Planning a family vacation to San Diego? Choosing the right accommodation is key to a memorable trip. As a San Diego local and content creator for hudsonfamily.net, I specialize in helping families like yours plan the perfect San Diego getaway. This guide dives into the best San Diego Resorts For Families, offering detailed insights to ensure you pick the ideal spot for your needs.
This list of top-rated San Diego family resorts stands out because it’s built upon:
- First-hand experiences: My personal stays and explorations of these resorts.
- Valuable feedback: Input from countless families, readers, and clients with kids of all ages.
- Insider knowledge: Direct connections and insights from VIP contacts within these properties.
Living in San Diego and having experienced luxury hotels as a mom, I understand what truly makes a stay exceptional for families. I’m here to share that expertise with you.
Where possible, I’ll point out the best ways to book for maximum value, whether it’s through exclusive perks I can offer at select resorts, bundled San Diego vacation packages, or direct bookings. Transparency is key – if booking directly is the most sensible option, I’ll let you know.
We independently select featured hotels and may earn a commission if you book through the links below.
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 is available year-round for children aged 5–12, offering complimentary two-hour sessions when parents book spa treatments. Reservations are required, especially for weekday sessions.
Hotel class: Luxury
Why it’s a top pick: Fairmont Grand Del Mar consistently ranks as the best luxury family hotel in San Diego. Many guests find themselves so captivated by the resort’s amenities that they choose to stay on-site throughout their vacation. Its prime location near the I-5 freeway provides easy access to popular attractions such as LEGOLAND California and the San Diego Zoo. This resort is unequivocally my top recommendation for families seeking luxury.
Kid-friendly amenities:
- Supervised Explorer’s Club with daily activities and drop-in options for ages 5-12, featuring video games, arts and crafts, and traditional games.
- Equestrian Center offering horseback riding lessons and horse visits.
- Children’s pool with a wading area and sand play.
- Family pool with underwater music for added fun.
- Personalized family tennis lessons.
- Children’s menus at multiple dining venues and for in-room dining.
- Junior golf programs and complimentary junior golf club rentals for kids 12 and under (free tee times when playing with an adult, discounted rates for ages 13-17).
- Archery activities.
- Seasonal events like s’mores nights and dive-in movie nights at the pool.
Parent-focused amenities:
- Exclusive Tom Fazio-designed golf course for hotel guests.
- Renowned spa with relaxation areas, couples treatments, and a private pool.
- Complimentary Explorer’s Club access for two hours with spa treatments.
- Addison, San Diego’s only three-Michelin-star restaurant.
- Professional-style tennis courts and clinics.
- Designer boutiques for shopping.
- Electric bikes for exploring.
- Guided canyon hikes for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Complimentary transportation to Del Mar, La Jolla, and Solana Beach (reservations required).
- Exceptional service across the resort.
Beach Access: The Grand Beach Service offers convenient round-trip transportation to Del Mar’s 18th Street beach, complete with chairs, towels, water, and umbrellas. While you’ll set up the gear yourself due to parking limitations, you can also take the hotel’s beach equipment if you prefer to drive (subject to availability).
Good to know: Enjoy twice-daily housekeeping, complimentary in-room water and coffee, free WiFi, and daily newspapers. Valet parking is the only option. While the resort is self-contained, a rental car is recommended for off-site exploration. However, the resort’s extensive offerings often negate the need to leave.
Accolades: Ranked #1 on TripAdvisor, AAA Four Diamonds, and three Forbes five-star awards for the hotel, spa, and Addison restaurant. Addison holds three Michelin stars.
Booking: Unlock exclusive Virtuoso amenities when booking through me, including:
- Room upgrade upon booking, based on availability (excluding suites).
- Daily breakfast for two in Amaya or via in-room dining (up to $70 credit).
- $100 resort credit during your stay.
- Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability.
- Complimentary Wi-Fi.
When booking Fairmont on Virtuoso.com, specify only the number of adults to get accurate rates; children will be added later. Contact me to finalize details and ensure your family’s needs are met.
See also: 10 Reasons Why Families Choose Fairmont Grand Del Mar
2. Hotel del Coronado
Neighborhood: Coronado
Kids’ club: Yes. Ocean Explorers Club offers daily activities during peak season and weekend programs during off-peak seasons for kids aged 5–12.
