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Moxy queen bedroom in San Diego with pillows stacked and side light plus the quirky telephone. There are grey walls and white pillows plus bright orange splashes of colour with the decor.

THE BEST QUIRKY BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA

27th April 2024

Last Updated on 28th February 2026 by Bejal

You’re well on your way to planning a visit to San Diego but are looking for somewhere to stay. Ideally you’d like a hotel that’s fun, trendy and cool, with a spot of luxury in a great location, then this article contains some of the best quirky boutique hotels in San Diego. Whether you’re looking for something in the downtown/ Gaslamp quarter, on the coast near La Jolla or on Coronado Island, we have you covered.

In This Article

Toggle
  • Pin & Save
  • What is a Quirky Boutique Hotel?
  • A Map of Featured San Diego Hotels.
  • The Gaslamp District
  • Gaslamp District/Downtown Quirky Boutique Hotels
    • The Moxy San Diego Gaslamp // Spotlight Feature 
    • The Horton Grand Hotel 
    • The Pendry San Diego
    • Andaz San Diego
    • The Guild Hotel
    • Hotel Republic San Diego
    • Kimpton Alma, San Diego
    • Hotel Z: A Stay Pineapple Hotel
  • La Jolla
  • La Jolla Quirky Boutique Hotels
    • La Valencia Hotel
    • Pantai Inn
    • Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa
  • Coronado
  • Coronado Quirky Boutique Hotels 
    • 1906 Lodge Coronado
    • Hotel Marisol Coronado
  • FAQ Boutique Hotels in San Diego 
    • Which Boutique Hotels are dog friendly?
    • What are Hotel Pet Weight Restrictions?
    • Is Breakfast Included in Room Rates?
    • What Are The Most Instagram-Friendly Hotels?
    • Are Boutique Hotels in San Diego Sustainable?
    • What is the Best Place to Base Yourself in San Diego?
  • Quirky Boutique Hotels in San Diego Round-Up
  • Related Articles
  • Trip Planning Resources
  • À bientôt
  • Pin & Save

Pin & Save

San Diego hotels Pinterest pin graphic with 4 images overlayed with text reading, 'Where to stay n San Diego. The best boutique hotels'..

A couple of the hotels featured in this article are ones that we have stayed in personally like the Moxy or Horton Grand Hotel in the historical Gaslamp district. The others are those we had on our lists when researching the options in La Jolla and Coronado before settling on our final choices. 

San Diago truly has a great list of hotels to offer, to suit all kinds of travellers and the fair majority are situated in the main tourist hubs. 

What is a Quirky Boutique Hotel?

We are often asked this question when recommending hotels. Boutique hotels are usually a lot smaller than the usual hotels you expect especially in the USA. I know in Europe, we are used to smaller boutique hotels but here we mean they have around 100-200 rooms or so. This may sound odd if you haven’t travelled to the USA before.

We opt for boutique hotels to experience a more individualised, intimate style of service and surroundings. If you prefer the small details, personalised concierge services and to feel more looked after, then boutique hotels generally deliver on these. 

In our experience, many of the hotels are located along the coast, near a beach or in the downtown area of San Diego.

Beige armchair with orange cushion in the Queen Room at Moxy San Diego
Grey and orange retro stye telephone in the Queen Room of the Moxy Hotel, San Diego

This line up of boutique hotels, features quirky and cool touches that make them a little bit more special than your general boutique hotels. It can be in the form of unique decor, what they offer, views, service or simply that they cater for families including dogs. Some of them may be a little larger but the list we’ve compiled is based on the unique and personal feel of the hotel that you’d typically get in European boutique hotels which are far smaller.

So whether you’re in San Diego for business or pleasure, we hope you find this useful

A Map of Featured San Diego Hotels.

How to use map: Click on the graphic to reveal an interactive Google Map of featured hotels in this article,

San Diego quirky boutique hotels Google Map screenshots

The Gaslamp District

Located in downtown San Diego, The Gaslamp Quarter is 16 square blocks packed with a plethora of Victorian heritage buildings standing amongst contemporary skyscrapers. The area is where hundreds of San Diego’s finest restaurants, pubs, shops, nightlife as well as offices and residential lofts and housing is located. 

