As a member of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, you can accumulate points at a variety of the Marriott hotels San Diego has to offer.
You’ll choose where to stay partially based on location. Do you want to stay on the beach or by top attractions such as San Diego Zoo or LEGOLAND California? Do you prefer a downtown location near USS Midway Museum, Petco Park, and nightlife?
And then there’s the type of hotel. Do you prefer a luxury, boutique, or business hotel? San Diego Marriott hotels will have different price points based on amenities and hotel class.
To help, I’ve compiled an essential guide to the best Marriott hotels in San Diego County. You’ll get a sense of where they’re located, what they have on offer, and why guests choose them.
Note from Katie: I mention hotel booking resources I know offer the best prices via membership programs or ones that are popular with readers. Check with the hotel for updated safety measures, travel restrictions, and a list of any modified amenities. If you book through links on this page, I may earn a small commission.
1. THE US GRANT, A Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego
Location: Gaslamp Quarter
Hotel class: Luxury
You want:
- a historic location with over a century of notoriety.
- quick access to the trendy bars and restaurants in the Gaslamp Quarter.
- to sip cocktails in style at an onsite French-inspired bar.
- stylish accommodations that feature high ceilings and Art Deco details.
- the most luxurious Marriott hotel in San Diego.
Choose: THE US GRANT, A Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego
Opened over a century ago by the son of President Ulysses S. Grant, this Marriott San Diego downtown hotel appeals to anyone who prefers historic hotels or accommodations with character.
Regal vibes become evident as soon as you step into the palatial lobby. Rooms and suites come with details like custom art and modern conveniences like flat-screen TVs with premium channels.
Five-star service and luxury aside, another appeal of THE US GRANT is its proximity to the Gaslamp District, which you’ll be thrilled to explore. You can also quickly reach Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo from this part of downtown.
While there isn’t a swimming pool or full-service spa, they do have a room where guests can enjoy massages and facials. The lack of these two amenities though is also why this hotel can price really well for a five-star hotel.
Book: Use the Virtuoso rate, which you have access to through me.
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Full breakfast daily for two guests per bedroom in The Grant Grill or via room service (maximum value of $60 per day)
- $100 USD Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full, available in the Grant Grill or via room service only)
- Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
*You may need to be on the desktop version of Virtuoso.com to search rates and book online. To enable the desktop version of a hotel page from a mobile device, scroll down to the navy blue section at the bottom of the web page and click “Full Site.” When searching rates, do not input children ages 17 and under as they will be priced as adults. I’m notified when you book and will add them when I contact you about your reservation.
Also featured in: Best San Diego Luxury Hotels, Best Downtown San Diego Hotels, Haunted Hotels in San Diego, Best Hotels Near San Diego Zoo, Historic Hotels in San Diego
2. The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, a Tribute Portfolio Resort & Spa by Marriott
Location: Rancho Santa Fe
Hotel class: Moderate-Luxury
You want:
- a unique selection of romantic guest rooms or cottages.
- a fireplace on your patio.
- enchanting garden scenery.
- playing privileges at a world-class golf course.
- intimate dining opportunities.
- a slightly secluded inland location.
Choose: Inn at Rancho Santa Fe
The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe offers a rustic, Spanish-California design and an experience that is described as relaxed luxury. Beach scenery may not be available in this inland location, but you can enjoy gardens and walks into the quiet village of Rancho Santa Fe where a few notable San Diego restaurants are located.
Not interested in golf? No worries; you can also keep active at the onsite tennis courts or by visiting a nearby tennis club that offers targeted lessons and clinics. When you want peace, head for the spa, you’ll find standard offerings (such as massages and facials) and wellness-oriented services like yoga and chakra cleansing.
Book: Use the Marriott Bonvoy member rate.
Also featured in: Boutique Hotels in San Diego County, Most Romantic Hotels in San Diego
3. The Guild Hotel, Tribute Portfolio
Location: Little Italy
Hotel class: Moderate
You want:
- to stay in a boutique hotel that has plenty of character.