Hotel class: Moderate-Luxury
Why it’s a great choice: The distinctive red roof of Hotel del Coronado is a San Diego landmark. Since 1888, this iconic hotel has hosted a remarkable list of celebrities, U.S. Presidents, and dignitaries. As one of the premier San Diego resorts for families on the beach, Hotel del Coronado offers a full-service experience on Coronado Central Beach, consistently rated among America’s finest beaches.
Kid-friendly amenities:
- Ocean Explorers kids’ club with seasonal programs and hours for ages 5-12.
- Pristine, flat sandy beach with gentle waves and tide pools at low tide.
- On-site ice cream shop for sweet treats.
- Stand-up paddleboard and surf lessons available.
- Main Pool area with water toys and fun.
- DIVR Virtual Reality snorkeling experience in the Main Pool.
- Daily beach roasts with private fire pits and s’mores.
- Bike and surrey rentals for family exploration.
- Seasonal roller rink (summer) and ice skating rink (winter).
Parent-focused amenities:
- Diverse shopping boutiques.
- Beachfront dining and cocktail venues with stunning sunset views.
- Beach yoga and beachside spin classes.
- Unique mermaid fitness classes.
- Family portrait sessions arranged through the concierge.
- Full-service Spa at The Del.
- Boat and water sports rentals within walking distance.
- Del Beach rentals with adult beverage and food service.
- Option to upgrade to the Ocean Club lounge.
See also: 15 Things to Do at Hotel del Coronado
Beach Access: Direct access to beautiful Coronado beach right in front of the hotel.
Good to Know: This is a popular, bustling resort known for excellent service. Advance reservations for spa and dining, especially during peak seasons, are highly recommended. Orange Avenue’s restaurants and shops are within walking distance. A ferry to Coronado Island from downtown San Diego is available, followed by a short Uber or 30-minute walk to the hotel. Hotel del Coronado offers extensive holiday programming, including a seaside ice skating rink. The historic Victorian Building rooms are undergoing renovations and will reopen on March 1, 2025. For in-depth information, consult my detailed guide to Hotel del Coronado.
Awards: AAA Four Diamonds (2005-2019); Top 10 Best Hotels in San Diego, U.S. News & World Report, 2019; and numerous others.
Booking: Virtuoso amenities available through me include:
- Upgrade upon arrival, subject to availability.
- Daily breakfast credit of $45 per person (up to two guests per bedroom) at Serẽa restaurant.
- $100 food and beverage credit during your stay.
- Early Check-In/Late Check-Out, subject to availability.
- Complimentary Wi-Fi.
Sign in or create a free Virtuoso account to see discounted rates! When booking on Virtuoso.com, enter the number of adults only for correct pricing. Children will be added later. If multiple rates appear for the same room type, select the lowest. Always check the status of ocean swimming at Coronado Lifeguard Tower, the testing station near Hotel del Coronado.
3. Beach Village at The Del
Neighborhood: Coronado
Kids’ club: Yes. Guests also use Ocean Explorers Club at Hotel del Coronado.
Hotel class: Luxury
Why choose Beach Village: For the ultimate luxury beach vacation in San Diego County, Beach Village at The Del is unparalleled. As Hotel del Coronado’s sister property, Beach Village guests enjoy access to all Hotel del Coronado amenities, while main resort guests cannot access Beach Village-exclusive facilities like private pools. The 72 accommodations are designed as designer residences and have been recently updated.
Kid-friendly amenities:
- All amenities listed for Hotel del Coronado.
- Exclusive swimming pools for Beach Village guests.
Parent-focused amenities:
- All amenities listed for Hotel del Coronado.
- Quieter, private pools and a dedicated pool cafe.
- Residential-style accommodations, some with full kitchens.
- Multi-bedroom villas and cottages for larger families.
- Exclusive VIP shopping benefits at Fashion Valley Mall.
- Two complimentary Del Beach lounge chairs and one umbrella daily.
Beach Access: Direct access to Coronado beach.
Good to know: Expect rates starting above $999/night plus resort fees and taxes for entry-level double-queen villa rooms. These villas comfortably accommodate larger families with two queen beds and a queen sofa sleeper, sleeping up to six.
Booking: Virtuoso amenities for Beach Village at The Del, booked through me, mirror those of Hotel del Coronado and often provide better value than Hilton Honors rates, especially if you plan to have breakfast on-property.
