San Diego has very versatile neighborhoods, each with its own charm.
This lively coastal city boasts some of the best views of the Pacific Ocean.
You can walk on the oceanfront boardwalks or engage in beach activities.
Other districts offer rich nightlife and cultural hot spots.
But what’s the best area for you?
Don’t worry – we’ll highlight all the things to do so you can figure out the best area to stay in San Diego!
1. Mission Bay
As one of San Diego’s most popular outdoor destinations, Mission Bay is the ideal area for family vacations.
It is known for its sandy beaches, parks, and water sport activities.
Mission Bay Park is, in fact, the largest man-made aquatic park in the country.
From sailing lessons and cycling to jet skiing, there’s something fun for everyone.
Kids also love Mission Bay because it’s home to the popular SeaWorld San Diego.
For a day of swimming and picnicking, check out the Bonita Cove Area.
If you want an active and memorable vacation, Mission Bay will definitely not disappoint you.
Best Hotels
- The Dana on Mission Bay [Family-friendly] – Featuring large rooms with private balconies, this hotel is great for families. The hotel houses a waterfront restaurant and outdoor pools. (Official site)
- Paradise Point Resort & Spa [Couples] – Paradise Point Resort & Spa is located on a private island in beautiful tropical surroundings. It features stylish rooms with lanais, a romantic Tidal restaurants, and world-class spa services. (Official site)
Read our guide 6 Best Mission Bay Hotels in San Diego.
2. Gaslamp Quarter
This downtown San Diego neighborhood is known for its lively nightlife, so there is a younger crowd.
It’s a historic district full of versatile restaurants, trendy boutiques, and charming Victorian-era buildings.
The Gaslamp Promenade is essentially a center of social gatherings and entertainment in San Diego.
It’s also a place where arts and culture flourish.
From art galleries such as Art of Tim Cantor and theatres like the historic Balboa Theatre, you’ll have plenty to explore.
When the night comes, Gaslamp Quarter transforms into a cosmopolitan hub of live music, fine dining, and dancing.
You can choose from upscale rooftop bars like the Altitude Sky Lounge and fashionable nightclubs like OMNIA.
There’s no doubt – Gaslamp Quarter is of the most vibrant places to hangout.
Best Hotels
- Andaz San Diego [Family-friendly] – Andaz San Diego features modern and spacious family rooms. The hotel has a rooftop restaurant serving American cuisine and a swimming pool with panoramic city views. (Official site)
- Pendry San Diego [Couples] – Pendry San Diego offers lush rooms with a hot tub ideal for two people. It also has a rooftop swimming pool settled next to a contemporary open-air lounge. (Official site)
Read our guide 9 Best Gaslamp Quarter Hotels in Downtown San Diego
Find Gaslamp Quarter Hotels Official site
3. Little Italy
Little Italy is a charming, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood famous for its patio cafés, restaurants, and pubs.
The central gathering spot is Piazza della Famiglia, a European-style public square.
It’s steps away from the Little Italy Food Hall, a hip social dining concept with six unique food stations.
However, Little Italy Mercato reflects the true spirit of this dynamic district.
They have a farmers market open every Saturday, and it offers local products, gourmet goods, and crafts, and ready-made foods.
There are also over a dozen art galleries nearby.
Little Italy is one of the most popular San Diego tourist attractions for a good reason!
Best Hotels
- Homewood Suites by Hilton [Family-friendly] – This family-friendly hotel provides modern suites with a spacious living area and a full kitchen. It also offers a free daily breakfast, an onsite restaurant, and a swimming pool. (Official site)
- Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown [Couples] – Stay in a luxurious King room with floor-to-ceiling windows boasting city views. The hotel features a restaurant and a spacious outdoor area with a terrace and a swimming pool. (Official site)
Read our guide Best Little Italy Hotels in Downtown San Diego.
Find Little Italy Hotels Official site
4. La Jolla
La Jolla is best for travellers who love beach life and want views of the ocean.
La Jolla Shores is a long, sandy beach perfect for swimming and surfing.
If you keep walking north, you’ll come across the scenic Scripps Pier, one of the world’s largest working piers and a popular photo spot.
La Jolla Cove is also a beautiful place popular for quaint beach houses and marine wildlife.
After a day of exploring, you’ll find a variety of restaurants and bars at the friendly La Jolla Village.
La Jolla is also home to many educational institutions such as the University of California and The Salk Institute.
Best Hotels
- Pantai Inn [Family-friendly] – This charming boutique hotel provides Balinese-inspired rooms with kitchens and fireplaces. Rooms also feature balconies with pristine ocean views. (Official site)
- The Lodge at Torrey Pines [Couples] – This unique hotel is steps away from the Torrey Pines State Reserve and features a spa and a swimming pool. Couples will love the cozy rooms featuring a fireplace and a private terrace or balcony with a view. (Official site)
Read our guide Best Luxury La Jolla Hotels in San Diego.
Find La Jolla Hotels Official site
5. Mission Valley
Settled in the heart of San Diego, Mission Valley is a district with shopping malls and chain restaurants.
It’s in a convenient location close to all the local attractions and hot spots.
The district is also home to the Hotel Circle so there are plenty of accommodation options in the area.
Mission Valley is split by the San Diego River, so there are many hotel rooms with nice views.
When you’re ready to go shopping, Fashion Valley is the most luxurious place to go.
It’s a lush, open-air shopping center featuring high-end shops and eateries.
Best Hotels
- Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego [Family-friendly] – Located in the Hotel Circle, this modern hotel offers spacious studio suites with a full kitchen. The hotel also has a swimming pool, a hot tub, and a children’s wading pool. (Official site)
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott San Diego Mission Valley [Couples] – This Mission Valley hotel offers studio rooms ideal for two people. The hotel also features a swimming pool and a nice terrace with fire pits. (Official site)
Read our guide Best Hotel Circle Hotels in Mission Valley, San Diego.
