California Dreams Hostel

(155 reviews)

8.2 mi

I really like this hostel Always very clean - kitchen open…read more24/7. front desk 24/7, a lot of art work and colorful deco's. location is easy to get around from. the stuff is a bit (too) reserved but professional. REALLY slow elevator:)) This hostel feels relaxing with a lot of common spaces. doesn't give the vibe of just a "hookup" hostel (unless that is what you are looking for). cool curtains on each bunk bed to allow you privacy when you sleep or using the light when others are sleeping, AC unit in the room, GREAT mattress (less the pillow). already made beds. Personal bed lamp (that actually works) interesting building with "see through" floor between the floors. many (clean) restrooms/showers that also offer you free shampoo/soap dispenser and towels available to use (on the shelve next to the shower) also was nice to see they offer you little recyclable food boxes so you can take the food you made in the kitchen with you. at this hostel you feel that the hostel is for you and not that you are there for the hostel (like some other hostels)

I had amazing time about 2 weeks lived here. Location: It…read moreis located on Market st and 5th Ave Downtown, in center of Gaslamp area so very convienient for everything. Near by CVS, close to Ralps market, restaurants, bar club.... Room: they clean everyday. They give you shower towel for each bed, also there are a lot of towel in bathroom. So many bathroom in this hostel, one in room and another 2 each floor. Kitchen: this area is big and comfortable with all of stuffs you can use. Open 24 hours, whenever you feel hungry you can make some foods. Hot water, coffee machine,....always ready for you. Laundry: $1 for wash and $1 for dry. Only quarter so you can get change at cashier. A little but old system but good condition and working very well. Customer service: They have so many people who work as a receptionist at different time. I lived here 2 weeks and met all. All of them is friendly, kindly, helful and professional. Impressive work!!! Price: Im pretty sure you will get cheaper price when you book the room at this hostel, or on official hostel's website more than on any online app. And cheaper if you book on weekday compare to weekend. Great job Hi SD hostel team!!! Very high recommendation for all of travellers around the worlds!!!!

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ITH San Diego Adventure Hostel

(80 reviews)

7.5 mi

First time staying at a hostel. Lots to like about this place, friendly staff, daily activities,…read moreeverything was functional. It's not a 5-star hotel and it's a well used hostel, but the price was right and the experience talking to people from around the world there unbeatable. There's also free cook your own breakfast. The only downside is the same for any communal living place, people coming and going while you're trying to sleep, some pot smoking (no smoking in the hostel but if people smoke outside, you can smell it when the window are open), etc. still I had a great time. Highly recommend.

I stayted all hostels around Downtown San Diego and I can say this hostel is the best!!! This is my…read morefirst choice when I travel to San Diego. Location: heart of Little Italy, so many restaurant, few minutes walking to trolley station, walking to habor, easy to connect anywhere you want to go. Price: it will be cheaper if you book online and price will change everyday depend on seasons. Probably more expensive but not much compare to another hostel around but it deserved because the room and your bed absolutely better. Room and bed: clean, very comfortable, they clean every day after check out time 11am, and then they always check and clean bathroom many time on the day. They have so many bathroom, so I never wait when I need to use. Kitchen: big with all stuffs you need for cooking, coffee, tea, water alway ready to serve you for free. They have breakfast every morning at 7am to 9am with sandwich, eggs, bananas, pancake that make by yourself. Customer service: Thank you very much for treat me like home during my staying time here. I lived here over 2 months for working travelling so I know all of employees here. They are very friendly and helpful. They host a lot of activities during a week. It will great if you are solo traveler and want to make new friends around the worlds. Thank you again for all, I truly have good time when I stayed at ITH hostel! Very high recommend for all travellers!!!

Milkweed in the planter in front of the hustle then attracted monarch butterflies.

Daily activities board

Common room

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Hostel On 3rd

2.7

(83 reviews)

8.1 mi

Least expensive hostel in San Diego…read more Close to almost everything. Also, a short trolley ride to Little Italy as well as a WeWork for digital nomads.

