11 Best Hotels near Legoland San Diego

For many families, LEGOLAND is the top-tier theme park destination. While there are plenty of LEGOLANDs, we enjoy the one in California the most. Often called LEGOLAND San Diego, this place has that Southern California charm that we can’t find elsewhere. If you plan to go here with your loved ones, you’ll need proper accommodation. Today, we’ll show you our favorite hotels near LEGOLAND San Diego. While the resort has two hotels of its own, we think they’re not enough, especially if you have some specific preferences. That’s why we think this list is perfect for you. From a family-friendly hotel near the park to beachfront hotels, there’s something for everyone. So, wait no more! Explore our picks, pack your bags, and have a brick-tastic adventure as LEGOLAND is calling!

Grand Pacific Palisades Resort

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Let’s kick off this list on a high note with the Grand Pacific Palisades Resort. We loved having direct pedestrian access to LEGOLAND, making it incredibly convenient for multiple park visits. The proximity to Carlsbad Village, local beaches, and the outlet mall meant we were never far from entertainment, dining, or shopping opportunities.

The condo-style units, available in one, two, or three bedrooms, give guests the flexibility they need. We booked the one-bedroom accommodation and really enjoyed using the full kitchen, especially with a Costco nearby for stocking up on supplies. This setup helped us balance eating out with home-cooked meals, making our stay both comfortable and cost-effective.

If you’re a pool guy, you’ll love this resort. Aside from an adults-only pool, there’s also a separate family-friendly pool and three hot tubs. We also found a games room and fitness center on the property. While we enjoyed preparing meals in our kitchen, having the Karl Strauss Brewery Restaurant on-site provided a convenient dining option when we didn’t feel like cooking. The restaurant offers a perfect blend of casual atmosphere and quality dining.

The Cassara Carlsbad, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

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The Cassara Carlsbad, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is a delightful addition to the collection of hotels close to LEGOLAND San Diego. Situated within the Grand Pacific Palisades complex, The Cassara immediately caught our attention with its fresh Mediterranean-inspired architecture and design. The proximity to LEGOLAND California makes it an obvious choice for families, especially for those wanting to have a day trip from San Diego. However, we discovered it offers much more than just a convenient location.

We were in awe of the thoughtful room configurations. Among the 90 guest rooms, the 29 family suites are the standout feature. The “Karlsbad” Family Suites and Corner Suites offer an especially practical layout with a king bed in the parlor and two twin beds in a separate room – all at a surprisingly reasonable price point.

We also loved the on-site amenities. Whenever we had the time, we would take a dip in the Olympic-sized adults-only pool. There’s also a family-friendly pool with a splash pad, a gym, and access to the nearby Ocean Pearl Spa. For dining, the Cassara Kitchen & Bar was our go-to. But if you want to explore the surrounding area, take advantage of the resort’s shuttle service, which covers a 5-mile radius.

Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach

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The Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach is one of the budget-friendly choices on this list. Don’t worry, as it doesn’t compromise comfort! While it’s a short drive from LEGOLAND California, the hotel’s prime beachfront location and affordable rates make it a worthwhile choice. We loved being able to touch the sand whenever we wanted to.

The hotel’s recent renovations have breathed new life into the property. Our room was clean, comfortable, and stylish, with a relaxed coastal decor that perfectly complemented the beachside setting. Some rooms even offer breathtaking views of the pool or the ocean, adding an extra touch of luxury to the experience. As Hilton Honors members, we appreciated the convenience of booking connecting rooms, which was great for families traveling together.

The hotel’s amenities were also a highlight of our stay. We enjoyed unwinding by the outdoor pool and hot tub, and the on-site bar and restaurant provided convenient dining options. Additionally, the 24-hour shop was exactly what we needed for late-night cravings and forgotten essentials.

West Inn & Suites

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Best Budget. If you’re a value-oriented traveler looking for a comfortable and convenient stay, we highly recommend the West Inn & Suites. Located just a 5-minute drive from LEGOLAND and a pleasant 10-minute stroll to the beach, this boutique hotel proved to be an excellent choice for those seeking quality accommodations without the luxury price tag.

We were highly impressed by the thoughtful amenities included in our stay. The complimentary hot breakfast started our days right, while the free beach equipment saved us the hassle of packing or renting these essentials. We also loved our suite, which was surprisingly spacious. It had all the convenient features like a refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker.

What really stood out to us was the hotel’s pet-friendly policy. We brought our rescued pitbull along, though we made sure to plan our outings carefully since pets can’t be left alone in the rooms. Oh, have we mentioned that there’s a gorgeous heated swimming pool on the property? Make a splash!

