Kona Kai San Diego

4.0 star property
On private beach with 2 outdoor pools, near Shelter Island

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Kona Kai San Diego

2 outdoor pools, open 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, pool cabanas (surcharge)
Property video
Aerial view
View from property
Outdoor wedding area
Kona Kai San Diego, near Cabrillo National Monument, offers a peaceful getaway with a private beach, two poolside bars, beach massages, yoga classes, and cabanas. The eco-certified hotel features an on-site spa and Vessel Restaurant serving local dishes all day.

Reviews

8.4 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Breakfast available
The current price is NZ$543
includes taxes & fees
21 Sept - 22 Sept
Private beach, beach cabanas, sun-loungers, beach umbrellas

On the beach

This traditional-style hotel is located on the boardwalk/promenade and has a private beach. Take advantage of the beach loungers, beach umbrellas, and beach towels at the sandy beach. Several on-site activities to enjoy during your visit include sailing, beach yoga, and boat tours. Notable activities close by include whale watching and windsurfing.

Private beach, beach cabanas, sun-loungers, beach umbrellas
Private beach, beach cabanas, sun-loungers, beach umbrellas
What guests liked about the beach

The private beach was a highlight, offering a serene and beautiful spot for relaxation and activities.

Room options

Available filters for rooms
Showing 16 of 16 rooms

Waterview One Bedroom Suite

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Connecting rooms available
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
Pillow menu
  • 1 bedroom
  • Marina view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Twin Sofa Bed

Mobility/Hearing Accessible King

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Connecting rooms available
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
Pillow menu
  • Resort view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Kona Kai One Bedroom Suite

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Connecting rooms available
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
Pillow menu
  • 1 bedroom
  • Marina view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Twin Sofa Bed

Deluxe Two Queen

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(11 reviews)

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Connecting rooms available
Free cots/infant beds
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
  • 32 sq m
  • Resort view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Fire Pit Junior Suite

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Connecting rooms available
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
Pillow menu
  • Resort view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Bayview Two Queen

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(11 reviews)

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Connecting rooms available
Free cots/infant beds
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
  • 32 sq m
  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Waterfront Fireplace Junior Suite

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Fireplace
Air conditioning
Connecting rooms available
Free cots/infant beds
Fridge
  • 39 sq m
  • Bay view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Marina View King

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(5 reviews)

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Connecting rooms available
Free cots/infant beds
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
  • 32 sq m
  • Marina view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Marina View Two Queen

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(6 reviews)

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Connecting rooms available
Free cots/infant beds
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
  • 32 sq m
  • Marina view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Deluxe King

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(22 reviews)

Highlights

Balcony
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Connecting rooms available
Free cots/infant beds
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
  • 32 sq m
  • Resort view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Bayview King

7.2 out of 10
Good
(10 reviews)

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Connecting rooms available
Free cots/infant beds
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
  • 32 sq m
  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Marina View Junior Suite Two Queen

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Connecting rooms available
Free cots/infant beds
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
  • 39 sq m
  • Marina view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Bayview Junior Suite Two Queen

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(3 reviews)

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Connecting rooms available
Free cots/infant beds
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
  • 39 sq m
  • Bay view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Bayview Junior Suite King

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(4 reviews)

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Connecting rooms available
Free cots/infant beds
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
  • 39 sq m
  • Bay view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Marina View Junior Suite King

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Connecting rooms available
Free cots/infant beds
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
  • 39 sq m
  • Marina view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Deluxe Junior Suite

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Connecting rooms available
Free cots/infant beds
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
  • 35 sq m
  • Resort view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

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About the area

Located in Point Loma, a neighbourhood in San Diego, Kona Kai San Diego is near the airport and on a private beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Old Town San Diego State Park and Balboa Park, while Cabrillo National Monument and USS Midway Museum are cultural highlights. Don't miss out on a visit to San Diego Zoo. Windsurfing and surfing/body boarding offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails nearby.
Map
1551 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, CA, 92106

What's nearby

  • Shelter Island - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • SeaWorld - 10 min drive - 7.9 km
  • USS Midway Museum - 11 min drive - 10.1 km
  • Seaport Village - 11 min drive - 10.5 km
  • San Diego Zoo - 13 min drive - 12.7 km

Getting around

  • County Center - Little Italy Station - 10 min drive
  • Old Town Transit Center - 16 min drive
  • San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) - 15 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Mitch's Seafood - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Bali Hai Restaurant - ‬18 min walk
  • ‪Point Loma Seafoods - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Jack in the Box - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Eppig Brewing Waterfront Biergarten - ‬4 min drive

