Whether you’re a sun-seeker or an adrenaline junkie, San Diego will be the perfect spot for your next vacation. Outdoor enthusiasts can keep themselves busy by climbing the hills of the Torey Pines State Natural Reserve or catching some exciting waves at Coronado Beach. As for culture vultures, lingering in Balboa Park and the incredible museums around it will be great. Are you planning to visit California’s birthplace in the near future? If yes is your answer, then we highly recommend you to stay at hotels near the San Diego Airport. As well as being highly accessible, they generally come at rates that won’t hurt your wallet. So, without much further ado, here’s our curated list of the 11 best hotels near San Diego International Airport. Let’s get started!
Where to Stay Near San Diego Airport
Only less than four miles, the San Diego International Airport complex is relatively close to the downtown area. You can reach the heart of the city in just 11 minutes drive from the arrival gate. In other words, you have many options when it comes to hotels near the San Diego Airport. Just make sure you know exactly what you want to see, eat, and how much you’re willing to spend for them.
For those who travel on a budget, we have San Diego’s downtown. Unlike similar areas in other American states, it’s home to less than 50,000 people – making it categorized as under-populated. That’s why living here can be a lot cheaper than in other urban areas. Even so, it wasn’t a bad place. You can visit Balboa Park and the famous zoo. In addition, some of our top 9 things to do in San Diego can also be found in this quarter.
Have a passion for history? Living in the Old Town area would be great. This area was once San Diego’s first settlement, with a history dating back to 1769. Here you’ll find plenty of museums, exhibitions, and historical buildings. Furthermore, there are some legendary diners such as Cafe Coyote and Barra Barra Saloon. In addition, the area is also home to some of our 11 best hotels in San Diego.
Next, we have Hillcrest aka San Diego’s most LGBTQ-friendly district. This neighborhood is the site for the city’s annual Pride Parade and some of our top 11 gay-friendly hotels in San Diego. Apart from that, you can also enjoy some incredible restaurants, including Bread & Cie bakery, Urban Mo’s gay burger joint, and Mexican restaurant Lalo’s.
Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina
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If stunning waterfront views and avant-garde accommodation are your ideal image for a memorable getaway, then you’ll have a lot of a great time at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina. Apart from being gorgeous, this lavish complex also stands in a prime location. It offers uncomplicated access to a number of major sights, including Petco Park, San Diego Zoo, and Gaslamp Quarter.
For those arriving in San Diego by air, the hotel provides a free shuttle service from the arrival gate. Enjoy a comfortable break in a hotel filled with natural light, the moment you land on California’s birthplace. Furthermore, each room has its own patio, providing the calming atmosphere you need for a perfect weekend getaway.
Being one of the best hotels near San Diego Airport with shuttle, the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina boasts an array of luxurious amenities. It has a 24-hour reception desk, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a voguish spa. As for dining options, this four-star property has Marina Market & Cafe – a fantastic place where you can grab some of your favorite coffee, wine, and beer.
- Airport Shuttle: Available for free
- Nearest Airport: San Diego International Airport at 0.8mi (1.28km)
- Estimated Driving Time: 3 minutes via N Harbor Dr
Best Western Yacht Harbor Hotel
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Location is one of our main points in choosing the best hotels near the San Diego Airport. In this case, the Best Western Yacht Harbor Hotel deserves a thumbs up because they offer an unmatched setting! Major destinations, such as the San Diego Zoo, USS Midway Museum, and Ocean Beach, are just minutes from the lobby. Meanwhile, to reach the SAN Airport complex, it only takes no more than five minutes of driving. Talk about convenience!
Furthermore, you may get an unforgettable sojourn while at this three-star property. That’s because the Best Western Yacht Harbor Hotel boasts newly refurbished rooms. Moreover, they all offer a number of contemporary conveniences, including free internet, mini-refrigerators, and flat-screen TVs.
Relaxing in the hotel’s heated pool or Jacuzzi is a great way to end a busy day at work. For those looking to work some sweat, there’s an on-site fitness center with the latest cardio equipment. Lastly, business travelers will appreciate the existence of a dedicated business center – a place where guests can check flight schedules and print their boarding passes with ease.