- Upgrade not applicable at this property.
- Daily full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom at Serea.
- $100 food and beverage credit during your stay.
- Early check-in / Late check-out, subject to availability.
- Complimentary Wi-Fi.
- Double Hilton Honors Points (Hilton for Luxury Only).
- VIP Status.
New Information: Beach Village is now part of Hilton LXR and the Hilton For Luxury VIP program, offering 2x points for Hilton members. Request rates via our form for Hilton for Luxury benefits or book directly on Virtuoso.com.
Get Hilton for Luxury RATES
4. Park Hyatt Aviara Resort & Spa
Neighborhood: Aviara (Carlsbad)
Kids’ club: No
Hotel class: Luxury
Why it’s family-friendly: Park Hyatt Aviara Resort & Spa offers a secluded luxury experience in North San Diego County, known for exceptional service, golf, and a spa. With recent renovations to rooms, pools, and dining areas, it’s a stunning resort and a popular choice for families booking through me due to exclusive benefits and contacts at the property.
Kid-friendly amenities:
- Aviara Golf Academy lessons for young golfers.
- Bird watching opportunities in the nearby wetlands.
- Seasonal junior tennis clinics.
- Outdoor family pool with underwater lighting.
- Seasonal shallow wading pool, splash pad, and sand play area.
- Two-story water slide (height restrictions apply).
- Poolside cafe with kid-sized seating.
- Surf concierge, including transportation to Ponto Beach and surf/boogie board lessons (ages 6+).
- Sand volleyball, bocce ball, badminton, horseshoes, and croquet at the Aviara Tennis Academy.
- S’mores kits available for purchase and use at resort fire pits.
Parent-focused amenities:
- Miraval Spa with fitness classes and treatments.
- Connecting rooms with double king beds available.
- Arnold Palmer-designed golf course.
- Six lighted tennis and pickleball courts.
- Adults-only pool with panoramic views.
- TaylorMade Performance Lab for custom club fitting.
- Five-star service.
- Diverse dining options across four restaurants, a lounge, and room service.
- Frette robes and pillow-top beds.
- Jogging trails.
- Free shuttle to Carlsbad Premium Outlets.
- Topgolf swing suite.
Beach Access: Seasonal shuttle service to Moonlight Beach in Encinitas or Tamarack Beach in Carlsbad for a small fee.
Good to know: Located inland in Carlsbad, a short drive to the beach is necessary. Park Hyatt Aviara offers reasonably priced suites and guaranteed connecting rooms. See our guide to Park Hyatt Aviara Resort. Rollaway beds are not available.
Awards: AAA Five Diamonds, Forbes Five Star.
Booking: Virtuoso amenities through me, earning World of Hyatt points:
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability.
- Daily full breakfast for two guests per bedroom.
- $100 resort credit.
- Complimentary daily spa access for two.
- Locally-inspired welcome amenity.
- Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability.
- Complimentary Wi-Fi.
Book on Virtuoso.com using only the number of adults for accurate rates. Children will be added after booking confirmation.
5. La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club
Neighborhood: La Jolla Shores
Kids’ club: Seasonal, summer only.
Hotel class: Moderate
Why it’s unique: La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club offers a rare San Diego experience with access to a private beach and accommodations for large or extended families (up to eight guests per room). This exclusive, members-only club features 99 guest rooms and suites, some steps from the beach. It’s known for its intimate atmosphere and multigenerational appeal, located near La Jolla Shores Hotel and local shops and restaurants.
Kid-friendly amenities:
- Private beach access.
- Heated pool.
- Summer kids’ club.
- Onsite playground and nearby Kellogg Park playground.
- Junior golf and tennis programs.
- Swim lessons.
Parent-focused amenities:
- Beachside food and drink service on the private beach.
- Complimentary beach chairs, towels, and umbrellas.
- Access to club facilities like the pitch-and-putt course and tennis courts.
- Yoga and personal training services.
- Family beach cookouts.
- Most rooms feature kitchens.
- Parking included in the resort fee.
Beach Access: Beachfront location, steps from the sand.
Good to know: Popular for multigenerational trips, the property has a classic exterior, but interiors are recently updated. While rated three-star, its private beach and intimate experience attract luxury travelers. Two-bedroom accommodations are available. Beachfront rooms offer ocean sounds but may experience BBQ smoke. Garden-area rooms are quieter.