About this property

Kona Kai San Diego

Upscale eco-certified hotel near Old Town San Diego State Park
Located close to Cabrillo National Monument, Kona Kai San Diego provides a marina, 2 poolside bars and a terrace. With a private beach, beach cabanas and beach massages, this hotel is the perfect place to soak up some sun. Treat yourself to a sports massage, a body wrap or a body treatment at the on-site spa. The on-site local cuisine restaurant, Vessel Restaurant and Bar, offers breakfast, brunch, dinner, light fare and al fresco dining. The gym offers fitness classes and yoga classes; other things to do include boat tours, kayaking and sailing. In addition to a garden and dry cleaning/laundry services, guests can connect to free in-room WiFi.
Additional perks include:
  • 2 outdoor pools along with cabanas, sunloungers and pool umbrellas
  • Buffet breakfast (surcharge), bike hire and self-parking (surcharge)
  • An electric car charging station, multilingual staff and a lift
  • A reception hall, massage treatment rooms and beach towels
  • Guest reviews give top marks for the helpful staff
Room features
All 170 individually furnished rooms boast thoughtful touches such as premium bedding and pillow menus, as well as amenities such as free WiFi and air conditioning.
Extra amenities include:
  • Designer toiletries and hairdryers
  • 42-inch flat-screen TVs with premium channels
  • Balconies or patios, fridges and coffee/tea makers

Awards and affiliations

Eco-certified property
This property participates in Green Key Global – a programme that measures the property's impact on one or more of the following: environment, community, cultural heritage and the local economy.

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Electric car charging station on site
  • Parking on site (USD 46 per night; includes in/out privileges)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Food and drink

  • Buffet breakfast available for a fee 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM on weekdays and 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on weekends; USD 33 to 100 per person
  • 2 bars/lounges
  • 2 poolside bars
  • A restaurant
  • Snack bar/deli

Restaurants on site

  • Paloma Pool Bar
  • Tiki Bar
  • Vessel Restaurant and Bar

Things to do

  • 2 outdoor pools
  • Beach yoga
  • Bicycle rentals
  • Boat tours
  • Fitness classes
  • Full-service spa
  • Gym
  • Hot tub
  • Kayaking
  • Personal motorised watercraft
  • Sailing
  • Steam room

Family friendly

  • 2 outdoor pools
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Snack bar/deli

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • ATM
  • Gift shop/newsstand
  • Luggage storage

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Multilingual staff
  • Porter/bellhop
  • Proposal/romance packages
  • Tour and ticket assistance
  • Wedding services

Business services

  • 24-hour business centre
  • 5 meeting rooms
  • Computer station
  • Conference centre (56,000 square foot of space)

Outdoors

  • Beach cabanas (surcharge)
  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Garden
  • Marina
  • On a private beach
  • On the bay
  • On the boardwalk/promenade
  • Pool cabanas (surcharge)
  • Pool loungers
  • Pool umbrellas
  • Terrace

Full-service spa

  • 6 treatment rooms
  • Aromatherapy
  • Body scrubs
  • Body wraps
  • Couples treatment rooms
  • Deep-tissue massages
  • Facials
  • Hot stone massages
  • Hot tub
  • Manicures/pedicures
  • Prenatal massages
  • Spa open daily
  • Sports massages
  • Steam room
  • Swedish massages

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Braille/raised signage
  • Lift
  • Stair-free path to entrance
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible business centre
  • Wheelchair-accessible concierge desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible gym
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path to lift
  • Wheelchair-accessible pool
  • Wheelchair-accessible public bathroom
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible restaurant
  • Wheelchair-accessible spa

More

  • 3 floors
  • 8 buildings
  • Ballroom
  • Built in 1959
  • Fireplace in lobby
  • Reception hall
  • Smoke-free property
  • Traditional architecture

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Blackout drapes
  • Pillow menu
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Designer toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 42-inch flat-screen TV with premium digital channels
  • IPod dock
  • Pay films

Food and drink

  • Champagne service
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Minibar
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Access via exterior corridors
  • Air conditioning (climate-controlled)
  • Connecting rooms available
  • Desk
  • Free local calls
  • Heating (climate-controlled)
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone
  • Safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; check-in end time: 2:00 AM
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age - 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

An adult aged 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

Pets are allowed for an extra charge of USD 113 per accommodation, per stay (maximum USD 170 per stay)
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
2 total (up to 29 kg per pet)
Food and water bowls are available

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
2 children, up to the age of 17 years, can stay for free if using existing beds when occupying the parent or guardian's room
Rollaway/extra beds are available for USD 20.0 per night.

Payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay the following charges at the property. Fees may include applicable taxes:

  • Deposit: USD 110.00 per night
  • Resort fee: USD 60 per accommodation, per night
The resort fee includes:
  • Beach access
  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels
  • Business centre/computer access
  • Fitness centre access
  • Fitness/yoga classes
  • In-room coffee
  • In-room safe
  • Newspaper
  • Phone calls
  • Pool access
  • Spa access

We have included all charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

  • Fee for buffet breakfast: approximately USD 33.00 to 100 per person
  • Self-parking fee: USD 46 per night (in/out privileges)
  • Pet fee: USD 113 per accommodation, per stay (maximum USD170 per stay)
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Rollaway bed fee: USD 20.0 per night

The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Noise-free guestrooms cannot be guaranteed
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property

We should mention

Pool access available from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Reservations are required for massage services and spa treatments; reservations can be made by contacting the property prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms
The property has connecting/adjoining rooms, which are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property using the number on the booking confirmation
Guests under 18 years old are not allowed in the spa

Property is also known as

Kona Kai Resort & Marina San Diego
Kona Kai Hotel San Diego
Kona Kai Resort Spa San Diego
Kona Kai Resort Spa
Kona Kai Spa San Diego
Kona Kai Spa
Kona Kai Resort San Diego

Frequently asked questions

Does Kona Kai San Diego have a pool?