- Airport Shuttle: FREE, available upon request
- Nearest Airport: San Diego International Airport at 1.2mi (1.9km)
- Estimated Driving Time: 4 minutes via N Harbor Dr
Hilton San Diego Airport Harbor Island
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Make your San Diego trip unforgettable by staying at the Hilton San Diego Airport Harbor Island. This amazing hotel offers a fantastic setting, with captivating views of the marina and the city skyline. Furthermore, it’s also extremely easy to reach from the SAN Airport complex, only about two miles away. Meanwhile, top sights like PETCO Park and San Diego Zoo can be found within 10 minutes of the lobby. Moreover, the hotel also offers a complimentary shuttle and bicycle rental for your added convenience.
As for accommodation, Hilton San Diego Airport Harbor Island offers no less than 10 different room types and two suites. All are specifically designed to provide utmost comfort, with some thoughtful amenities such as HDTV, work desk, and free WiFi. In addition, we particularly love the Hilton Serenity Bed they use here. It’s ultra-comfortable, luxurious, and allergen-free – guaranteeing a quality night’s rest.
Like most hotels near the San Diego Airport, Hilton San Diego Airport Harbor Island also boasts an excellent dining venue. Here they have Panorama Bar & Grill, a restaurant with a stunning waterfront view. For their menu, they serve a fantastic range of dishes made with locally sourced farm produce, aged meats, and farm-fresh poultry.
- Airport Shuttle: Available for free
- Nearest Airport: San Diego International Airport at 1.6mi (2.57km)
- Estimated Driving Time: 5 minutes via Harbor Island Dr and N Harbor Dr
Wyndham San Diego Bayside
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Set in the wonderful North Harbor Drive area, Wyndham San Diego Bayside offers captivating views of San Diego Bay. Furthermore, your stay will feel even more memorable thanks to a series of tasteful amenities. In short, you can expect the best city getaway while you’re at this lavish property!
Want to discover the best of San Diego? Worry not, as the hotel is only steps away from the exciting nightlife spot in the Gaslamp Quarter. Meanwhile, other fascinating quarters such as Little Italy and the Port of San Diego can be found within minutes. As for those traveling with family, the famous San Diego Zoo is only a short drive away.
Furthermore, the guestrooms at Wyndham San Diego Bayside will provide you with the most pleasant stay. Feel the sensation of waking up with a stunning view of the bay, thanks to the floor to ceiling windows. Enjoy your healthy dose of caffeine in the morning, as you sit back and relax on a private balcony. And just like in most hotels near San Diego Airport with shuttle, stay connected as there is free WiFi available throughout the premises.
- Airport Shuttle: Available for free
- Nearest Airport: San Diego International Airport at 1.5mi (2.41km)
- Estimated Driving Time: 3 minutes via N Harbor Dr
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites San Diego Airport – Old Town
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Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites San Diego – Airport – Old Town is your best gateway for getting now America’s Finest City. It has an unbeatable location, just less than a mile from the SAN Airport complex. Meanwhile, several top sights such as San Diego Zoo, Cruise Ship Terminal, and San Diego Convention Center, can be reached in a matter of minutes. If that’s not enough, the hotel also has an excellent complimentary shuttle service. Without a doubt, this deluxe property is one of the most recommended hotels near San Diego International Airport!
Furthermore, the rooms at the Holiday Inn Express are also worthy of praise. They offer a living space with tons of quality amenities. You can enjoy a reliable and free wireless internet connection. Sit back and relax in an ergonomic chair. Finally, the presence of a 32-inch flat-panel TV with satellite channels will guarantee full hours of quality entertainment.
As with most other hotels near San Diego Airport with shuttle, a full buffet breakfast is available in the lobby area each morning. You may spoil your palate with an array of fantastic continental menus. Furthermore, younger guests will get a complimentary treat from the hotel. And if you prefer something else, there’s a bunch of local restaurants scattered around.
- Airport Shuttle: Available for free
- Nearest Airport: San Diego International Airport at 2.5mi (4.02km)
- Estimated Driving Time: 6 minutes via N Harbor Dr
Bay Club Hotel and Marina
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Experience America’s Finest City to the fullest at Bay Club Hotel & Marina. Apart from being voguish and spacious, the rooms in this exclusive establishment also feature a magnificent landscape of San Diego Bay and downtown’s horizon. Furthermore, you’ll appreciate their warm welcome and excellent service. Oh, and don’t forget the fact that the hotel has a number of deluxe amenities such as free WiFi, an outdoor heated swimming pool, and a private balcony in each guest room.
