Best Waterfront Hotels in San Diego for Families

A mom with two daughters, one on each side of her, walks down a beach in San Diego, California on an overcast day.
Photo Courtesy: Elaine Chu Hickman

A stay at one of these best San Diego beachfront hotels offers families the ultimate seaside escape. With numerous beaches to choose from, five-star food options all over the city, and awesome attractions like the world-renowned zoo and LEGO Land, San Diego has it all. Kids of all ages will love this city and the surrounding areas, and, no matter where you stay, you’ll have a sun-tastic time. In fact, there are resorts in different areas that will keep you coming back for the wide range of experiences you and your family can find here. The list of our favorite San Diego family resorts on the beach is long, but for good reason.  No two days have to look the same when you visit, no matter how many times you keep coming back. Keep reading for our list of the Best Waterfront Hotels in San Diego for Families! 

RELATED ARTICLE: The Best 7-Day San Diego Itinerary with Kids

Best San Diego Beachfront Hotels for Families

If you’re looking for the best San Diego beachfront hotels for families, these are the top options to consider. These San Diego family resorts on the beach offer everything you could need for a great family vacation in the sun and sand, including things like beach yoga, on-site dining, playgrounds, and more! With immediate access to the beach from your doorstep, what more could you want when visiting San Diego with kids?

Hotel Del Coronado, Curio Collection By Hilton

1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118 

A view of the Hotel Del Coronado, Curio Collection By Hilton, one of the best San Diego beachfront hotels for families, across the water on a sunny day.
Photo Courtesy: Hotel Del Coronado, Curio Collection By Hilton

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You may recognize this name and immediately picture the iconic red-roofed resort but visiting Hotel Del Coronado, Curio Collection By Hilton will make you fall in love even more. Located on Coronado Island, just over the bridge from Downtown San Diego, this is a beach resort you won’t ever want to leave. The hotel offers a range of family suites with oceanfront access and luxurious décor, but our favorite has to be the Beachfront Cottage Suites, which feature 3 bedrooms with king beds, a private terrace, a full-size kitchen, and outdoor soaking tubs. For smaller groups and families, the Hotel Del Coronado also offers 1 and 2-bedroom suites, as well as standard hotel rooms with 1 king or 2 queen beds in the main building.

Why Families Love It

A family plays together on the beach at the Hotel Del Coronado, Curio Collection By Hilton.
Photo Courtesy: Hotel Del Coronado, Curio Collection By Hilton

Hotel Del Coronado has upped the stakes for all resorts nationwide that are vying for kids’ attention. With their very own line of “DelVentures,” your kids have the option to participate in daily activities such as paint parties, slime labs, and theater nights. Kids can also enjoy non-stop splashing in the outdoor pool (and hot tub for parents!) or Del Beach. Plus, there are on-site surf and paddleboard instructors so your whole family can master the waves. Other activities for families include movies on the beach, exploring by bike, or guided tours. Parents will appreciate the Spa & Salon at The Del, the Del Fitness Center, and the various classes available like beach yoga. At the end of the day, come together to enjoy on-site dining overlooking the waterfront. Certainly, this is one of the best beachfront hotels in San Diego!

San Diego Mission Bay Resort

1775 E Mission Bay Dr, San Diego, CA 92109

A view of the pool, surrounded by tall palm tress and orange pool loungers, at the San Diego Mission Bay Resort, one of the best San Diego beachfront hotels for families.
Photo Courtesy: San Diego Mission Bay Resort

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Its proximity to SeaWorld and location on Mission Bay make San Diego Mission Bay Resort stand out from the competition of San Diego beach hotels for families. Guests rave about the in-suite fire pits that overlook the bay, giving perfect views to the nightly fireworks show at SeaWorld. Families will especially love the incredible suite options, including accommodations with private seating areas and room to play right outside the door! If needed, connecting rooms are available upon request; all bedrooms have a king bed.

