15 Finest Motels In La Jolla, California

For seven windswept miles, the beautiful San Diego community of La Jolla hugs the Pacific Coast. Rugged hills, pine trees, and sandstone cliffs cradle this unique seaside village of luxury hotels, surf shops, and spectacular sunsets.

You’ll find La Jolla about 12 miles to the north of Downtown San Diego. This beachside village is an excellent place to stay when you want a peaceful place to sleep while visiting San Diego’s busy tourist venues like Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, LEGOLAND San Diego, and San Diego Safari Park.

La Jolla is an exclusive Southern California community with some stratospheric real estate, but you’re in luck because you don’t need to buy property to visit this delightful seaside village. The town boasts dozens of beautiful hotels and welcomes tourists with open arms; it’s just a matter of finding the perfect place to stay in La Jolla for a vacation, weekender, or romantic getaway.

Let’s explore some of the beautiful and classy places to stay in La Jolla, California.

TLDR; Our Favorite Accommodations in La Jolla

Where to Stay in La Jolla

1. Hyatt Regency La Jolla at Aventine

Address: 3777 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA 92122

The Hyatt Regency in La Jolla is a large yet affordable property that checks all the marks with its huge pool, on-site dining, and amenities like tennis courts and a fitness center. The hotel is a bit of a jog from the beach, which is one of the reasons for its affordable rates.

Destinations like the University of California at San Diego (UCSD), the Torrey Pines golf course, and the ocean are just a few miles away from the property. The hotel is also a stone’s throw away from the 5 FWY, so it’s easy to jump on the highway and head south into San Diego proper and enjoy a harbor cruise or whale-watching voyage.

The Hyatt Regency is an ideal destination for your La Jolla getaway when you want a comfortable and welcoming place to sleep each night between your Southern California adventures. The outdoor pool is open all year, which is a nice perk for anyone traveling with kids.

Attractions Near the Hyatt Regency La Jolla at Aventine

• Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
• Doyle Community Park
• Shaka Java
• Rose Canyon Trail

Pros

• Heated outdoor pool
• Spacious rooms

Cons

• Parking isn’t free
• Food options are limited

See Related: Where To Stay In San Diego: Best Areas & Neighborhoods

2. La Jolla Shores Hotel

Address: 8110 Camino Del Oro, La Jolla, CA 92037

The La Jolla Shores Hotel sits right on the beach, and it’s possible to smell the sea spray from your balcony when you stay. The La Jolla Shores Hotel is in the La Jolla Shores neighborhood and is in a great location when you’d rather take a quick stroll to get food rather than use a car.

The La Jolla Shores Hotel also boasts a private beach, so you can relax in front of the water without a crowd in the summer. If you’re traveling with friends or family, the hotel offers connected rooms and a variety of bed configurations with options for a balcony or patio.

Enjoy the hotel’s lovely outdoor dining with a view of the ocean, as well as gorgeous ocean views from most guest rooms. Choose one of the upstairs rooms with a balcony if you’d like a fantastic view of the coastline or one of the ground-floor rooms for direct access to the beach.

Attractions Near the La Jolla Shores Hotel

• House of Pizza
• La Jolla Shores Boat Launching Area
• Brick & Bell Café La Jolla Shores
• La Jolla Shores Park

Pros

• Walkable to shops and dining
• Great price for a hotel near the beach

Cons

• The rooms are a little dated
• Internet connectivity is spotty sometimes

See Related: Best Museums in San Diego, California

3. The Lodge at Torrey Pines

Address: 11480 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037

The hotels near the famous Torrey Pines golf course and state park offer a sublime chance for a peaceful, rejuvenating, and relaxing vacation. You don’t need to love golf or hit the links to enjoy a stay at The Lodge at Torrey Pines with its beautiful late-19th Century style and cozy spa facilities.

The Lodge at Torrey Pines features the Arts and Crafts architectural style, which should remind you of a classic craftsman cottage in Pasadena or perhaps other famous Southern California locale. The beautiful, exposed beams, woodwork, and gentle lighting of this La Jolla hotel create a wonderful ambiance.

The Lodge at Torrey Pines is one of the reasons the community of La Jolla draws so many vacationers each year. You won’t find a more beautiful view than the one from your patio, with the golf course in the foreground and the majestic Pacific Ocean views behind it.

