Planning a trip to San Diego? You’ll need somewhere to stay. I’ve got you covered – these are the best Airbnbs in San Diego.
Now, I love a luxe hotel. But there are a few cool cities around the globe where I genuinely believe it’s better to stay in an Airbnb. San Diego is one of those places.
Why, I hear you ask? Well, when the Airbnbs are this cool, it would be a shame to miss out.
Add to that that they are decently priced and often situated in some of the trendier parts of town, and it’s a no-brainer.
Psst… As a fantastic alternative to Airbnb, I love using Plum Guide. The site offers stellar properties individually vetted for quality assurance. It’s my personal favourite for rental homes worldwide.
Best Airbnbs in San Diego: At a Glance
| Best San Diego Airbnb – Top Picks | Airbnb |
| Best Overall Airbnb in San Diego | San Tiki Hideaway |
| Best Beachfront Airbnb in San Diego | Solana Beach Home |
| Best Luxury Airbnb in San Diego | Luxury Hilltop Retreat |
| Best Airbnb in San Diego for Couples | Loft-Style Apartment |
Best Airbnbs in San Diego
From its coastline to its city hubs, San Diego sits ripe for exploration, these are the best Airbnbs to help you get started.
Fairy Lights
I dare you not to fall in love with this huge home that sleeps up to 8. While spacious, the rich wood decor and cosy touches manage to make the Airbnb feel intimate.
Better yet, both floors can be rented together or separately, so don’t panic if you don’t have enough pals with you to rent the entire thing.
The deck is a standout feature, with enough space to entertain guests and cook up a storm on the barbeque underneath fairy lights (see where it gets its name?), while the indoor living area is practically begging you to curl up with a book by the fireplace – in the cooler months, that is.
Location: Beach Barber
Situated just east of the cool La Jolla district, this San Diego Airbnb is a brilliant option for those looking to stay somewhere more chilled, but within walking distance of bars, restaurants, and shops.
San Tiki Hideaway
From the surfboard on the wall to the coastline of Mission Beach only two minutes away, this adorable home is the perfect beach-hugging hideaway.
This three-story townhouse boasts a lounge featuring colourful decorations, comfortable seating and dreamy ocean views. The tiki-themed sun terrace looking out onto Mission Beach offers the ideal spot for afternoon BBQ’s under the San Diego sun.
What more could you possibly want?
Location: Mission Beach
Mission Beach is inviting, with eager swimmers, surfers, and sunbathers flocking to its sandy shoreline.
Later Alligator
This cosy apartment might be more snug than the other spots in this guide, but it’s perfect for a couple heading off to San Diego for a fun weekend.
The minimalist decor and natural wood tones throughout the property really help to make this studio home feel less claustrophobic. That said, you do have a gorgeous mini kitchen and dining table where you can rustle up a quick breakfast before heading out for the rest of the day.
Should you happen to get a bit of cabin fever, perch by the communal fire pit outside and toast some s’mores under the stars.
Location: Ocean Beach
An ideal location for any kind of vacay; you’re two minutes away from the beach and 15 minutes by car from the Gaslamp Quarter.
Industrial Loft
Looking for somewhere cool to stay? This loft in Little Italy ranks top of the list.
It embraces modern industrialism with rustic touches, from 20-foot high ceilings to the massive windows. Look past this loft’s trendy touches, and you’ll find a comfortable queen-sized bed, a fully-equipped kitchenette, and a brightly lit living room.
Location: Little Italy
A gorgeous part of San Diego, Little Italy is a foodie’s heaven. With a weekly farmer’s market and dozens of eclectic yet refined Italian restaurants.
Solana Beach Home
A private oasis that easily champions the title of the best Airbnb near San Diego’s beach, the Solana Beach Home is a surefire standout.
The stunning backyard, including a sprawling swimming pool and hot tub, is ideal for a late-night party around the firepit. The kitchen is massive and includes a bar.
Although the owner does require a minimum seven-day stay, I doubt you’d complain about seven days in heaven.
Location: Solana Beach
Solana Beach is as central as they come for coastal adventures. Balboa Park, Coronado Island, and Seaport Village are all within a few minutes’ drive from the property.