Why Families Love It 

Enjoy a full day of fun by the beach with volleyball, badminton, sandcastle building, and bike rentals at the San Diego Mission Bay Resort. All the while, you’ll have full-service food and drink access. If the ocean waves are a bit too much for your little ones, spend the day at the waterfront pool or enjoy the wading pool which is perfect for toddlers and small children. If you are an energetic and sporty bunch, try something new with a tennis clinic. Parents can visit Spa Brezza, the fitness center, or take kids to eat by the waterfront. With a killer location, the resort is also the perfect landing place to explore some of San Diego’s best attractions. It truly puts the “beach” in the best San Diego beach hotels with kids!

Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa

3999 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109 

The entrance to the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa, flanked by two large palm trees, at night, one of the best San Diego beachfront hotels for families.
Photo Courtesy: Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa


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The Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa is one of the best San Diego beachfront hotels for families. Located on an expansive white sand beach along Mission Bay, your family will feel transported into another world at this beautiful Polynesian-themed resort. Resort grounds feature lush vegetation and, if you look carefully, you can find exotic birds who call this place home; they may even say hello or ask you a question! Luckily, the family-friendly Garden Suites offer spectacular views. They also come with a king bed and sleeper sofa, a private balcony, and a kitchenette to make your stay easy. 

Why Families Love It 

Situated along a private beach in Mission Bay, the water at The Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa is calmer than on the open ocean. The lack of waves makes it much more enjoyable for kids to play and splash at this resort than others in the area. Not to mention, making this one of the best beachfront hotels in San Diego. Plus, the hotel pool is right next to the arcade room, so your crew will likely spend the day hopping between the pool and arcade without the need for anything else. In the meantime, parents can visit The Catamaran Spa or work out at the gym. For a family fun activity that will please everyone, rent some kayaks or paddleboards from Action Sport Rentals to take out on Mission Bay. Afterward, enjoy seafood dining by the waterfront at Oceana Coastal Kitchen.

RELATED: 6 Exciting West Coast Safaris and Animal Parks for Families

Bahia Resort Hotel

998 W Mission Bay Dr, San Diego, CA 92109

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Bahia Resort Hotel is a tropical resort in the center of all the fun Mission Beach has to offer. Not to mention, one of the best San Diego beachfront hotels for families. In fact, it’s walkable to great Mexican food restaurants, the best beaches, and lots of shopping. All suites have a private bedroom and living room area and families can choose between 2 queen beds or 1 king bed in the bedroom. The Deluxe Bay View Suite makes your stay even easier with a kitchenette that features a fridge/freezer, microwave, and toaster.

Why Families Love It 

A young boy jumps into his dads arms, who is standing in the pool at the Bahia Resort Hotel, while mom and brother look on at one of the best San Diego beachfront hotels for families.
Photo Courtesy: Bahia Resort Hotel

Families who stay at the Bahia Resort Hotel have no shortage of activities to enjoy. A brand-new playground was just added to the grounds and it includes a kid-size rock wall that’s a major hit. Families can also rent kayaks, paddleboards, and other water equipment from Action Sport Rentals to enjoy a day on the water. Or, rent a surrey bike to cruise around the bay on. The outdoor pool is another favorite for all ages. For a break from the sun, kids can spend the afternoon playing in the on-site arcade and getting new high scores at classic games. Parents can visit the fitness center, and the whole family can take a cruise along the waterfront on the Bahia Belle! With so much to offer, it is certainly one of the best San Diego beach hotels for families!

Paradise Point Resort & Spa

1404 Vacation Rd, San Diego, CA 92109

An aerial view of the pool and waterfront access at the Paradise Point Resort & Spa, one of the best San Diego beachfront hotels for families.
Photo Courtesy: Paradise Point Resort & Spa

Interested in this hotel? Book your stay through Expedia today!

Book your stay at Paradise Point Resort & Spa using Hotels.com now.

Tucked away in an area called Vacation Island, Paradise Point Resort & Spa has its own private beach access and will make you feel disconnected from the city, even though it’s very close to everything. Resort rooms open up right onto the sand and their Presidential Suite even features a fully-stocked kitchen, a king bed, and a sleeper sofa for the kids. Your whole family deserves a vacation that’s curated to combine relaxation with fun, and that’s exactly what you’ll get at Paradise Point Resort & Spa. No wonder our families recommend this as one of the best San Diego family resorts!

