Best Luxury Hotels in San Diego

Oyster knows what luxury travelers look for in their hotels. When we review luxury properties around the world, we evaluate how every feature stacks up against the competition, from the rooms to the pools to the restaurants. So if you’re planning a posh getaway and need a place to start, you’ve come to the right place. Take a look at our top picks for luxury and get inspired!

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1

Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa

Rancho Santa Fe, California, United States

This 49-room luxury resort is located in Rancho Santa Fe, a wealthy residential community in the hills of Southern California, and features a tranquil luxury spa, an excellent fine dining restaurant, 40 acres of lush grounds, and great freebies (including free Wi-Fi, free minibar items, free parking, and free breakfast). The Spanish-style suites, all with fireplaces and patios, are located in 26 casitas spread across the sprawling property, creating a rare level of privacy for guests.

2

Fairmont Grand Del Mar

Del Mar, California, United States

This 249-room Spanish-Colonial-style resort in the rolling hills near Del Mar is stunning, from the old-world decor to the enormous rooms to the luxurious spa. It features four pools, excellent restaurants, an 18-hole golf course, an equestrian center, and free car service in a Mercedes or Cadillac Escalade. Plus, some nice freebies that other luxury hotels don't have, including free Wi-Fi, free off-site parking and free round-trip shuttle to Del Mar make this hotel a great pick.

3

L’Auberge Del Mar

Del Mar, California, United States

L'Auberge Del Mar is one of the top hotels on the Southern California coastline, with a great location in beautiful Del Mar Village, right next to the beach and close to restaurants and shops. It features a small pool, a spa, two lighted tennis courts and an award-winning restaurant with a farm-to-table menu. The 120 spotless rooms have a homey, almost country feel; with green bedspreads, floral pillows, and soft peach walls. Marble bathrooms have large walk-in showers.

4

The Lodge at Torrey Pines

La Jolla, California, United States

With its proximity to some of the most beautiful spots in San Diego, the 170-room Lodge at Torrey Pines is a haven for nature lovers and golf enthusiasts opting for a rustic, relaxed vibe. Rooms and common areas feature craftsman-styled decor and furnishings, and the rooms are sweet and spacious, with a unique woods-y feel -- though some are a bit dark and even a tad bland. The bathrooms are massive, with custom-made toiletries, and most feature beautiful soaking tubs and stained glass windows. The lodge's on-site facilities are up to par for a luxury resort -- saltwater pool with underwater music, beautiful spa, and a famous golf course that's a stop on the PGA Tour.

5

THE US GRANT, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego

Gaslamp Quarter, California, United States

Built by Ulysses S. Grant's son in 1910, the 270-room U.S. Grant Hotel is one of the most celebrated and respected hotels within San Diego, known for its American luxury with a traditional European twist. Rooms are bright and classically elegant, with crown molding, crisp white linens, and modern amenities like flat-screen TVs. Bathrooms have large walk-in showers and deep bowl sinks. Although the hotel's overall elegance and luxe vibe are charming and captivating, it lacks a pool (although guests can use the Westin's across the street), and the fees for parking and Wi-Fi can add up.

6

Kimpton Hotel Palomar San Diego

Downtown, California, United States

The Hotel Palomar (formerly the Se San Diego) is one of San Diego's most luxurious hotels, and also one of its coolest, with a trendy rooftop bar, zen design, and a location just north of the lively Gaslamp Quarter, next to a major concert venue. The lovely Asian-inspired decor features lots of wood, earth tones, clean lines, soft lighting and orchid accents -- all secluded behind an enormous metal front door. The luxury and the pampering continue inside the building with top-notch features, including an infinity pool, a first-rate spa, and big, luxurious rooms with walnut floors and flat-screen TVs.