Last updated on February 18th, 2026
Looking for the best resorts in San Diego for families?
If so, you’ve come to the right place! This article details the 11 best San Diego family resorts – all with amazing pools, restaurants, kids’ activities, and more – written by a local and San Diego travel expert, to help you plan an incredible vacation any time of year.
San Diego is a dream destination for families, thanks to its year-round sunshine, world-class attractions like the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld San Diego, and a vibrant coastal vibe. Choosing the right place to stay can take your vacation from good to unforgettable. That’s why sometimes staying a full-scale resort vs. a regular hotel or vacation rental is a great idea.
Whether you’re looking for beachfront bliss, proximity to theme parks and attractions, or just want to enjoy top notch amenities in a luxurious setting for a few days, these best resorts in San Diego for families blend fun, comfort, and convenience, with plenty of ways for adults to relax and enjoy their vacation, too.
Top 3 Picks: San Diego Family Resorts
If you are just looking for a quick list of the very best resorts in San Diego, I am here to help! Here are our top three recommendations.
► San Diego Mission Bay Resort is great for families! It has an amazing pool, plenty of kid-friendly activities, rooms that open right up to outside play areas, and a private beach.
► The Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina is all about location! It is a beautiful hotel located right next to Seaport Village, with easy access to Coronado, the Gaslamp Quarter, museums and attractions, as well as great restaurants and shops.
► Hotel del Coronado on Coronado Island is pricey, but it located right on the beach, with great restaurants, family-friendly activities, and an iconic history.
Keep reading for more details on these great resorts for families, plus many more options to help you plan the perfect San Diego vacation in 2026!
Best San Diego Resorts for Families: Top Stays for Fun, Comfort & Relaxation
Here is a comprehensive list of the top San Diego resorts your entire family will love. To make comparing these hotels even easier, we’ve also listed notable amenities and location.
1. San Diego Mission Bay Resort
San Diego Mission Bay Resort At-A-Glance
- Beautiful, new guest rooms and décor throughout the resort
- Private beach on Mission Bay
- Fitness center
- Full-service spa
- Waterfront pool and kids’ wading pool
- On-site restaurants
- Boat, kayak, stand-up paddle board, and bike rentals on-site
- Lawn games, tennis, and pickleball courts
- A wealth of family-friendly onsite activities
A private beach, giant pool, tons of kid-friendly activities, water sports rentals, and awesome views of the SeaWorld fireworks at night are just some of the things that make this resort a top choice for families.
We recently enjoyed a couple of days kicking back at the resort and had so much fun, we never even left the property! Formerly a Hilton brand property, the San Diego Mission Bay Resort has been fully transformed with brand new rooms, waterfront dining, onsite outdoor activities, a luxurious spa, and beautiful waterfront swimming pool.
Most notable however, San Diego Mission Bay Resort offers direct beach access. The only beach of its kind in San Diego, enjoy volleyball, giant chess, bean bag toss, sandcastle building and bonfires in total seclusion along Mission Bay.
The onsite Action Sports offers everything from jet skis to stand up paddle boards, waterskiing to sailing, aqua cycles to pontoons. If you’d rather stay dry, The Sandbox rents bikes, surreys and beach cruisers for exploring the area. They also have sand toys for kids to enjoy on the beach.
There are four dining options at San Diego Mission Bay Resort, including a waterfront restaurant and live music every day on the Plaza Del Patio.
► Click here to read our full San Diego Mission Bay Resort review.
Hotel Information & Reservations
- 1775 East Mission Bay Drive, San Diego
- (877) 259-0010
- Read reviews for this hotel on Tripadvisor
► Check Rates & Availability for San Diego Mission Bay Resort
2. Paradise Point Resort & Spa
Paradise Point Resort At-A-Glance
- Tropical island resort
- Bungalow-style rooms
- Full-service marina
- Tennis and basketball courts
- 5 pools, including kid-friendly options
- Fire pits
- Private beach
- Beach bonfire and s’mores at night
- Fitness center and spa
- Five on-site restaurants
Spread across 44 lush acres on Mission Bay, this San Diego family resort feels like a tropical island escape.
Paradise Point Resort features bungalow-style accommodations, five pools, an onsite marina, and a wide array of recreational activities. It’s great for families who want to relax in between exploring nearby attractions. There are five swimming pools, including a beautiful waterfall pool, and of course a private beach on Mission Bay.
Our favorite part of Paradise Point is their marina. You can rent sailboats, speed boats, stand-up paddleboards, jet skis, kayaks, and more to enjoy on Mission Bay.