Why Families Love It 

Several people enjoy a bon fire on the beach at the Paradise Point Resort & Spa, at night.
Photo Courtesy: Paradise Point Resort & Spa

Vacation Island is 44-acres of family fun! Paradise Point Resort & Spa has five swimming pools, only one of which is reserved for adults. Kids also have access to the beach, where they can enjoy swimming during the day and bonfire pits at night. From the nearby marina, take advantage of easy fishing access and boat activities. To show their commitment when it comes to pleasing younger guests, Paradise Point Resort & Spa also opened up a “Kids Zone” filled with fun activities like seashell painting and tie-dye classes. There are also lawn games, a tennis court, and a basketball court. Parents can relax at the award-winning spa, work out at the fitness center, or play a few rounds on the golf course. Then, visit one of the many restaurants and bars.

Loews Coronado Bay Resort 

4000 Coronado Bay Rd, Coronado, CA 92118

The pool and surrounding pool deck with white cabanas at the Loews Coronado Bay Resort, one of the best San Diego beachfront hotels for families.
Photo Courtesy: Loews Coronado Bay Resort

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Sitting on a 15-acre peninsula that connects to Coronado Island, Loews Coronado Bay Resort is tucked away in its own little corner of San Diego. Don’t worry, it’s just a quick jaunt to downtown in one direction and Imperial Beach in the other! Only a few resorts in the city have a view of the water and ocean access with a backdrop of the city skyline, and this is one of them. In the hotel rooms, families can choose from a king bed or two double beds, and the suites are all equipped with king beds. 

Why Families Love It

The deck with fire pit feature and several seating areas with overhead twinkle lights at the Loews Coronado Bay Resort.
Photo Courtesy: Loews Coronado Bay Resort

Loews Coronado Bay Resort remains one of the best San Diego family resorts by going above and beyond: you’ll find pelotons in each suite, guests can book sailing excursions at the resort, and there are three pools to choose from! While babysitting services and complimentary baby bath kits might impress the parents, this resort puts a whole new meaning to catering to the younger crowd. Kids can join in for complimentary fishing on the dock, youth camps during the summer, and scavenger hunts through the “Loews Loves Families” program. They can also enjoy fun activities on the beach, with water sports such as jet-skiing available. Meanwhile, parents will enjoy the on-site dining.

Kona Kai Resort & Spa

1551 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106

The brightly lit entrance to the Kona Kai Resort & Spa, at night, one of the best San Diego beachfront hotels for families.
Photo Courtesy: Kona Kai Resort & Spa

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In the area of Point Loma on a small inlet called Shelter Island, Kona Kai Resort & Spa is a newly renovated resort that puts you right in between downtown and Ocean Beach. Ocean Beach is a more relaxed beach than Mission Beach, but it has a lot of character and great local food stops. As such, it’s no surprise families rave about Kona Kai Resort & Spa as one of the best San Diego beachfront hotels for families! Families can enjoy a one-bedroom suite with a king bed or go for a junior suite that has two adjoining rooms.

 Why Families Love It

Kona Kai Resort & Spa is waterfront and offers picturesque scenery with its harbor view; the harbor is the best place to see massive yachts and other ships, which is generally very exciting for kids. You can also spend your day on the beach, then usher in the evening with a bonfire. Kids will love splashing in the outdoor pool as well. There are many San Diego beach hotels for families, but Kona Kai Resort & Spa stands out with complimentary cruiser bikes, lots of games and sports equipment on the property, and its walkable area. For a quick bite to eat, be sure to stop at Northside Shack in Point Loma for some of the best acai bowls in all of San Diego! Kona Kai Resort & Spa also has fabulous waterfront dining options if you’re looking for something a bit nicer. 