6. Pacific Beach
Pacific Beach is a San Diego neighborhood best for versatile beach activities.
You’ll see many surfers here, both pros and beginners.
Volleyball, fishing, and biking are also popular things to do.
During summer, the Ocean Walk can get pretty crowded.
The boardwalk is full of restaurants, local shops, and lively bars.
For families, North Pacific Beach is the best place to sunbathe and relax.
You also shouldn’t miss the sunset at the Crystal Pier.
You can even spot a whale there, with a little bit of luck.
Best Hotels
- Pacific Terrace Hotel [Family-friendly] – Most of the rooms in this beachfront hotel are ideal for 4 people. They feature a private balcony and are just a few steps away from the hotel’s swimming pool. (Official site)
- Tower 23 Hotel [Couples] – This beachfront hotel offers rooms featuring a hot tub and a balcony with glass doors. The hotel houses a seafood restaurant and a romantic terrace with ocean views. (Official site)
Read our guide Best Beachfront Hotels in Pacific Beach, San Diego.
7. Mission Beach
Mission Beach is known for its oceanfront boardwalk and laid-back vibes.
It’s a popular spot for water sports, volleyball, and simply relaxing on the beach.
On Mission Boulevard, you’ll find plenty of casual cafes and eateries.
However, most people gather around Belmont Park.
It’s an old-fashioned amusement park featuring the iconic Giant Dipper Roller Coaster.
It also has the Beach House Grill, miniature golf, and bumper cars – so, everything you need for some quality family time.
Mission Beach is equally appealing to young people and families with kids.
Best Hotel
- Vacation Homes [Family-friendly] – Most of the places to stay in Mission Beach are vacation homes. They’re a great option for families as they usually feature kitchens and private outdoor areas.
- Blue Sea Beach Hotel [Couples] – With an oceanfront pool and sweeping views, this hotel is a perfect spot for a romantic getaway. Ocean front rooms feature a balcony with glass doors so you’ll have an unobstructed view of the ocean. (Official site)
Find Mission Beach Vacation Homes
8. Coronado Island
Coronado is a beautiful bay island with a historic town, ideal for couples, families, and groups of friends.
It’s conveniently located just a bridge across from downtown San Diego.
Coronado Island is recognizable by its pristine beaches with endless recreational activities.
It boasts great views of the San Diego skyline, especially from Centennial Park.
The island’s little town is full of quaint shops, old mansions, and gardens.
For more cultural activities, Orange Avenue is home to the Coronado Museum of History & Art and many galleries, theatres, as well as restaurants.
And if you’re a fan of Wizard of Oz, you’ll love to see the book’s author Frank Baum’s house.
Best Hotels
- Loews Coronado Bay Resort [Family-friendly] – this luxurious family-friendly hotel features a marina and 3 swimming pools. It boasts on-site dining and spa services, as well as a tennis court. (Official site)
- 1906 Lodge [Couples] – Located just a short walk from Coronado Beach, this historic B&B offers romantic rooms with fireplaces. Spa Suites also feature a soaking tub. (Official site)
Read our guide Best Coronado Island Hotels in San Diego.
Find Coronado Hotels Official site
9. Point Loma
Point Loma offers spectacular ocean views and rich history.
It’s a place “where California began” – a landing place of the first European expedition in present-day California.
Located on the tip of Point Loma, Cabrillo National Monument is a tribute to the expedition.
Right next to it, is a picturesque Old Point Loma Lighthouse with bay views.
The whole coastline boasts incredible views and it has plenty of cliffs, tide pools, and trails to discover.
Some of the most beautiful sunsets can be seen from the Sunsets Cliffs Park.
For activities on the ocean, the district’s full working marina has daily sport fishing departures and seasonal whale watching excursions.
And if you’re in need of some culture, Arts District Liberty Station is lined with museums, galleries, and places to buy local art.
Best Hotels
- Kona Kai Resort & Spa, a Noble House Resort [Family-friendly] – Located on Shelter Island next to Point Loma, this resort offers a private beach, an outdoor pool, and a waterfront restaurant. Most suites are perfect for 4 people and they feature a balcony with bay views. (Official site)
- Humphreys Half Moon Inn [Couples] – This hotel houses a famous open-air concert venue, a coastal restaurant, and a tropical outdoor pool. Spacious rooms boast romantic views and private balconies or patios. (Official site)
Read our guide Best Point Loma Hotels in San Diego.
San Diego Areas Map
Also read:
5 Best San Diego Hotels with Fun Waterslides & Pools
FAQs
Mission Bay is one of the best areas to stay for beach activities.
This district is known for its sandy beaches, outdoor activities, and parks.
You should also consider La Jolla.
It’s settled along the Pacific Ocean and it’s perfect for walking, swimming, and surfing.
The best area to stay in San Diego without a car is Little Italy.
The neighborhood is very pedestrian-friendly.
It has a central location so you can easily reach other parts of the city.
Also, it’s conveniently settled right next to the San Diego International Airport.
We highly recommend Gaslamp District.
It’s a vibrant historic neighborhood known for its rich nightlife.
There’s a variety of energetic nightclubs, rooftop bars, and pubs to choose from.
Gaslamp District is the best area to stay for couples.
Apart from the rich nightlife, this charming district has many restaurants, boutiques, and galleries to explore.
If you’re searching for a bit of Mediterranean romance, you should check out Little Italy.
With a European-style piazza as a central spot, it’s a neighborhood full of lively cafes and restaurants.
Mission Bay is the best family-friendly area to say in San Diego.
It has perfect spots for picnics and offers numerous water sports and activities.
It’s also home to SeaWorld San Diego.
