Top 10 Resorts in La Jolla, United States

April 19, 2023 Rebbecca Marino

Topnotch golf courses, art galleries and seals share the dramatic oceanside landscape of La Jolla, an affluent community 15 minutes from downtown San Diego. Swimmers, snorkelers and kayakers dip into La Jolla Cove, where the protected waters shield an abundance of bright orange Garibaldi fish and sea caves indent the cliffs. The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, the family-friendly Birch Aquarium and the acclaimed La Jolla Playhouse deliver breaks from the sun.
Things to do in La Jolla

1. The Lodge at Torrey Pines

11480 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037-1045 1 (619) 304-6551
Excellent
80%
Good
13%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 2098 reviews

The Lodge at Torrey Pines

The Lodge at Torrey Pines is an award-winning luxury resort set atop the cliffs of Torrey Pines State Beach in La Jolla, California. Awarded the AAA Five Diamond rating for 18 consecutive years, the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, and Travel + Leisure’s Top 50 Hotels in the United States and Canada, The Lodge provides stunning views of the world-renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course and the Pacific Ocean and endless opportunities for guests to enjoy San Diego’s warm climate – from outdoor dining and relaxing at the spa to hiking, golfing and more. The Lodge is modeled after the famed Gamble and Blacker houses in Pasadena – two of the finest examples of early 1900s Craftsman-style architecture. Its post-and-beam construction features a natural color palette, graceful wing-like rooflines, shingle and sandstone-bluff exteriors, clinker-brick masonry, rich woodwork, and natural stone surfaces. Arrivals are greeted by doormen attired in kilted Scottish dress, while inside are 170 spacious guest rooms and suites designed for supreme comfort. The Lodge’s signature restaurant A.R. Valentien – rated Best Hotel Restaurant in the West by Sunset Magazine in 2015 – is a destination for fresh regional cuisine served in an elegant setting overlooking the Torrey Pines Golf Course. Artisan Table Dinners highlighting farm-to-table fare in a communal setting are offered weekly, while Executive Chef Jackson headlines The Lodge’s annual Celebrate the Craft event, one of Southern California’s premier showcases for regionally grown ingredients and innovative cooking and winemaking. For a more casual vibe, The Grill at The Lodge offers a full menu of favorites whether dining indoors or on the patio, while its bar is an ideal gathering place after a day on the golf course. The Spa at Torrey Pines features signature treatments themed around the beauty and purity of the Pacific coastline. This 9,500 square foot space uses botanical and marine-based extracts from European product lines Phytomer, SkinCeuticals, Farmhouse Fresh and NV Organics to replenish and restore the body and mind. Additional features of The Lodge include a croquet lawn, heated outdoor pool and cabanas, whirlpool, outdoor terrace with chaise lounges, hiking at the adjacent Torrey Pines State Reserve, a fitness center and the Scripps Library, a public space featuring a pool table, board games and more. Adjacent to The Lodge, the Torrey Pines Golf Course is an iconic 36-hole course that hosts the PGA Tour’s annual Farmers Insurance Open. Whether on the North Course or South Course, our guests have the opportunity to play where the pros play with the stunning La Jolla coastline as a backdrop. Nearby attractions include downtown La Jolla and Del Mar, Birch Aquarium at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, the La Jolla Playhouse performing arts center and the Museum of Contemporary Art. During spring and summer, the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club entices visitors with the thrill of live racing, while a popular year-round choice is the Torrey Pines State Reserve, a magnificent 2,000 acres of protected rare Torrey Pine trees featuring pristine beaches and eight miles of trails; The Lodge offers complimentary guided hikes throughout the preserve daily. The Lodge is located just 15 miles north of the San Diego International Airport and downtown San Diego.

Booked and can't wait to get there!!

Reviewed By kerrydQ660TS

I don't usually write reviews....especially when I haven't even stayed there yet...but in this case I had to! Renee in reservations was just outstanding!!! Not only did she help me book connecting rooms and answer all my endless questions but also gave me a lot of great information about the hotel and things to do in the area as well. In fact, she literally called me back to tell me some additional information too! Who does that? One word....RENEE!!!! I told her that when we come to stay there in July that I want to meet her in person to thank her for all her help!! All the staff I have spoken to so far seems wonderful. I called today to get restaurant recommendations and spoke to Maricella at the front desk who could not have been nicer. She transferred me to Lisa Marie the concierge and she gave me tons of information and immediately sent me an email with links to tons to do in the area and offered to book any reservations we needed. Lisa Marie was very knowledgeable, friendly and very helpful. The staff already has been so wonderful. We are SO excited about our trip already! It's off to a great start. Can't wait to make all our reservations in advance and just get there and RELAX!!!