Business travelers, you won’t miss all the fun while at the Bay Club Hotel & Marina. That’s because this exclusive establishment boasts an abundance of meeting rooms supported by catering and planning services. Whether it’s a conference, training, or other official occasions, there’s nothing the hotel can’t handle. Furthermore, you may pick between Commodore, Harbor, and Spinnaker rooms. All feature magnificent views of San Diego Bay and state-of-the-art multimedia equipment.
For foodies, be sure not to miss the opportunity to stop by The Quarterdeck Restaurant & Bar. This on-site dining venue is a place where you can sample an array of great food and craft beer while enjoying the scenic landscape of Point Loma hillside. For special prices, you may join in for Happy Hour Monday, which starts from 4 pm to 7 pm.
- Airport Shuttle: Available at an additional charge
- Nearest Airport: San Diego International Airport at 2.1mi (3.37km)
- Estimated Driving Time: 7 minutes via Shelter Island Dr and N Harbor Dr
The Westin San Diego Downtown
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If you’re a traveler who can’t settle for the ordinary, you’ll find everything you’re looking for at The Westin San Diego Downtown. Standing majestically in the heart of San Diego, this four-star establishment offers straightforward access to some of the city’s exciting points. Various dining and shopping options in the Gaslamp Quarter are around the corner, while San Diego International Airport can be reached in less than 10 minutes.
Furthermore, the voguish and spacious rooms at The Westin San Diego Downtown will be the perfect place to unwind after a busy day exploring. Indulge in a variety of deluxe amenities such as HDTV, luxury bedding, and exclusive toiletries. When it’s time for a refuel, head over to the hotel’s signature restaurant for some appetizing dishes. Meanwhile, those who need a light refreshment can immediately make their way to the excellent hotel bar.
Like most hotels near the San Diego Airport, The Westin also boasts an incredible lineup of leisure facilities. There’s a 24-hour on-site fitness center for those who need a few workout sessions. Want to hold a social event or business conference? Make your reservation in one of the hotel’s elegant and well-equipped meeting rooms. Overall, this is one of the most satisfying hotels near San Diego International Airport. Make sure to check it out while you can.
- Airport Shuttle: Available for free
- Nearest Airport: San Diego International Airport at 2mi (3.21km)
- Estimated Driving Time: 6 minutes via N Harbor Dr
Wyndham Garden San Diego
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Wyndham Garden San Diego promises a perfect retreat, minutes from San Diego International Airport and the famous family destination SeaWorld. Enjoy California’s spectacular birthplace in a deluxe complex surrounded by shady palm trees. If you’re dreaming of a tropical getaway with an array of deluxe amenities, this is the place to be.
Being one of the top hotels near the San Diego Airport, Wyndham Garden ensures every traveler has what they need. For some productive moments, there’s a dedicated business center complete with fax and printer services. Want to start sightseeing right after check-in? Take advantage of the hotel’s friendly concierge services to help plan your memorable San Diego trip. Additionally, this three-star property also has private on-site parking. However, you have to pay extra for this convenience.
As for accommodation, the Wyndham Garden offers stylish, well-furnished rooms. You’ll find some essentials such as WiFi, a work desk, and the all-important coffee maker. In addition, the hotel also provides a fully functional microwave and refrigerator. In case you want to prepare your own meal, both will come in handy.
- Airport Shuttle: Not available
- Nearest Airport: San Diego International Airport at 3.3mi (5.31km)
- Estimated Driving Time: 10 minutes via Rosecrans St
Courtyard San Diego Airport/Liberty Station
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Make your San Diego vacation seamless and stress-free. Stay at a hotel that offers uncomplicated access to some of the city’s major sights, just like the Courtyard San Diego Airport/Liberty Station. Set in the famous Point Loma, this three-star establishment is minutes from SeaWorld, the San Diego Zoo, and the downtown area. Meanwhile, a short walk will take you to the popular Liberty Public Market.
If you’re not in the mood to go out, indulging in the hotel’s leisure facilities isn’t a bad idea either. All guest rooms at the Courtyard San Diego are appointed in a luxurious manner. Enjoy some contemporary conveniences, including an iHome docking station, 42-inch high-definition TV, and bedding with rich cotton linens.
San Diego is also known for its rich cuisine. Sample some of them at the Courtyard Marriott Bistro, an on-site restaurant that serves up some local delights with a modern twist. If that’s not enough, there are lots of great alternatives scattered around the hotel. Fantastic dining venues such as Harbor Greek Cafe, Corvette 50’s Diner, and Breakfast Republic Liberty Station are all less than a mile away.