It’s a popular location with business travellers as well as holiday makers. It is home to Petco Park, Baseball stadium as well as being ideally placed close to the San Diego Convention Centre as well as museums. Seaport village, East Village, Balboa Park and Little Italy are also within walking distance. 

The Gaslamp Quarter/ District is our personal preferred place to base ourselves as we it has the greatest concentration of wonderful hotels and all places of interest in San Diego can be accessed by either walking, self driving, taking an uber, or using public transport like the bus, trolley or tram. 

The Gaslamp District Archway sign with cars parked either side

Gaslamp District/Downtown Quirky Boutique Hotels

The Moxy San Diego Gaslamp // Spotlight Feature 

Style: Good value/ Mid-range

Part of the Marriott group, the Moxy San Diego is nestled in a prime location right in the heart of downtown San Diego’s Gaslamp District.

It’s not a hotel that you walk by without being inquisitive, the bright colours, neon lights and playful feel want the average passerby to take a peek inside. 

Moxy San Diego bed in the background with large round miroor

Enter the hotel and be met by the bright and open lobby’s stylish design with features such as ‘Plug & Meet’, gathering areas areas equipped with ergonomic tan sofas and 56″ HDTVs, a state-of-the-art video wall with helpful travel tools and Bar Moxy! The lobby is scattered with games like connect four and noughts and crosses as well as some board games. 

Moxy lobby area with brown leather sofas and side tables
Moxy San Diego bar area from the workspace

Take the stairs up to the industrial looking mezzanine floor which has more of an office vibe and is perfect for working around. The opposite side has a row of chairs which overlook Bar Moxy on the ground level. The bar is a central meeting point of the hotel and is busy most nights. There is also a DJ on the decs here during the weekend which provides a fun club-type vibe. Oh and there’s a little hidden cocktail bar at the back behind some very clever hidden doors.

There’s a Grab and Go snack bar near the bar come reception where guests can buy food like snacks, drinks and fruit 24/7.

Moxy San Diego black and white bathroom
Moxy San Diego black and white bathroom with bed showing the background

The cosy guest rooms are more like a clubhouse with comfy beds, 42’ TVs, with a high quality sound system and fast WIFI. Queen rooms are pretty spacious and come with a city view or internal courtyard view. All rooms have cool, fully tiled bathrooms with toiletries, and towels replenished daily and serviced every other day. Rooms also come with a steamer for your clothes. Spot the retro telephone artwork and desk in rooms.

Every morning complimentary tea and coffee is available near the bar/reception until 11:00am and breakfast can be ordered as per menu from the bar. The pancakes are a great shout!

Moxy San Diego hallway with Connect 4
Pancakes with blueberries and syrup for breakfast at Moxy San Diego
The Details

Location: 831 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +1 6192396699

Map: Location

Details: Check in: 16:00 Check Out: 11:00

Breakfast options: Choose from the  is served daily available from the bar.

Family Friendly: Yes although more suited to adults

Dog Friendly: Yes

Parking: underground valet parking is available

Quirky Hotel Features: Guests can check in at the bar and receive free drink tokens. There’s a great range of house cocktails, beers and other beverages available. Guest rooms also have mini steamers as well as the hotel having a communal ironing room. Note the small room accessories like the retro telephone, artwork and desks. The decor is cool, as are the neon signs and the very cool trendy vibe of the place, making Moxy a popular choice for all age ranges. A hotel that oozes quirky form the moment you step in.

Read Tripadvisor Reviews
Check Rates & Book The Moxy

The Horton Grand Hotel 

Style: Mid-range

Set in an elegant brick 19th century building, The Horton Grand Hotel is a Victorian-styled boutique hotel. It is particularly popular with those who love historic buildings and appreciate this kind of period property. We experienced wonderful service and some great dining recommendations here.