Yes, this property has 2 outdoor pools. Pool access is from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

How much does it cost to stay at Kona Kai San Diego?

As of 19 Sept 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Kona Kai San Diego on 21 Sept 2025 start from NZ$441.97, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is Kona Kai San Diego pet-friendly?

Yes, this hotel allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 29 kg per pet. There's a fee of USD 113 per accommodation, per stay. Service animals are exempt from fees.

How much is parking at Kona Kai San Diego?

Self-parking is available for USD 46 per night.

What time is check-in at Kona Kai San Diego?

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; check-in end time: 2:00 AM. Late check-in is available during limited hours.

What time is check-out at Kona Kai San Diego?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Kona Kai San Diego located?

Located in Point Loma, this beachfront hotel is on the boardwalk and within 6 mi (10 km) of Old Town San Diego State Park, Cabrillo National Monument and USS Midway Museum. Seaport Village and Balboa Park are also within 9 mi (15 km).

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Kona Kai San Diego Reviews

Reviews

8.4

Very good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 540 out of 1008 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 223 out of 1008 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 122 out of 1008 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 60 out of 1008 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 63 out of 1008 reviews

8.8/10

Cleanliness

8.6/10

Staff & service

8.4/10

Amenities

8.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.4/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Selma

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
What a great facility! Really liked it.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ashley

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
One of our favorite, family friendly, beautiful, quiet resorts to sneak away to
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rosario

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Staff was very accommodating beautiful location loved bombfire. Very clean
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Desiree

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Great front desk staff, beautiful facilities
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jill

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Family friendly property, beautiful location with views of the water.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Linda

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I loved staying at this property on shelter Island in San Diego. The Bay trail that’s nearby overlooking the bay, and the city itself was just beautiful. The hotel property was well appointed love the amenities like the pool and spa. The food was very good
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Amaria

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Best resort I've ever stayed in
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Barbara A

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean, comfortable bed, friendly staff.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

John

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Very nice accommodations & a fun, relaxing, pretty property. Thank you!!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kreyshia

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great place!
Stayed 6 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Joseph

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This is a chill relaxing place with a chill staff. I pretty much stayed at the resort the whole time
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

LOBATO,

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Loved our stay, was very happy that it was pet friendly. Disappointed dogs are not allowed in the pool areas. The photos online show a dog at the pool which was one of the reasons I booked and to find out pups are not allowed in the area was a bummer.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rocio

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The restaurant view
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jose M

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Lo único fue que no estaba incluido el desayuno . De resto excelente
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Danielle

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
The room was beautiful and clean.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Faris

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice place
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Debra

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
This location worked very well for us. Check in was a little strange, our room wasn't ready at 4pm and we had to remind them that we were still waiting at 5:30pm. Even though they said they would call us when the room was available.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

james

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great hotel, right on the water.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Mitchell Trent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The property is amazing, clean and very safe. The dining option is mediocre at best, you will need a vehicle during your stay or plan to Uber. The $45 daily parking fee is pricey in my opinion. The new energy efficient rooms will shut off your AC and refrigerator when you aren't in the room. Our AC failed night two of our stay and the property was kind enough to credit our account $50.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Christina

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It is a beautiful area in and out and everyone is so friendly. I only gave it a 4 because its expensive and i didnt see the reason for it except I guess the view..
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Yongjin

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great views great location great service great people Wish more dinning options available
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

shauna

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Really nice, relaxing. Beautiful views everywhere.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Joseph Roman

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Kona Kai is a beautiful resort. My family had a great time there. Definitely want to stay there again!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Christopher

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I think i had the best view! Wonderful, peaceful place to relax.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Duane Douglas Fansler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The staff was fabulous and extremely friendly! Room was very comfortable and clean, but the bathroom could have had more storage/ towel hanging options (only one towel rack in the shower and one little hook on the wall; nothing near the sinks for hand towels), along with a working vent fan (it was so humid and muggy without a fan in the bathroom). Also, the coffee offered in the morning was a pretty ridiculous situation for a luxury resort; put out much later than advertised and gone before we could get any, even if we came to the lobby by the 7:00 AM timeframe. However, the good stuff at Kona Kai FAR outweighs the negatives. The pool areas were amazing and the views couldn't be beat. We would definitely stay at Kona Kai again.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025