The Best Hotels to Book in La Jolla, California, for Every Traveler

You’re right by the ocean at the Scripps Inn in La Jolla: grab a sofa on the lanai to watch the waves lap and the sun sink. Bring binoculars for a chance to see dolphins, seals, sea lions or (since Scripps Inn is on Whale Watch Point) migrating gray whales during the winter. Choose from 14 individually decorated rooms. Whether you opt for a kitchenette, fireplace or ocean view balcony, each homey room is as bright as the seaside outside your window.

It’s all about location at this La Jolla Beach hotel. Closer to Pacific Beach, you’ll find the likes of San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld and a beach that’s great for sunbathing, swimming and surfing. You’ll appreciate the airport’s proximity (10mi/16km away) and the complimentary parking. Rooms are contemporary, bright and stuffed with useful amenities like refrigerators, coffeemakers and toiletries. Choose one with a well-equipped kitchen to rustle up lunch to enjoy by the heated outdoor pool.

Expect classic glamour at this award-winning, century-old hotel (established in 1913). Grab an armchair by the open fire in the Mediterranean-style lobby; relax in the tree-filled garden courtyard; or watch the sunset from the ocean-vista rooftop deck. A highlight is the restaurant and bar, NINE-TEN, headed up by award-winning chef Jason Knibb. Try sophisticated, farm-to-table Californian cuisine that changes daily. Check out the murals created by local artists inside, or head to the outdoor terrace to dine with ocean views.

The Empress Hotel is a larger boutique offering in quaint La Jolla Village. It offers a signature beach concierge service so you can pick up gear for a trip to the nearby shores. The hotel offers a bar and restaurant, business center and charging stations for e-vehicles. Accommodation includes traditional-sized rooms as well as suites, including one with a whirlpool spa tub.

The La Jolla Riviera Inn, positioned near La Jolla Cove and Scripps Pier, offers both apartment-style and traditional hotel rooms. Relax by the outdoor pool before heading to the beach or the attractions of San Diego, which are all within easy driving distance. Additional amenities include a concierge service, on-site laundry and self-parking for a fee.

The Estancia, situated close to the University of California San Diego campus, is a luxury La Jolla hotel in a lush garden setting. There’s on-site dining and a relaxing bar, an event space, plus a spa and wellness program. As you stroll the lawns and gardens, stop to enjoy an outdoor game or sign up for a yoga class. Refresh in the heated saltwater pool or the whirlpool, or work out in the executive fitness center. The resort offers self-parking and e-vehicle chargers.

Opened in 1926 as Los Apartmentos de Sevilla, La Valencia Hotel is a historic retreat that earned the moniker the Pink Lady of La Jolla. Over the years, it’s been a hideaway for Hollywood stars, particularly during the Golden Age. Now, it houses a collection of stylish rooms, suites and villas, many of which have spectacular views of the expansive coastline. You can dine at one of three restaurants or take advantage of the cabana service as you unwind by the palm-lined outdoor pool and take in sparkling ocean views.

Overlooking the Torrey Pines Golf Course, this upscale resort in La Jolla is made for the avid golfer. You can tackle two 18-holers, both of which are edged by the Pacific Ocean. There’s also plenty to do here if a day on the greens isn’t your thing. Head to the Grill for wood-fired dishes accompanied by local craft beers or to flagship restaurant A.R. Valentien for fine regional cuisine under a quaint wood-beamed ceiling. There’s also a luxurious spa that uses eco-friendly marine- and botanical-based products.

Located in La Jolla Shores, this vacation hotel has been a family favorite for years. You’ll be right on the beach and can enjoy surfing and kayaking or just relax on the sand with the complimentary beach chairs, towels and umbrellas provided by the hotel. Indoor and outdoor dining brings yummy seafood to your table, while 19 of the guest rooms have kitchenettes. When you’re looking for something to do, take a dip in the heated pool, play tennis or use the free shuttle to travel around the local area.