On the ground floor there is a pretty courtyard illuminated with fairy lights, where guests can relax. The area is also popular with wedding parties due to its beautiful aesthetics.

Boutique hotels in San Diego: The exterior of the Victorian-style Horton Grand Hotel in the Gaslamp District

All guest rooms come with Victorian-style dark wood furniture with courtyard or city views. A lovely feature is the gas-burning fireplace in each room that gives rather a romantic feel. All rooms are equipped with toiletries and the usual in-room amenities as well as WIFI.

The Salt & Whiskey restaurants serve breakfast, lunch and dinner with a fantastic menu. Evening cocktails and drinks are a must at this swanky bar. They also have a wide range of Bourbons if that’s your tipple of choice.

Courtyard of the Horton Grand Hotel, San Diego, featuring trees and fairy lights in a Victorian-style setting
The Details

Location: 311 Island Ave, San Diego, CA 92101. I Tel. +1 6195441886 

Map: Location

Details: Check in: 15:00 Check Out: 12:00

Breakfast options: Served in the hotel’s Salt & Whiskey restaurant daily 07:00-11:00

Family Friendly: Yes 

Dog Friendly: Yes (fee of $75 per stay)

Parking: The closest car parks charge around $15-$25 (ask hotel for recommnedations)

Quirky Hotel Features: The courtyard, a ground floor art exhibition as well as Salt & Whiskey make this hotel pretty unique. Another draw for guest is the Victorian aesthetics and history associated with the building.

Read Tripadvisor Reviews
Check Rates & Book The Horton Grand Hotel

The Pendry San Diego

Style: Luxury

Definitely one of Downtown San Diego’s most beautiful luxury hotels, in terms of it’s spacious, light and airy rooms as well as the impeccable service. Rooms and suites also come with huge glass showers and marble finishes with amenities by MiN of NYC.

If you’re a guest at the Pendry, you will be granted priority access to it’s social club, Oxford. The hotels has a good looking pool, wellness spa and fitness centre.

There are also some great restaurants on the ground floor such as Lion fish, Provisional and cocktails at Fifth & Rose, all of which we can personally recommend. 

The Details

Location: 550 J Street, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +1 619 7387 000 

Map: Location

Details: Check in: 16:00 Check Out: 12:00

Breakfast options: in-room dining available 06:00-23:00. Breakfast (+all food) menu items at extra cost  

Family Friendly: Yes (adjoining rooms available)

Dog Friendly: Yes (no extra fee)

Parking: Pendry has a valet parking lot for guests charged at $59 for 2 hours.

Quirky Hotel Features: Most definitely the architecture and redevelopment of the building, The decor is sleek, modern and minimalistics whilst oozing all the luxurious charm you’d want from an upmarket hotel without being stuffy. Also note the champagne vending machines in the hallway to Provisional where you can get mini bottles of Moet et Chandon.

Read Tripadvisor Reviews
Check Rates & Book The Pendry

Andaz San Diego

Style: Mid-range

A concept by Hyatt hotel, situated perfectly in the historic Gaslamp Quarter, The Andaz is very trendy and hip, with modern bedrooms decorated in neutral tones and contemporary bathrooms. 

Staying at the Andaz also gives you access to enjoy certain complimentary perks and even discounted experiences in the city.

The Andaz Suites and certain other room categories have huge windows and come with a great seating area and mod cons like flatscreen TV’s. 

Head to the rooftop where you’ll find the hotel’s long pool as well as cabanas and sun loungers. The views from up here are phenomenal. The Rooftop by STK restaurant is a great place to spend the evening or head to the ground floor, STK restaurant which is more of a steakhouse.

The Details

Location: 600 F Street, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +16198491234 

Map: Location

Details: Check in: 16:00 Check Out: 11:00

Breakfast options: Yes for an extra fee (in-room dining menu or STK rooftop has classic all day menu)

Family Friendly: Yes 

Dog Friendly: Yes ($50 per night fee)

Parking: 24 hour valet parking. $65 overnight 

Quirky Hotel Features: The decor in the communal areas, as well as the rooftop vibe during the day and especially in the evenings. There’s also a great view of the sunset here over the harbour.

Read Tripadvisor Reviews
Check Rates & Book Andaz

The Guild Hotel

Style: Mid-range

A Tribute portfolio Hotel, the Guild is a historic boutique hotel located in downtown San Diego. Originally built as a YMCA in 1924 for the armed services but has now been lovingly restored to a modern standard with 162 rooms, many featuring beautiful high ceilings.

The range of rooms are from cosy standard category right up to spacious suites. The hotel offers a great level of luxury for an affordable price. There are a number of dining options in the form of the Guild Cafe,  as well as an onsite barber, lobby bar and courtyard to relax in.

The Details

Location: 500 W Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101  I Tel. +1 619 795 6000

Map: Location

Details: Check in: 16:00 Check Out: 11:00

Breakfast: Yes for an extra fee at teh Guild Cafe

Family Friendly: Yes 

Dog Friendly: Yes (if the room is left dirty a $250 cleaning fee will be added)

Parking: 24 hour valet parking. $54 per day

Quirky Hotel Features: The courtyard, the high ceilings and the monochrome, teal and tan leather room decor. The barber’s sho[ is also  pretty cool touch.

Read Tripadvisor Reviews
Check Rates & Book The Guild Hotel

Hotel Republic San Diego

Style: Mid-range 

Part of the Autograph Collection by Marriot, Hotel Republic, fuses contemporary style with a flair of sophistication. Bright fresh modern rooms equipped with workstations, flat-screen TV’s and sweeping views of the Gaslamp District. Room options include a presidential suite, city views or even corner executive abodes. There is an onsite 24 hour fitness centre for guests. Dining options come in the form of the Traders restaurant, serving on-the-go snacks,  coffee and quick meals in a fun, communal setting. The other option is  the Topside terrace kitchen and bar, which has a lively evening atmosphere and caters for happy hour.

Want to bring a furry companion along with you? Book the Pups & Paws Package, and hotel staff will treat your pet like royalty.

The Details

Location: 421 W B Street, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +1 619 398 3100

Map: Location:

Details: Check in: 16:00 Check Out: 11:00

Breakfast options: Yes, breakfast can be purchased from Traders Restaurant 

Family Friendly: Yes 

Dog Friendly: Yes, there’s a ‘Pups & Paws’ Package or $100 per day.

Parking: 24 hour valet parking at a fee o $60 per day. No onsite parking.

Quirky Hotel Features: Pets package where your poochie friends are given the VIP service, the Topside Terrace Kitchen & Bar for great evening  vibes. The exposed brickwork in the open spaces.

Read Tripadvisor Reviews
Check Rates & Book Hotel Republic

Kimpton Alma, San Diego

Style: Mid-range

The Kimpton Alma has the true So Cal vibes you’d expect in this part of the US. Located in the Gaslamp Quarter, with a lobby oozing rich Mexican heritage and a relaxing vibe. The hotel itself is chic yet urban and a very relaxed atmosphere ensures pure relaxation. Cool, spacious rooms with quirky touches like hooks and all rooms featuring an impressive over-sized bath.

The rooftop pool is a good spot to spend your free time, topping up your tan or soaking up the San Diego sun and cooling off with a dip.

A fun culture, and no pet size or weight policy, your poochie companions can be right there with you! Dining options include, The Desmond (Fine dining), Leave of Absence (Outdoor + rooftop restaurant), The Cafe (chilled coffee and breakfast vibes), private dining or in-room dining. 

Be-lavie Tip: The Kimpton Alma is one of the most sustainability focussed hotels in San Diego. Their efforts include, all light fixtures in guest rooms, corridors and public spaces use energy-efficient LED bulbs, all faucets, shower heads and toilets utilise low flow water systems to help conserve water usage, guest room HVAC units filter fresh outdoor air to create a comfortable atmosphere. Units are motion activated, which limits unnecessary energy expenditure, all paper, plastics, glass, cardboard, crates, pallets and other materials are recycled and not sent to landfill and lastly non-toxic in room cleaning supplies, low VOC paint, sealants, and stains are used throughout the hotel.

The Details

Location: 1047 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +1 619 515 3000

Map: Location

Details: Check in: 16:00 Check Out: 11:00

Breakfast Options: Yes for an extra charge. Breakfast is served at The Cafe at Kimpston from 07:00

Family Friendly: Yes 

Dog Friendly: Yes (no pet weight restrictions as with all other hotels in San Diego)

Parking: 24 hour valet parking at a fee $60 per day. No onsite parking.

Quirky Hotel features: The rooftop pool, the dining spaces are decorated beautifully and ooze almost Nordic charm with Mexican accents. The huge bathtubs in rooms and tiling spec are nice touches as well as the city views from the rooftop!

Read Tripadvisor Reviews
Check Rates & Book The Kimpton Alma

Hotel Z: A Stay Pineapple Hotel

Style: Good Value 

Truly one of the best quirky boutique hotels in San Diego, Hotel Z’s exterior is painted in bright blue and yellow, with a bright sparkling pineapple – it’s hip, it’s cool and it’s popular for it’s good value and excellent service to match. Hotel Z is located in the most perfect location of the Gaslamp district and has free WIFI, bikes to hire for free, 24 hour front desk service, a dry cleaning service as well as a water bar to full up your bottles. 

Rooms are decorated in neutral whites with a flurry of Pineapple motifs scattered around the room. The pineapple branded yellow robes and slippers area welcome touch for the incredible value offered at Hotel Z.

We stayed in the hotel Stay Pineapple and loved the service, the cool vibes and excellent value for money. The service is truly commendable considering this is a hotel priced so so competitively.

Be-lavie Tip: Look out for the afternoon delights in the form of a cup of coffee and a couple of their pineapple shaped sugar cookies. 

The Details

Location: 521 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +1 619 330 6401

Map: Location

Details: Check in: 16:00 Check Out: 12:00

Breakfast Option: No (coffee each morning in the lobby as well as in room coffee machines)

Family Friendly: Yes -larger 2 bed Queen rooms available.

Dog Friendly: Yes (check out their pup package)

Parking: Valet parking is available for a small fee

Quirky Hotel Features: Absolutely everything about this hotel is hideously cool and infectious. The bright exterior, the yellow bicycles, the robes, pets packages and of course those sugar cookies.

Read Tripadvisor Reviews
Check Rates & Book Hotel Z

La Jolla

Located around 15 miles (25 minutes drive) from the Gaslamp district, is La Jolla. This coastal village boasts stunning views and is one of the most popular beach spots in California. La Jolla’s three sides are surrounded by the sea and is home to a very upmarket village lifestyle. It’s commonly referred to as ‘the jewel’ of San Diego.

There are very luxurious coastal hotels, museums, art galleries, antique spots as well great restaurants. There are also a bunch of activities to be done here such as golfing, kayaking, walks, spotting seals and stalks just to mention a few. 

This very a very popular area for family holidays as well as couples retreats and the area has some of the most expensive real estate in the USA.  

La Jolla Beach with pal trees to the left hand side

La Jolla Quirky Boutique Hotels

La Valencia Hotel

Style: Luxury

A member of the Preferred Hotels and Resorts Hotel group, La valencia Hotel is located just across the street from La Jolla Cove, on Prospect Street. It has been at the centre of hospitality here for over 95 years. It’s known for its pink exterior and Spanish tiled tower and is quite the landmark in La Jolla. We’d refer to it more as old world luxury.

Guests can choose form vintage rooms to suites and villas which are beyond spacious and have ocean, garden or village views. 

The hotel has amongst its amenities, an outdoor pool, fitness centre and spa pool. La Valencia’s prime location in La Jolla makes it perfect for shopping, eating out and discovering the area in more detail.

Food and drinks at the hotel represent the flavours of the Californian coast and include, Mediterranean room (inspired by the California coast with seasonally driven, locally sourced ingredients), La sala (a beautiful cocktail bar with stunning ocean views), poolside dining as well as in-room dining options.

The Details

Location: 1132 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037 I Tel. +1 855 4766 870

Map: Location

Details: Check in: 16:00 Check Out: 11:00

Breakfast Option: Yes, served in the Mediterranean Room for an extra fee

Family Friendly: Yes, Suites and villas are perfect for families

Dog Friendly: Yes,a $50 fee per night fee applies to all poochies

Parking: Overnight valet parking is offered to guests for $30 and day time is charged at $18    

Quirky Hotel Features: The pink distinct decor of the exterior is this hotels signature features. The Valencia Hotel also has a wonderful Spanish tile presence on walls, tabletops and other areas that gives the Mexican heritage, from just over the border!

Read Tripadvisor Reviews
Check Rates & Book La Valencia Hotel

Pantai Inn

Style: Mid-range

Pantai Inn, a member of  Small Luxury Hotels of the World,  is a unique boutique hotel which offers a taste of Balinese style accommodation literally steps from the Pacific ocean and many of La Jolla villages amenities. 

Hospitality is said to be very welcoming and reminiscent to that in the East, at Pantai Inn, with the decor offering Balinese serenity and a great place to relax. Think spacious suites, equipped with full kitchens, rain shoes as well as large balconies. Handcrafted furnishings and textiles add a touch of relaxation to the atmosphere of the property.

There is no restaurant service, except for breakfast but guests are in a great location to sample all the restaurants in La Jolla village and the in-suite kitchens are great for cooking. WIFI is fast and parking is complimentary which is a bonus.

The Details

Location: 1003 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037 I Tel. +1 858 2247 600

Map: Location

Details: Check in: 15:00 Check Out: 12:00

Breakfast: Yes, included in daily rate

Family Friendly: Yes, Suites are large enough for small families.

Dog Friendly: No, dogs are not permitted here.

Parking: Complimentary 

Quirky Hotel Features: The Balinese decor of rich textiles and colours is such a unique touch as are the excellent views over La Jolla Cove. Some suites have ocean views and the villas are perfect for families.

Read Tripadvisor Reviews
Check Rates & Book Pantai Inn

Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa

Style: Mid-range

This resort style boutique hotel with 210 guest rooms, a little over the room count we’d usually include but the service and vibe is quite unique,  starting at deluxe rooms right up to estate and presidential suites. Some room classes also come complete with ocean views.

The resort puts emphasis on wellness with its serenity spa and activities on offer.

All guest rooms are bright and spacious, decorated in neutral tones with blue and stone accents. Some have balconies allowing the outdoors in with garden views, with others having views of the pool.

Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa has two restaurants; Mustangs & Burros is the resort’s signature restaurant, featuring Baja coastal inspired cuisine with a Southern California twist. The second restaurant is Greenfinch, where breakfast and lunch are served. It has a open air balcony overlooking the resort’s lush garden courtyard.

The Details

Location: 9700 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037  I Tel. +1 858 4120 500

Map: Location

Details: Check in: 15:00 Check Out: 12:00

Breakfast Option: Yes, extra fee, served at the Greenfinch Restaurant between 07:00-22:00 (brunch)

Family Friendly: Yes, Suites are large enough for small families and kids menus available

Dog Friendly: Yes, dog friendly rooms are available and they even do special menus as well as dog sitting services.

Parking: Yes. Valet parking is $48 per night and self-parking is $40 per night for overnight guests.

Quirky Hotel Features: The lush green gardens are beautifully landscaped and guest rooms facing the ocean have a great view. The Baja restaurant has a cool vibe. 

Read Tripadvisor Reviews
Check Rates & Book Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa

Coronado

Located right across the bay from San Diego, Coronado, meaning ‘The Crown City’ in Spanish, has been voted consistently best beach in the U.S. by Dr. Beach, which encompasses 50 specific beach criteria.

Wide sandy beaches, palm trees, a gentle surf, charming main streets, lined with a range of trendy restaurants, boutiques and other shops. Coronado also has brilliant hotels, including the famous Hotel del Coronado, which was featured in the 1959 Hollywood movie, ‘Some Like it Hot’ starring Marilyn Monroe.