When me an my brother got there. It was was a four man room the room smelled and was a mess. My…read morebrother cause of his leg needed a bottom bunk. The didn't want to move the other guy so my brother can have the bottom bunk. The staff were rude and wanted to charge me extra to move us to a different room so we can have bottom bunk. And said we can't just come in here and demand bottom bunk and asked if we had doctors note We won't be staying here no more unhappy customers

Santa Fe Trail..leads here

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Outside patio

Samesun Ocean Beach - San Diego

4.8

(13 reviews)

3.6 mi

I've stayed at several hostels throughout Southern California. Samesun Ocean Beach is by far one of…read morethe better ones I've booked. . After staying downtown all weekend, I wanted a more quiet and calm spot for my last night in SD. I booked through Priceline and prepaid my stay for the night at $41 in an all female 6-bed dorm. Mark greeted me upon my arrival early Sunday evening. He was kind, professional and informative. We actually are both from the same home state, coincidentally. After checking me in, he gave me a tour. . The place is huge and very clean. Very much donned in a surfer bohemian aesthetic. They have surfboards for rent, but extra towels, blankets and yoga mats are free to use at will. There's a tv room that leads to the courtyard/lounge and kitchen areas. Plenty of seating either on small tables, benches or the patio couches. There's also a hammock, a front porch with swing chairs, a bar, & vending machines. A couple of clear door fridges are in the lounge area and duplicate in the kitchen. There are top left shelves designated to abandoned foods that are up for grabs. The kitchen is like an island surrounded by the lounge, courtyard and downstairs dorm hall. This arrangement allows the kitchen to remain open 24 hours as the dorm hall side is closed off with a sliding door. Most hostels close their kitchen at night to not disturb other guests, but this is most convenient. They also offer free tea accesible 24 hours and free breakfast from 7am-9am. . There are several single occupancy restrooms and two communal ones designated for men and women. My room was tight quarters, but overall functional. There's a nook with an overhead light next to the bed and adjacent to an outlet. The room has a big window which my fellow roomies did the right thing and opened it wide. The room also has a mirror vanity and sink which was helpful if I didn't want to go out to the hall to use the restroom. The sheets were clean, smelled phreshly washed and the blanket was thick and warm. . It's also not far from downtown. I commuted there via the trolley and the bus which took about 45 minutes. You can cheat the system and take an Uber part of the way to or from Old Town (the bus leg of the trip). I would definitely stay here again and hope to have more time in Ocean Beach. There are many restaurants, cafes and shops nearby and literally steps from the water. If you need quality accommodations, in a great location on a budget, Samesun will get the job done! . Sidenote: There are only stairs inside and outside of the building.

I had never been to a hostel before. None the less stayed at one. I'm a female. I was alone in a…read morebusiness trip. I was truthfully very scared to make this decision, but it ended up being the best one ever. If I ever stay in San Diego for work again, it'll be here. It felt like I was in college again! I felt safe. I felt secure. The environment was SO welcome and friendly. The staff were extremely helpful. The location is unbeatable. I went to the beach to watch the sunset every night. Then I went back and got work done in the common area while eating dinner. The rooms and bathrooms were clean. Yeah, I was in the top bunk of a tiny bed. With 6 other girls. But they were super respectful. It was quiet. Charging plugs attached to the bed. For what you pay, it's so worth it. Hostels aren't for everyone I'm sure, but I had such a wonderful experience. I can't wait to go back!

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ITH Beach Bungalow Surf Hostel

3.7

(72 reviews)

0.4 mi

Vibes here are absolutely immaculate. I did not expect to enjoy this place as much as I did…read more I've only stayed in one other hostel before--a hostel in Zurich, Switzerland--so it was hard not to compare the two experiences. This hostel sits right on the beach and boardwalk and is known for its lively, social atmosphere. I was originally hoping for something a bit more peaceful and restful, but I ended up loving the energy. In terms of cleanliness, it doesn't quite measure up to my experience in Zurich. However, that shortcoming is easily overshadowed by the incredible ambiance and stunning location. The sound of the ocean waves alone is enough to melt away stress. From the moment you walk in, you're greeted by friendly faces. The hostel feels like one giant living room filled with friends from all over the world. Conversations happen naturally, and everyone seems relaxed, welcoming, and carefree. It's genuinely amazing how easy it is to connect with people despite language barriers or age differences. The accommodations themselves are simple--basic bunk beds and shared bathrooms--but comfortable and clean enough. Falling asleep to the sound of the waves and waking up to a cool ocean breeze was pure bliss. If you're looking for luxury, this probably isn't the place. But if you're looking for atmosphere, community, and an unbeatable beachfront experience, it's hard to beat.

