Visiting San Diego but wondering “where should I stay in San Diego without a car”? While some cities are known for their walkability and carless residents, San Diego is a rather sprawling city overall, where most residents rely on vehicles for their daily lives.
While this is true for San Diego as a whole, many walkable neighborhoods within it provide the same sense of independence while visiting.
Not to mention, there are a significant number of options when it comes to local public transportation.
While knowing you’d prefer a walkable area with a proximity to public transportation is a great start to narrowing down your hotel options, the best resource by far is to know a local who can make recommendations for you.
Keep reading for a local’s guide to where to stay in San Diego without a car.
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We recommend staying at this iconic and historic hotel, located on a beautiful stretch of beach in Coronado, just across the bay from downtown San Diego.
15 Best Hotels To Stay In San Diego Without A Car
Finding hotels in San Diego can be daunting, considering the many options to choose from throughout such a large city.
Whether you travel on a budget or prefer to splurge on a luxury stay, there is something for you. This list compiles highly rated hotels in various walkable and lively neighborhoods throughout the city.
Budget-Friendly Hotels In San Diego
1. PodShare San Diego
PodShare San Diego is a nightly or subscription communal living space that can be found throughout major cities.
“One of the top 3 hostels in San Diego! Was just in town for the night on a gig contract and have stayed at PodShare several times in the last few years. Steven & his staff do a great job managing the place…” – Ricky (see more reviews)
This PodShare can be found in the Little Italy neighborhood, which is a very popular and history-rich part of San Diego. County Center/Little Italy Trolley Stations offer easy transportation throughout the city.
Check rates & availability for PodShare San Diego
2. Stay Classy
Stay Classy is a highly rated and very affordable hostel stay in the Gaslamp Quarter of San Diego.
“Stay classy was very accommodating in allowing us to stay on additional days. Very helpful during check in with Brandon carrying our heavy suitcases to our room. Excellent facilities for making food and also a lovely area to chill and relax.” – Brenda (see more reviews)
This stay is only 1.8 miles from the Santa Fe Depot Amtrak Station.
Check rates & availability for Stay Classy, Gaslamp Quarter
3. Abpopa Hillcrest
Abpopa Hillcrest is a modern and trendy hotel in the artsy neighborhood of Hillcrest.
“It was so cozy, it had an excellent view, it was so easy to navigate and the contactless aspect of it really is an introverts dream stay.” – Jose (see more reviews)
While being budget-friendly, this hotel offers a spa and yoga classes onsite. Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo are both within walking distance.
Check rates & availability for Abpopa Hillcrest
4. Old Town Inn
Located in the Midway District, this quaint Inn drops visitors just a quick walk away from historic Old Town San Diego.
“I would definitely stay here again if I come to San Diego. The room was great, just as pictured. Very clean and kept. The bed was comfortable and the location was convenient to the venue I was there for. And the breakfast in the morning was well stocked and good options.” – Tricia (see more reviews)
The Inn is also located less than 4 miles from the San Diego International Airport, The Presidio Hills Golf Course, and SeaWorld.
Check rates & availability for Old Town Inn
5. Lucky D’s Hostel
Lucky D’s is another highly rated hostel stay that is a perfect option for those looking to be in the most happening part of the city while staying on a budget.
“It was very enjoyable. It has many facilities that I have not seen in other places. They care about travelers. They are also very warm and friendly. The place has a homely feel.” – Damaris (see more reviews)
It’s located in the Gaslamp Quarter neighborhood and the San Diego International Airport is less than 5 miles away.
Check rates & availability for Lucky D’s Hostel
Mid-Scale Hotels In San Diego
6. Sonder The State
Sonder The State offers high-end apartments for a reasonable nightly fee, providing even a small kitchen area.
“A diamond and platinum experience on a silver plated budget. The washer and dryer in suite….and the customer service is stellar. Everything was more than the expectations we figured should be aligned with the price.” – Bernard (see more reviews)
This stay sits in the heart of Little Italy, where authentic markets are full of fresh foods to prepare in your kitchen and enjoy on your balcony.
