Question 1

Which are the best hotels to stay in San Diego as a budget traveller?

Accepted Answer

The best hotels to stay in San Diego as a budget traveller include Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Airport/Liberty Station, Ocean Park Inn, and Staypineapple, Hotel Z, Gaslamp San Diego.

The Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Airport/Liberty Station, with a 9.4 rating, offers excellent value with complimentary breakfast, including buffet options on weekends. Guests frequently praise the spacious, clean rooms and the friendly, excellent staff. The location is also highly rated, and the pool is described as clean and great.

Another excellent choice is the Ocean Park Inn, rated 9.4. This hotel provides free breakfast, including self-serve options, and complimentary toiletries. Guests consistently highlight the great location, the friendly and helpful staff, and the comfortable, clean rooms. The breakfast is often described as excellent, and the pool is noted as nice and beautiful.

For those looking to explore the Gaslamp Quarter, the Staypineapple, Hotel Z, Gaslamp San Diego, rated 9.4, is a great option. This hotel offers complimentary toiletries and bicycles for guest use. Reviewers frequently praise the friendly and helpful staff, the convenient and great location, and the clean, amazing rooms.

Question 2

Which area of San Diego is best to stay in for cheap hotels?

Accepted Answer

For travellers seeking cheap hotels in San Diego, areas like Mission Valley and Hotel Circle offer a concentration of budget-friendly accommodations, providing good value and accessibility to various attractions. These neighbourhoods are known for their motel-style properties and mid-range hotels, often featuring complimentary parking, which can be a significant saving.

Solo travellers will find Mission Valley particularly convenient, as it's a central location with easy access to the city's trolley system, connecting them to downtown, Old Town, and other popular spots without the need for a car. Many hotels here are close to shopping centres, offering affordable dining options and amenities like outdoor swimming pools.

Families might prefer Hotel Circle for its practical offerings. This area is specifically designed for visitors, with numerous hotels lining the main thoroughfare. Many establishments cater to families with spacious rooms and sometimes include breakfast, adding to the overall savings.

Question 3

What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in San Diego?

Accepted Answer

For families seeking top-rated yet affordable accommodation in San Diego, excellent choices include Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Hotel Circle/SeaWorld Area, Kings Inn San Diego, and Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Del Mar.

The Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Hotel Circle/SeaWorld Area, with an 8.8 rating, offers fantastic value with complimentary breakfast every day and free grocery shopping services, superb for families looking to save on dining. Their spacious and clean rooms, along with a friendly staff, are frequently praised by guests.

Kings Inn San Diego, also rated 8.8, is a great option for families who enjoy a refreshing dip, as it features an outdoor pool with secured gates and toys, ensuring a fun and safe experience for children. Guests consistently highlight the comfortable and clean rooms, as well as the helpful staff.

Another strong contender is the Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Del Mar, which has an 8.6 rating. This hotel provides complimentary cribs and offers a free area shuttle and beach shuttle, making it easy for families to explore local attractions and enjoy the coast without the hassle of driving.

Question 4

What cheap hotels in San Diego offer complimentary breakfast?

Accepted Answer

For budget-friendly hotels in San Diego that offer complimentary breakfast, you have several excellent choices, including Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Airport/Liberty Station, Ocean Park Inn, and Hampton Inn & Suites San Diego Airport Liberty Station.

The Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Airport/Liberty Station, with a superb 9.4 rating, provides a fantastic complimentary breakfast, with guests frequently praising its quality. Reviewers also highlight the spacious and clean rooms, along with the excellent and friendly staff.

Another great option is the Ocean Park Inn, rated 9.4. This hotel offers a free self-serve breakfast that customers consistently describe as excellent. Its location is also highly regarded, as are its comfortable and clean rooms.

The Hampton Inn & Suites San Diego Airport Liberty Station, with a strong 9.2 rating, also provides a complimentary buffet breakfast that guests often describe as great. The staff are noted for being friendly and helpful, and the rooms are comfortable and clean.

