A red train on tracks, palm trees, and modern buildings.

Search Central San Diego hotels

  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation
  • Treat yourself

    Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check prices for these dates

This weekend
Next weekend

Filter by

Guest rating
Guest rating
Star rating

Our top choices for Central San Diego hotels

Holiday Inn Express San Diego Airport - Old Town by IHG

Holiday Inn Express San Diego Airport - Old Town by IHG
2.5 star property
Mission Hills
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,083 reviews)
"Staff was so great nice rooms really great stay"
United States
Amelia
The price is NZ$286
includes taxes & fees
5 July - 6 July
Holiday Inn Express San Diego Airport - Old Town by IHG

Lafayette Hotel & Club

Lafayette Hotel & Club
4.0 star property
University Heights
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,768 reviews)
"Beautiful hotel"
United States
Cuauhtemoc
The price is NZ$524
includes taxes & fees
6 July - 7 July
Lafayette Hotel & Club

HYATT house San Diego/Sorrento Mesa

HYATT house San Diego/Sorrento Mesa
3.0 star property
Sorrento Valley
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Amazing stay"
United States
Kevin
The price is NZ$403
includes taxes & fees
19 July - 20 July
HYATT house San Diego/Sorrento Mesa

Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town

Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town
3.0 star property
Old Town San Diego
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (2,057 reviews)
"Excellent stay! Beautiful grounds and friendly staff."
United States
Rebecca
The price is NZ$290
includes taxes & fees
2 July - 3 July
Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego La Jolla

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego La Jolla
4.0 star property
University City
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,946 reviews)
"Great location and very comfortable and spacious hotel room"
United States
Carmen
The price is NZ$462
includes taxes & fees
5 July - 6 July
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego La Jolla

Comfort Inn San Diego Old Town

Comfort Inn San Diego Old Town
2.5 star property
Old Town San Diego
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (2,032 reviews)
"Great place to stay near Old Town"
United States
Robert
The price is NZ$269
includes taxes & fees
5 July - 6 July
Comfort Inn San Diego Old Town

Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Central

Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Central
3.0 star property
Kearny Mesa
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,013 reviews)
"Great hotel and I will stay there again. Good breakfast and very clean and safe."
United States
Natalie
The price is NZ$320
includes taxes & fees
6 July - 7 July
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Central

Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Old Town/SeaWorld Area

Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Old Town/SeaWorld Area
3.0 star property
Old Town San Diego
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,478 reviews)
"Hotel is lovely mission style in keeping with the area. The location is very convenient to local attractions."
United States
Toni
The price is NZ$322
includes taxes & fees
2 July - 3 July
Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Old Town/SeaWorld Area

Kings Inn San Diego

Kings Inn San Diego
2.5 star property
Mission Valley
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (3,724 reviews)
"Such an amazing place to stay at! hotel is so close to literally everything and the staff was amazing. Hotel was super clean and quiet definitely recommend!"
United States
Jasmyne
The price is NZ$235
includes taxes & fees
5 July - 6 July
Kings Inn San Diego

Crowne Plaza San Diego - Mission Valley by IHG

Crowne Plaza San Diego - Mission Valley by IHG
3.5 star property
Mission Valley
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,023 reviews)
"great stay"
United States
David
The price is NZ$258
includes taxes & fees
8 July - 9 July
Crowne Plaza San Diego - Mission Valley by IHG

Best Western San Diego/Miramar Hotel

Best Western San Diego/Miramar Hotel
2.5 star property
Miramar
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1,428 reviews)
"Great stay Really close to the cut water brewery!"
United States
Jessica
The price is NZ$333
includes taxes & fees
7 July - 8 July
Best Western San Diego/Miramar Hotel

Hampton Inn San Diego/Mission Valley

Hampton Inn San Diego/Mission Valley
2.5 star property
Mission Valley
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,628 reviews)
"Great stay"
United States
Karen
The price is NZ$304
includes taxes & fees
6 July - 7 July
Hampton Inn San Diego/Mission Valley

Element by Marriott San Diego Mission Valley

Element by Marriott San Diego Mission Valley
3.0 star property
Mission Valley
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (4 reviews)
"Overall, good stay."
United States
David
The price is NZ$436
includes taxes & fees
2 July - 3 July
Element by Marriott San Diego Mission Valley

Old Town Western Inn & Suites

Old Town Western Inn & Suites
2.5 star property
Old Town San Diego
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1,008 reviews)
"Very good area for visiting the area"
United States
Carla
The price is NZ$269
includes taxes & fees
27 July - 28 July
Old Town Western Inn & Suites

Comfort Inn San Diego Miramar

Comfort Inn San Diego Miramar
2.5 star property
Miramar
7.4 out of 10, Good, (1,131 reviews)
"Great place with friendly staff and with a variety of breakfast choices. Family and I enjoyed our stay there."
United States
Karla
The price is NZ$217
includes taxes & fees
5 July - 6 July
Comfort Inn San Diego Miramar