Booking: Powered by Hotels.com
CHECK AVAILABILITY
6. La Jolla Shores Hotel
Neighborhood: La Jolla Shores
Kids’ club: No
Hotel class: Moderate
Why families love it: La Jolla Shores Hotel offers a beachfront San Diego family hotel experience in La Jolla that is both fun and affordable. La Jolla Shores Beach is ideal for activities like surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking in the La Jolla Underwater Park. Its beachfront location allows for easy beach access throughout the day. Recent room updates enhance the stay.
Kid-friendly amenities:
- Direct access to a flat, sandy beach.
- Adjacent to Kellogg Park playground.
- Heated outdoor pool and wading pool.
- Patio ping pong.
Parent-focused amenities:
- Ocean views from The Shores Restaurant and nearby Marine Room.
- Private beach BBQs and s’mores arrangements.
- Eco-friendly hotel practices.
- Tennis lessons from USPTA pros.
- Complimentary beach chairs, umbrellas, and towels.
- Nightly beach BBQs (reservations required).
- Small fitness center.
- In-room massages.
- Connecting rooms available.
- Free local shuttle, including to Birch Aquarium.
Beach Access: Beachfront, separated by a small boardwalk.
Good to know: The pool is not large. This family-owned hotel prioritizes a relaxed atmosphere where sandy feet are welcome. Shops and restaurants on Avenida de la Playa are a short walk away. Located in La Jolla Shores, it’s quieter than La Jolla village, with a superior beach for sunbathing and swimming.
See also: Guide to La Jolla Shores
Awards: TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence.
Booking: Powered by Hotels.com
CHECK AVAILABILITY
7. Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara, North San Diego
Neighborhood: Aviara (Carlsbad)
Kids’ club: No, but a game room is available.
Hotel class: Luxury
Why it’s a home away from home: Villas at Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara offer full kitchens, separate bedrooms, and living areas, ideal for extended stays and larger families. This Southern California Four Seasons provides signature luxury and service, making it a favorite for repeat guests. It’s another top pick for family-friendly hotels in San Diego County.
Kid-friendly amenities:
- Kids Club 760 game room with arts and crafts, ping pong, video games, and dive-in movies (unsupervised).
- Board games available for in-villa use.
- Child-sized bathrobes and slippers.
- Special bath amenities for children.
- Two swimming pools and a children’s pool.
- Childproofing and baby amenities upon request.
- Surf Concierge for ages 6+.
Parent-focused amenities:
- Four Seasons service.
- Full-service spa and fitness center.
- Babysitting services.
- Seasons barista bar.
- Spacious villas with full kitchens.
- Free parking included in hotel fee.
- Pet-friendly (restrictions apply).
- Rental car drop-off service.
Beach Access: Requires a drive or Uber.
Good to know: Adjacent to Park Hyatt Aviara, offering dining options next door. Aviara is inland, recommending a rental car. Guests consistently praise this hidden gem. A $40/night hotel fee includes self-parking. No elevators; ground-floor accessible villas are available. Location requests are not guaranteed. Villas are undergoing renovations from Oct 2024 – May 2025.
Booking: Book through me as a Four Seasons Preferred Partner for:
- $75 daily breakfast credit.
- $100-$300 resort credit depending on room type.
- Room upgrade upon availability.
- Complimentary internet.
- Welcome note and amenities.
REQUEST A PREFERRED PARTNER RATE
8. Omni La Costa Resort & Spa
Neighborhood: La Costa (South Carlsbad)
Kids’ club: Yes. Nursery for ages 6 months–3 years (2 hours). Kidtopia for ages 3+ (year-round programs).
Hotel class: Moderate
Why it’s well-rounded: Omni La Costa Resort & Spa excels in golf, spa, dining, and family activities, making it a comprehensive San Diego family vacation spot. Close to LEGOLAND and the beach, its splash pad and pools are major draws. It’s a popular choice for family hotels in San Diego, CA.
Kid-friendly amenities:
- Kidtopia kids’ club with nursery and programs for ages 3+.
- Splash Landing Pools with water play area and slides.
- Sandy Beach Family Pool with sand area.
- Daily activity schedule with reptile shows, s’mores, and more.
- Sports courts.
