Kona Kai San Diego

Property class: 4

Choose dates to view prices

Located close to Cabrillo National Monument, Kona Kai San Diego provides a marina, 2 poolside bars, and a terrace. With a private beach, beach cabanas, and beach massages, this hotel is the perfect place to soak up some sun. Indulge in aromatherapy, a facial, and a body wrap at the onsite spa. The on-site local cuisine restaurant, Vessel Restaurant and Bar, offers breakfast, brunch, dinner, light fare, and al fresco dining. The gym offers yoga classes and fitness classes; other things to do include boat tours, beach yoga, and kayaking. In addition to a garden and dry cleaning/laundry services, guests can connect to free in-room WiFi.

Reviews

8.2 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi

Room options

Available filters for rooms
Showing 16 of 16 rooms

Bayview King

7.4 out of 10
Good
(16 reviews)
  • Bay view
  • 344 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Bayview Two Queen

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(14 reviews)
  • Bay view
  • 344 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Marina View King

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(7 reviews)
  • Marina view
  • 344 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Marina View Two Queen

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(9 reviews)
  • Marina view
  • 344 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Deluxe King

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(33 reviews)
  • Resort view
  • 344 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Deluxe Two Queen

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(14 reviews)
  • Resort view
  • 344 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Deluxe Junior Suite

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Resort view
  • 377 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Waterfront Fireplace Junior Suite

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • Bay view
  • 420 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Marina View Junior Suite Two Queen

  • Marina view
  • 420 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Bayview Junior Suite Two Queen

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(3 reviews)
  • Bay view
  • 420 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Marina View Junior Suite King

  • Marina view
  • 420 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Bayview Junior Suite King

7.6 out of 10
Good
(8 reviews)
  • Bay view
  • 420 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Fire Pit Junior Suite

  • Resort view
  • 420 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Mobility/Hearing Accessible King

  • Resort view
  • 315 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Waterview One Bedroom Suite

  • Marina view
  • 645 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Twin Sofa Bed

Kona Kai One Bedroom Suite

  • Marina view
  • 645 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Twin Sofa Bed

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About the neighborhood

Located in Point Loma, a neighborhood in San Diego, Kona Kai San Diego is near the airport and on a private beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Old Town San Diego State Park and Balboa Park, while Cabrillo National Monument and USS Midway Museum are cultural highlights. Don't miss out on a visit to San Diego Zoo. Windsurfing and surfing/body boarding offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails nearby. Visit our San Diego travel guide
Map
1551 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, CA, 92106

What's nearby

  • A mosaic fountain surrounded by trees and a view of a coastal town.
    Shelter Island
    1 min walk - 0.0 miles
  • A marina with numerous boats, a city skyline with tall buildings, and mountains in the background.
    San Diego Bay
    1 min walk - 0.0 miles
  • A tall palm tree with a clear blue sky in the background.
    San Diego Yacht Club
    3 min drive - 1.0 mile
  • Humphreys Concerts by the Bay
    19 min walk - 1.0 mile
  • Humphreys Backstage Live
    2 min drive - 1.2 miles

Getting around

  • County Center - Little Italy Station
    10 min drive
  • Old Town Transit Center
    16 min drive
  • San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN)
    12 min drive

Restaurants

  • Ketch Grill & Taps
    3 min drive
  • Bali Hai Restaurant
    19 min walk
  • Mitch's Seafood
    5 min drive
  • Point Loma Seafoods
    4 min drive
  • McDonald's
    5 min drive

About this property

Kona Kai San Diego

  • Upscale hotel near Old Town San Diego State Park
  • Located close to Cabrillo National Monument, Kona Kai San Diego provides a marina, 2 poolside bars, and a terrace. With a private beach, beach cabanas, and beach massages, this hotel is the perfect place to soak up some sun. Treat yourself to aromatherapy, a facial, or a body wrap at the onsite spa. The on-site local cuisine restaurant, Vessel Restaurant and Bar, offers breakfast, brunch, dinner, light fare, and al fresco dining. The gym offers yoga classes and fitness classes; other things to do include boat tours, beach yoga, and kayaking. In addition to a garden and dry cleaning/laundry services, guests can connect to free in-room WiFi.
  • Additional perks include:
    • 2 outdoor pools along with cabanas, sun loungers, and pool umbrellas
    • Buffet breakfast (surcharge), bike rentals, and self parking (surcharge)
    • An electric car charging station, a reception hall, and multilingual staff
    • Smoke-free premises, concierge services, and beach towels
    • Guest reviews speak highly of the helpful staff
  • Room features
  • All 170 individually furnished rooms include comforts such as premium bedding and pillow menus, as well as amenities like free WiFi and air conditioning.
  • Other amenities include:
    • Designer toiletries and hair dryers
    • 42-inch flat-screen TVs with premium channels
    • Balconies or patios, refrigerators, and coffee/tea makers

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Frequently asked questions

Does Kona Kai San Diego have a pool?

Yes, this property has 2 outdoor pools. Pool access is from 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.

How much does it cost to stay at Kona Kai San Diego?

As of Oct 25, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Kona Kai San Diego on Nov 1, 2026 start from $289, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is Kona Kai San Diego pet-friendly?

Yes, this hotel allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 65 lbs per pet. There's a fee of USD 113 per accommodation, per stay. Service animals are exempt from fees.

How much is parking?

Self parking is available for USD 54.88 per night.

What time is check-in at Kona Kai San Diego?