You might also consider the Old Town Inn, rated 9.2, which offers a free continental breakfast. Guests appreciate the comfortable and clean rooms, as well as the convenient location and free parking.

For those seeking a hostel experience, Samesun Ocean Beach - Hostel, with an exceptional 9.6 rating, offers a free to-go breakfast.

Question 5

When is the most affordable time to visit San Diego?

Accepted Answer

The most affordable time to visit San Diego is typically during the shoulder seasons: late autumn (October to November) and late winter/early spring (February to April). During these months, you'll find lower prices on accommodation and flights compared to the peak summer season, while still enjoying pleasant weather.

For solo travellers, these periods offer a more relaxed atmosphere, fewer crowds at popular attractions like Balboa Park and the Gaslamp Quarter, and better deals on hostels and smaller hotels. The mild temperatures are superb for exploring the city's numerous free beaches and picturesque coastal walks without the summer heat.

Families can also benefit significantly from off-peak travel. Many family-friendly attractions, such as the world-renowned zoo and various museums, are less congested, making for a more enjoyable experience. Accommodation prices, particularly for vacation rentals or hotels with kitchenettes, drop considerably, allowing for more budget-friendly self-catering options.

Question 6

What are the best cheap hotels in San Diego with a pool?

Accepted Answer

For excellent value hotels in San Diego that feature a refreshing pool, consider the Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Airport/Liberty Station, Ocean Park Inn, and Hampton Inn & Suites San Diego Airport Liberty Station.

The Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Airport/Liberty Station, with an impressive 9.4 rating, offers spacious and clean rooms along with a great, clean outdoor pool. Guests also appreciate the free internet and complimentary breakfast. The staff are frequently praised for being excellent and friendly, and the location is consistently highlighted as great.

Another fantastic option is the Ocean Park Inn, also boasting a 9.4 rating. This hotel provides a beautiful outdoor pool and free breakfast, including a self-serve option. Reviewers often mention the friendly and helpful staff, comfortable and clean rooms, and a great location.

The Hampton Inn & Suites San Diego Airport Liberty Station, rated 9.2, features an outdoor pool, including a children's pool, which is heated for comfort. Guests benefit from free WiFi, complimentary airport transportation, and a free buffet breakfast.

Question 7

Are there any cheap San Diego hotels near Mission Bay?

Accepted Answer

For budget-friendly hotels in San Diego near Mission Bay, consider the Boardwalk Hotel: Bikes, Boards & Beach Gear Included.

The Boardwalk Hotel, with a 9.4 rating, offers excellent value with its complimentary bikes, boards, and beach gear, great for enjoying the nearby beach and ocean. Guests consistently praise its great location and comfortable, clean rooms.

Question 8

Which cheap San Diego hotels are near San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?

Accepted Answer

Several budget-friendly hotels in San Diego offer convenient access to San Diego International Airport (SAN).

The TownePlace Suites by Marriott San Diego Airport/Liberty Station, with an impressive 9.0 rating, provides excellent value. Guests frequently praise the friendly and helpful staff, the fantastic location, and the clean rooms. You'll also benefit from free buffet breakfast and complimentary airport transportation, making your travels seamless.

Another top choice is the Hampton Inn & Suites San Diego Airport Liberty Station, boasting a 9.2 rating. This hotel offers free toiletries, free WiFi, and free airport transportation. Reviewers consistently highlight the friendly staff, comfortable and clean rooms, and the great breakfast.

The Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Airport/Liberty Station, rated 9.2, is also a great option. It offers free WiFi and free internet, along with complimentary toiletries. Guests often mention the excellent and friendly staff, the beautiful location, and the nice, clean rooms with comfortable beds. You can also enjoy their outdoor pool.

The Holiday Inn Express San Diego Airport - Old Town by IHG, with a 9.0 rating, is another fantastic choice. It provides free airport transportation, free toiletries, and free breakfast, including a buffet. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly and great staff, comfortable and clean rooms, and excellent service.