Parent-focused amenities:
- Kidtopia kids club!
- Adults-only Edge Pool.
- Lifestyle boutiques.
- Bar Traza sports lounge.
- Multiple restaurants and lounges.
- Two golf courses.
- Spa at La Costa.
- One- and two-bedroom villas and family suites.
- Seasonal twilight golf.
- Fitness classes.
Beach Access: Requires a drive or Uber.
Good to know: More of a four-star property. First-floor rooms with patios available. Signature/La Costa suites near family pool (requestable but not guaranteed). La Costa rooms are further from amenities. Only resort with supervised kids’ club for under 5s. See my detailed Omni La Costa Resort & Spa review. Poolside service and pool hours are seasonal.
Booking: Omni sale rates, Hotels.com, or direct booking often preferred.
CHECK AVAILABILITY
9. Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa
Neighborhood: Rancho Santa Fe
Kids’ club: No
Hotel class: Luxury
Why it’s a wellness destination: Rancho Valencia is an all-suite, luxury resort focused on wellness, featuring a renowned spa, fitness classes, and yoga. As a Relais & Chateaux property, expect exceptional dining. Ideal for families seeking an activity-rich, stay-put vacation.
Kid-friendly amenities:
- Complimentary board games.
- Nail salon treatments for ages 12+ (spa treatments for 16+).
- Main saline pool.
- Tennis and basketball courts.
- Junior tennis programs (ages 5+).
- Recreational games like ping pong and croquet.
Parent-focused amenities:
- Fitness and yoga classes.
- Personal training.
- Adults-only spa pool.
- Full-service spa.
- Complimentary Callaway golf sets for nearby courses.
- Tennis and pickleball.
- Craft cocktails at The Pony Room.
- Complimentary Pinarello bikes.
- Private fleet of Bentleys for guest use.
Beach Access: ~20-minute drive to Del Mar City beach (no resort beach service).
Good to know: 15-minute drive inland from I-5. Saline pools. All-suite property, but Palm Suites or higher needed for separate bedrooms.
Awards: #1 Relais & Chateau property in California, 2023 Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards #1 Resort in California.
Booking: Virtuoso amenities through me:
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability.
- Daily breakfast for two (up to $40 credit per person).
- $100 resort credit (excluding boutique).
- Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability.
- Complimentary Wi-Fi.
10. Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa
Neighborhood: Pacific Beach
Kids’ club: No
Hotel class: Moderate
Why it’s budget-friendly: Catamaran Resort Hotel & Spa offers a casual, Polynesian-themed San Diego family resort experience at a lower price point. Located on Mission Bay near Pacific Beach, it provides easy access to both bay and ocean beaches and offers numerous activities.
Kid-friendly amenities:
- Resort ponds with ducks and turtles.
- Exotic birds and bird show.
- Game arcade.
- Bay beach with calm waters.
- Water sports rentals.
- Beach games.
Parent-focused amenities:
- Beach chairs and umbrellas on the bay (first-come, first-served).
- Full-service spa and fitness center.
- Oceana Coastal restaurant.
- Bahia Belle sternwheeler cruises.
- Seasonal luaus.
- Easy access to bay and ocean beaches.
Good to know: Guest rooms recently refreshed, exteriors dated. Book Bayfront rooms for direct beach access. Bayfront Suites include sofa beds.
Awards: TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence.
Booking: Check Catamaran Resort website specials or Hotels.com.
CHECK AVAILABILITY
11. Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego
Neighborhood: Downtown San Diego
Kids’ club: Yes. Seasonal Camp Hyatt (summer hours).
Hotel class: Moderate
Why downtown convenience: For families wanting a downtown San Diego hotel with water views, Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego offers a large-scale option near attractions. This large hotel is within walking distance of Gaslamp Quarter, USS Midway Museum, and more.
Amenities for kids:
- Seasonal Camp Hyatt for kids 4-12.
- Seasonal rooftop cinema.
- Sports courts on the 4th floor.
- Main outdoor rooftop pool.
- Seasonal outdoor activities.
Amenities for parents:
- Top of the Hyatt restaurant with bay views.
- Tennis courts.
- 24-hour gym.
- Pool cabanas.
- Bayside running trails.
- Adults-only pool.
- Suites available.
- Club Lounge access.
Beach Access: Drive or ferry to Coronado or La Jolla beaches.