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: 2:00 AM. Late check-in is available during limited hours.

What time is check-out at Kona Kai San Diego?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Kona Kai San Diego located?

Located in Point Loma, this beachfront hotel is on the boardwalk/promenade and within 6 mi (10 km) of Old Town San Diego State Park, Cabrillo National Monument, and USS Midway Museum. Balboa Park and Seaport Village are also within 6 mi (10 km).

Can I cancel my reservation for free and receive a full refund?

Yes, this property offers free cancellation on select room rates, because flexibility matters! Please refer to the property cancellation policy on our site for more details about any exclusions or requirements.

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Reviews

Kona Kai San Diego Reviews

8.2

Very Good

8.6

Cleanliness

8.2

Amenities

8.4

Staff & service

8.4

Property conditions & facilities
Rating 10 - Excellent. 527 out of 1004 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 206 out of 1004 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 132 out of 1004 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 68 out of 1004 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 71 out of 1004 reviews

Reviews

Verified review

4/10 Poor

Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Staff & service
The shower was horrible. The front desk staff inn responsive.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2026
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Liked: Amenities
Property was decent but dated, floorboards creaked and cabinets opened as you walked by from that little extra bit of pressure you put on the floor. Parking was fine, room was clean-ish. Bathtub had permanent stains of pink in it and the towels were fried from how many times they’ve been bleached. Staff was nice but nowhere to be seen as far as cleaning for the three days we were there. I wouldn’t stay here again if I visit San Diego again.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We had a great stay at Kona Kai. The front desk staff is very helpful and friendly. We had massages at SpaTerre, which were fabulous. We’d stay here again.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This was our first time staying at Kona Kai. The resort did not disappoint. Room was beautiful, clean and great view. The staff from front desk, restaurant and pool friendly and accommodating. Loved they had 2 pools. One family friendly and the other 21+. Beach with fire pit was a great way to end the day. Definitely will be returning and highly recommend to family and friends.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We had a very pleasant stay! Beautiful views! If we ever are in the area again, we will likely stay here again.Thank you!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Pools were nice.. Staff was friendly and view were great!
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This place is great. Excellent and very clean. The fire pits with s’mores were fun.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We loved the location of our room. Close enough to the pool and “beach” but also far enough to not hear all the noises. The staff is super friendly. The only thing I would say about our stay is the high daily parking rate. I’m sure it’s the going rate but paying $400 for our 4 night stay was a little steep. Just our opinion.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We had a wonder visit from the moment we step into the resort. The Front desk staff help out us out with checking in, they even waived the parking fee. The rooms were clean and very comfortable. the views of courtyard and boats were great to see. We had a wonderful time and can't wait to book another visit.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Enjoyed the service at check-in provided by Bino. After checking in, he help us with the location for our dinner plans . The following evening he provided suggestions for dining on Shelter Island. Service at breakfast was also excellent. Our valet at check in and check out was also excellent.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
They charge $48 for overnight parking for each night on top of so many fees. The breakfast buffet was delicious though. The bonfires were great too.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Great room. Helpful staff. Fabulous location
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Amenities
The hotel is in a beautiful location, and some of the newer rooms are much more comfortable than the older ones. However, the price is higher than what the overall experience justifies. The common areas could be better maintained, particularly the hot tub, which was not as clean as expected. The service was average and did not consistently meet the standards one would expect at this price point.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It is very good clean!!
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Liked: Cleanliness
The beach view is good but everything else is kind of meh. Overall I thought the resort was very overrated for what it is. There are many other better resorts in SD. That being said shelter island is awesome
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Staff & service, amenities
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
I loved the location, the private beach, the pool and spa and access to marina frontage, lobby courtyard was simply beautiful! The room however was in need of maintenance. The curtains were hanging off the hooks on arrival. The wall paper was heavily stained from previous water damage and peeling off the wall. The counters were not very clean (dusty). In room coffee bar had only a very minimal coffee mates and stevia (2). So for the $$$ price I paid, I def expected more from the room I was given. Still would stay again if in a room that was maintained and ready for occupants.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Disliked: Amenities
Great hotel - just clearly understaffed. Basic needs cant be met - like the front desk being able to answer the phone, or handoff door dash in under 20 minutes. Also, paying for a suite and being given a mobility suite where you cannot hang clothes up to not be on the floor or have 2 people in the bathroom because the shower cannot be contained should be an option at the price. The staff was gracious and the views are great. The bed was very comfortable
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Amenities
The bed was terrible. The bathroom door did not work or close properly. The outlets on the lamp were broken. There were very few USB ports. A document was provided that they wouldn’t clean every and was upon request, yet kept getting interrupted with housekeeping. The private beach, pools, and fitness center were top notch.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I had such a wonderful stay at this resort! Everything was beautiful, peaceful, and very well taken care of. The staff were kind and welcoming, and the whole atmosphere made it easy to relax and enjoy every moment. My favorite part was spending the evenings by the fire it was so cozy and calming under the night sky. It truly made the experience feel special. I would definitely love to come back again
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Nice staff
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Kona Kai is a beautiful resort. My family had a great time there. Definitely want to stay there again!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The staff was great. I got “stuck” an extra day due to east coast weather and they were so helpful!
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Room nicely appointed. Great view of boats. Service and food at conference was very good. I had a very enjoyable stay
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Great location
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We enjoyed the beautiful views of the Marina and sitting at the Fire pit in the evening.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025