California

5 of the Best Extended Stay Hotels in San Diego

by Bridgette Redman  |  Published June 10, 2024

Whether it is the siren call of the ocean or the demands of a business convention, travelers making an extended trip to San Diego seek out comfortable lodging.

Sonder’s Bungalow Apartment in LIttle Italy/Photo Courtesy of Booking.com

A Southern California city on the sea, San Diego is home to the world-famous Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo. Beckoning travelers with its beautiful beaches, varied cultural scene, gastronomic delights and craft beer scene, San Diego encourages tourists to come and stay awhile. Making such stays possible and convenient are a variety of extended-stay hospitality properties from residential suites and apartments to hotel rooms with living amenities such as kitchenettes, laundry service and continental breakfasts.

Sonder: The Bungalows

Sonder has emerged as an alternative to traditional extended-stay properties as they offer a home-like environment at a reasonable price. The apartments are embedded into San Diego neighborhoods and residential areas while still being convenient to beaches and the city’s other attractions. They’re designed as places to work, relax and live. The Bungalows are a collection of apartments found in Little Italy, a neighborhood that was once a fishing village and now has become a trendy tourist spot filled with boutiques, markets and restaurants. The studio apartments come with a fully stocked kitchen, air conditioning and a television. Some apartments have a terrace and sofa bed. Pets, smoking and parties are all forbidden. Parking is not allowed on the street, but there is a paid parking lot nearby. From $235 a night.

Book at Sonder.com

Sonder: The Baker

Sonder apartment at The Baker/Courtesy of Booking.com

For those seeking a residence downtown, the walk-ups wtih small bay windows at Sonder’s The Baker offer a quaint stay with a view. Guests can lounge on the rooftop or curl up next to a fireplace in the lounge. Surrounded by entertainment options, restaurants within walking distance, and the Zoo, these apartments are centrally located to much of what makes San Diego a tourist destination. There are no laundry facilities or on-site parking and the television is set up with Roku streaming rather than cable. From $174 a night.

Book at Sonder.com

Extended Stay America—San Diego Fashion Valley

Extended Stay America in San Diego/Courtesy of Booking.com

Built in Fashion Valley not far from SeaWorld San Diego and Balboa Park, Extended Stay America provides residences and amenities for those seeking a longer stay in the city. Each room is equipped with a full kitchen–stovetop, microwave and refrigerator. Housekeeping services are offered weekly, or more often for a fee. The property also provides laundry facilities. A daily grab-and-go-breakfast is served every morning in the lobby and outdoor barbecue facilities are available. From $114 per night.

Book at Booking.com

Homewood Suites by Hilton

Kitchen in a Homewood Suites by Hilton room/Photo Courtesy of Booking.com

One mile outside of downtown and within sight of the ocean, Homewood Suites by Hilton offers a comfortable stay for extended travelers. Each suite has a separate living area and a kitchen containing a microwave, stove top and dishwasher. The hotel has an on-site restaurant and offers a daily complimentary continental breakfast. Homewood Suites has an outdoor swimming pool and fitness facilities open to all guests. Outdoor areas contain a fireplace and recreational options. From $195 a night.

Book at Booking.com

Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego/Gaslamp Quarter

Residence Inn by Mariott San Diego/Photo Courtesy of Booking.com

Located in the iconic Gaslamp Corridor, Residence Inn by Marriott invites its guests to settle in and enjoy an extended stay. Each room includes kitchenettes and family rooms and many have a sofa bed. Reviewers give high marks to the rooms for their spaciousness and cleanliness. For those who don’t want to cook in their rooms, Bar Vie offers a light menu along with indoor and outdoor seating. There is a 24-hour mart for snacks and light food and the hotel provides a grocery shopping service. The property also boasts a rooftop pool, a fitness center, private parking and a business center. From $175 a night.

Book at Booking.com