Good to know: Large, corporate feel due to convention center proximity. Families appreciate the walkable downtown location. See my detailed Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego review. Expect good but not personalized five-star service. Club Lounge can be busy.
Booking: Hyatt Prive benefits available through me:
- $100 property credit.
- Room upgrade*.
- Breakfast for two.
- Welcome amenity.
- Early check-in*.
- Connecting rooms*.
- Free Wifi.
REQUEST A HYATT PRIVE RATE
12. Bahia Resort Hotel
Neighborhood: Mission Bay
Kids’ club: No
Hotel class: Budget
Why it’s a top value: Bahia Resort Hotel, voted a top value hotel, offers a convenient Mission Bay location with water sports access. Comfortable rooms and friendly staff make it a popular choice. Shares amenities with Catamaran Resort.
Amenities for kids:
- Onsite playground.
- Rescued seals and ducks.
- Game arcade.
- Bay beach.
- Shuffleboard and games.
- Swimming pool.
Amenities for parents:
- Access to Catamaran spa.
- Fitness center.
- Tennis courts.
- Beach cabanas on bay beach.
- Bahia Belle cruises.
- Water sports rentals.
- Airstream grab-and-go food spot.
- Onsite restaurant and bar.
- Water view rooms.
- Free parking.
Beach Access: Bayfront and a 10-minute walk to Mission Beach and Belmont Park.
Good to know: Recently enhanced property and rooms. Excellent value San Diego family resort.
Booking: Check Hotels.com for pricing.
CHECK AVAILABILITY
13. Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina
Neighborhood: Mission Bay
Kids club: No
Hotel class: Moderate
Why water slides: Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina is a well-priced, family-friendly hotel with water slides and beach access, great for earning Hyatt points. Recently refreshed rooms with water views, connecting rooms, and small suites available.
Amenities for kids:
- Three water slides.
- Three outdoor pools, including a children’s pool.
- S’mores kits for fire pits.
- Seasonal pool activities.
Amenities for parents:
- Eco-friendly spa.
- Waterfront fitness center.
- Pool lounge.
- Grab-and-go market with Starbucks.
- Private marina with water sports.
Beach Access: 20-minute walk to Mission Beach and Belmont Park.
Good to know: Top pick for hotels near SeaWorld San Diego. 20-minute walk to SeaWorld. No bay beach or Regency Club. Tower rooms have best views. Water slide height restrictions apply. SeaWorld fireworks visible from some Marina Bay rooms.
Booking: Hyatt Prive benefits through me:
- $100 property credit.
- Room Upgrade*.
- Breakfast for Two.
- Welcome Amenity.
- Early Check-In*.
- Connecting Rooms*.
- Free Wifi.
REQUEST A HYATT PRIVE RATE
14. Loews Coronado Bay Resort
Neighborhood: Coronado
Kids’ club: Yes, offsite at Crown Cove Aquatic Center (seasonal).
Hotel class: Moderate
Why it’s self-contained: Loews Coronado Bay Resort offers a resort experience on Coronado Bay near Silver Strand State Beach. Designed for guests to enjoy San Diego without leaving the resort.
Amenities for kids:
- Onsite water sports and bike rentals.
- Pool deck with games and Jacuzzi.
- Seasonal activities.
- Crown Cove Aquatic Center youth camps.
- Loews Loves Families program.
Amenities for parents:
- Sea Spa.
- Beach yoga and spin classes.
- Evening cocktail bar.
- In-room childproofing kits.
- Farm-to-table dining.
Beach Access: 5-10 minute walk to Silver Strand State Beach (seasonal shuttle and beach gear provided). Check sdbeachinfo.com for beach status.
Good to know: Lower-priced Coronado option than Hotel del Coronado. Located 4 miles south of Coronado’s main area.
Booking: Loews online or Hotels.com often offer best rates.
CHECK AVAILABILITY
15. LEGOLAND Hotel and LEGOLAND Castle Hotel
Neighborhood: Carlsbad
Category: Moderate
Kids’ club: No
Why LEGO immersion: LEGOLAND Hotel and LEGOLAND Castle Hotel immerse families in a LEGO world. Ideal for LEGO fans, though can be chaotic. Choose based on theme and availability, both near park entrance.
Amenities for kids:
- LEGO pits in lobbies.