La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club

2000 Spindrift Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037

An aerial view of La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club, with its sprawling beachfront, one of the best San Diego beachfront hotels for families.
Photo Courtesy: La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club

Interested in this hotel? Book your stay through Travelocity today!

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Just north of Pacific Beach, in the upscale town of La Jolla, the La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club brings coastal vibes to modern times. You’ll get the beach vacation you’re dreaming of, while enjoying the timelessness of the resort. During your stay at one of the best San Diego beachfront hotels for families, take your pick between one, two, or three-bedroom suites. Each bedroom has a king bed and every suite is equipped with additional sleeping space on the sleeper sofa in the living room. There are select suites, the Beachfront and Spindrift Suites, with kitchenettes, but not all of them have one. 

Why Families Love It 

There’s no shortage of adventures or new experiences at La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club. Since it’s right on the edge of the water, you can enjoy the ocean views from your suite or make your way down to the private beach with staff members who will take care of your every need. Kids will love the tennis lessons offered at the resort and enjoy building sandcastles. There are also babysitting services offered for when the kids want to stay and swim at the pool. Meanwhile, parents enjoy the fitness center, golf course, tennis court, or one of the fine-dining restaurants in La Jolla.

La Jolla Shores Hotel

8110 Camino Del Oro, La Jolla, CA 92037 

A view of the pool and pool deck, with loungers, at the La Jolla Shores Hotel.
Photo Courtesy: La Jolla Shores Hotel

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A fan favorite, La Jolla is the perfect mix of beautiful beaches, world-class shopping, fantastic food, and San Diego adventures. La Jolla Shores Hotel is one of the best San Diego beachfront hotels for families who want to explore the area. Situated right next to the beach and very close to Kellog Park, it’s perfect for picnics or playground time for the kids! At night, rest in your room that either has one king bed or two queen beds, depending on what your needs are. About 20 of the rooms have a kitchenette in them, so be sure to let the staff know if that’s something you’re looking for. 

Why Families Love It 

Several people kayak off-shore from La Jolla Shores Hotel, while two empty kayaks rest on shore.
Photo Courtesy: La Jolla Shores Hotel

Kids will love splashing in the heated outdoor pool, but the real perk of the La Jolla Shores Hotel is the wading pool which is safer and a bit more kid-friendly than normal pools. Of course, you can also spend time on the beach or hit the tennis court for a friendly game. Parents will love the hot tub, fitness center, and in-room massage. Be warned – your kiddos will want to visit Kellog Park over and over to swing, go on the slides, or run around in the grass. If your family is a bit older and adventurous, you can paraglide in the sky for a bird’s eye view of one of the most beautiful places on earth. In the nearby La Jolla Cove, observe Sea Lions basking in the sun. Or, head to the tide pools to find shells. You may even see a starfish or two!

Best Hotels in San Diego for Families with Waterfront Views

If you’d prefer stunning views of the waterfront from your hotel, with the added security of not being directly on the beach, we’ve got you covered with some of the best San Diego family resorts. Some parents may prefer the relief of knowing kids don’t have immediate access to the beach, but that it’s still within a short distance to enjoy together. If that’s you, then this list is ideal for your upcoming trip to San Diego with kids!

Omni San Diego Hotel

675 L St, San Diego, CA 92101

The entrance to the Omni San Diego Hotel.
Photo Courtesy: Omni San Diego Hotel

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Omni San Diego Hotel is one of the staples in the San Diego skyline. No matter where in this tower you stay, you’ll have a splendid view. On one side, guests can enjoy the sparkling water view or watch boats come in and out of the channel. On the other, guests can see the rest of the beautiful downtown area and get some fantastic people-watching in. Family suites are equipped with 1,600 square feet of space, a king bed with pillowtop mattresses, and Egyptian Cotton linens. If you’re a larger family, ask about adding an adjoining room with a king bed for your stay! The Tony Gwynn and Jimmy Carter Suites have kitchenettes if you’re looking to feel more at home.