Attractions Near The Lodge at Torrey Pines

• Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
• New English Brewing
• Black’s Beach
• Torrey Pines Golf Course

Pros

• Beautiful property
• Ocean views

Cons

• You can’t reserve cabanas
• The menus are limited

See Related: Best Breweries in San Diego, California

4. Pantai Inn

Address: 1003 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037

The Pantai Inn is incredibly close to the beach and Downtown La Jolla, and its convenient location makes it a great choice for families, particularly with the option for family rooms. Some of the rooms are just like houses, with bedrooms, kitchens, and dining rooms.

The staff can also sometimes accommodate requests for early check-in, which can make things easier when you’re traveling with kids and need a place for the toddler to take an afternoon nap. The famous seal lions that inhabit the coastline of La Jolla are very close, too, and are a fun sight for kids.

If you’re seeking a La Jolla hotel where it’s easy to feel comfortable and secure, the Pantai Inn La Jolla should offer the best opportunity to feel like you’re at home with all the added perks of a hotel. The friendly staff will make your stay in La Jolla effortlessly enjoyable.

Attractions Near the Pantai Inn

• La Jolla Shell Beach
• La Dolce Vita Ristorante
• Children’s Pool La Jolla
• La Jolla Cove

Pros

• Excellent for groups who need several beds
• Complementary sodas and water

Cons

• The windows don’t have screens
• Not all guest rooms have a view

See Related: Best Things to do in Point Loma, San Diego

5. The Shoal Hotel La Jolla Beach

Address: 6750 La Jolla Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037

The Shoal Hotel La Jolla Beach is a beautiful and modern hotel with amenities ideally suited for couples seeking a luxurious and cozy getaway. You’ll find walk-in showers, comfortable beds, and a cozy swimming pool that’s perfect for lounging on a hot summer day.

In the morning, walk over to Busy Bee’s Bagel Bakery for a fantastic breakfast, then walk a few blocks west to enjoy beach views in the afternoon. If you need guidance, try a coastal walking tour, where you’ll learn all about the history of La Jolla.

You’ll also find a few cool bars in the vicinity for evening drinks and socializing. Try the Nautilus Tavern or The Shack Bar & Grill.

The Shoal La Jolla Beach is also in a prime location for surfing as it’s close to Windansea Beach, the local surf haunt. You’ll find the comfortable rooms at the Shoal are the ideal place to lay your head after a day in the sun at the beach.

Attractions Near The Shoal Hotel La Jolla Beach

• Windansea Beach
• La Jolla Natural Park
• Nautilus Tavern
• Starkey Mini Park

Pros

• Close to Windansea Beach for surfing
• Comfortable soft beds

Cons

• Parking isn’t free
• The property is lovely but not luxurious

See Related: San Diego vs Los Angeles: What’s the Difference?

6. Grande Colonial Hotel La Jolla

Address: 910 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037

If you love shopping while you’re on vacation, try the Grande Colonial Hotel. This chic establishment is within walking distance of loads of shops and eateries, as well as a few blocks from the beach. The 4-star hotel offers all the amenities you might want in a luxury hotel, like a fine dining restaurant, bathrobes, and complimentary bottled water. They even have a genuine London cab for shuttle service!

The Grande Colonial Hotel offers echoes of the past with its bold, classical architecture. The hotel is a sublime combination of Old World charm and sunny California. The Grande Colonial is almost like a resort on the Mediterranean, with hints of coastal California and towering palm trees thrown in for good measure.

You’ll sleep beautifully in the well-appointed and spacious rooms. The classic and slightly rustic feel of the hotel is as far away from a chain hotel experience as you can get. Shop ’till you drop each day and then return to the quiet relaxation of an evening in one of the best La Jolla luxury hotels.

Attractions Near the Grande Colonial La Jolla

• Seal Rock
• Bubba’s Smokehouse BBQ
• Athenaeum Music & Arts Library
• La Plaza La Jolla Shopping Mall

Pros

• Excellent breakfast
• Tons of shopping within walking distance

Cons

• Some rooms require climbing a lot of stairs
• Lobbies and hallways aren’t air-conditioned

See Related: Do You Need a Car in San Diego? Things to Know

7. La Jolla Cove Suites

Address: 1155 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037

Several beautiful La Jolla hotels sit near the beach or within sight of the ocean, but the La Jolla Cove Suites Hotel offers the best location when you want to wear yourself out on the water each day and return, exhausted, to your cozy room at night.

The hotel is right across the street from La Jolla Cove, which is where you’ll head for scuba diving and swimming. You’ll see the famous sea lions every so often along the coast, and you’ll have opportunities to rent ocean gear at the La Jolla Caves Snorkel & Paddleboard Rental shop, which is about a minute’s walk from the hotel.