Sergio, Stephanie , Sami and Victor had the best hospitality ever and made my San Diego trip epic!…read moreI will definitely come back again. I travel a lot, and this is by far the best hostel I've ever stayed at!

Hammocks, art on walls

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Hostel view

The Hostel California, THC

4.7

(3 reviews)

7.0 mi

Stayed here for a birthday weekend and it was such a great experience. The hosts were super…read morefriendly and generous.

This was my first time ever staying at a hostel and I had a wonderful experience. At first I was…read moreworried about my items being stolen because u never know with living with strangers, but coming here and meeting everyone and checking out the vibe made me more confident. Everyone was very friendly and welcoming, got to meet people from all over the world and experience new cultures. Great place to vibe and smoke a joint. 420 friendly!!! Overall great place with great vibes... will definitely be coming again soon :)

Mural Art, most artistic Hostel in USA!

Welcome to TheHostelCalifornia, THC The most 420 friendly California Hostel locates in the heart of Hillcrest, San Diego!

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Welcome to TheHostelCalifornia aka HillcrestHostel

The Beach Cottages

You can't beat the location. Right on the beach, wonderful sea breeze, good food nearby and…read moreconvenient walks. Perfect for relaxation. The staff are accommodating and helpful. I've been coming for years and wouldn't change anything about it.

We have been coming to the beach cottages every summer since I was a baby. This place is hands down…read moreTHE BEST. It may not be the most updated hotel on the boardwalk, but it has everything you need. The staff is always welcoming, the house keeping staff are friendly and trustworthy, the parking lot is gated and secured by a guard throughout the day, the rooms are always clean the grounds are well maintained, and after all the years of being loyal visitors, we have yet to experience anything negative at this property. I love that the grounds are secure and you can allow your children to go into the courtyard area and play the provided games with peace of mind- knowing that they'll be safe. They provide tons of outdoor seating options and grills for tenants, which makes cooking a breeze. In order to enter from the beach/boardwalk, you must have a room key to enter the premises- another awesome perk. This keeps all the riff-raft out of the area. &At night, they also require a room key to enter through the front of the building- which is a newer feature, and much appreciated. You can leave your beach toys & chairs outside your room without worrying about someone coming to steal it. We have locked our bikes up downstairs in the courtyard area & nobody messes with them. This is such a great place to stay & an amazing tradition that our family has. We look forward to our visit every May!

View of the sunset from the 3rd Floor of our Main Building

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Burgers & hot dogs on the grill

ITH CoLive Little Italy

5.0

(1 review)

7.4 mi

This easily makes my top 10 list of travelers hidden gems in San Diego. This magical place has…read moreopened up an entirely new world and perspective for me. The daily interactions with guests from various countries all over the world to the FREE breakfast and BBQ dinners! The staff here is amazing!!! Santi always goes over and beyond to ensure everything runs smoothly and everyone has an amazing experience here at ITH Adventure Hostel. If you are a new traveler to San Diego I would highly encourage you to check out the ITH properties.

From the owner: ITH CoLive Little Italy Hostels is the ideal destination for travelers visiting San Diego. We offer…read morenightly and monthly accommodations with a variety of amenities to make your stay very comfortable. We are located in Downtown San Diego's Little Italy neighborhood.

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Lucky D's Hostel

3.7

(155 reviews)

8.3 mi

Went to San Diego for a job and knew that I was going to be working 10 hour days. So basically I…read moreneeded a place to hold my clothing, shower and sleep. Lucky D's Hostel was perfect with its location (very central in Downtown San Diego), colorfulness and artsiness. It was my first time at a hostel and it was fun. The receptionist/concierge was friendly and informative. They have theme night mixers like wine night & ice cream party. The receptionist gave me a key card and walked me to my room. He opened the door and it was a calming turquoise room with two sets of bunk beds. There is four built in lockers to hold your things. You can bring your own lock and towel (which I did) or rent one from Lucky D's. The first night there was 3 of us sharing the room. Cool roommates. I explored the different floors of the hostel In the morning there is a continental breakfast in the kitchen. I had tea, little oranges and a bagel with cream cheese and jelly. The guests at the hostel were friendly and nice. Having to share a bathroom and shower with everyone per floor was actually easy and never a long wait. You could also go up or down a floor to see if any were available. Great place. I'll definitely reserve a bunk bed again.