Hotel Information & Reservations
- 1404 Vacation Road, San Diego
- (858) 240-4913
- Read reviews for this hotel on Tripadvisor
3. Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa
Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa At-A-Glance
- Private bayside beach and water activities
- Summer luaus and beach games
- Paddleboard and kayak rentals
- Summer luau nights and live entertainment
- Beachfront spa
- Polynesian décor
- Fitness center overlooking Mission Bay
- Heated outdoor pool and hot tub
- On-site restaurants
- Tropical bird room
Also located on Mission Bay, Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa combines Polynesian charm with some really fun amenities to create one of the best family-friendly hotels in San Diego.
With swaying palm trees and paths lit by tiki torches, the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa is a tropical hideaway. Families can rent paddleboards, take a sunset cruise, or enjoy the koi ponds and exotic birds on the lush property.
The hotel features 310 suites, studios, and guest rooms, each with a balcony or patio offering views of Mission Bay or the lush gardens.
Family-friendly activities include a pool, beach bonfires, a fitness center, water sports rentals, an arcade, and cruises on the Bahia Belle, a Victorian-style paddlewheel boat. A Beach Concierge is available to provide umbrellas, chairs, and towels, as well as refreshments including cocktails, beer, and food.
Hotel Information & Reservations
- 3999 Mission Boulevard, San Diego
- (858) 488-1081
- Read reviews for this hotel on Tripadvisor
► Check Rates & Availability for Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa
4. Bahia Resort Hotel
The Bahia Resort Hotel At-A-Glance
- Family resort on Mission Bay’s beachfront
- Fitness center
- Family suites with kitchenettes
- Complimentary beach chairs and cabanas for hotel guests
- Rescue seal exhibit onsite
- Tennis courts with free use of rackets and balls
- On-site restaurant
- Free parking
A staple in Mission Bay, the Bahia Resort Hotel is ideal for families looking for a relaxed beachside getaway. With direct access to the bay and its own private beach, kids can enjoy water sports, sandcastle building, and even complimentary seal encounters.
The Bahia Resort Hotel sprawls across a 14-acre peninsula. Though it is an older property, it has the perfect location; it is on Mission Bay but still easy walking distance to Mission Beach, the iconic Belmont Park, and the Pacific Ocean.
The resort has an outdoor swimming pool, marina, game room, tennis courts, and shuffle board. All guests receive complimentary use of cabana chairs on the beach, making this a truly relaxing and stress-free destination.
You can also rent sail boats, boogie boards, stand-up paddle boards, kayaks and more. We rented a little sailboat and had a wonderful time just floating on the bay!
The hotel has 314 spacious rooms, including beach-front cottages, studios and tower rooms, and spacious bayside suites. Bayfront suites have direct beach access!
We stayed in one of the Bahia’s one-bedroom suites and it was nice to have the extra space, but I would recommend one of the cottages right on the Bahia’s secluded beach. I think the beachfront views and ambience of staying in a room where you can walk right out to the sand is worth the tradeoff.
► Click here to read our full Bahia Resort Hotel review.
Hotel Information & Reservations
- 998 West Mission Bay Drive, San Diego
- (858) 488-0551
- Read reviews for this hotel on Tripadvisor
5. Hotel del Coronado – Curio Collection by Hilton
Hotel Del Coronado At-A-Glance
- Beautifully restored historic hotel on Coronado Island
- Numerous room types, suites, villas and cottages
- Sections include The Victorian, The Cabanas, The View, Beach Village, and Shore House at The Del
- Ocean Explorers Kids Club
- Beach bonfires and s’mores kits
- Beach rentals and activities
- Multiple pools
- On-site restaurants
The Hotel Del Coronado is arguably one of the most famous hotels in California. Built in 1888, this sprawling oceanfront Victorian hotel has been luring visitors to the beach for more than a century. It has hosted numerous American presidents, foreign dignitaries, royalty, and celebrities, making it one of America’s most historic hotels.
But beyond that – it’s just a gorgeous property!
A San Diego icon, Hotel del Coronado blends its historic charm with modern amenities. Families will love the beachside movie nights, surf lessons, and seasonal kids’ programs. This family-friendly resort is easily one of the best oceanfront beach resorts in San Diego.
If you have young kids, the resort has an amazing kids club. Ocean Explorers is a living classroom with an interactive tide pool where children learn about preserving the ocean and all of its amazing marine life through fun activities and lessons inside the classroom and outside on the beach. You can reserve for half or full-day sessions.
Even when we’re not staying there, I love visiting this hotel. It has the perfect location right on Coronado Beach, and it is a beautiful resort just to wander around. We love having dinner at this hotel and timing it so we can enjoy the sunset views while we eat. There’s a big lawn where kids can run around, and of course the sand is right there, too. Spending time here is one of the best things to do in Coronado with kids!