- Airport Shuttle: Not available
- Nearest Airport: San Diego International Airport at 3.3mi (5.31km)
- Estimated Driving Time: 10 minutes via Rosecrans St
InterContinental San Diego
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Spoil yourself with modern luxury from the InterContinental San Diego. In this four-star property, fascinating coastal decorations and exclusive guest rooms are the main appeals. All are carefully crafted to highlight the beauty of San Diego’s legendary waterfront landscape. This is a place where you can embrace the warmth of the Southern California spirit at any time!
Being one of the best hotels near the San Diego Airport, the InterContinental offers a luxurious residence in a prime location. This means you’re minutes away from some of the most coveted sights, including the USS Midway, Gaslamp District, and Petco Park. Furthermore, exciting points like Little Italy and Seaport Village can be found on a short walk.
If all that’s not enough, wait until you enter one of the guest rooms at the InterContinental. You’ll find an exclusive living space that’s so bright and inviting. Enjoy gorgeous views of San Diego Bay from the floor to ceiling windows. Unwind as you enjoy a range of premium amenities. Make your relaxation sessions even more enjoyable!
- Airport Shuttle: Not available
- Nearest Airport: San Diego International Airport at 1.9mi (3.05km)
- Estimated Driving Time: 5 minutes via N Harbor Dr
Ramada by Wyndham San Diego Airport
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Are you looking for accommodations near the airport, where you can relax a little and enjoy the warm Southern California sunshine? Then the Ramada by Wyndham San Diego Airport will be perfect for you! Set in Point Loma, this modest property offers easy access to and from the arrival gate of SAN Airport. You can also take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary shuttle service, which runs on a limited schedule.
In addition, Ramada is also ideal for group vacations. It’s minutes from favorite family destinations such as SeaWorld and the San Diego Zoo. You can also attend some exciting events at Valley View Casino Center.
Apart from its perfect location, Ramada’s excellent service also deserves praise. You can freshen up in their fantastic outdoor pool. Or if you choose to work on some sweat, there’s a fully equipped on-site gym. When it’s time for a refuel, kick-off your day with a great continental breakfast in the lobby area.
As for accommodation, all guest rooms here are 100 percent smoke-free. But for a more memorable San Diego vacation, we recommend upgrading to a harbor view or balcony room. Enjoy a truly quality recess, accompanied by extra living space and the stunning landscapes of San Diego Bay!
- Airport Shuttle: Available for free
- Nearest Airport: San Diego International Airport at 1.1mi (1.77km)
- Estimated Driving Time: 3 minutes via N Harbor Dr
Recommended Bars/Restaurants near San Diego Airport:
- C-Level – This amazing eatery will be a great place to impress or celebrate something special. It offers upscale luxury compared to your average diner. Further, all the seafood dishes here are fantastic! Well presented and full of taste. Don’t forget to try their range of yummy desserts, especially if you have a sweet tooth.
- Cocina 35 – No trip to San Diego is complete without a visit to this incredible diner. Serving Mexican delights as a mainstay, this restaurant will amaze your palate with its unique Latin flavors. Their chilaquiles are one of the best we’ve tried. Apart from that, their Tamales, Aguas Frescas, and Cafe de Olla are fantastic too. It’s definitely worth a try if you happen to be in downtown San Diego.
- Hash House A Go Go – One of the favorite breakfast spots for San Diego residents, it serves up an array of appetizing classics. From burgers to salads to pasta, everything is served in generous portions. How about the taste? Fantastic! We won’t think twice about stopping here if one day we happen to come back to San Diego.
Recommended Activities near San Diego Airport:
- San Diego: Harbor Cruise – Marvel at the gorgeous views of San Diego Bay. Explore the best spots in one of America’s most beautiful anchorage. Depending on the option you choose, get up close and personal with some amazing landmarks such as the Coronado Bridge, Midway Aircraft Carrier, and many more.
- The USS Midway Museum: Skip-the-Line Ticket – Save your precious time. Skip the long, tedious lines and go straight for the longest-serving Aircraft Carrier in American military history. See no less than 60 exciting exhibits, including galleys, jails, and sleeping quarters. Put yourself in the shoes of brave sailors, as you participate in a fantastic interactive film simulation.
- San Diego Zoo Ticket – Bring your family and have fun with hundreds of wild animals in one of the world’s most famous zoos. See some of the rare species such as the Chinese panda and wombats. Learn how beasts from the past went extinct at the fantastic Pleistocene playground.
