11 Best Hotels in San Diego near Seaworld

SeaWorld San Diego is a world-famous marine theme park that offers a mix of exciting animal encounters, thrilling rides, and educational experiences. If you’re like us, you want to find comfy hotels in San Diego near SeaWorld so you can spend more time enjoying the park and less time sitting in traffic. We want a place that’s clean, cozy and doesn’t break the bank. Thankfully, after much research, we’ve found some family-friendly hotels with good amenities to unwind after a day of exploring.

We did our research and stayed at a few places that were within easy reach of SeaWorld. From budget-friendly spots to more luxurious options, we’ve tried it all. Some hotels even offer shuttle services to SeaWorld, which makes things super convenient. Whether you’re visiting with kids, looking for a romantic getaway, or just want a convenient location, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to dive into your San Diego adventure with the perfect hotel stay!

Wyndham Garden San Diego

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Our experience at the Wyndham Garden San Diego was an authentic Southern California vibe. The room was modern, cozy, and equipped with all the essential amenities. We chose a Junior Suite, and it was worth the upgrade. The extra space, separate living area, and two flat-screen TVs made it feel like a home away from home. Plus, the mini-fridge and microwave came in handy for storing leftovers and enjoying late-night snacks. The free WiFi was fast and reliable.

One of our favorite spots was the outdoor heated pool and hot tub, nestled among swaying palm trees. It was the perfect place to relax after a busy day exploring SeaWorld or lounging by the beach. There’s also a fitness center for those looking to stay active during their stay.

Dining at the Garden Bistro & Bar was a treat. We loved starting our mornings with their fresh-baked goodies before heading out for the day. Public transportation options nearby made it easy to get around without any hassle.

Best Western Inn & Suites SeaWorld Area

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Best for an extended stay. The Best Western Inn & Suites SeaWorld Area‘s location couldn’t be better. It’s one of the best San Diego Hotels close to SeaWorld. We were just minutes from some of San Diego’s most iconic attractions, including SeaWorld, the San Diego Zoo, and the charming Old Town. Plus, having Mission Beach so close made our trip even more exciting.

Our room was spacious and well-equipped. The large 50” HDTV was perfect for unwinding after a long day, and the in-room coffee maker was an excellent addition every morning. We loved having the microwave and fridge for storing snacks. Also, the desk area made it easy to catch up on some work when necessary.

Every morning, we enjoyed the complimentary hot breakfast with various options, from fresh fruit and yogurt to eggs and breakfast meats. We also took advantage of the heated outdoor pool and hot tub. After a day of sightseeing, soaking in the hot tub was just what we needed to relax.

Howard Johnson by Wyndham San Diego Sea World

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Staying at the Howard Johnson by Wyndham San Diego Sea World was enjoyable! It sits right in the middle of San Diego’s top attractions. Plus, the hotel is just a short drive away if you visit loved ones at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot or Naval Base Point Loma. The proximity to the airport also made getting here easy. And if you prefer staying near the airport, we recommend checking out the best hotels near San Diego Airport.

The hotel’s atmosphere is friendly and relaxed. It’s an entirely non-smoking property, which we found refreshing. The staff at the front desk were warm and helpful no matter what time of day it was. Our room was clean and spacious, with thoughtful touches like a mini-fridge, microwave, and an in-room safe to store valuables while we were out and about.

Every morning, they prepared us breakfast, which included a variety of drinks like coffee, tea, and juice. After that, we enjoyed a dip in the outdoor pool, basking in the beautiful San Diego weather. And if we wanted to squeeze in a workout, the free access to the nearby 24-hour EOS Fitness Center was a great perk.

GreenTree Inn San Diego Mission Bay

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The GreenTree Inn San Diego Mission Bay is a fantastic SeaWorld San Diego hotel for group travels. Besides easy access to SeaWorld and the San Diego Zoo, you’re close to Balboa Ave. This hotel and public transportation combination is an excellent choice for those who want to travel on a budget.

Each morning, we were treated to a delicious hot breakfast, which gave us the energy to take on the day. With fast, complimentary Wi-Fi, we stayed connected, whether relaxing by the heated outdoor pool or catching up on work in the business center. The 24-hour fitness center kept us active, and the free parking was a significant perk, especially in such a lively city.

Our King Room was a perfect retreat, featuring a comfortable bed and valuable extras like a mini-fridge, microwave, and Keurig coffee maker. The eco-friendly bath products were thoughtful, aligning with GreenTree’s impressive commitment to sustainability by reducing waste and energy usage.

Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego Old Town

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Best for solo travelers. Situated in the heart of Old Town, Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego Old Town‘s prime location made exploring the city’s best attractions much more accessible. When we arrived, we felt welcomed by the inviting Spanish-inspired design that gave the hotel a warm, welcoming vibe.

Our room included free WiFi and a flat-screen TV. Some rooms even offer balconies, perfect for soaking in the beautiful San Diego weather. We enjoyed the complimentary breakfast buffet every morning, which had plenty of delicious options, whether we wanted something hearty or light. The free coffee and tea service was a great addition.

When we weren’t out exploring or after a full day of exploring the city, we took advantage of the hotel’s outdoor pool and hot tub. It was a peaceful retreat. We also appreciated the well-equipped fitness center to stay active during our stay.

Holiday Inn Express San Diego Sea World Area

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The Holiday Inn Express San Diego SeaWorld Area actually exceeded our expectations. The check-in process was smooth, and the staff greeted us with friendly smiles. What made this hotel so special for us was the complimentary hot breakfast. They served eggs and sausage or lighter options like pastries and fruit. It was the perfect start to our day before visiting the SeaWorld.

After spending our days exploring the top attractions, the heated outdoor pool was the perfect place to unwind. We also took full advantage of the whirlpool, and having a guest laundry facility on-site made it easy to clean our clothes during our stay.

Our spacious and well-kept room had excellent amenities that made our stay even better. We appreciated the complimentary bottled water and coffee. The mini fridge was super handy for keeping drinks cold. The free Wi-Fi and work desk were also perfect for taking a quick break and planning the next day’s activities.

Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town

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The Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town offers the ideal mix of comfort and convenience. Located in the heart of Old Town San Diego, we had the luxury of exploring charming shops, delicious dining spots, and historic landmarks like Old Town State Park, all just steps away.

Our room featured a microwave, a refrigerator, a coffee maker, and a cable TV. But what made us love this hotel was the facilities. After a full day of exploring, we could unwind by the heated outdoor pool and soak in the hot tub.

Dining at the Old Town Tequila Factory was so special with an impressive buffet breakfast and a mouthwatering brunch on weekends. Their Happy Hour, with authentic Mexican dishes and refreshing drinks, became a favorite part of our day.

Comfort Inn Sea World Area

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Best budget. The Comfort Inn Sea World Area is among the most excellent SeaWorld San Diego hotels. Whether you’re in town for a family vacation or just a quick getaway, this hotel is a great home base for experiencing everything San Diego offers. The room was spotless and cozy, featuring a microwave, refrigerator, and a convenient coffee and tea station. Besides, we also always looked forward to a hot breakfast that offered a variety of choices.

The flat-screen TV provided a relaxing way to unwind after a busy day, and the free WiFi made it easy to keep up with emails and plan out the next activities. It was also great to know that the hotel is pet-friendly, so our dog could join in on the trip.

The hotel’s location made exploring the city a breeze. One day, we lounged by the water at Mission Bay, while the next, we ventured to the lively Gaslamp Quarter to enjoy the local dining and nightlife scene. Besides, we also explored the nearby Mission Valley shopping center.

Check out the best cheap hotels in San Diego for more budget options.

Best Western Yacht Harbor Hotel

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Best Western Yacht Harbor Hotel is a gem nestled along San Diego’s waterfront. Our stylish room came with everything we needed, including fast Wi-Fi, a mini-fridge, a microwave, and a balcony with picturesque harbor views.

“The plush beds made for a restful night’s sleep, and adjustable heating and cooling added to the cozy vibe.”

WOW Travel

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Each morning, we fueled up with the hotel’s complimentary hot breakfast, featuring eggs, cereal, and freshly brewed coffee. It was a great way to kick off our day. We loved strolling along the harbor, watching the fishing boats return with their fresh catch after breakfast. After a fun day, the Jacuzzi was the perfect spot to relax and recharge.

The free parking was a huge plus, especially with many great restaurants and sites within walking distance.

Ocean Park Inn

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Best for families. Staying at the Ocean Park Inn feels like being immersed in the essence of Southern California’s surf scene. The rhythmic sound of waves set the tone, making it clear this was more than just a place to stay. It was an experience. The hotel captures the relaxed beach culture perfectly but with a fresh vibe that appeals to today’s travelers, where locals, surfers, and creative souls seem to converge.