Good location, but it ends there. It is in the gas lamp so know that the area is more of the…read moreparty/bar area and there's unhoused outside. They won't bother you, just know be cautious. You climb to the second floor and that is where reception is. They close from 2am-7am so most of the time someone is there. The bad was the third floor and part of the fourth was under construction. The horrible was even with six toilets for three floors, only two worked. You had at least 30 people fighting for two working toilets on a weekend. There was a line for quite a while. Showers were okay, no soap so bring your own or hit CVS. The free breakfast was okay, bagels and cereal from 8-10. No community vibe, but that is pretty much every US hostel, just a basic place to sleep. There was a massive moth in our room that we had to get out. Overhead fan, but with an ac unit we could not use.

Right when you walk in the door, there's such cool things!

Two bunk beds!

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Hotel Z, Gaslamp Quarter by Staypineapple

When I plan short 2-3 day weekend "getaway" trips (especially during a holiday weekend), I search…read morefor budget friendly hotels since we typically don't stay in the hotel other than to sleep and shower. I am so happy I found this place via AARP! Located in the heart of the Gaslamp District, I had never heard of this hotel prior to searching. Upon checking in, the desk clerk was very friendly, efficient, and answered any questions that I had. As for the room, he put us up on the top (4th) floor. Room is the perfect size for two people. Very clean, warm, inviting, and has some really cute and convenient amenities such as a pineapple themed USB quad port at the desk, along with a Keurig machine (had I known that I'd have brought my own Starbucks K-cups)! The bed was nice and comfy with lots of soft but supportive pillows and two separate comforter blankets so you're not fighting for covers if you are sharing the bed with someone or your significant other. Bathroom is very modern and clean. A hairdryer is hanging in the bathroom as well. The only item missing was an iron and an ironing board; however, you can request that at the front desk. If you are looking for a hotel with a gym, laundry facilities on site, and a full breakfast buffet or continental breakfast, then this place is not for you; however, if those things don't matter to you {I typically look for those types of hotels during a longer stay) then this hotel is all you need. You also get other unexpected creature comforts such as Starbucks coffee in the lounge along with 4 different blends of water as well as these cute pineapple cookies in the afternoon. Based in Seattle, WA, I am so happy I found this chain as I will be on the lookout and consider staying in other cities. Parking is available in a garage connected to the hotel next door for a fee. Also, bikes are available in the lobby for getting around (not sure if gratis or for a fee). I definitely recommend staying here! One small recommendation for the hotel: provide rooms with a small microwave and mini fridge to reheat leftovers. It all worked out as I gave a homeless guy mine.

We checked into our room today and it is not what it showed on the website…read more We don't have double duvets on the bed nor do we have Terry cloth lined robes to relax in. So for as much as I paid, I expected to at least have that. Well the staff was nice and welcoming. It doesn't justify the over $400 a night and not getting everything that the website said we would get.

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Old Town Inn

My first real time in San Diego. I randomly booked a place at the last minute because it seemed in…read morea vaguely sort of convenient location. I didn't know what I was expecting. I had a great time! Beat my expectations a lot given the extremely low price. So the room was WAY bigger than expected for what I paid for it. I understand that it was the suite, but I wasn't expecting a large suite at all because it was so cheap. The front service was super friendly, helpful, everything. They were able to facilitate complimentary early check-in as well. In short, the service was very good and everyone at the front desk was super helpful and accomodating. Apparently there's some sketchy areas nearby if you walk to Old Town through a very weird direction (you should actually cross the street and go through the underground passage). Location is convenient, the prices are SUPER affordable, and it's just overall nice and cozy. Complimentary breakfast was also nice and easy. Had a very pleasant stay and would likely stay here again the next time I'm in this part of San Diego!

This is a 3.5 star but I have them 3 because half stars aren't an option…read more Staff was nice Rooms were clean they have a little mini kitchen which is great for cooking in your room if needed hot plate and sink Great location we walked to old town but not much else in the area. Free parking The big downer was the breakfast the protein oatmeal or yogurt....they had boiled eggs they need to have some scrambled eggs and meat. Even the motel six has a better breakfast we have stayed all over and this was a lack luster breakfast to say the least

Continental breakfast

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Outdoor pool area

The Beach Cottages

You can't beat the location. Right on the beach, wonderful sea breeze, good food nearby and…read moreconvenient walks. Perfect for relaxation. The staff are accommodating and helpful. I've been coming for years and wouldn't change anything about it.