- reasonably priced accommodations as compared to other local options.
- to sip delicious cocktails at the hotel bar.
- accommodations within walking distance of top downtown San Diego destinations.
Choose: The Guild Hotel
Downtown San Diego accommodations can be expensive, but The Guild makes wallet-friendly travel possible without compromising style or comfort.
This boutique hotel boasts a wonderfully elegant interior with archways, gorgeous tile, and exposed brick walls. The building once served as an Army-Navy YMCA — and the hotel continues to pay homage to these humble roots today.
Kid-free adults prefer this San Diego hotel, although some families may find the price point appealing if they are willing to forgo amenities such as swimming pools and spas. Highlights include an urban escape at the Grace Garden or Mediterranean dishes at the popular restaurant, Luca.
Book: Use Marriott Luminous, which you have access to through me.
- Priority for complimentary room upgrade (based on availability upon arrival)
- Daily breakfast for two people
- Chef’s welcome amenity
- VIP status granted
- Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
Also featured in: Best Downtown San Diego Hotels, Best Boutique Hotels in San Diego
4. Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa
Location: Coronado Island
Hotel class: Moderate
You want:
- a Coronado hotel that doesn’t usuallybreak the bank
- bay views and you don’t mind riding your bike or taking Uber to the famous Coronado Beach.Â
- kid-friendly accommodations – some rooms sleep up to 5 people.
- spa services such as massages and facials.
- lovely views from private balconies.
- easy access to downtown via the nearby ferry.
Choose: Coronado Island Marriott Resort & SpaÂ
The iconic San Diego beach experience is within reach when you stay at the Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa. Many families choose this hotel when Hotel del Coronado and others accommodations closer to the famous beach on the other side of the island are expensive or sold out.
Soak in the sun at one of the multiple outdoor pools or walk around San Diego Bay here. Unwind in spacious rooms, suites, or cottages. Some rooms have fire pits, while some cottages offer kitchenettes for extended stays. I also quite like going to the spa here for massages. Many two double bed rooms also have a single sofa sleeper which is perfect for families of five.
There are also tennis courts and bike rentals (some use the bikes to go to the beach on the other side of the island.)
Book: Use the Marriott Bonvoy Member Rate.
Also featured in: Best Coronado Island Hotels
5. Hotel Republic San Diego
Location: Downtown San Diego
Hotel class: Moderate
You want:
- a boutique Marriott hotel with reasonable pricing.
- al fresco dining and craft cocktails (including bottomless beverages at brunch).
- pet-friendly downtown accommodations.
- to attend special pop-up events.
- a walkable location near the Embarcadero and Little Italy — it’s also a few blocks away from the Amtrak Santa Fe Depot station.
Choose: Hotel Republic San DiegoÂ
Hotel Republic San Diego offers a desirable location for staying with friends or a significant other — or your four-legged companion. Business travelers, singles, and couples tend to book this San Diego downtown Marriott hotel that bills itself as a cool social hub.
That doesn’t mean it’s not kid-friendly – just don’t expect lots of kids’ amenities. There’s also no swimming pool.
People like the open-air terrace restaurant, highlighting downtown’s best sights and sounds when you need to unwind. Return to the terrace on Saturday mornings for yoga; personal mats are provided in all guest rooms. There’s also a chic coffee shop.
Otherwise, you can easily reach Balboa Park and other beloved locations from this Marriott San Diego downtown hotel.
Book: Use Marriott Luminous to receive the below amenities.
- Priority for complimentary room upgrade (based on availability upon arrival)
- Daily breakfast for two people in the Veranda Club Lounge (currently grab-and-go at Trade)
- Chef’s welcome amenity
- VIP status granted
- Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
Also featured in: Best Downtown San Diego Hotels, Best San Diego Boutique HotelsÂ
6. Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina
Location: Downtown San Diego
Hotel class: Moderate
You want:
- a moderately-priced hotel with bay views.
- to stay within walking distance of the San Diego Convention Center and Seaport Village.
- to pamper yourself at the spa.