2. Pantai Inn

1003 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037-4127
Excellent
87%
Good
9%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 1911 reviews

Pantai Inn

This exceptional boutique hotel masterfully blends Bali's old-world charm, kingly comforts, and cutting-edge technologies. Reminiscent of the tranquil retreats of the Indonesian island, Pantai Inn offers the essence of Bali with richly appointed suites and ocean views. No two rooms are alike, each decorated with custom furnishings, art, wood and stone carvings, all hand-chosen and imported from Bali. Most notably, Pantai Inn exudes the purest form of luxury. This paradise is your gateway to experience Bali's most revered traits...the highest standards of genuine, friendly and welcoming hospitality service.

Lovely place

Reviewed By Marc H

Exquisite décor, clean and cozy. We stayed for 4 nights and wished we could have stayed longer. The location is also excellent! Loved the fireplace and we used the full kitchen. The bathroom was also classy. Would stay there again in a heartbeat!

3. Grande Colonial La Jolla

910 Prospect Street, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037-4198 1 (844) 760-5964
Excellent
66%
Good
22%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
3%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 2379 reviews

Grande Colonial La Jolla

Located just 15 minutes north of downtown San Diego, the Grande Colonial is the only Four Diamond property in the seaside Village of La Jolla. Offering classic European styling in the intimate setting of a boutique hotel and commanding views of the California coastline, the property overlooks the shores of the Pacific Ocean and is ideally located just steps away from miles of beautiful beaches renowned to Southern California. Within walking distance are world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment and within a short drive are an abundance of golf, recreation and visitor attractions. The hotel features 97 non-smoking guest rooms and suites (some with fully-equipped kitchens and fireplaces). With its ideal location, gracious service and environment of extraordinary comfort, the Grande Colonial hotel provides the ideal destination for travelers to La Jolla.

Wish I had booked elsewhere - beware NOT a 4-star hotel

Reviewed By WindyCityLady825

Ugh… this hotel was such a disappointment. We arrived and our room reeked of such a bad chemical stench, it made our eyes sting. They were completely booked and tried to move us to a non-ocean view room that had gnats flying in it. They moved us to a different room that was only available one night, and then had us move for the rest of our stay into a smaller room than what we had booked. The bathroom clearly had not been cleaned properly and had hair all over the place. The beds were so uncomfortable that they hurt our backs. As another reviewer mentioned, the showers were awful and the water pressure terrible. The towels didn’t absorb anything. Our bathroom had a filthy tub that had not been replaced in decades. We would’ve left this awful place had we not already been so exhausted from changing our room. I have NO idea how this is listed as a 4-star hotel. It is most definitely not of that caliber. The only 4 stars about it is its location, which cannot be beat.

4. La Valencia Hotel

1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037 1 (855) 971-1972
Excellent
65%
Good
18%
Satisfactory
9%
Poor
5%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1873 reviews

La Valencia Hotel

Discover the luxury of La Valencia Hotel, an unforgettable destination that has welcomed guests, including the Hollywood elite, for more than 90 years. With her signature pink exterior and iconic tower, the elegant "Pink Lady" remains a renowned landmark on La Jolla's distinctive Prospect Street commanding the village bluffs with panoramic views of the Pacific coastline and beautiful La Jolla Cove. 114 rooms, suites and villas offer a cast of options from cozy boudoirs to a captivating penthouse or exclusive villas. Culinary indulgence takes center stage at The Med, the hotel’s ocean facing restaurant and terrace featuring seasonal California coastal cuisine. The supporting cast features La Sala, a sumptuous and dazzling Spanish-Mediterranean style lounge cast in the tradition of grand hotel bars.