Hotel Information & Reservations
- 1500 Orange Avenue, Coronado]
- (619) 435-6611
- Read reviews for this hotel on Tripadvisor
6. Loews Coronado Bay Resort
Loews Coronado Bay Resort At-A-Glance
- Quiet location on a private peninsula
- Stunning views of San Diego Bay
- Easy access to the beach
- Private marina with water sport rentals
- Spacious, comfortable rooms
- Three large pools and two hot tubs
- Pickle ball courts and other activities
- A full-service spa and fitness center
- Complimentary shuttle to Coronado Village
- Loews Little Legends Program
Located just across the bay from San Diego on Coronado Island (it is really a peninsula!), Loew’s Coronado Bay Resort is a great choice for families. Surrounded by shoreline, Loews offers unparalleled amenities, easy beach access, family-friendly activities, and panoramic views of the San Diego Bay and the downtown skyline.
There are three heated pools – one of which is reserved for adults only – and plenty of lounge chairs and lawn games on deck. The resort also has a private marina where you can rent boats, stand-up paddle boards, and more.
Other hotel amenities include a fitness center, pickle ball courts, a giant chess board, table tennis, and bike rentals. If you want to enjoy a family game night, stop by the front desk to borrow board games. They also have a library of children’s books your kids can take borrow to read.
The resort has 440 rooms and 40 suites, spread throughout five three-story buildings. We stayed in a Coronado Sunset Suite, which lived up to its name providing spectacular views of the sunset. Located on the top floor, our room faced west and offered a panoramic view of the sun dipping into the Pacific Ocean each evening. It was such a lovely touch being able to watch the sun set from our balcony.
► Click here to read our full Loews Coronado Bay Resort review.
Hotel Information & Reservations
- 4000 Coronado Bay Road, Coronado
- (619) 424-4000
- Read reviews for this hotel on Tripadvisor
7. Omni La Costa Resort & Spa
Omni La Costa At-A-Glance
- Eight distinct pools including an adults-only pool
- Kid-friendly pool areas featuring two 100-foot waterslides, a toddler slide, and splash play area
- Kidtopia Kids Club
- Omni Junior Chefs Club
- Tennis and pickle ball courts
- Fitness center
- Full-service spa
- Award-winning golf courses
- 5 on-site restaurants
- Plenty of family-friendly activities
A short drive from San Diego in Carlsbad, Omni La Costa Resort & Spa is packed with family appeal: waterslides, splash zones, and the Kidtopia Kids Club. Parents can enjoy golf or time at the world-class spa while kids stay entertained.
In addition to the awesome pools and water slides, other family-friendly activities offered at Omni La Costa include bike rentals, beach shuttles, an arcade, and dive-in movies.
The resort offers standard studio rooms and one, two, and three-bedroom suites and villas to accommodate any size family.
Hotel Information & Reservations
- 2100 Costa Del Mar Road, Carlsbad
- (760) 438-9111
- Read reviews for this hotel on Tripadvisor
8. The Cassara Carlsbad, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
The Cassara At-A-Glance
- Stunning views of the Carlsbad Flower Fields
- Two pool areas and a splash pad for kids
- On-site restaurant
- Walkway to LEGOLAND California
- Fitness center
- Playground
- Family-friendly onsite activities
The Cassara Carlsbad is a perfect choice for families planning to visit LEGOLAND, The Flower Fields, or Carlsbad State Beach.
The hotel features spacious family suites, a splash pad, and two outdoor pools. There is a walkway to Legoland so you don’t have to drive there if you’re planning to visit. The resort’s coastal location also puts you close to Carlsbad beaches. Plus, easy access to the 5 Freeway will get you to many other top San Diego attractions quickly.
The hotel itself is part of an older property, relaunched several years ago as The Cassara. It still shares many amenities, including its lobby, pools, and outdoor areas with the Grand Pacific Palisades Resort, which is more like condos, where The Cassara is a luxury hotel.
On our recent visit to The Cassara Carlsbad, we stayed in a traditional room with a king bed. It was a good size and had plenty of room to spread out, plus a big balcony. If you are visiting San Diego in spring like we did, you’ll enjoy the hotel’s premier location overlooking The Flower Fields and beautiful views all around.
► Click here to read our full Cassara Carlsbad review.
Hotel Information & Reservations
- 5805 Armada Drive, Carlsbad
- (760) 827-3232
- Read reviews for this hotel on Tripadvisor
9. LEGOLAND California Hotel
Each room is themed, plus, you’ll find a bucket of LEGO bricks in your room for kids to play with during your stay, as well as an in-room treasure hunt.