One of the cool features of the hotel is that you get a free pass to the La Jolla Athletic Club, so you can satisfy your need for the treadmill and a weight set in-between jaunts into the ocean for swimming and snorkeling.

Attractions Near La Jolla Cove Suites

• Boomer Beach
• La Jolla Athletic Club
• Ellen Browning Scripps Park
• Point La Jolla

Pros

• Best hotel in La Jolla for beach lovers
• Wonderfully friendly staff and crew

Cons

• Parking is limited
• The hallways may feel like a confusing maze

See Related: Best Day Trips from San Diego, California

8. Hotel La Jolla, Curio Collection by Hilton

Address: 7955 LaJolla Shores Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037

As you explore your options for La Jolla hotels, you’ll probably need to make a decision on where you want to stay. Near the golf course? At the beach? Near shopping? Easy access to San Diego? What if you could find a hotel that’s close to everything?

Hotel La Jolla, Curio Collection by Hilton is an excellent hotel for visitors who want to do anything and everything. The hotel isn’t right on La Jolla Shores Beach, but you can still see the ocean from its balconies. The hotel is located in the La Jolla Shores neighborhood of town, so it’s north of the Village of La Jolla and south of the university and golf courses.

Getting on the 5 FWY to get to San Diego is a quick few miles along La Jolla Parkway. When you’re not enjoying and exploring everything in La Jolla, you’ll find easy comfort in the well-appointed and quiet rooms.

Attractions Near Hotel La Jolla, Curio Collection by Hilton

• The Marine Room
• Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial
• Rose Canyon Trail
• Kayaking

Pros

• Rooms are spacious and well-appointed
• Amazing sunsets overlooking the town & ocean

Cons

• The water temperature in the bathrooms isn’t always on point
• Parking is expensive

See Related: Where To Stay In Los Angeles: Best Areas & Neighborhoods

9. La Valencia Hotel

Address: 1132 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037

If the Pacific Ocean isn’t enough for you and you also want access to a fabulous pool on your vacation, the La Valencia Hotel is a fantastic choice. Many La Jolla hotels offer pools and hot tubs and all the poolside niceties, but the La Valencia certainly takes it up a notch.

The pool area looks like something you’d find on a Balinese vacation on the other side of the world. The hotel is conveniently located in the Village of La Jolla, which means shopping and dining options are just steps away from your room.

If you’d rather remain at the hotel for your meal, you’ll have access to two restaurants. The spa and wellness center at the hotel offers massages, which are the perfect way to close out a day spent at the beach or frolicking at the hotel’s amazing pool.

Attractions Near the La Valencia Hotel

• Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave
• Rocky Beach Rope Access
• Hennessey’s Tavern
• La Jolla Caves Snorkel & Paddleboard Rental

Pros

• Great pool with pool attendants
• Excellent location within walking distance of attractions

Cons

• Some of the facilities are dated
• The rooms are cozy rather than spacious

See Related: Best Things to do in Santa Monica, California

10. Sheraton La Jolla Hotel

Address: 3299 Holiday Ct, La Jolla, CA 92037

The University of California San Diego is in the middle of La Jolla, and the Sheraton La Jolla Hotel is very close to the campus. If you’re visiting the university to see a child graduate or you have other business at the university, the Sheraton is a great place to stay, with easy access to the school and the 5 FWY for trips south where you might enjoy a scenic tour of San Diego.

When you’re not on campus, enjoy the beautiful garden atmosphere that surrounds the pool area, or get a quick workout in the exercise room. The entire property feels very much like a lush, tropical village, and you’ll see plants around every corner and all over the hotel.

The hotel does have a few restaurants on-site, but it’s just a quick drive over to the village, where you’ll find more unique places to eat. The hotel is also within walking distance of some standard chain restaurants when all you want is a quick bite to eat, and you’re not too particular about the location.

Attractions Near the Sheraton La Jolla Hotel

• Cliffridge Park
• Woo Karaoke
• AMC La Jolla 12
• Villa La Jolla Park

Pros

• Easy access to UCSD
• The hotel is very eco-friendly

Cons

• The beach isn’t within walking distance
• A major freeway is uncomfortably close

See Related: Best Places to Visit in San Francisco & Things to Do

11. Empress Hotel La Jolla

Address: 7766 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037

You’ll find a plenty of large hotels from well-known chains in La Jolla, as well as a handful of hidden gems. The Empress Hotel La Jolla is probably the best option for a boutique hotel experience.

The design of The Empress Hotel is meant to make you think you’re somewhere in Europe — the hotel even boasts an Italian restaurant! The hotel offers assistance to travelers interested in making the most of their La Jolla visit with trips to galleries, shops, and restaurants throughout town.