Hyatt Regency La Jolla

Hyatt Regency La Jolla
4.0 star property
University City
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Our go to hotel whenever we visit the area!"
United States
Maria
The price is NZ$482
includes taxes & fees
5 July - 6 July
Hyatt Regency La Jolla

Courtyard by Marriott Old Town

Courtyard by Marriott Old Town
3.0 star property
Old Town San Diego
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,002 reviews)
"Great location with great amenities!"
United States
Christie
The price is NZ$302
includes taxes & fees
2 July - 3 July
Courtyard by Marriott Old Town

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites San Diego-Sorrento Valley by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites San Diego-Sorrento Valley by IHG
2.5 star property
Sorrento Valley
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,002 reviews)
"I love that it wasn’t bustling with people and that the water in the shower had great water pressure. The staff was cordial and I like the location."
United States
Garfield
The price is NZ$342
includes taxes & fees
2 July - 3 July
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites San Diego-Sorrento Valley by IHG

Legacy Resort Hotel & Spa

Legacy Resort Hotel & Spa
4.0 star property
Mission Valley
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (3,070 reviews)
"Great place to stay!!"
United States
Griffin
The price is NZ$345
includes taxes & fees
6 July - 7 July
Legacy Resort Hotel & Spa

City24 Hotel Little Italy Mission Hills

City24 Hotel Little Italy Mission Hills
4.5 star property
Middletown
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (168 reviews)
"Nice and very friendly staff was a great stay"
United States
Alexander
The price is NZ$341
includes taxes & fees
2 July - 3 July
City24 Hotel Little Italy Mission Hills
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels when you're signed in

Stay near popular Central San Diego attractions

Learn more about Central San Diego

Seaside views, a must-see zoo and top sights from San Diego Zoo to Snapdragon Stadium—discover Central San Diego, a historic destination also famous for its sports teams.

A red train on tracks, palm trees, and modern buildings.

Top Central San Diego Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Central San Diego

More cheap accommodation in Central San Diego

Find out more about Central San Diego

Top reasons to visit Central San Diego

  • Family-Friendly Attractions: Central San Diego is packed with activities suitable for all ages, making it perfect for family vacations.
  • Vibrant City Life: Experience a lively downtown filled with friendly locals, shops, and historical landmarks.
  • Trendy Neighbourhoods: Explore unique areas like South Park, known for its local vibe and budget-friendly options.
  • Outdoor Recreation: Enjoy beautiful beaches, urban parks, and whale watching opportunities.
  • Diverse Accommodation: Find a range of lodging options from family-friendly to business-focused across the area.

Find great hotels near Central San Diego

Discover the ideal accommodation options in Central San Diego, where adventure awaits. From family-friendly hotels to pet-friendly lodgings, you'll find a variety of choices to suit your needs. Explore top hotels, grand hotels, and business-friendly options along Hotel Circle, or consider the comfortable Days Inn for a convenient stay. Whether you're seeking relaxation or excitement, Central San Diego has the perfect place for your holiday.

  • Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle: Located 9.7km from Central San Diego, Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle is a 3-star hotel that caters to adventurous travellers, business visitors, and pet owners. The hotel boasts a range of recreational activities including parasailing, snorkeling, and surfing nearby for thrill-seekers. Guests appreciate the pet-friendly policy, which allows dogs with specific guidelines. With a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, the hotel offers a pleasant stay with essential amenities for adventure and business alike.
  • Best Western Seven Seas: This family-friendly 3-star hotel is also positioned 9.7km from Central San Diego, offering a welcoming atmosphere for families and those seeking adventure. The Best Western Seven Seas features various nearby activities like hiking, mountain biking, and sailing, ensuring an engaging experience for all ages. Amenities for children, such as complimentary cribs, enhance the family-friendly vibe. Guests appreciate the hotel’s commitment to creating memorable experiences while enjoying the great outdoors.
  • California Suites Hotel: Situated just 3.2km from Central San Diego, California Suites Hotel offers budget-friendly accommodation ideal for business travellers. This straightforward hotel provides essential amenities and a convenient location for easy access to the city’s business hubs. While it may not have the extensive recreational offerings of other hotels, its proximity to Central San Diego makes it a practical choice for those focused on work commitments.

Where to stay near Central San Diego

Central San Diego offers a delightful mix of family-friendly attractions, vibrant city life, and rich history. Explore the bustling downtown area, where friendly locals and historical landmarks create a welcoming atmosphere. Venture into South San Diego for budget-friendly options and a taste of the local vibe. Whether you're after business opportunities or leisurely sightseeing, Central San Diego is the perfect base for an unforgettable holiday experience.

