10 Best San Diego Staycations to Experience
No need to travel far for a vacation as a San Diegan. We’ve got the ocean, world-class dining, museums, and the iconic San Diego Zoo right in our backyard.
Whether you’re looking for a family friendly getaway, or a romantic retreat, San Diego has endless options to choose from. From a chic stay downtown to a quirky Point Loma oasis, here are 10 amazing San Diego staycation ideas that will make you feel like you’re far away from home without buying the plane tickets or gassing up the car.
1. Loews Coronado Bay Resort: Beachfront Getaway (Coronado)
Nestled on a private peninsula in Coronado, Loews Coronado Bay Resort offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the San Diego skyline, and the Coronado Bay Bridge.
Lounge by one of the three outdoor pools, take a dip in the Jacuzzi, or indulge in a spa treatment like a massage or body wraps at the hotel’s Sea Spa. The resort also supplies kayaks and paddleboards to take out for a spin, or you can rent some bikes to explore Coronado. And, golf lovers can play a round at the Coronado Golf Course.
Nearby attractions:
- Coronado Beach
- Coronado Island Ferry
- Hotel del Coronado
- Silver Strand State Beach
- Coronado State Historic Park
2. Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa: A Serene Oasis (Rancho Santa Fe)
Photo via Ice Cream & Neon Dreams
Tucked away in the Rancho Santa Fe neighborhood, Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa offers a serene oasis for those looking for a peaceful staycation.
The resort features spacious villas with private patios, fireplaces, and outdoor showers. Book a massage or other treatment at the resort’s world-class spa, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and therapies. For fitness enthusiasts, there are tennis courts, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and yoga classes available.
Nearby attractions:
- Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
- Torrey Pines Gliderport
- San Diego Botanic Garden
- LEGOLAND California
- SeaWorld San Diego
3. The Lodge at Torrey Pines: A Golf Lover’s Paradise (La Jolla)
Photo via Lodge at Torrey Pines
Situated overlooking the world-renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course, this luxurious lodge offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and access to two championship golf courses.
In addition to golf, you can take a dip in the pool, relax in the whirlpool spa, or pamper yourself with a massage at the spa.
The Lodge at Torrey Pines offers a range of dining options. From casual dining at The Grill, which features panoramic views of the golf course, to fine dining at A.R. Valentien, where you can savor seasonal cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients, there is something for everyone.
Nearby attractions:
- Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
- Torrey Pines Gliderport
- San Diego Botanic Garden
- Torrey Pines Golf Course
- Gliderport Vista Point
4. Paradise Point Resort & Spa: A Tropical Paradise (Mission Bay)
For a tropical getaway without leaving San Diego, Paradise Point Resort & Spa is the perfect choice. Located on a private island in Mission Bay, this waterfront resort offers a peaceful escape surrounded by lush gardens and tranquil lagoons.
The resort features bungalow-style accommodations with private patios and views of the bay or gardens. Spend your days lounging by one of the five pools, paddleboarding on the bay, or playing a game of beach volleyball. In the evenings, enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the resort’s waterfront restaurants, followed by a relaxing stroll along the beach.
Nearby attractions:
- Mission Beach
- Pacific Beach
- Belmont Park
- SeaWorld San Diego
- Seaport Village
5. The US Grant: A Historic Urban Retreat (Downtown)
Located in the heart of downtown San Diego, The US Grant offers a historic urban retreat for those looking to explore the city’s vibrant culture and nightlife. This iconic hotel, built in 1910, combines timeless elegance with modern amenities to create a unique and luxurious San Diego staycation experience.
The hotel features beautifully appointed rooms and suites, decorated with classic touches and modern comforts that can also make for a romantic vacation in San Diego. Explore the nearby Gaslamp Quarter, known for its vibrant dining and entertainment scene, or visit the many museums and art galleries in the area. After a day of exploration, relax and unwind with a cocktail at this San Diego hotel’s rooftop bar, which offers panoramic views of the city.
Nearby Attractions:
- Gaslamp Quarter
- Petco Park
- San Diego Convention Center
- USS Midway Museum
- Balboa Park
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Most Popular6. L’Auberge Del Mar: A Coastal Haven (Del Mar)
For a coastal retreat, L’Auberge Del Mar is the perfect choice. Located in the charming seaside village of Del Mar, this boutique hotel offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and easy access to the beach.
The hotel features elegantly appointed rooms and suites, each with its own private balcony or patio. Relax by the pool, soak up the sun on the beach, or indulge in a spa treatment at the hotel’s luxurious spa. In the evenings, enjoy a romantic dinner at the hotel’s award-winning restaurant, which offers farm-to-table cuisine and panoramic ocean views.
Nearby attractions:
- Del Mar Beach
- Del Mar Race Track
- Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
- Torrey Pines Gliderport
- San Diego Botanic Garden
7. The Pendry: A Modern Urban Escape (Gaslamp)
For those seeking a modern and vibrant staycation experience, The Pendry San Diego is the place to be. Located in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, this luxury hotel offers stylish accommodations, world-class dining, and a lively nightlife scene.