Can you stay at LEGOLAND California Hotel without going to the park? Sure. But why would you want to? If you don’t have kids with you, I can almost promise you won’t enjoy it. And if you do have kids but don’t take them to the park, then that’s a meltdown waiting to happen. Do your family a favor and book it as a package.
Hotel Information & Reservations
- One LEGOLAND Drive, Carlsbad
- (760) 444-5600
- Read reviews for this hotel on Tripadvisor
10. Fairmont Grand Del Mar
Fairmont Grand Del Mar At-A-Glance
- Stunning Mediterranean architecture
- Four outdoor pools with cabanas, poolside bar, and padded lounge chairs
- Tom Fazio-designed golf course with 18 holes
- Equestrian center and horseback riding lessons
- 5-star world-class spa
- Babysitting services
- Fitness Center
- Pickleball and tennis courts
- Explorer’s Club for kids
If you are looking for a getaway that will place you in the lap of luxury, this resort may be for you.
Nestled in the serene Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve just five miles from the coast, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar is an elite escape that doesn’t skimp on family-friendly features. With its expansive rooms and suites, four heated pools, horseback riding, tennis, and a kids’ club, it caters to both parents and children.
► Travel Insight
The Explorer’s Club – Fairmont Grand Del Mar’s kids’ club – offers sessions for kids ages 5 to 12 years old. If you book a spa appointment at the resort, regardless of if you are staying there or not, kids can go free for up to two hours! The Explorer’s Club has arts and crafts, video games, ping pong, and lots of other fun activities.
We’ve stayed at this hotel on several occasions, and it is always a treat. Award-winning service, amenities, and design deliver at every turn, including a championship golf course, 5-star spa, and exquisite restaurants. There are six dining venues plus poolside service and 24-hour room service, offering a wide array of dining options.
► Click here to read our full Fairmont Grand Del Mar review.
Hotel Information & Reservations
- 5300 Grand Del Mar Court, San Diego
- (858) 314-1988
- Read reviews for this hotel on Tripadvisor
11. Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina
Marriott Marquis At-A-Glance
- Central location near top attractions
- Resort pool with splash zone
- Family-friendly Topgolf swing suites
- Big, modern rooms
- Beautiful views of the city and San Diego Bay
- Fitness center
- Private marina
- On-site restaurants
This one might be a bit of a controversial choice, because it is located adjacent to the San Diego Convention Center and caters to business travelers as much (if not more) than families. HOWEVER, it’s location and amenities make it a top pick for me!
Here’s why.
Located in the heart of downtown San Diego, the San Diego Marriott Marquis offers families walkable access to the USS Midway Museum, Seaport Village, the Gaslamp District, and Petco Park. You can hop on the ferry and cruise to Coronado Island, or take a scenic harbor cruise or fishing excursion.
There’s also a spot to rent bikes or go on a bike tour. Cross the street and there’s a train station where you can easily zip to Old Town San Diego. The Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina even has a dedicated stop where you can hop on the Old Town Trolley Hop On Hop Off Tour.
All this without ever having to get in your car!
And if you don’t want to leave the resort at all, that’s fine, too. With two resort-style pools, a splash zone for kids, fire pits, and lots of restaurants and lounges, this resort is a perfect urban escape for active families.
The hotel features 1,362 rooms all boasting phenomenal views of the harbor and a tropical pool area.
Hotel Information & Reservations
- 333 W Harbor Drive, San Diego
- (619) 234-1500
- Read reviews for this hotel on Tripadvisor
How to Save on Your San Diego Vacation
There are a variety of ways to save money on hotels and tickets to San Diego’s many theme parks and attractions – including AAA discounts, military or student discounts, and CityPASS San Diego.
I highly recommend CityPASS when visiting San Diego, as you can bundle and save up to 45% on admission to the top theme parks and attractions in San Diego. Choose either SeaWorld San Diego or LEGOLAND and then add three other attractions of your choice, with options including the San Diego Zoo, USS Midway Museum, Old Town Trolley Tours, and more! It’s a great way to save money and makes planning your itinerary easy.
Final Thoughts: Kid-Friendly Hotels in San Diego
Whether you’re building sandcastles at Hotel del Coronado or relaxing by the pool at Fairmont Grand Del Mar, these 11 best resorts in San Diego for families each offer the perfect mix of fun, comfort, and convenience.
If you are planning a San Diego family vacation and looking for a great hotel where you can relax worry-free, these are your top picks. From toddlers to teens, every member of the family will find something to love at one of these best hotels for families in San Diego.
Save These Top San Diego Family Resorts for Later!
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