The Best Romantic Luxury Hotels in San Diego for a Romantic Getaway
Whether you are visiting San Diego or a local planning a staycation, our roundup of the most romantic luxury hotels in San Diego has something for every couple looking for that perfect romantic getaway.
To help you plan your perfect romantic stay at one of San Diego’s date-worthy hotels, we’ve selected our favorite hotels in a variety of settings, giving you a diversity of choices from urban to beach to rolling hills—something for every couple.
Here are the most romantic luxury hotels in San Diego:
Fairmont Grand Del Mar
The Grand Del Mar has been named TripAdvisor’s #1 Luxury Hotel in the United States, so you can’t go wrong here!
This is as beautiful as a resort can get, designed with inspiration from the palaces of Spain and the sun-washed coastal retreats of France.
You will truly feel like you escaped to Europe. The only problem may be that you won’t want to leave!
Estancia La Jolla
Located in the heart of La Jolla on Torrey Pines, the Estancia La Jolla is almost like a little slice of Santa Barbara in San Diego. If you and your partner are in the market for a little rest and rejuvenation, the Estancia should be catapulted to the top of your list.
Lounge in a poolside cabana for two, or indulge in one of their many spa treatments. Their full-service spa is equipped with a eucalyptus steam room, a private deck with a soaking tub for two, nine private treatment rooms, including a couple’s bungalow, and more.
Suffice it to say, the two of you are sure to return back to reality as renewed humans.
La Valencia
La Valencia in La Jolla will make you feel like you escaped to a cliffside hotel on the Mediterranean—and there are very few things more romantic than that!
If you have the means, book a suite that sits apart from the main hotel building, and then don’t plan on leaving the room—you won’t want to!
L’Auberge Del Mar
What better backdrop to get handsy than while watching the sun set over Del Mar? I mean, it’s a big world out there, but that view is no slouch, guys!
The L’Auberge is a true mainstay in the realm of luxury resorts on which to hang your hat. Couples should come here with no expectation other than to relax and lean into the prospect of being fully catered to (not the hardest thing to come to terms with!).
The Pendry
We lovvvvvve The Pendry! The luxury hotel located squarely in the heart of the Gaslamp has the best combo of food, drinks, nightlife, and luxurious accommodations of any hotel in the city! Perfect for a romantic staycation!
Have drinks at Fifth & Rose, dinner at Lionfish, and then – if you’re feeling it – dance the night away at Oxford Social Club before escaping to your plush room and sleeping in late (can we come?!)!
The US Grant Hotel
The US Grant Hotel has that feel of old-world luxury and glamour that can be hard to find on the West Coast. Sexy!!
Built by Ulysses S. Grant Jr. (son of President Ulysses S. Grant) and the hotel of choice for many Presidents and First Ladies, this is as luxurious and timeless as you’ll find in downtown San Diego.
The Hotel Del Coronado
Ok, no list of romantic hotels in San Diego could be complete without the Hotel Del! Old world charm and luxury right on one of America’s most beautiful beaches—you can’t get more romantic than that!
The Del has undergone some significant renovations in recent years, ensuring that its comfort and quality are as high as ever. Book a room and enjoy the simple luxuries of sun, sea, and time together at this San Diego icon.
The Guild
The Guild Hotel is a still relatively hidden gem of downtown San Diego, opened in 2019 as a reimagination of the iconic, historic Armed Services Building, built in 1924, with a rich YMCA history in the heart of downtown San Diego.
The architecture and design of the hotel are a throwback to a more glamorous era. High ceilings, original tilework, elegant archways, and exposed brick walls complement a Riviera-style courtyard that will convince you that you’ve landed in Europe.
You’ll have access to all of the dining and nightlife options of Downtown San Diego, making The Guild a unique combination of romantic escape and “opportunity for pleasure and social diversions” (a quote from the dedication of the building).
Alila Marea
The Alila Marea Resort is a gorgeous property sitting on the cliffs of Encinitas, overlooking the Pacific Ocean and providing ocean views from nearly every room.
The design is both modern and very natural and organic feeling, meant to blend in with its pristine natural surroundings.
If your idea of a romantic getaway is being active together, the resort’s location gives you unparalleled access to wellness and lifestyle activities, including surfing, paddle boarding, biking, and more, and the award-winning food program will ensure that you are well-fed to do it all.
Or, simply stay in your room and enjoy the breathtaking views…we won’t blame you one bit.
Rancho Bernardo Inn
Tucked away among the rolling hills of San Diego’s North County, the Rancho Bernardo Inn is a stunning 265-acre resort that is truly a respite from the typical hustle of Southern California life.
It’s been recognized as the #1 Hotel Spa in America by Conde Nast Traveler and has been nominated for a World Best in Travel + Leisure 2023 Awards, so you can expect a luxury experience that will turn up the romance!
Tower 23
Tucked away in PB, Tower 23 is the place to go if you’re on the hunt for a beachside romantic getaway that has a little party to it!
Although it technically doesn’t pass as a luxury hotel, the space is equal parts crisp, clean, fresh, and bright, with an undoubtedly playful ambiance that fits perfectly with its location in one of San Diego’s most energetic beach nightlife scenes. And it’s literally on the beach—you can’t get closer to the action!
But don’t worry, the rooms are designed so that you can tune out all of the excitement outside and tune into each other. If you’re in the mood to go big or go home, our vote is most definitely on the Sanctuary Suite, which boasts ocean views, a chromotherapy floating whirlpool tub, a separate step-in rain shower, and a balcony.
Additionally, on the amenity menu are in-room spa treatments—yes, please!
Pali Hotel
Nautical flair meets modern twists as the historic early 20th century Hotel St. James transforms into a detailed design daydream tailor-made for the urban explorer.
Tucked amidst the best of the bustling Gaslamp, Pali Hotel‘s revival of a 1912 gem overlooks the city with 122 plush rooms boasting bold aesthetics and darling extras that dazzle.
Owner and designer Avi Brosh seems obsessed with every detail when it comes to making his hotels charming, unique, and both elegant and approachable – perfect for a special romantic retreat in San Diego. If you’ve ever stayed in a charming hotel in Europe and thought ‘why don’t we have hotels like this in America’, Pali is your answer!
Sip stunning skyline views from their exclusive guest rooftop deck. Down below, every carefully curated Queen, King, and opulent suite adorns travelers in Bellino linens, SMEG fridges stashed with local goodies, and even Diptyque pampering potions.
Fuel up on French diner faves at the hotel’s bistro before strolling to a Padres game or downtown nightlife. However you unwind or take on San Diego, the Pali Hotel’s treasured property gets a playful new lease on life through thoughtful details marrying heritage with hospitality at its heart.
What Are You Waiting For? Pick One and Book It!
There you have it—the most romantic luxury hotels in San Diego!
Whether you’re a couple seeking the most romantic of views, a Mediterranean escape, energetic nightlife, all the foodie options, or classic R&R, among these sweet spots there is sure to be a nest for every type of lovebird.
Oh, and you don’t need to limit your stay to Valentine’s Day—a romantic getaway is always in order!
See you there!
