The Best Luxury Hotels in San Diego for a Romantic Getaway
Ready to turn up the romance in America’s Finest City? We’ve curated our favorite luxury stays that are worth the splurge—whether you’re celebrating something special or just need an excuse to escape the daily grind.
We’ve done the legwork to find the perfect match for every couple’s vibe, from classic coastal elegance to modern downtown energy. Let’s dive into our favorite spots that combine luxury, location, and that special something that makes sparks fly.
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! It’s as beautiful as a resort can get, designed with inspiration from the palaces of Spain and the sun-washed coastal retreats of France.
You’ll 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 like a 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 at 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 has 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 for romance than watching the sun set over Del Mar? It’s a big world out there, but that view is no slouch!
The L’Auberge is a true mainstay in the realm of luxury resorts. Couples should come here with no expectation other than to relax and lean into being fully catered to (not the hardest thing to come to terms with!).
The Pendry
We LOVE 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 Lafayette
Although you may know it as San Diego’s best hotel for a great party night or weekend, the Lafayette is incredibly romantic, too.
Weekdays and mornings have a much slower pace at the Lafayette, giving you the opportunity to really soak in the gorgeous design, have a cocktail or two, and linger around in your luxurious robes and slippers…serious romantic Old Hollywood vibes.
The Hotel Del Coronado
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.
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 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 a 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 features ocean views, a chromotherapy floating whirlpool tub, a separate step-in rain shower, and a balcony.
Plus, on the amenity menu are in-room spa treatments—yes, please!
Pali Hotel
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 awesome extras.
Enjoy stunning skyline views from their exclusive guest rooftop deck. Down below, every carefully curated room and suite features Bellino linens, SMEG fridges stashed with local goodies, and even Diptyque pampering potions.
When you’re ready, fuel up on French diner faves at the hotel’s bistro before strolling to a Padres game or downtown nightlife.
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 looking for the most romantic of views, a Mediterranean escape, energetic nightlife, all the foodie options, or classic R&R, there’s a nest for all types of lovebirds among these sweet spots.
Oh, and you don’t need to limit your stay to Valentine’s Day—a romantic getaway is always in order!
See you there!
