Just north of the Zoo and Balboa Park and in a neighborhood of cafes, shops and tree-lined streets.

Motel shell with retro flair and updated, stylish common areas.

Zip around on a complimentary bike or run the miles of bayfront paths before resting up with a cocktail by the pool. It's just that easy.

Just north of the Zoo and Balboa Park and in a neighborhood of cafes, shops and tree-lined streets.

Claims to have some of the best sunsets on the West Coast (but you be the decider).

Right across the street from the water – and those Pacific views really seal the deal.

Retro motel revamped with vintage-cool, mid-century modern flair.

In the thick of PB’s laid-back but action-packed scene.

Location right on PB’s beach boardwalk is a real gem.

Free breakfast preps you for a day of oceanside strolls and upscale shopping, all a few easy blocks away.

Comfy beds and pull-out sleeper sofas reduce the chance of any blanket-hog showdowns.

Upscale, but casual; it's the kind of place where locals host out-of-town guests to make them jealous of the SoCal lifestyle.

Chic, airy bar/resto rocks floor-to-ceiling windows to maximize the killer views. Also: sushi bar (!).

Iconic, intimate and romantic – and yes, it’s pink (they don’t call it “The Pink Lady” for nothin’).

Exactly what you want in a beach-centric hideaway: no-fuss, well-appointed rooms and easy access to the ocean.

Modern interiors are predominantly grays and blacks, with blues, purples and yellows adding a punch of vibrance here and there.

Renovations wisely left the crown molding untouched, and newly redesigned rooms pop with a bold color palette of black, white and red.

Sophisticated and sleek but still soft and comfy.

The beach-inspo’d palette in rooms makes ‘em feel like a retreat (and they defo don’t slack off on mod cons, natch).

This century-old former YMCA building rocks authentic design elements like grand archways, exposed brick walls, high ceilings & original tilework.

Scope out the beach from the heated pool, then explore it up close (it’s only a few steps away).

Succulent garden with tons of cacti, aloes and exotics, some over 100 years old. Our fave is the 'dragon tree.'

Grand white building is a beaut in the midst of already-lovely downtown La Jolla.

Outdoor pool might get a li’l lonely ‘cos you’re mere 4 miles to Torrey Pines’ glorious state beach.

On its own private peninsula, just a 10 minute drive to charming downtown Coronado.

Gorgeous Mission Revival-style building a short walk from historic Old Town and a ton of great shops and restaurants.

Onsite convenience shop stocks snacks, drinks and the toiletries you forgot.

Restored historic building hailing from 1910(!), in the heart of Little Italy, steps from bars, restos and shops.

Fancy a dip? Pop into the hotel pool.

Dripping with Balinese art, carvings and mahogany for a theme that’s authentic, never kitsch.

Low-key digs near one of the country’s top beaches and the stunning historic Hotel Del Coronado.