We have been coming to the beach cottages every summer since I was a baby. This place is hands down…read moreTHE BEST. It may not be the most updated hotel on the boardwalk, but it has everything you need. The staff is always welcoming, the house keeping staff are friendly and trustworthy, the parking lot is gated and secured by a guard throughout the day, the rooms are always clean the grounds are well maintained, and after all the years of being loyal visitors, we have yet to experience anything negative at this property. I love that the grounds are secure and you can allow your children to go into the courtyard area and play the provided games with peace of mind- knowing that they'll be safe. They provide tons of outdoor seating options and grills for tenants, which makes cooking a breeze. In order to enter from the beach/boardwalk, you must have a room key to enter the premises- another awesome perk. This keeps all the riff-raft out of the area. &At night, they also require a room key to enter through the front of the building- which is a newer feature, and much appreciated. You can leave your beach toys & chairs outside your room without worrying about someone coming to steal it. We have locked our bikes up downstairs in the courtyard area & nobody messes with them. This is such a great place to stay & an amazing tradition that our family has. We look forward to our visit every May!

View of the sunset from the 3rd Floor of our Main Building

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Burgers & hot dogs on the grill

Lamplighter Inn and Suites at SDSU

This is a great little inn super close to SDSU. I got upgraded to a very nice suite that had a full…read morekitchen - roomy, comfortable, clean and great beds! The included breakfast in the morning was decent - waffle machines, hard boiled eggs, oatmeal, yogurt etc. I wasn't there long so didn't utilize the pool area - but it all looked nice and well maintained. Definitely will make this my go to when I'm in the area.

Thank you guys!!!! My mom and I had a great stay. We will definitely be back! We appreciated the…read morehospitality and the complimentary breakfast.

Not the best water pressure, but clean restroom

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Del Mar Beach Hotel

It's hard to imagine a better location for a hotel in Del Mar. It was right on the beach as…read moreadvertised, tons of active beach goers, surfers, dog walkers, joggers, teens at lifeguard school, you name it -- all sorts of active lifestyles without it feeling too crowded. The parking lot isn't huge so the first night we had to park in the metered lot next door, but they reimburse you for any parking fees. I was however able to find parking the next two days. They even gave me a courtesy call saying they noticed my car in the other lot and to remind me to move it by a specific time. I had already set my alarm to move it, but that was nice. The lobby has free coffee/ espresso machine and a dispenser for purified water. They provide beach towels and efficient room service. The rooms themselves are pretty comfortable, but we had someone above us that walked back and forth non stop which was a bit annoying. I mean it's just one room and a bathroom how much walking do you need to do lol. When you go out your door, you just walk a down the little walkway to the beach. Everyone is barefoot it's so close. They have little areas to rinse off your feet and also a brush hanging outside your door handle to brush the excess sand off, cute touch. The beach viewing lounge area (pictured) is nice, people hang out there and drink their coffee or work on their laptops. I had one suggestion, and that would be to build a platform deck for the back seats, because it would give them an unobstructed view. As it is now, the wall blocks some of your view, but putting a platform deck would solve that and be relatively inexpensive to do. We would totally stay here again, it's walking distance to several good restaurants and a short drive to more. Relaxed, friendly vibe. The lobby itself

Awesome experience at this hotel from 1968 and recently remodeled but keeping the surfer North…read moreCounty essence. A couple of friends were visiting from San Francisco and had one extra night left at this hotel that were not going to use it. So since they were taking me for dinner at nearby Jake's, my girlfriend offered me the empty room for the night so I didn't have to drive in the dark and also enjoy a beautiful morning doing my 10,000 steps while simultaneously meditating and recording an episode of my podcast in Spanish. I loved the room super spacious and with everything I needed (even if the coffee machine did not work for me). Being right there by the beach was a total treat. I feel loved by my friends, especially since I have not been out of San Diego since past September for budget reasons doing multiple jobs at the time. So I appreciate this generosity and being at Del Mar Beach hotel as it is one of my favorite beaches and brings so much joy. The decor in the small lobby is very surfer, cool vibe. Similar inside the room. The restaurant does not have restaurant for breakfast but they offer free coffee and you can buy simple sweets (although there are plenty of options to eat nearby). Parking at the back of the hotel, no problem finding a spot and it is validated. Awesome experience, chill people, glorious sunsets from there!

