshare apps to get to your hotel from the San Diego International Airport. If you need a car seat, it’s best to arrange a car service as most have car seats. Your concierge can help with this. I also have a guide to San Diego car services that we like.
What is the best kid-friendly hotel near the San Diego Zoo?
The best kid-friendly hotel near San Diego Zoo is Manchester Grand Hyatt. There are no hotels within walking distance of San Diego Zoo so you’ll have to take a car or an Uber from one of the downtown San Diego hotels, which are closest.
What is the best kid-friendly hotel in La Jolla?
The best kid-friendly hotel in La Jolla is the La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club. Families love the private beach with the option to have your own bonfire, outdoor swimming pool, seasonal activities, nearby water sports, and location.
What is the best kid-friendly hotel near SeaWorld San Diego?
Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina is the best family hotel near SeaWorld San Diego because of its close location and three water slides. Room rates are usually reasonable and you can also book connecting rooms.
What is the best kid-friendly hotel near PETCO Park?
The best hotel near PETCO Park for families on this list is Manchester Grand Hyatt. However, if you’re only in town to go to a baseball game, I would also recommend Omni San Diego which is connected to the ballpark via an elevated walkway.
Should I choose a family-friendly vacation rental instead?
It depends. If you choose a vacation rental, look at the home’s location on a map. I’ve seen many advertised as located in desirable neighborhoods, like La Jolla, when they are actually in an adjacent less desirable neighborhood. Vacation rentals are not well-received here in some places because neighbors are frustrated by the constant turnover of guests.
That being said, neighborhoods like South Mission Beach are well-known for a high density of vacation rentals. The beach there is gorgeous, and you’re a bit insulated from the Pacific Beach party scene. La Jolla is also very popular for those who want mansions with ocean views or to stay in a clean, safe neighborhood.
Browse homes that have been identified as family-friendly in San Diego on VRBO.
Katie Dillon is the managing editor of La Jolla Mom. She helps readers plan San Diego vacations through her hotel expertise (that stems from living in a Four Seasons hotel) and local connections. Readers have access to exclusive discounts on theme park tickets (like Disneyland and San Diego Zoo) and perks at luxury hotels worldwide through her. She also shares insider tips for visiting major cities worldwide, like Hong Kong, London, Paris, and Shanghai, that her family has either lived in or visits regularly (or both).
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