Visiting San Diego can get expensive quick! One of the biggest ticket items is usually accommodations. Even as a resident myself, it’s nice to get out of home for a night and go sleep in a plush California King bed so I’m always looking for the best deals. Now, I’m going to share the most affordable hotels in San Diego with you!

A couple good places to start are by looking at Groupon (yes, really!) for more resort-like hotels all over the city. For the last minute traveler or local residents, try using Hotel Tonight.  Most of San Diego’s hotels also have overnight “city tax fees” that essentially help balance the city’s budget when accounting for tourism, so keep that in mind too that you’ll pay $30 – $50 more per night.

Here are some of my personal favorite affordable hotels in San Diego you should check out!

Central San Diego

By far the most affordable hotels in San Diego are located in Mission Valley. It’s great driving distance to everything but there’s not many activities within walking distance, which, in my opinion, makes it not the best option. HOWEVER, there are still some great hotels there if you just really need somewhere cheap!

Town & Country Resort

This beloved San Diego landmark recently received a 70 million dollar renovation, returning the hotel to it’s mid-century roots with many modern twists. Rates are as low as $120 /night and include free parking. The Town & Country Resort is also pet-friendly and has heated pools with a  giant spiral water slide!

Hampton Inn Mission Valley

A pretty standard, solid stay in San Diego meant for sleeping, free continental breakfast, and wifi. The best part is that it’s only $90 – $119 per night. Hampton Inn Mission Valley also has a small heated pool and is less than 10 minutes away from the San Diego Zoo.

Downtown / Gaslamp

Manchester Grand Hyatt

One of my all time favorites is the Manchester Grand Hyatt Hotel right on the bay downtown. During the summer, it will be a bit of a splurge at about $180-$200/ night but during the fall and spring, you can find prices as low as $120/ night on the weekend. If you also purchase tickets for the Rooftop Cinema Club, you’ll get a 30% off coupon to stay overnight at the hotel. This location has phenomenal views, elegant hallways, and a really awesome pool!

Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

This one is aaaalll about the location and the swimming pools! If you want to soak up the sun and be within close walking distance of the Gaslamp District and the Marina, this is the spot for you. The Marriott Marquis has all of the usual Bonvoy charms and perks, plus gigantic swimming pools that require wristbands for entry! Faaaancy! Expect to spend about $160-$200 per night here.

La Jolla

Sheraton La Jolla

Inland La Jolla has the most affordable hotels in San Diego coastal areas here. This Sheraton La Jolla is right across the street from the University of California San Diego (UCSD). It’s a little garden oasis still within 10 minutes of La Jolla Shores. Expect to pay $140-$180 /night. Check out my tips for visiting La Jolla Cove too!

Mission Bay

The Dana on Mission Bay

The vast majority of hotels in Mission Bay are all resorts so they are definitely more expensive. If you’re coming with a group that’s splitting the cost, I would hiiiighly recommend booking a vacation home near Strandway Ave. instead of a hotel.

BUT if you want a hotel with awesome views and amenities, The Dana is a great treat! They host dive-in movie nights at the pool, offer free parking, have bicycle rentals on-site and are within walking distance of the best water sports Mission Bay has to offer. Expect to spend $160-$180 / night. However, if you are local to San Diego, check out their “staycation” packages for as low as $119 / night for mid-week stays.

Honorable Mentions

While most hotels in San Diego are still going to be in the $120+ per night range, if you use the tips like Groupon or Hotel Tonight, you might even be able to find some phenomenal deals at fancy hotels like The Pendry (Gaslamp) or La Valencia (La Jolla). Overall, the most affordable hotels in San Diego depends on the season. If at all possible try to plan your trip during the Fall or Spring to get the best deals!

If you happen to need this list to plan a Bachelorette Party, I’ve got a free guide download for you here! Hope to see you in San Diego soon!