  • San Diego: Central San Diego is a vibrant city renowned for its stunning beaches and outdoor attractions. With a mild climate year-round, the area is bustling with family-friendly activities and opportunities for adventure. Popular spots include the famous San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, and various coastal areas ideal for sunbathing and water sports. Shopping centres and resorts are easily accessible, ensuring that visitors can indulge in both relaxation and exploration. The peak travel seasons in March to April and July draw in visitors eager to experience the city's rich cultural and recreational offerings.
  • Kearny Mesa: Located a mere mile from Central San Diego, Kearny Mesa is a lively neighbourhood perfect for families and those seeking a city-themed experience. The area boasts an array of shopping centres and malls, making it a shopper’s paradise. Visitors can explore local eateries and enjoy outdoor spaces that provide a taste of the Californian lifestyle. Proximity to beaches and the scenic bay offers further opportunities for leisure activities. The steady influx of visitors throughout the year ensures a vibrant atmosphere, particularly during the peak months of March to April and July.
  • Clairemont Mesa East: Just 4.8km from Central San Diego, Clairemont Mesa East is a charming neighbourhood that appeals to families and business travellers alike. Its close-knit community feel is complemented by modern amenities, including shopping centres and educational institutions. The area is known for its proximity to beautiful beaches and family-friendly recreational spots. Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of activities while experiencing the local culture. With peak visitor numbers in March and from July to August, Clairemont Mesa East offers a welcoming environment year-round.

Things to do near Central San Diego

Shopping

In Central San Diego, visit Westfield Horton Plaza, a vibrant outdoor shopping centre featuring diverse shops and eateries. For a unique experience, explore the Gaslamp Quarter's boutiques and artisan markets, offering a mix of local crafts and souvenirs to take home.

Recreation

Escape to the tranquil Oasis Spa, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and wellness therapies amidst a calming atmosphere. For outdoor enthusiasts, Balboa Park offers lush gardens, picturesque walking paths, and scenic spots perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls, blending relaxation with natural beauty.

Adventure

At Barona Speedway, located 32.2km from Central San Diego, immerse yourself in the thrill of motor racing. Experience the adrenaline rush as you watch high-speed races unfold, surrounded by an energetic atmosphere that captures the spirit of adventure and competition.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter for a lively atmosphere, with venues like The Shout. House offering duelling pianos and lively crowds. For a more laid-back vibe, check out Noble Experiment, a hidden speakeasy known for its creative cocktails. Enjoy the diverse nightlife options Central San Diego has to offer.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Central San Diego

When visiting Central San Diego, consider travelling during the off-peak months of November to January for lower accommodation prices. Book your stay on a Tuesday for the best rates, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to find deals by filtering for budget-friendly hotels and package options that combine flights and activities. For free activities, explore Balboa Park and its gardens, or enjoy the stunning coastline. Additionally, utilise public transport like the trolley for affordable travel around the city.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Central San Diego are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Central San Diego is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Central San Diego is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you’re looking for. To discover the most affordable prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save on your trip by combining your hotel accommodation in Central San Diego with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Central San Diego

Central San Diego is ideal for family, city, or business-themed holidays, featuring a mix of beaches, urban parks, and the bay. Visitors can enjoy cultural attractions, trendy neighbourhoods like South Park, and the San Diego Convention Center. With a vibrant outdoor experience and a rich cultural scene, there's something for everyone to explore in this lively area.

  • Mission Bay: Experience the stunning scenery and outdoor vibes at Mission Bay, a picturesque bay located 11.3km from Central San Diego. It's ideal for water sports, picnics, and leisurely strolls along the sandy beaches, making it a relaxing escape from the city hustle.
  • Hotel Circle: Situated 9.7km from Central San Diego, Hotel Circle is a vibrant street lined with hotels, restaurants, and shops. It offers a lively city vibe, providing easy access to local attractions and a taste of urban life.
  • Windansea Beach: Enjoy the laid-back beach vibes at Windansea Beach, 12.9km from Central San Diego. Known for its stunning sunsets and surf culture, it’s a great spot for sunbathing, swimming, or simply soaking in the coastal atmosphere.

Best time to go to Central San Diego

The best time to visit Central San Diego, San Diego is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
March58.1°F (14.5°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April60.6°F (15.9°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
May62.6°F (17.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June66.4°F (19.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
July70.5°F (21.4°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August72.3°F (22.4°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September72.0°F (22.2°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October68.2°F (20.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
November62.6°F (17.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
December57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Central San Diego

Flying into Central SAN Diego is easy, with the major airport being San Diego International Airport (SAN), located 14.5km away. Excellent nearby accommodation options include the 5-star Pendry San Diego, just 4.8km from the airport, and the luxurious US Grant, only 3.2km away. Both hotels offer convenient access to SAN. For those considering TIJuana, Mexico, General Abelardo L. Rodriguez International Airport (TIJ) is situated 37.0km from Central San Diego, with nearby options such as the 4.5-star Real Inn Tijuana and Quartz Hotel & SPA, each 4.8km from TIJ. These hotels provide easy airport access for international travellers.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia