Pier South Resort

If you are craving a Southern California getaway with endless ocean views, San Diego could be the destination for you. The resorts here really lean into that easygoing vibe; we have discovered the best family-friendly properties with endless activities for all ages, private adults-only spots on the sand, and resorts with luxurious spas where you can totally zone out. Whether you’re sneaking away for a romantic weekend or chasing the perfect family beach day, San Diego makes coastal living feel effortless.

For families

Kona Kai Resort & Spa

  • Kona Kai Resort & Spa is a chic marina-front resort with bold, nautical-inspired interiors, a private beach, waterside pools, and alfresco dining. Kids love the cabanas, games, and bonfire nights, while parents can sneak away for spa treatments or sea-view cocktails. Equal parts playful and sophisticated.
  • Pier South Resort boasts bright, oceanfront suites with private balconies that feel like home, but with the vast Imperial Beach just steps away. Families can spread out in two-bedroom suites, kids love the pool, and the pier is perfect for evening strolls. Relaxed coastal living at its best.
  • Fairmont Grand del Mar is a grand Mediterranean-style resort offering four pools (one adults-only), tennis, golf, a world-class spa, and access to Del Mar’s sandy beaches. Spacious suites and kid-friendly dining are perfect if you're travelling with little ones, while adults can unwind in elegant surroundings or set sail on unforgettable ocean adventures nearby.

For pure luxury

L'Auberge del Mar

  • Perched above the Pacific Ocean, L'Auberge del Mar is a chic coastal retreat with effortless SoCal style. Think marble bathrooms, private terraces, ocean-inspired spa rituals, and cabana-lined pools. A sun-soaked sanctuary where beachside luxury feels wonderfully laid-back.

Still not sure?

Best Beach Resorts in San Diego

L'Auberge del Mar

San Diego (Del Mar )

A luxury resort overlooking the Pacific Ocean in the picturesque village of Del Mar. Rooms are bright and airy with coastal themes, private outdoor spaces and white marble bathrooms. Discover the healing powers of the ocean at the spa or relax in a cabana poolside. A spoiling escape.

  • Beach Life - The resort offers a private walking path down to the local beach, as well as complimentary beach gear and a seasonal beach valet
  • Sights nearby - Balboa Park is the cultural heart of San Diego, with fifteen museums, eight gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo
  • Spa - The spa's treatments focus on the healing powers of the ocean
  • Restaurant - Coastline uses seasonal ingredients with a true SoCal style
from CA$558 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Fairmont Grand del Mar

San Diego

An opulent Mediterranean style resort in the foothills of Del Mar. Rooms are elegant with spacious marble bathrooms with deep tubs and expansive balconies. With the choice of 5 pools, 6 restaurants, a golf course, private beach access, tennis courts and a world-class spa - there's something for all.

  • Beach Life - The resort offers transport to Del Mar’s 18th Street beach with access to beach chairs and umbrellas, beach towels and water
  • Families - With four outdoor pools, spacious suites and children-menus, this resort is a family's dream
  • Spa breaks - The resort's spa is one of only 60 Forbes five-star spas in the world
  • Sailing - From dinner cruises and whale watching to speedboat thrill rides and sunset sails, an array of scenic adventures awaits
from CA$961 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Kona Kai Resort & Spa

San Diego (Point Loma)

Stylish luxury resort overlooking Kona Kai Marina. Contemporary rooms have bold prints and a fresh take on the classic nautical colour-scheme. Suites are more sophisticated with fireplaces. There's a man-made beach, two chic waterside pools, spa and al fresco dining. Romantic yet family-friendly.

  • Families - With its wide range of accommodations, private beach, and excellent on site amenities there's something here for all ages
  • Honeymoons - A perfect place for a short but sweet honeymoon; spa, sea-view dining, romantic bonfires and pool-time with great views
  • Beach Life - Spend the day on the resort's private beach, equipped with badminton, volleyball, bean bag toss, cabanas & bonfires
  • Restaurant - As well as two pool bars, there's an outdoor dining marina-view terrace and 'Vessel' restaurant which serves SoCal cuisine
from CA$310 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Pier South Resort

San Diego (Imperial Beach)

Ocean-front beach resort ideal for long stays and families. Spacious, fresh and light-filled rooms with contemporary decor and sea views feel more like apartments; each has a private balcony. Spend leisurely days enjoying the sun deck, pool and restaurant - all ocean-facing - plus spa, gym and yoga.

  • Families - Ocean-front two-bedroom suites work perfectly for families. Enjoy separate bedrooms and amazing views looking out over the beach
  • Total relaxation - A beach escape just minutes from the city. It's easy to never leave the property with great amenities and sea on the doorstep
  • Beach Life - Just seconds from miles of wide sandy beach, Pacific ocean surf and traditional Imperial Beach pier
  • Sights nearby - Take a day trip out to Coronado Island, famous for its beaches, surfing, boating, grand Victorian-era hotel and heritage walks
from CA$318 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Written by Amelia Shirley

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