Coronado has many elegantly manicured gardens, old-world mansions, cute shops and wonderful ocean front hang outs. The sunsets are noteworthy plus head to the ferry pier and get some fantastic views of the cityscape of downtown San Diego. Coronado Island is perfect for family getaways as well as romantic couples retreats.

Arriving into Coronado Island via Ferry

Coronado Quirky Boutique Hotels 

1906 Lodge Coronado

Style: Mid-range

If it’s a beach hotel with quiet, calm romantic vibes you’re looking for, 1906 Lodge Coronado is the best choice for you. It has been beautifully restored and has been on Coronado Island for over a century. 

It’s just a block away from the main shops of Orange Avenue, restaurants and galleries and a short walks away from the beach and the world renown Hotel del Coronado.

1906 Lodge Coronado is more along the European boutique system of only having 17 guest rooms, with each being individually designed. There are seven room categories including Historic lodge King room but we love the idea of the Grand King Spa Spa rooms as they have a spacious living area and a spa bath. 

Some lovely things that the hotel does is loan guests bicycles, beach chairs, bags as well as umbrellas in case of the odd shower.  The WIFI is pretty brilliant. There is a complimentary happy hour as well as filtered water, coffee, and tea available throughout the day

We LOVE that, again another feature of European style boutique hotels, the breakfast is complimentary with stays. It’s a daily buffet style set up and bottomless mimosas are served from 08:00-09:30. We also heard every afternoon, there are freshly baked biscuits for guests. There is no restaurant but, there’s  a great choice of local places located a block away.

The Details

Location: 1060 Adella Ave, Coronado, CA 92118   I Tel. +1 619 4371 900

Map: Location

Details: Check in: 15:00 Check Out: 11:00

Breakfast Option: Yes, complimentary breakfast daily with bottomless Mimosas

Family Friendly: Yes, Suites are large enough for small families.

Dog Friendly: Yes, An advance dog reservation is required prior to your trip, with a refundable fee.

Parking: Yes. Parking is complimentary throughout your stay.

Quirky Hotel Features: 1906 Lodge Coronado feels a lot more intimate than many of the featured hotels in terms of service, decor, ambiance and a lot quieter with only 17 rooms. The wonderful thing with this hotel is the complimentary guest parking and small touches like breakfast, wine and tapas and cookies that are all included and add that memorable special touch to stays.

Read Tripadvisor Reviews
Check Rates & Book 1906 Lodge Coronado


Hotel Marisol Coronado

Style: good value/mid-range

Hotel Marisol is another Coronado gem that oozes true boutique hotel style and the most personalised service you’ll encounter when it comes to this genre of hotels in San Diego. This family owned and managed hotel is tucked away down a quite street but within great proximity to walk to shops, restaurants and points of interest in La Jolla. 

The exterior of Hotel Marisol is bright and airy with a Spanish flair. There are only 15 guest rooms here ranging from, four Junior Suites, nine Deluxe King Rooms, two Queen Rooms (including an ADA accessible room). They are all decorated in a fresh white and light grey palette with colour splashes in the form of soft furnishings. 

This hotel is a perfect retreat style hotel for couples. It’s possible to loan bicycles, beach chairs and beach towels and all rooms have in-room fridges with chilled bottled waters. There is also a private secluded courtyard to relax in. Complimentary WIFI is available throughout the property.

There is no onsite restaurant but access to restaurants is within walking distance. There’s free public parking on the street as well as on other locations close by.

The Details

Location: 1017 Park Pl, Coronado, CA 92118 I Tel. +1 619 3654 677

Map: Location

Details: Check in: 15:00 Check Out: 11:00

Breakfast Option: Yes, served daily from 07:00 -10:00. No hot food items included.

Family Friendly: Yes but better for couples than a family with young children

Dog Friendly: No pets are allowed

Parking: free public parking on the street as well as on other locations close by

Quirky hotel Features: The pristine decor, complimentary cold buffet breakfast as well as the very unique personal touches and the building is a designated Historic Coronado Building.