Overpromising, Not worth it

Reviewed By basebas

This hotel shows over-promising pictures of its rooms. The classic double rooms have windows that do not allow to see outside. The room that was finally assigned to me, a classi king, is far in size from the one shown online. Don't fall into the trap.

5. Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines

10950 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037 1 (855) 605-0316
Excellent
44%
Good
30%
Satisfactory
15%
Poor
7%
Terrible
5%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 2146 reviews

Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines

For those seeking an escape, Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines is the distinguished coastal resort along serene bluffs of the Pacific Ocean; a genuine San Diego getaway that offers guests insightfully engaging events and activations, exclusive access to Torrey Pines Golf Course, purposeful outdoor gardens with pathways to wellness, and unrivaled views from the patios of guest rooms. Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines allows our hotels guests to feel a sense of seclusion while remaining close to all activities that San Diego's seaside neighborhood of La Jolla has to offer. Featuring a convenient location next to Scripps Hospital and Research Center, in between the villages of La Jolla and Del Mar. Get outdoors and swim laps in the heated pool or hike the nearby Torrey Pines State Reserve. Keep fit in the fitness center or enjoy a game of tennis, baketball, or pickle ball on our sports courts. Savor fresh cuisine by Executive Chef Ryan Hetherington at the on-site restaurant, Torreyana Grille or grab your morning Starbucks at our on-site Horizons Coffee Café. Relax in spacious hotel rooms designed with the Southern California lifestyle in mind, that brings the outdoors in with spacious patios and balconies.

Excellent service!

Reviewed By 638ellenl

I was so impressed with the service from this hotel! The housekeeper Rowena cleaned my room similar to my own housekeeper who spends 8 hours cleaning my room The front desk person Lanie offered to get my ballot into the mail in her way home The front desk mgr(,can’t recall her name, short w long dark hair) made sure I liked my room and went above and beyond. Only suggestion is they update their fitness center

6. La Jolla Cove Hotel & Suites

1155 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037-3627 1 (858) 203-2721
Excellent
32%
Good
30%
Satisfactory
15%
Poor
11%
Terrible
12%
Overall Ratings

3.5 based on 1401 reviews

La Jolla Cove Hotel & Suites

Escape to an oceanfront getaway on the sapphire shores of La Jolla, California. Located on the coast of La Jolla Cove, our beachfront hotel in San Diego offers an exclusive stay mixed with the easygoing spirit of San Diego.

Wedding Ceremony and Reception

Reviewed By annamarieq2022

Ana Marie did wonderful as my point of contact and bartender for my wedding. Kristina was amazing as she was so friendly to my family and friends. I am thankful for these two amazing women who made my event seamless and flowing. I got ready at the penthouse suite and they placed me on the highest floor which made it easy for me to arrive at the rooftop ceremony without going up or down flights of stairs. The penthouse suite was absolutely beautiful and all the rooms in my room block had equally beautiful oceanfront views. The venue is perfect and I am excited to visit the venue when the bartending room is completely finished with construction. Thankfully it was covered by a gorgeous greenery fence which made for nice pictures. There is a parking fee of $20 or $25, I forgot which one it was! But I would relive this day at this venue every time. I got so many compliments and everyone was so in love with the views. It was worth every penny!

7. La Jolla Shores Hotel

8110 Camino del Oro, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037-3199
Excellent
48%
Good
28%
Satisfactory
12%
Poor
7%
Terrible
5%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 1334 reviews

La Jolla Shores Hotel

For decades, the La Jolla Shores Hotel has been the year-round beach retreat of choice for families and vacationers of all types. Nestled right on the ocean in the popular La Jolla Shores, CA community, the hotel’s friendly, warm and welcoming staff is a highlight of the experience.

Great location

Reviewed By Moopar1956

Best value on the beach! Our first and we’ll be back next winter. Walking distance to great food and entertainment. Resort staff was very friendly and helpful. You can pay a daily rate for parking or with a little effort you can find street parking.