Finally, the Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Airport/Liberty Station, with an outstanding 9.4 rating, offers spacious and clean rooms. This hotel provides free internet, free WiFi, and free breakfast, including a buffet on weekends.

Question 9

Is San Diego a budget-friendly destination?

Accepted Answer

While San Diego is generally considered a more expensive destination, travellers can absolutely experience its Californian charm on a budget with some smart planning.

For accommodation, consider looking for stays slightly outside the immediate tourist hotspots. Areas like North Park or Normal Heights offer a vibrant local atmosphere with more affordable guesthouses and boutique hotels, all well-connected to the city's main attractions by public transport. Solo travellers might find excellent value in hostels located near the Gaslamp Quarter or Ocean Beach.

Couples can save on dining by taking advantage of San Diego's fantastic food truck scene or exploring the numerous taquerias for delicious and inexpensive Mexican fare, especially in neighbourhoods like Barrio Logan. Many of San Diego's best experiences are also free or low-cost, such as strolling through Balboa Park, relaxing on the beautiful beaches like Coronado or La Jolla Shores, or hiking the numerous trails in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.

Question 10

What cheap hotels in San Diego offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?

Accepted Answer

For budget-friendly hotels in San Diego that offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes, you have several excellent options, including Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Airport/Liberty Station, Hampton Inn & Suites San Diego Airport Liberty Station, Old Town Inn, The Inn at Sunset Cliffs, and Boardwalk Hotel: Bikes, Boards & Beach Gear Included.

The Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Airport/Liberty Station, with an impressive 9.4 rating, provides spacious and clean rooms equipped with full kitchens, making it ideal for longer stays or those who prefer to prepare their own meals. Guests also benefit from complimentary breakfast and free WiFi.

Another fantastic choice is the Hampton Inn & Suites San Diego Airport Liberty Station, rated 9.2. This hotel offers rooms with kitchenettes, allowing for convenient meal preparation. They also provide free WiFi, a complimentary buffet breakfast, and a free airport shuttle.

The Old Town Inn, with a 9.2 rating, features rooms with kitchenettes and is praised for its comfortable and clean accommodations. Guests appreciate the free continental breakfast, free WiFi, and easy, free self-parking.

For those seeking a coastal experience, The Inn at Sunset Cliffs, rated 9.2, has rooms with kitchenettes and is located near the beach and ocean, offering beautiful views.

Finally, the Boardwalk Hotel: Bikes, Boards & Beach Gear Included, with a 9.4 rating, provides rooms with kitchenettes.

Question 11

Which cheap hotels in San Diego have good reviews for customer service?

Accepted Answer

For affordable hotels in San Diego with great customer service, travellers often praise Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Airport/Liberty Station, Ocean Park Inn, and Staypineapple, Hotel Z, Gaslamp San Diego.

The Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Airport/Liberty Station, with a 9.4 rating, offers excellent customer service and friendly staff. Guests can enjoy free internet, complimentary toiletries, and a free buffet breakfast, including on weekends.

Another great choice is the Ocean Park Inn, rated 9.4 by our customers. Its front desk staff are consistently described as friendly and helpful. This hotel also provides free WiFi, complimentary toiletries, and a free self-serve breakfast. Free cribs are available for those travelling with little ones.

The Staypineapple, Hotel Z, Gaslamp San Diego, with a 9.4 rating, is known for its great customer service and friendly, helpful staff. Guests benefit from complimentary toiletries and free internet access. The hotel also offers bicycles for exploring the area.

Question 12

Are there any cheap hotels in San Diego that allow for late check-out or early check-in?

Accepted Answer

Yes, several budget-friendly hotels in San Diego are great for handling non-standard arrival or departure times, though specific policies can vary.

The Hampton Inn San Diego Del Mar, with a 9.0 rating, offers early check-in and late check-out options. Guests consistently praise the comfortable and clean rooms, great breakfast, and excellent staff. They also provide free breakfast, free toiletries, and a complimentary area shuttle.