Omni la Costa Resort & Spa Carlsbad

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The Omni la Costa Resort & Spa Carlsbad checks all the right boxes, and it’s hands-down one of the best hotels near LEGOLAND San Diego for families. We think it’s the perfect destination for a multigenerational trip, offering something for everyone. The spacious villas with full kitchens provided the comfort of home, allowing us to bond and create lasting memories.

The resort’s amenities are impressive as well. The kids were thrilled with Kidtopia, a state-of-the-art kids’ club designed to spark their imagination. The pools, including the family-friendly Splash Landing and the adults-only Edge Pool, were a hit. We also enjoyed the daily activities, from s’mores roasting to reptile shows.

For the adults in our group, the Spa at La Costa was a haven of relaxation. The luxurious treatments and serene atmosphere made it the number one place to unwind. If you’re looking for something more active, you can visit the resort’s two world-renowned golf courses, fitness center, and tennis courts.

The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa

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The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa knows all the right recipes for an enjoyable stay, and we had a blast. The resort’s standout feature is its enviable location, which is within walking distance of Legoland California, complete with a convenient private entrance to the park that we shared with neighboring hotels.

The moment we stepped into our Deluxe King Room, we were captivated by the thoughtful design that brings Carlsbad’s coastal charm indoors. The decor masterfully incorporated ocean hues and beachy elements, while our room offered stunning views of Carlsbad’s coastline from the balcony. It’s clear that the designers drew inspiration from the surrounding natural beauty.

What about the amenities? The lagoon-style pool became our daily retreat, with its spacious layout and adjacent hot tub providing the perfect spot for both energetic splashing and relaxation. We also had some friendly competitions at the pool tables, ping pong matches, and spirited games of cornhole. For golf enthusiasts, the proximity to The Crossings at Carlsbad golf course is a major draw.

Four Seasons Residences Club Aviara

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Best Luxury. If your family is planning to have fun at LEGOLAND but also wants a hotel that oozes luxury and comfort, the Four Seasons Residences Club Aviara is the perfect choice. Staying here, we were spoilt by the Four Seasons style of service and convenience. While the resort is a bit inland, we found it to be a great base for exploring the area. We were able to easily visit LEGOLAND California and other nearby attractions with ease.

The one and two-bedroom villas are, obviously, huge and bright. We booked the one-bedroom villa and it was so comfortable, with a well-equipped kitchen and a separate living area. It truly felt like a home away from home. Our favorite part? Breakfast in bed! While the villa was flawless, our little ones also loved the Kids Club 760, where they could enjoy a variety of activities like arts and crafts and video games.

The resort itself is a tranquil oasis where everyone can relax. The pools were fantastic, and the spa offered a wide range of treatments. We also appreciated the convenience of having free parking and the opportunity to take a signature Beachtown Tour in a vintage Woodie. If you’re looking for luxurious hotels close to LEGOLAND San Diego, this is the one.

Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa

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Best Service. We were glad we decided to spend a few nights at the Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa. As one of the four resorts surrounding Legoland California, it offered a unique perk: a private entrance to the park. We appreciated the flexibility of choosing between a leisurely stroll to the back entrance or a quick drive to the designated parking lot.

Once we arrived, we were immediately treated like VIPs. The staff not only greeted us with smiles but also a free scoop of gelato for our kids. The resort’s amenities were also equally impressive. The heated pool, complete with a thrilling waterslide, was a favorite among our children. The 7 Mile Kitchen provided a culinary delight, offering gourmet burgers and pizzas with breathtaking ocean views.

Our favorite thing to do, though, was indulging in the spa treatment at Ocean Pearl Spa. The spa’s focus on advanced and organic skincare, massages, and body treatments left us feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Of course, there’s a fitness center on-site, too. And speaking of relaxation, we highly suggest the Deluxe King Room. It’s not the fanciest, but with its premium bedding and lovely balcony, it should be more than enough for most.

Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort & Spa

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Beachside luxury, you said? Here’s the Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort & Spa. What immediately struck us was how this isn’t your typical Hilton property. The resort exudes an upbeat, family-friendly vibe that caters to adventure seekers. Situated across from the famous South Ponto surf break on Carlsbad State Beach, the location couldn’t be more perfect for beach enthusiasts.

As one of the top San Diego hotels near LEGOLAND, Cape Rey truly understands what families need. We were particularly impressed with their dedicated LEGOLAND concierge who helped us plan our day at the park efficiently. The complimentary shuttle service to LEGOLAND was a huge convenience, saving us the hassle of parking and navigation.

The resort also went above and beyond our expectations with its thoughtful amenities. Think Beach Butler service, complimentary tea and coffee, oceanview pool, and cozy cabanas. Our King Room deserves a mention, too. It was big, bright, and equipped with all the essentials we needed. Not to mention, we were lucky as our room had gorgeous ocean views.

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MarBrisa Carlsbad Resort

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Most Comfortable. It’s been a while since our stay at Marbrisa Carlsbad Resort. Even so, we’re still amazed by the sheer size of this 43-acre paradise. The resort’s proximity to Legoland California couldn’t be better, and the private park entrance made our daily visits remarkably convenient. To help navigate the expansive grounds, we frequently used the resort’s shuttle service, which was super convenient, especially when we were exhausted.

The heart of MarBrisa has to be The Cove, where we spent countless hours enjoying the two lagoon-style pools. The Cove Bar & Grill became our go-to spot for casual California dining. We particularly enjoyed its selection of burgers and fresh salads, complemented by an impressive beverage menu featuring cocktails, wines, and beers. Beyond that, we also loved the addition of the well-equipped gym, beach volleyball area for some afternoon fun and the friendly 24-hour front desk.

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Our Queen Studio was everything we wanted, mainly thoughtful layout and amenities. The private balcony became our favorite spot for morning coffee and evening relaxation. We noticed that most rooms are condo-style suites, featuring full kitchens, dining areas, and separate living and sleeping spaces, which are great for families or extended stays.

“Whether it was relaxation or entertainment, MarBrisa provided us with everything we needed to have the perfect stay.”

WOW Travel

LEGOLAND California Hotel and Castle Hotel

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Best Location. On the top of this list are the LEGOLAND California Hotel and Castle Hotel. Though two different hotels, they’re both equally magical and share most amenities. Part of LEGOLAND California Resort, they’re the best choice for families whose main purpose is to enjoy the rides and shows of the theme park. We were torn but ultimately decided to split our stay between the two.

The LEGOLAND Hotel is a dream come true for any LEGO lover. We were instantly immersed in the world of pirates, kingdoms, and adventure as soon as we stepped into our themed room. The attention to detail was incredible, from the LEGO minifigures on the beds to the LEGO-themed decor throughout the room. One of the biggest perks of staying at the LEGOLAND Hotel is the early entry to the park. It was amazing to be able to beat the crowds and get on our favorite rides first thing in the morning. We also enjoyed the convenient location of the hotel, which is right next to the park’s main entrance.

The second hotel, LEGOLAND Castle Hotel, was even more magical than we imagined. The castle theme was absolutely stunning, and our kids loved exploring the different themed areas of the hotel. The rooms were spacious and comfortable, with plenty of LEGO-themed activities to keep the little ones entertained. The hotel staff were also incredibly friendly and helpful, making our stay even more enjoyable.

Our Verdict!

With a hard-to-beat location, excellent amenities, and unmatched comfort, the hotels above are your perfect home for your LEGOLAND trip. But if you have to pick only one, which one would you choose? Let us help you narrow down the options even more with these criteria!

• Best Location: LEGOLAND California Hotel and Castle Hotel
• Best Comfortable: MarBrisa Carlsbad Resort
• Best Service: Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa
• Best Luxury: Four Seasons Residences Club Aviara
• Best Budget: West Inn & Suites

Where to Stay Near LEGOLAND, San Diego

As you can see from our list above, the most obvious choice is Carlsbad. Home to LEGOLAND, it’s a convenient place for families who want to minimize travel time. Better yet, this city offers a wide range of hotels, from budget-friendly motels to luxurious resorts, catering to various budgets and preferences. It also boasts several beautiful beaches, which are great for relaxation and water activities after a day at the park.

For a more laid-back atmosphere, consider Oceanside. Compared to Carlsbad, it’s more relaxing, with its stunning coastline and historic pier. Families can engage in various activities like surfing, paddleboarding, and building sandcastles on the beach. The downtown are is quaint, and you can find art galleries, boutiques, as well as eateries. It’s only a short drive from LEGOLAND.

If you’re on a budget, you’ll want to stay in San Marcos. It offers more budget-friendly accommodation options compared to coastal cities like Carlsbad and Oceanside. San Marcos also lets you enjoy a peaceful and family-oriented environment away from the hustle and bustle of the coast. And since it’s well-connected to major highways, you can reach LEGOLAND easily.

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Is LEGOLAND closer to LA or San Diego?

LEGOLAND California is closer to San Diego than LA. It’s approximately only 30 minutes north of San Diego.

Is LEGOLAND worth it in San Diego?

Yes, Legoland California is worth it for families with young children who love Legos. The park offers a variety of rides, shows, and interactive experiences that are perfect for kids.

What age is best for LEGOLAND San Diego?

Based on the official website, the ideal age range for LEGOLAND San Diego is between 2 and 12 years old. Younger children might find some rides too thrilling, while older children may outgrow the park’s focus on Lego-themed experiences.