Loft-Style Apartment
This premier loft is the best Airbnb in San Diego for urban nightlife chasers.
Live it up in this stylish and elegant apartment. Its stunning blend of whites and blacks, with two queen beds in one room, makes it ideal for a group of friends. Heck, you can even bring your pets.
All in my favourite area of the city.
Location: Gaslamp Quarter
Here, you’ll find numerous restaurants, clubs, and, best of all, rooftop bars to spend the night living it up and enjoying the San Diego skyline.
Urban Treehouse
You’re in San Diego, so why not stay somewhere a little quirky? Well, with this unique urban treehouse in Little Italy, that’s precisely what you can do.
One of the most eclectic Airbnbs near San Diego’s downtown, prepare for a blend of bohemian elements with modern decor and amenities. All while you get to stay in an ACTUAL treehouse – I guarantee that the child inside of you will be over the moon.
With a stunning patio for sunset gazing, the owner even provides coffee and wine on tap. Sign me up.
Location: Little Italy
For the best experience of Italy outside of the country itself, roam around the streets and restaurants of Little Italy in Downtown San Diego.
Zen Studio
If you’re wondering, what on earth is a Zen Studio, then you should experience this stunning Airbnb in San Diego, located in South Mission Beach.
Its interior blends wood-laden fixtures from floor to ceiling, with a natural skylight immersing the entire lounge area in gorgeous sunlight. It’s perfect for a romantic escape within walking distance from the beach.
Location: South Mission Beach
Situated close to the ocean, in South Mission Beach, you’re also just a stone’s throw away from the epic Belmont Amusement Park.
Santorini Inspired Cottage
A Greek-inspired cottage might not sound like a potential winner as the best Airbnb in San Diego, California, but oh boy, it certainly comes close.
Ascending a 16-step staircase inspired by Santorini housing, the front balcony offers unparalleled views. While inside, you’ll find the usual amenities. However, the rooftop hot tub and backyard firepit steal the show.
Location: Middletown
Centrally located a few minutes from San Diego International Airport, the neighbourhood of Middletown is a hub for shopping, cuisine, and culture.
Quiet Garden Studio
For those on a budget, look no further than this stunning garden cottage set within the hipster neighbourhood of North Park.
Considering its compact size, you’d expect a cramped stay, but with its French doors that lead to a serene private garden deck, the only thing you’ll feel here is peace.
It’s ideal for couples and, although tiny, its interior features a sleeping area and kitchenette.
Location: North Park
A popular spot with attractions and activities, North Park offers pop-up boutique stores, eclectic eateries, and a vibrant nightlife.
Cosy Studio
Now, if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of San Diego, this cosy studio in Mission Hills is the one for you.
Seamlessly transitioning from interior to exterior thanks to its double French doors, you’ll find a true sense of space and openness here. Its covered patio and garden are ideal for sunny days and include a BBQ and hammock perfect for couples.
Location: Mission Hills
The historic area of Mission Hills showcases some of the city’s best coffee shops and restaurants, while the beach is right around the corner.
Luxury Hilltop Retreat
Another Mission Hills must-stay is this luxury hilltop guesthouse. Throughout the property, its floor-to-ceiling windows offer a 270-degree view of the city and bay.
The exterior features, such as a massive private balcony and jacuzzi, pay nods to its opulent interior. While the chef’s kitchen, master bath with a jetted tub, and a 60” HDTV with streaming channels galore make it unsurprising that this apartment has featured on The Travel Channel.
Location: Mission Hills
Within 10 minutes from the Pacific Ocean beaches of San Diego, this part of Mission Hills is a quiet spot for a peaceful break.
Practical Tips to Consider Before Booking Your Airbnb in San Diego
- Book your stay as far in advance as possible, especially during summer when San Diego gets crowded with travellers.
- Consider the property’s location before booking and make sure it lines up with your San Diego itinerary. If in doubt, I recommend staying in the Gaslamp Quarter (or near the beach if that’s the purpose of your trip).
Airbnb San Diego: Map
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