Another excellent choice is the Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Hotel Circle/SeaWorld Area, rated 8.8. This hotel offers early check-in and late check-out. Reviewers frequently mention the spacious and clean rooms, friendly staff, and amazing free breakfast. They also provide a free grocery shopping service and complimentary WiFi.

The Comfort Inn San Diego Miramar, with a 7.2 rating, also offers early check-in and late check-out. Customers appreciate the friendly and helpful staff, comfortable rooms and beds, and the great free buffet breakfast. Free WiFi and self-parking are also available.

The Residence Inn San Diego Del Mar, rated 8.8, provides late check-out options. Guests often comment on the friendly and helpful staff, great breakfast, and comfortable rooms. This hotel also offers free continental breakfast and free internet access.

Finally, the Ramada by Wyndham San Diego Airport, with a 7.4 rating, allows for early check-in and late check-out. Its comfortable and clean rooms, great location, and friendly staff are frequently highlighted by guests.

Question 13

What free activities should we do in San Diego?

Accepted Answer

San Diego offers a fantastic array of free activities, great for budget-conscious solo travellers looking to experience the city's charm without spending a fortune.

Start your exploration with Balboa Park, a sprawling urban oasis larger than New York's Central Park. You can wander through its beautiful gardens, admire the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, and enjoy free admission to some of its museums on specific days (check their schedules for details). For instance, the Timken Museum of Art always offers free entry, showcasing European old masters, American art, and Russian icons. Solo travellers will find plenty of quiet spots to relax and reflect.

The city's coastline provides endless opportunities for free enjoyment. Spend an afternoon at La Jolla Cove, where you can watch sea lions and seals basking in the sun and explore tide pools at low tide. For a more active experience, walk or jog along the scenic pathways of Mission Beach and Pacific Beach, soaking in the quintessential California beach vibe and enjoying stunning ocean views.

Solo travellers can also discover the historic Gaslamp Quarter by simply strolling through its Victorian architecture, browsing the various storefronts, and enjoying the lively option, especially in the evenings.

Question 14

Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?

Accepted Answer

Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in San Diego for you.

Question 15

How can I save on a budget hotel in San Diego with Expedia?

Accepted Answer

There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in San Diego. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on hotel bookings. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.

Question 16

How much does a budget hotel in San Diego cost?

Accepted Answer

Budget hotel prices in San Diego vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$136 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.

Question 17

Is it cheaper to book a San Diego hotel and flight package?

Accepted Answer

Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it’s wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.

Room 1

Change your mind

Treat yourself

Be picky

Check availability on San Diego Cheap Hotels

Our top choices for San Diego cheap hotels

1. Stay Classy Hostel

2. Crown City Inn

3. City24 Hotel Little Italy Mission Hills

4. Kasa Little Italy San Diego

5. Westgate Hotel

6. Omni San Diego Hotel at the Ballpark

7. Marriott Vacation Club®, San Diego

8. Pendry San Diego

9. The Horton Grand, Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter

10. Gaslamp Hostel

11. Keating Hotel By At Mine Hospitality

12. The Margot Hotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, Outset by Hilton

13. Springhill Suites San Diego Downtown/Bayfront

14. Granger Hotel Gaslamp Quarter, A Member Of Design Hotels

15. Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego Downtown/Bayfront

16. Hotel Z

17. Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

18. The Guild Hotel, San Diego Downtown, a Marriott Tribute Portfolio Hotel

19. Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter

20. Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

Find out more about San Diego

Discover cheap things to do in San Diego

Find the best cheap hotels in San Diego

Top San Diego Hotel Reviews

The Sofia Hotel

Best Western Seven Seas

Bay Club Hotel & Marina

Wyndham San Diego Bayside

The Alcala Hotel Mission Valley/Seaworld

Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle

Ocean Beach Hotel

Handlery Hotel

Frequently asked questions

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Cheap Hotels & Resorts in San Diego from NZ$136