- a larger family-friendly pool (there aren’t many in the area)
Choose: Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina
If you plan to attend an event at the San Diego Convention Center, you can’t go wrong with a room at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina.
The other reason why people choose it is for the pool deck. Many downtown pools are smaller and not as family-friendly.
Within the various hotel rooms and suites (some guests report wear and tear while others think it’s fair for the price point and location), clean lines and a neutral palette get the job done. Onsite amenities include multiple restaurants and Starbucks, but you’re steps from Seaport Village with its shops and restaurants.
Book: Use the Marriott Bonvoy Member Rate.
Also featured in: Best Downtown San Diego Hotels, Best Hotels Near the San Diego Convention Center
7. Pier South Resort, Autograph Collection
Location: Imperial Beach
Hotel class: Moderate
You want:
- a reasonably-priced, smaller beach hotel.
- an eco-wellness getaway, thanks to complimentary outdoor fitness classes and a focus on the environment.
- accommodations within a short walk of the Imperial Beach Pier.
- a casual vibe because you’re not a high-needs traveler.
- sweeping views of the coast from your private balcony.
Choose: Pier South Resort, Autograph Collection
Do your part for the environment by staying at the Pier South Resort, Autograph Collection – a LEED-certified Marriott hotel.
Your wallet may also thank you. Its location south of downtown San Diego in Imperial Beach helps to explain why its prices are lower than beach hotels in other areas across the county.
Unless you need to be in this part of town, value combined with comfortable accommodations (some report wear and tear in the rooms) on the beach is why people choose it. Earning and redeeming Marriott Bonvoy points is another plus.
Other amenities including the onsite D’Ames Spa, excellent SEA180 restaurant, and fitness offerings also sweeten the stay.
Book: Use the Marriott Bonvoy Member Rate.
Also featured in: Best San Diego Hotels on the Beach
8. Westin Carlsbad Resort & SpaÂ
Location: Carlsbad
Hotel class: Moderate
You want:
- easy access to LEGOLAND California via a private entrance.
- farm-to-table dining.
- ocean-inspired spa treatments.
- lovely coastal views.
- trolley service to nearby beaches and attractions.
- a pet-friendly hotel (dogs under 80 lbs are welcome with an additional fee).
Choose: Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa
Splendid views can be enjoyed from several spots throughout the Westin Carlsbad but are especially serene from the Westin Heavenly Beds.
This relatively-new Marriott hotel is also a wise choice for convenience. Access the I-5 freeway in just a few minutes to see the rest of San Diego. Take surface streets to Carlsbad beaches, The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch, the Museum of Making Music, and other nearby attractions.
After playing a round of golf at the adjacent The Crossings at Carlsbad, you’ll be ready for a delectable meal at the resort’s onsite restaurant, which serves a variety of healthy and delicious entrees.
It also shares the same campus as Sheraton Carlsbad but prices a bit higher because it’s newer.
Book: Use the Marriott Bonvoy Member Rate.
Also featured in: Best Hotels in Carlsbad
9. Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa
Location: Carlsbad
Hotel class: Moderate
You want:
- to be a part of a larger hotel complex – Sheraton and Westin share facilities (Sheraton is usually at a lower price point).
- the private entrance to LEGOLAND California.
- trolley service to nearby beaches and areas
- a family-friendly space.
- a nice outdoor pool
Choose: Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa
Of the two Marriott hotels in the complex, families tend to choose Sheraton Carlsbad. This Sheraton San Diego hotel shares many of the same features as Westin such as the swimming pool and access to the same restaurants and spas. The hotel rooms are not as new which may be why room rates tend to be lower.
When you return from a jam-packed day in Carlsbad, you’ll be pleased to relax in stylish digs that provide gorgeous views of the rugged hills. Hit up the 7 Mile Kitchen for California coastal cuisine, or treat yourself to a soothing spa experience.
Book: Use the Marriott Bonvoy Member Rate.