Check rates & availability for Sonder The State
7. Bahia Resort Hotel
The Bahia Resort Hotel represents what many envision when they think of San Diego. This beachfront hotel offers a taste of the Southern California lifestyle and sits amid the beautiful and lively Mission Bay.
“Omg what an unbelievable stay we had. We arrived there and they upgraded our room. It was beautiful we had an incredible view of the marina.
We had food at the restaurant it was amazing top class and good value for what you pay for. We had issues with our safe and straight away they came to help with not waiting that long.
Customer service in general was 10/10 and they went above and beyond for us. What a perfect birthday and honeymoon it was. We didn’t want to leave!! Definitely recommend this place and we will be back!” – Kimberly (see more reviews)
This is a highly walkable area, and many prefer to get around via rented bicycles or scooters to soak in the ocean air.
Check rates & availability for Bahia Resort Hotel
8. Sonder The Marin
Sonder The Marin is an elegant and moderately priced option in San Diego’s historic Marin Hotel.
“The accessibility to the hotel (use of codes) and that we were close to everything. Plus having a kitchenette and small living room area. Love that everything was electronic.” – Amanda (see more reviews)
This stay is a less than 10-minute walk from Petco Park, the San Diego Convention Center, and Seaport Village. Convention Center Station is 6 minutes away, and Gaslamp Quarter Station is 7 minutes away.
It’s located in the Gaslamp Quarter neighborhood so you’re going to hear the busyness of the area.
Check rates & availability for Sonder The Marin
9. Ocean Beach Hotel
This small hotel is directly on the sand and sits just above the walkway that visitors can take for miles along Ocean Beach and Mission Beach.
“The location is perfect, the staff is accommodating, plenty is accessible parking, upkeep of the property shows a pride in ownership and a guest oriented staff. They are dog friendly” – Leslie (see more reviews)
It’s located in the Ocean Beach neighborhood. This is a great option if you want to spend your days in the sun and sand.
Check rates & availability for Ocean Beach Hotel
10. La Jolla Cove Suites
Those who choose this stay are lucky enough to be perched right on the beautiful and famous natural landscape of La Jolla Cove. Beach days, kayaking tours, and local seafood restaurants are a must when staying at La Jolla Cove Suites.
“Best view from a hotel room in La Jolla. rooftop deck was ridiculously amazing. Incredible, incredible, incredible. billion dollar views, location, we are planning on coming back every year….for the rest of our lives!” – Dana (see more reviews)
The Village of La Jolla is just a short walk away, with easy transportation into downtown San Diego via Bus Line 30.
Check rates & availability for La Jolla Cove Suites
Luxury Hotels In San Diego
11. Hotel del Coronado
Hotel del Coronado is known for its incredible architecture and location in Coronado. Coronado is a resort city that offers a vibrant beach community full of restaurants, bars, and shops.
“We love how pet friendly the hotel is- our Pomeranian had a great time. We really appreciated how nice the staff was. The location is great. The rooms are modern and comfortable and have amazing views!” – Luannie (see more reviews)
You can also find an easy pickup spot for the Old Town Trolley in front of McP’s restaurant. It’s also a great choice if you’re visiting during Christmas.
Check rates & availability for Hotel del Coronado
12. Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina
The Marriott Marquis is a luxury hotel found in the Marina district. This stay offers beautiful views of the water and is a short walk to Petco Park.
“This is a great hotel, great location, ample services and options. We really felt like we were on a vacation. It has a feel of a resort. There is so much to do inside the hotel, that it was hard to even leave. However, it is centrally located, in a beautiful area of San Diego. It is pricey but definitely worth it. I would come here over and over again.” – Grace (see more reviews)
Find a nearby trolley stop on 12th and Imperial, or the Padres Coaster Train is another form of transportation that can be easily accessed to get to and from the Marina.