Located in the Village of La Jolla, the Empress is near shopping and the beach. The rooms are large and feature upscale European décor. If you want a hot tub in your room, opt for the spa suite.

Attractions Near the Empress Hotel La Jolla

• Parakeet Café
• The Map & Atlas Museum of La Jolla
• Cuvier Park
• La Jolla Historical Society Wisteria Cottage Museum

Pros

• Elegant European vibe
• The hotel is located on a quiet street

Cons

• No breakfast available
• Parking isn’t included in the room price

See Related: Best Restaurants in San Diego, California

12. Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines

Address: 10950 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037

The Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines offers a peaceful and sublime vacation experience, nestled right next to the Torrey Pines Golf Course and the ocean just beyond. This elegant property is perfect for a quiet, refined vacation, even if you don’t play golf.

One of the fun features of the hotel is that they offer bicycle rentals, so you can explore the surrounding bluffs and the state park from the comfort of your bicycle seat. What better way to experience this beautiful Southern California resort town than from a bicycle?

Many La Jolla hotels are pet-friendly, but the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines is definitely the best pet-friendly hotel in the area. Your pets will love the peace and quiet, as well as the view, just as much as their human traveling companions.

Attractions Near the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines

• Ocean Air Recreation Center
• Sammy’s Bench
• Karl Strauss Brewing Company
• Los Peñasquitos Marsh Natural Preserve

Pros

• Beautiful location and property
• Rooms with beach views are available
• Super pet-friendly!

Cons

• Dining options on site are limited
• Some rooms require a long walk to reach

See Related: Best Tours in Palm Springs, California

13. Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa

Address: 9700 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037

La Jolla is a well-known resort town, and many of the hotels throughout the village provide various spa-like amenities and are the ideal starting point for a food and drink walking tour. If you’re searching for the complete spa hotel experience, the Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa should suit you wonderfully.

Not only are the grounds of the Estancia La Jolla Hotel beautifully kept and full of lush greenery, but the restaurants receive excellent reviews from guests, and the pool area is lovely. A stroll around the property is a great way to enjoy nature and see little visitors like hummingbirds amongst the gardens.

The Estancia La Jolla Hotel is a beautiful place to relax with its quiet atmosphere, caring staff, and all the amenities of the spa and wellness center.

Attractions Near Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa

• Torrey Pines Gliderport
• Blacks Beach Trail
• Torrey Pines State Beach
• Saigon Trail

Pros

• Beautiful grounds and location
• Peaceful and quiet rooms

Cons

• Some hotel features could benefit from modern updates
• Extra fees are charged for parking and charging EVs

See Related: Best Things to Do in Laguna Beach, California

14. Private Spanish Casita

Consider the beautiful and cozy Private Spanish Casita vacation home in La Jolla and enjoy a lovely outdoor garden space, ocean views, and walking distance to the beach. This newly constructed vacation home in La Jolla offers guests a beautiful kitchen, which means you can enjoy a delicious breakfast with your significant other or family before walking to the beach to enjoy the day.

The casita is also within walking distance of the Village, which means you’re just a few minutes away from shopping, eats, and activities like a Segway Tour of La Jolla’s exclusive beachfront neighborhoods.

Attractions Near the Private Spanish Casita

• Eppig Brewing La Jolla Bierhaus
• Sea Cove Lookout Point
• Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
• Village of La Jolla shopping district

Pros

• Excellent location near shops, food, & beach
• Peaceful property for a relaxing vacation
• Stunning garden and outdoor seating & eating area

Cons

• You’ll need to take a car to get to the golf course

See Related: Best Vacation Rentals in California

15. La Jolla Shores Beachfront Bungalow

A beautifully clear view of the Pacific Ocean awaits you when you stay at the La Jolla Shores Beachfront Bungalow, an updated and spacious condo near the beach. With two bedrooms and two bathrooms, the condo is an ideal destination for families traveling together who want to make home-cooked meals while traveling.

The condo is also an excellent option for couples traveling for fun at the beach, visiting San Diego, and playing golf at Torrey Pines. The owner of this updated and renovated condo will consider pets during your stay and welcomes children, so virtually any family, couple, or traveling partners will find comfort at the Beachfront Bungalow.

Attractions Near the La Jolla Shores Beachfront Bungalow

• La Jolla Underwater Park
• Kellogg Park
• Coast Walk Trail
• Pottery Canyon

Pros

• Has an amazing view of the ocean
• It takes just a few minutes to stroll to the beach

Cons

• It’s a condo so there isn’t a lot of outdoor space

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