Also featured in: Best Hotels in Carlsbad
10. Marriott Vacation Club Pulse, San Diego
Location: Downtown San Diego
Hotel class: Moderate-Budget
You want:
- to stay within walking distance of downtown’s top destinations.
- plenty of space for your larger family or group of friends.
- access to state-of-the-art fitness equipment, plus indoor pool access.
- convenient all-day dining.
- accommodations conducive to stays lasting one week or longer.
- a kitchenette and laundry facilities.
Choose: Marriott Vacation Club Pulse
This family-friendly vacation rental complex provides a comfortable home base to return to after a busy day of exploring various San Diego downtown attractions.
Your suite vacation rental has separate living areas and a kitchenette that make it appealing for longer stays. There’s also a restaurant onsite for when you don’t feel like cooking. You are also encouraged to take advantage of the fitness center of the indoor pool. Take advantage of the Marriott San Diego downtown location, which allows you to walk to your favorite destinations.
Book: Use the Marriott Bonvoy Member Rate.
Also featured in: Best Hotels in San Diego with Kitchens or Kitchenettes and Best San Diego Hotels for Large Families
11. San Diego Marriott Gaslamp QuarterÂ
Location: Gaslamp District
Hotel class: Moderate
You want:
- easy access to the hottest bars and restaurants in the Gaslamp area.
- somewhere to relax after attending a game at nearby Petco Park.
- views of the city from your cosmopolitan accommodations.
- to sip a cocktail at a rooftop bar.
Choose: San Diego Marriott Gaslamp QuarterLocation is always a priority when the bulk of your San Diego visit is centered around the Gaslamp Quarter. This appropriately-named Marriott hotel provides the convenience you desire. You’ll invariably head upstairs to one of the Gaslamp District’s trendiest rooftop bars when you aren’t exploring the hottest bars and lounges in town. There, you can gaze at an impressive view as you enjoy a fancy cocktail.
Book: Use the Marriott Bonvoy Member Rate.
Also featured in: Best San Diego Gaslamp Quarter Hotels
12. Courtyard San Diego Downtown
Location: Downtown San Diego
You want:
- a Courtyard property that doesn’t feel like one.
- to stay in a historic San Diego hotel.
- to have a meeting in a bank vault with a 47,000-pound door.
- rooms decorated with rich colors, microwaves, and minifridges.
This isn’t your average Courtyard Marriott. Instead, this one is housed inside a 1927 historic landmark that is an Italian Romanesque Revival architectural style building by master architect William Templeton Johnson (who lived in the Presidential Suite), formerly the San Diego Trust and Savings Bank Building.
You certainly marvel at the details inside from the marble columns, painted tiles, and Art Deco accents that grace the common areas – even down to the Starbucks inside the lobby. But business and leisure travelers praise the hotel for its creature comforts and budget pricing for the area (be prepared to pay steep pricing for valet parking – common for the area).
Book: Use the Marriott Bonvoy Member Rate.
Also featured in: Best Downtown San Diego Hotels
San Diego Marriott Hotel Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best Marriott hotels near SeaWorld San Diego?
Several popular Marriott hotels in San Diego provide easy access to SeaWorld. While some driving is nearly always required, hotels near downtown make it possible to reach SeaWorld by car.
Top options on this list located a short drive from SeaWorld San Diego include:
- Marriott Vacation Club Pulse
- Hotel Republic San Diego
- THE US GRANT
- The Guild Hotel
The closest Marriott hotel to SeaWorld San Diego though is the Four Points by Sheraton San Diego – SeaWorld. You can read my full list of hotels near SeaWorld San Diego for more details.
What are the best Marriott hotels on the beach in San Diego, CA?
While many San Diego Marriott hotels provide coastal views, not all make it easy to hit the beach on a whim. If you desire convenient beach access, you’ll likely end up at the Pier South Resort, Autograph Collection, which offers fun opportunities like paddleboarding or surfing lessons in Imperial Beach.
Otherwise, stay at the Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa. You can take an Uber or one of the resort bicycles out to Coronado Beach in front of Hotel del Coronado.