Read Tripadvisor Reviews
Check Rates & Book Hotel Marisol Hotel

FAQ Boutique Hotels in San Diego 

Which Boutique Hotels are dog friendly?

Out of the list compiled above, Hotel Marisol in Coronado and the Pantai Inn in La Jolla, has a no dogs allowed policy.

What are Hotel Pet Weight Restrictions?

Referring to dogs often weight restrictions apply. You;ll usually see it’s one dog under 50 pounds in one guest room or two dogs with a combines weight of 75 pounds. Usually there is a $50 pet fee per stay or a daily rate applied to your room bill.

Is Breakfast Included in Room Rates?

Generally unlike European and South East Asian hotels, breakfast is not included in the rate of the room. A couple of the featured hotels such as Hotel Marisol, Pantai Inn and 1906 Lodge Hotel. Many will have breakfast dining venues where the cost of breakfast will be added to your bill.

What Are The Most Instagram-Friendly Hotels?

The Moxy, Downtown/Gaslamp
Hotel Z – A Stay Pineapple Hotel
Andaz San Diego

Are Boutique Hotels in San Diego Sustainable?

Many hotels do their bit by recycling, reducing water consumption via less room laundering of towels and sheet but one that sticks out above the others is the Kimpton Alma, who go above and beyond over the others with their low flushing toilets, lights and so much more.

What is the Best Place to Base Yourself in San Diego?

Personally, we would say The Gaslamp  District as it has the best restaurants, top celebrity chefs as well as local favorites as well as great entertainment. It’s close to the theatre as well as Sea Port, Little Italy and Balboa Park can be reached easily. Additionally you can head to Coronado via ferry or drive. La Jolla is also a 30 minute drive away. The Gaslamp district is filled with history and has the biggest choice of hotels to choose from.

Quirky Boutique Hotels in San Diego Round-Up

This hotel guide is aimed to aid visitors who prefer a little more personalised service and a smaller environment to pick their ideal abode when in the city. It includes some of our top finds in three popular areas of the city including the Gaslamp District/Downtown, La Jolla as well as Coronado. Whether you like a spot of luxury, a mid-range property or are on a budget so you can spend more on attractions, San Diego can offer something for everyone. When selecting a hotel, decide on what things you’d like to do as this will make narrowing your list down so much easier. For city life, downtown San Diego is perfect, for families and beach time, La Jolla and Coronado is great for families as well as couples who want the serenity of very intimate boutique style accommodation.

Related Articles

  • Great breakfast and coffee places in San Diego 
  • The best Vegetarian-Friendly Food in San Diego
  • How to spend one day on Coronado Island, San Diego
  • How to best send one day in La Jolla
  • Ultimate Itinerary: One day in Little Italy, San Diego
  • The Ultimate Guide to The Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego
  • The Ultimate Visitors Guide to San Diego

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Bejal

I’m Bejal, an ex-scientist turned travel writer and content creator. I have visited 75 plus countries, including an around the world trip, which makes me quite the expert in crafting intricate itineraries! My travel style places an emphasis on sustainable and responsible adventures that supports the planet, local businesses and communities at its core. Read my guides and itineraries which aim to inspire you to create your own travel and vegetarian foodie jaunts to less visited spots of popular destinations as well as more unique locales. I have a soft spot for boutique eco-hotels here too! Be-lavie is all about mindful travel with a sprinkling of luxury.

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I’m Bejal, an ex-scientist turned travel writer and content creator. I have visited 75 plus countries, including an around the world trip, which makes me quite the expert in crafting intricate itineraries! I places an emphasis on sustainable and responsible adventures that supports the planet, local businesses and communities at its core. Read my guides and itineraries which aim to inspire you to create your own travel and vegetarian foodie jaunts to less visited spots of popular destinations as well as more unique locales. I have a soft spot for boutique eco-hotels here too! Be-lavie is all about mindful travel with a sprinkling of luxury.

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