8. Inn by the Sea La Jolla

7830 Fay Avenue, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037
Excellent
34%
Good
39%
Satisfactory
18%
Poor
5%
Terrible
4%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 972 reviews

Inn by the Sea La Jolla

Welcome to Our Beach View Hotel in Downtown La Jolla, CA Experience the sand-swept landscapes and inspired Pacific views of the Inn by the Sea at La Jolla in San Diego, California. Here at our boutique hotel in downtown La Jolla, you'll find lovely guest suites, complete with balconies offering coastal breezes and inspired views. Surrounded by beaches, dining options, local culture, and chic boutiques, this Southern California mecca is the premier destination for travelers to the La Jolla and San Diego areas. Take advantage of comfortable, spacious guest accommodations from the hotel that boasts a location in "The Heart of the Village."

Excellent location, Mediocre hotel.

Reviewed By Steve R

Really close to La Jolla Village and all the shops/ excellent restaurants. The picture you see here is exactly the room, but what you can't see is that the furniture, bedding and carpet feel old and worn and the bed is uncomfortable. I think the box spring was mad of aluminum or metal as it made a popping sound, like when you push on an empty soda can, when we sat on it. Also, only 3 poor pillows. The bathroom is very small and really can't be used by 2 people at once....at all.

9. La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club

2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037-3237
Excellent
63%
Good
18%
Satisfactory
9%
Poor
6%
Terrible
4%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 556 reviews

La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club

Along the shores of the California coast stands one of the region’s most timeless beachfront resorts, a treasured destination for more than 80 years that still feels like a San Diego secret – La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club. Explore this landmark hotel.

Great food, beaches, and views. Missing modern creature comforts.

Reviewed By claytoncohn

My grandparents retired to La Jolla and were members here, so I grew up coming to LJBTC twice a year for 20+ years. I never stayed at the hotel, however, until recently. The beachfront location is impossible to beat, as are the activities, which include tennis, chip-and-putt golf, pickleball, ping pong, cornhole, and other games I am surely missing. The staff is nice, and the food is top notch as well. They even have a falconer on the beach to scare off seagulls! (although I believe it's a hawk not a falcon, but still!) That being said, there is one caveat. The place is exactly as I remember it from when I was a kid, which is good for my nostalgia, but bad for the hotel. The painting scheme is a bit tired and clearly needs updating. More importantly, some key features are missing. There are no elevators, for example, so anyone not on the first floor will have to use the stairs. Be aware of this if stairs are an issue for you! Additionally, the rooms do not have readily available outlets (I had to pull the bed and headboard out to plug in my phone charger, for example). Overall, this place is great. But it is expensive and missing some modern accoutrements that are staples at even the lowest-tiered hotels. However, if your goal is to stay on the beach with ready access to great food and awesome games in an environment that is equally kid-friendly and relaxing, then this is the place to be. Just make sure you bring an extension cord or surge protector so you only have to move the bed out once! Safe Travels, Clayton Cohn

10. Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego La Jolla

8901 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037
Excellent
36%
Good
37%
Satisfactory
15%
Poor
6%
Terrible
5%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 837 reviews

Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego La Jolla

Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego La Jolla is an all-suite San Diego hotel in La Jolla, California. We put you within walking distance of the University of CA San Diego campus and less than 2 miles from Scripps Memorial Hospital. From our extended-stay hotel, guests can also visit many local attractions such as breathtaking beaches, unique shops and Torrey Pines, the legendary La Jolla golf course. This all-suite hotel in La Jolla also offers easy access to Balboa Park and LEGOLAND. All of our suites in La Jolla offer fully equipped kitchens, with full stoves and ovens, and separate living and sleeping areas. Business travelers will appreciate our large, well-lit desk and free high-speed Internet. When you're looking to relax, take a dip in our heated pool or have some fun playing sand volleyball. We aim to be your favorite La Jolla all-suite hotel.

Excellent stay @Residence Inn La Jolla

Reviewed By SLIMGLIM

Usually stay at Sheraton La Jolla but with so many complaints recently I decided to give Residence Inn a chance - and I am happy I did! Hotel is a series of 1-floor "bungalows" with a few suites per building. Good location near San Diego and La Jolla. Front desk was curteous and professional and helped me move from a room that was recently painted. Decent breakfast in the morning, nearby (walking distance) groceries if you want/need and a couple of food places. Room was very spacious, clean and well maintained (one extra Point from Average). In-suite kitchenette with all you need to warm up and maybe do some light cooking. Comfortable bed, AC/heating was just right - for all these and the front desk personnel one extra point from Very Good. Will revisit when in town and recommends to others!

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