Why Families Love It

The pool and surrounding pool deck at the Omni San Diego Hotel.
Photo Courtesy: Omni San Diego Hotel

The Omni San Diego Hotel knows just how important it is for everyone in the family to feel rested on vacation. Kids will be enchanted by the awesome outdoor terrace pool, but they will love the city view this one offers too. They can feel like they’re on top of the world while they splash around, and they actually will be! Meanwhile, parents can enjoy the hot tub adjacent to the pool, the fitness center, and massage therapy. The Omni also offers a unique culinary experience centered around kids. They’ll be able to try new foods and expand their palettes with a smile on their faces! 

Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara, North San Diego

7210 Blue Heron Pl, Carlsbad, CA 92011

An aerial view of the Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara, North San Diego, featuring lush palms and Spanish-style red roofs.
Photo Courtesy: Four Seasons

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If looking to stay in North County San Diego, the Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara in Carlsbad is a great stop for your San Diego family vacation. The area this hotel is in is much quieter than what you would find in Mission Beach or Downtown San Diego, but you’ll love the charm Carlsbad has to offer and the beachfront amenities at Four Seasons. Choose from one or two-bedroom villas with private balconies and lovely views (including some with waterfront views of the lagoon). Each bedroom in your villa will have a king bed and the sleeper sofa in the living room folds out into a bed as well. Kitchenettes are available for ease of use. 

Why Families Love It 

Across a pool sits a cabana and several poolside loungers at Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara, North San Diego.
Photo Courtesy: Four Seasons

On the grounds, kids love the dedicated children’s pool and Club 760, which is a kid-approved play area that is packed full of video games, books, board games, and more! Beach rentals and a surf concierge are also available for more fun in the sun since you are within 2.2 miles of three beaches. Additionally, parents can visit The Driftwood Spa. Most kids love LEGOs and, if that’s the case for your little ones, they’ll absolutely love how close LEGOLAND is to Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara. Plus, if you do want to venture to the city or visit Mission Beach, you’re only about 35 minutes away from the action!

Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

1 Market Pl, San Diego, CA 92101

The pool at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego, with the hotel towering in the background.
Photo Courtesy: Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

Book your family’s stay at Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego using Hotels.com today.

Looking for a large family suite? Book Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego using Travelocity today.

In a popular downtown area called Seaport Village, the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego gives guests a taste of everything with ocean views, wonderful dining, and plush rooms with king beds. Family-friendly suites have separate living and dining areas, giving you the perfect place to rest in between vacation activities. There’s also the option to add an adjoining king room or double bedroom.

Why Families Love It 

Two boys enjoy the pool a the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego, one floating in an orange tube, while the other floats in a yellow tube.
Photo Courtesy: Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

On the fourth floor of this San Diego family resort, there’s a recreation area that has sports courts for many games including basketball, volleyball, shuffleboard, and tennis. If the weather is nice, which it usually is in San Diego, there are a ton of fun outdoor activities up for grabs; kids can enjoy foosball, table tennis, giant Jenga, and a crafts station. There’s also a rooftop pool and cinema club that plays your favorite movies on a rotating basis. During summer vacation your kids will love Camp Hyatt, a day camp for ages 4-12 that’s educational and fun! In the meantime, parents will have time to visit the fitness center, spa, or one of the on-site restaurants and bars. Plus, since you’re within walking distance to the Gaslamp District and very close to Little Italy, this is the best San Diego hotel for a family tour. 

Happy Travels! 

A young boy stands on the shore near San Diego holding a book titled "Slothee Wants Coffee".
Photo Courtesy: Nikki Pezzopane

We hope you liked this list of Best San Diego Beachfront Hotels For Families! Whether you’re visiting for a short time or taking an extended vacation, we know you’ll love soaking up the California sunshine while staying at the San Diego family resort that suits your style and needs. Enjoy San Diego with your kids! 

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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The Families Love Travel Team has a zest for life and an even bigger passion for globetrotting! Comprised of real-life travel professionals, we work hard behind the scenes to provide dynamic solutions for adventuring with children. Our enthusiastic team understands the challenges that often accompany traveling with kids and is committed to making Families Love Travel an inclusive space to convey these experiences.