- Themed rooms.
- Character visits.
- LEGO-filled pools.
- LEGO shops.
- Treasure hunts.
Amenities for parents:
- Early park access.
- Free breakfast.
- Bar and lounge.
- Rooms/suites for larger families.
Beach Access: Requires a drive.
Good to know: More kid-focused than parent-friendly. Max 1-2 night stay recommended. Can be overwhelming. Resort includes theme park, water parks, and SEA LIFE Aquarium.
Booking: Direct booking through LEGOLAND California recommended.
LEGOLAND HOTEL
LEGOLAND CASTLE HOTEL
Kid-Friendly Hotels in San Diego on a Map
This map illustrates the locations of these family hotels and resorts relative to San Diego attractions.
Download a printable version of this map.
FAQs About the Best Family Hotels in San Diego
Common questions from families planning San Diego trips:
Where should a family stay in San Diego?
Consider these factors:
- Activities: Plan your stay based on desired attractions.
- Accommodation preference: Choose resorts, hotels, or other lodging types.
- Beach access: Prioritize beachfront or proximity to the coast.
- Budget: Balance cost with desired amenities and location.
Downtown San Diego or Coronado are good for car-free vacations and city attractions. La Jolla Shores is excellent for budget-friendly beach stays. Hotel del Coronado and Beach Village are top beachfront resorts. Fairmont Grand Del Mar offers luxury. Mission Bay resorts are generally more affordable.
Where should I stay in San Diego with a baby?
San Diego family hotels offer cribs, babysitting, and baby amenities. Omni La Costa offers a nursery for babies 6 months+. Many hotels can provide refrigeration and microwaves for baby milk.
Which parts of San Diego are best for young kids?
La Jolla Shores and Coronado are ideal for young kids due to safe, lifeguard-staffed beaches. La Jolla Shores Hotel and La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club are casual beachfront options. Hotel del Coronado and Beach Village are more upscale Coronado choices.
What baby gear do these San Diego family hotels offer?
Cribs and Pack ‘n Plays are commonly available. Fairmont Grand Del Mar can refrigerate breast milk. Rent specific baby gear from Toddler’s Travel.
What are really the best kid-friendly hotels in San Diego?
Based on reader feedback and service quality, top recommendations include:
- Fairmont Grand Del Mar
- Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara
- Park Hyatt Aviara
- Rancho Valencia
- Beach Village at The Del
- (Potentially Hotel del Coronado post-renovation)
Is there a best time of year to book kid-friendly San Diego hotels?
Hotel occupancy is high year-round, peaking in summer. Book early, especially for summer. Lowest occupancy months are January, September, early November, and early December. Consider flexible rates and monitor for price drops. I offer exclusive VIP amenities at select hotels.
Which San Diego family resorts have water slides?
- Omni La Costa
- Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina
- Park Hyatt Aviara
Which family hotels in San Diego have kids’ clubs?
- Fairmont Grand Del Mar (year-round)
- Omni La Costa (year-round)
- Hotel del Coronado (seasonal)
What about Paradise Point Resort & Spa?
Paradise Point is transitioning to Margaritaville in 2024. Details are limited. Location near SeaWorld requires a drive to outside attractions. Bungalows recommended if booking.
How do I get to San Diego family hotels without renting a car?
Rideshares are easy for families without car seats. Car services recommended for families needing car seats; concierge can assist. See my San Diego car services guide.
What is the best kid-friendly hotel near the San Diego Zoo?
Manchester Grand Hyatt is closest to the San Diego Zoo (short drive needed).
What is the best kid-friendly hotel in La Jolla?
La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club, due to private beach and family-friendly amenities.
What is the best kid-friendly hotel near SeaWorld San Diego?
Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina, for proximity and water slides.
What is the best kid-friendly hotel near PETCO Park?
Manchester Grand Hyatt or Omni San Diego (connected to PETCO Park). For teens, Pendry San Diego in Gaslamp Quarter.
Should I choose a family-friendly vacation rental instead?
Consider location carefully. Vacation rentals are common in South Mission Beach and La Jolla. Browse family-friendly VRBO homes in San Diego.
Which Downtown San Diego Hotel is best for kids?
Manchester Grand Hyatt, due to pools and sports courts. Pendry San Diego also an option, but pool area is more adult-focused during peak times.