We opted for the King Suite, and it was incredible. The kitchenette was handy for whipping up light meals, while the king-sized bed offered luxurious comfort. We’d step onto our private balcony every morning and soak up breathtaking ocean views. There’s nothing quite like starting your day with the smell of the sea air and the sight of surfers carving through the waves.

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Another favorite was the heated pool and spa in the hotel’s courtyard. We felt connected to the beach while lounging with the ocean in view, even from the pool. A dip in the warm spa was the perfect way to wind down as the sunset.

For more family-friendly accommodations, check out the best family hotels in San Diego.

Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Sea World Area

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Our stay at the Hilton Garden Inn San Diego SeaWorld Area was memorable. This hotel was just a short 10-minute drive from SeaWorld, the San Diego Zoo, and Old Town. We were in the perfect spot for exploring the best of the city. We never had to go far for something fun. Plus, the easy 15-minute trip to the airport made both our arrival and departure hassle-free.

We chose the 1 King Premium One-Bedroom Suite. The spacious and beautifully laid-out suite offered a separate bedroom and living area. The king-sized bed was exceptionally comfy, and the queen sofa bed provided extra sleeping space when needed. One of the best features was the fully stocked kitchen, complete with a large refrigerator, microwave, stovetop, and all the cookware and dishes we needed to prepare meals on our own.

The high-speed WiFi was another perk, making streaming shows on the 50-inch flat-screen TV smooth and easy. Besides, we also loved the convenience of the daily replenished snacks and drinks, and having a Keurig coffee machine was a nice bonus.

Our Verdict!

We all can agree that the Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Sea World Area is the best overall among hotels in San Diego near SeaWorld. The location, the amenities, the price, and the vibes are excellent. But we’ve also put the other hotels in their respective categories if you want some alternatives.

• Best budget: Comfort Inn Sea World Area
• Best for families: Ocean Park Inn
• Best for solo travelers: Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego Old Town
• Best for an extended stay: Best Western Inn & Suites SeaWorld Area

Where to Stay in San Diego near SeaWorld?

Mission Bay is one of the most convenient and popular places to stay near SeaWorld. It’s just minutes away from the park and offers a variety of waterfront hotels and resorts. The area is perfect to combine your SeaWorld trip with beach activities, kayaking, or paddleboarding.

Old Town is another fantastic neighborhood to consider. Located about 10 minutes from SeaWorld, it’s known for its historical charm and great Mexican food. There are several mid-range hotels and inns that are close to restaurants and attractions like the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.

Pacific Beach is a great choice for those looking for a lively atmosphere. It’s a bit further from SeaWorld, about a 15-minute drive, but the vibrant beach scene, boardwalk, and numerous bars and restaurants make it worth considering. Lastly, the Mission Valley area is a popular spot for visitors to SeaWorld. It’s home to a variety of chain hotels that cater to families and travelers looking for more affordable options. It’s only a 10-minute drive from SeaWorld.

How do I plan my day at SeaWorld San Diego?

To plan your day at SeaWorld San Diego, check the park’s schedule for showtimes, animal feedings, and special events. Arrive early to avoid long lines and head straight for the most popular attractions, like roller coasters or animal exhibits, while it’s less crowded. Make time for the must-see shows like the Orca Encounter or Sea Lion show, and take breaks in between for meals or to explore the aquarium exhibits. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, stay hydrated, and wear comfortable shoes for a fun day!

What day of the week is best to go to SeaWorld San Diego?

The best day is typically a weekday, especially Tuesday through Thursday, when crowds are smaller than weekends. Midweek visits mean shorter lines for rides, shows, and attractions. Avoid going on weekends or holidays, as these are the busiest times with larger crowds and longer wait times. Visiting during off-peak seasons, like fall or early spring, also helps for a more relaxed experience.

Can I take snacks to SeaWorld San Diego?

SeaWorld San Diego has a policy prohibiting outside food and drinks, but they allow certain exceptions. You can bring bottled water and snacks for infants or guests with dietary restrictions, such as food allergies. You may want to speak with a guest services representative when you arrive if you have special dietary needs. While full meals and large coolers aren’t allowed, SeaWorld offers various dining options inside the park, including kid-friendly meals and healthier options for those looking for specific dietary choices.