Check rates & availability for Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina
13. Pendry San Diego
Pendry San Diego is another luxury hotel, but with a classic feel in the heart of Downtown San Diego.
“We went to San Diego for the weekend and Pendry was an awesome option. The staff super nice and accommodating. We stayed in a premium king and the bed was so comfortable I wanted to bring it home. Room was perfectly stocked. Pool area is fun and lively, the brunch was delicious.” – Veronica (see more reviews)
A high-end restaurant and bar can both be found on site while the stay is also surrounded by all the downtown area has to offer. Balboa Park is within walking distance as well.
Check rates & availability for Pendry San Diego
14. The Wayfarer San Diego
While this hotel is not the most luxurious on the list, its location on the water boosts its pricing. This beachfront hotel offers visitors easy access to the sand as well as the Famous Mission Beach Boardwalk.
“The location is great. Tons of restaurants and bars around, the pool is awesome and it is great for people watching. The rooms are very modern and comfortable.” – Jenniffer (see more reviews)
This hotel is located in the Mission Beach neighborhood. Bicycle rentals are available, and Mission Bay Park is merely one mile away.
Check rates & availability for The Wayfarer San Diego
15. La Valencia Hotel
La Valencia Hotel is located near The Village of La Jolla, a lively area for visitors and locals to spend the day shopping, eating, and taking walks along the beautiful coastline.
“Excellent location, beautiful bar, great pool, staff is helpful. valet parking is included which is great. food and drinks are outstanding. highly recommend eating dinner if you can sit in the Terrace. Best food I ate in San Diego! will stay again.” – Arvind (see more reviews)
The Line 30 bus is a direct route from La Jolla back into Downtown San Diego.
Check rates & availability for La Valencia Hotel
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I visit San Diego without a car?
Visiting San Diego without a car is a viable option. When doing so, I recommend that you research ahead of time to determine what you are hoping to get out of your visit and choose a walkable neighborhood to stay in based on this.
Is San Diego a walkable city?
San Diego is considered moderately walkable. There are plenty of walkable neighborhoods within San Diego.
In theory, a car would not be necessary for someone who commutes within their neighborhood or those directly around it, but this is not the case for many who must commute from work.
Some of San Diego’s outermost neighborhoods can be 20-30 minutes by car from the downtown area.
How do I get from San Diego to La Jolla without a car?
La Jolla is one of San Diego’s gems and offers beautiful natural landscapes and high-end shopping and dining experiences. The Line 30 bus is the most direct mode of public transportation that takes visitors between La Jolla and Old Town San Diego without having to transfer.
What is the best area in San Diego?
San Diego can vary significantly by neighborhood, which is a huge benefit of the city to many.
This also means that there is no way to determine the “best” area in San Diego, but rather this depends on each person’s own personal preferences and interests.
But determining whether you would prefer your stay to center around the beach or a more “downtown” experience is a great place to start.
For a safe neighborhood, we recommend the North Park neighborhood in San Diego.
Is San Diego safe?
San Diego is widely known to be one of the safest cities in the nation for its size. Although some levels of crime are a given, and some of its neighborhoods are safer than others, the crime rate in San Diego remains below the national average.
Can I visit San Diego in the winter?
If you conjure up images of endless summer and salty surfers when told to think of San Diego, you’re not alone. Although this city is known widely as a summer vacation destination, San Diego has its draws during the colder months.
How many days are needed for San Diego?
Because San Diego has so much to offer, I would recommend at least a 3-day trip to be able to explore different neighborhoods and visit as least 1 of its larger attractions such as Balboa Park or the San Diego Zoo. But if you can, plan a 5-day trip to San Diego to see the best of San Diego and not feel rushed.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know where to stay in San Diego without a car, you can ditch your car and start exploring the city through walking, public transportation, taxis, or shared rides with Uber and Lyft. If you choose to rent a car, here’s all you need to know about renting a car in San Diego.
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