The hotel features sleek and contemporary rooms and suites, designed with comfort and style in mind. Explore the eclectic shops, restaurants, and bars in the Gaslamp Quarter, or relax by the rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city.
The Pendry offers an array of culinary experiences that will tantalize your taste buds. From the casual elegance of Lionfish, serving up fresh seafood and craft cocktails, to the elevated cuisine of Provisional Kitchen, Café & Mercantile, offering a modern twist on classic dishes, there is something to satisfy every palate.
In the evening, head up to the hotel’s rooftop bar, The Pool House, and sip on handcrafted cocktails while taking in the breathtaking views of the city skyline. With its luxurious amenities, impeccable service, and prime location, The Pendry is the perfect choice for a staycation that combines sophistication with relaxation.
Nearby attractions:
- Gaslamp Quarter
- Petco Park
- San Diego Convention Center
- USS Midway Museum
- Balboa Park
8. The Pearl: A unique staycation experience (Point Loma)
Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Point Loma, The Pearl is a boutique hotel that offers a unique and stylish staycation experience. With its retro-chic design, laid-back atmosphere, and array of amenities, The Pearl is the perfect choice for those seeking a staycation that is both luxurious and fun.
Take a dip in the heated saltwater pool, relax in one of the poolside cabanas, or unwind in the Jacuzzi. The hotel also offers complimentary bicycles, allowing you to explore the surrounding neighborhood and nearby attractions at your own pace.
For dining, The Pearl is home to the renowned Charles + Dinorah restaurant, which offers a menu inspired by the flavors of Southern California. From fresh seafood to locally sourced ingredients, every dish is crafted with care and precision. The restaurant also features a lively bar where you can enjoy handcrafted cocktails and live music.
Nearby attractions:
- Point Loma Peninsula
- Cabrillo National Monument
- Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
- Liberty Station
- Ocean Beach
9. The Bahia Resort Hotel (Mission Bay)
Located on the shores of Mission Bay, this luxurious resort offers stunning views, a wide range of amenities, and easy access to some of San Diego’s most popular attractions.
Take a swim in the pool, relax in the Jacuzzi, or lounge on a chaise on the secluded beach. The resort also offers firepit locations for an evening on the water, or walk to nearby Belmont Park and local restaurants for a tasty meal.
For dining, The Bahia is home to the new Dockside 1953, where you can savor a variety of delicious dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant also features a lively bar, where you can enjoy handcrafted cocktails and fire tables. In the evening, jump aboard the Bahia Belle cruise for a nice sightseeing experience of Mission Bay.
Nearby attractions:
- Mission Beach
- Pacific Beach
- Belmont Park
- SeaWorld San Diego
- Seaport Village
10. Town and Country Resort (Mission Valley)
The Town and Country has recently undergone a complete renovation, and offers guests plenty of activities on site. This is a great staycation opportunity for families who are looking for a location where they don’t have to leave the premises. Enjoy the 4-story water slide at the pool, a dive-in movie theater, live music at the Monkey Bar, or dine at the chef restaurant; Arlo. The vibrant colors of the resort are both energizing and exciting, and the grounds offer many areas to hang out at for a leisurely stay.
For dining: Arlo has won many awards for its food and ambiance. The restaurant was opened by chef Josh Mouzakes who was brought in to bring culinary prestige to Mission Valley, San Diego. His menu items bring in inspired dishes from around the world from Japan to Mexico to the Middle East. The flavors are eclectic and interesting, and the ambiance is modern, clean and offers ample patio dining.
Nearby attractions:
- Old Town
- Sea World
- Fashion Valley Mall
- Downtown San Diego
Things to do on a SD staycation:
No matter the neighborhood you’re staying in, there are endless things to do! Here are just a few of the places you can scope out and ways you can soak up the sun:
Attractions: Visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo, explore the beautiful Balboa Park, take a walk across the iconic Coronado Bridge, catch a game at Petco Park, visit the USS Midway Museum, visit the San Diego Museum of Art, and take a ferry to Coronado Island.
Hit the beach: Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, La Jolla Shores, Coronado, Del Mar
Get physical: Looking for cool things to do in summer? Go hiking in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, go kayaking or paddleboarding on Mission Bay, go La Jolla Cove snorkeling
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San Diego has something to offer everyone, so you’re sure to have a great time on your staycation. With its stunning beaches, beautiful parks, and world-class attractions, San Diego is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relax and recharge.
P.S. If you want to add a gastronomic San Diego tour to your staycation, SoDiego has you covered with guided walking tours and daily food tours from Carlsbad to Little Italy and beyond!
Written by: Melissa
Melissa hails from San Jose, CA, and has been a San Diego local for five years now after a 10-year long pit stop in Los Angeles. In L.A., she began her writing career crafting digital content for a wide range of clients, including The Real Talk Show, Sharon Osbourne, Hank Azaria, Time Life, and Cardinal Financial. She’s excited to be able to use her passion for writing to introduce people to some of the best spots in San Diego, many of which she has already frequented or has on her ever-expanding list of things to do … In her spare time, she enjoys taking her puppy Milo to all of the best dog beaches in SD, grabbing a glass of wine or a cup of joe at new places, and hosting watch parties for The Bachelor/ette TV show.
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