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Sea Harbor Hotel

3.6

(37 reviews)

5.4 mi

If I could give this place zero stars, I would. Unfortunately, our experience was extremely…read moredisappointing from start to finish. To begin with, we did not encounter any of the "super friendly" staff mentioned in other reviews. In fact, the only interactions we had were overhearing staff laughing and chatting loudly while guests were trying to sleep. It felt unprofessional and inconsiderate. The walls were incredibly thin--we could hear everything, including conversations and people walking through the hallways. There was absolutely no sense of privacy. On top of that, the mattress was very uncomfortable, making it difficult to get any proper rest. The shower also had visible mold, which was surprising given how highly the property is reviewed for cleanliness. Overall, I would never stay here again. If it hadn't been Valentine's weekend and difficult to find alternative accommodations, we would have left and booked somewhere else.

Small quiet Harbor front Hotel nothing camber very homely…read moreplace to stay comfy beds close to everything. Prices very good. Good security. Nice little get away

Night views of the harbor

Night views

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Hotel's proximity to the Harbor, Parking & Pool

Pacific View Inn

We stayed here over the Fourth of July weekend and had an amazing experience! The location truly…read morecan't be beat. It's in the heart of Pacific Beach and within easy walking distance to the beach, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and shopping. We hardly had to use our car the entire stay. The front desk staff was incredibly friendly and welcoming from the moment we arrived. He definitely went above and beyond. I didn't get his name but I was there around 6p. Thank you so much! We chose to pay for on-site parking, and I highly recommend it. Parking in Pacific Beach can be challenging, so having a guaranteed parking spot made our trip completely stress-free. We originally booked a partial ocean view room, but to our surprise, the front desk upgraded us to a full oceanfront room at no charge! They explained that they randomly select a few guests each day for complimentary perks such as room upgrades, free parking, or late checkout. We felt so lucky and truly appreciated the thoughtful gesture. The rooms have been beautifully renovated and are modern, clean, and very comfortable. The air conditioning worked great, the refrigerator was convenient, and everything felt fresh and well maintained. It's the perfect boutique beach hotel with an upscale feel while still being relaxed and comfortable. Overall, this hotel exceeded our expectations in every way. Between the outstanding customer service, unbeatable location, beautiful renovated rooms, and unexpected upgrade, this was one of our favorite hotel stays in San Diego. We will absolutely be back!

If you're dreaming of a breezy beachside escape, you might want to keep dreaming, as this motel's…read morelisting is basically a work of fiction. The photos must've been taken at a flattering angle... from a different building. Let's start with parking, or rather, the thrilling scavenger hunt that is not included in your stay. You'll circle the block like a lost tourist in a bumper car, only to end up parking three zip codes away. It certainly doesn't help that the staff gives away parking spots to their friends while paying customers go without. Don't worry though, they'll call you on your third day to tell you that parking has miraculously opened up because they failed to sell out on their website. The room itself? Think "tiny house" but without the charm. It's so small that turning around feels like a game of Twister, and every surface seems to have been weaponized with sharp corners. A relaxing beach retreat shouldn't require a first-aid kit. Then there's the humidity...the kind that makes your clothes feel like they went swimming without you. The air inside the room is basically ocean soup, and everything smells faintly of wet flip-flops. Be prepared to wash every piece of your clothing, whether or not you wore it on vacation. The bathroom features a stylish sliding barn door, which is a great design choice if you've always wanted to share your most private moments with your travel companion. Hope you're close, or at least on speaking terms after this trip. The staff: Let's just say they operate on "beach time," except it's the kind of beach where no one wants to help you. Friendly enthusiasm must've checked out before we arrived. However, Housekeeping was great. Sure, it's near the beach, but so is a lifeguard tower, and you might get more space and hospitality there.

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10 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Zach M.

0

10

0

3 years ago

This is one of the absolute worst places to stay. I had my stuff stolen here. I was being harassed on day three to leave an honest review that wasn't gonna really be honest by Ryan. When I found out my stuff was stolen here Ryan came at me and said you got a problem with Airbnb bro all they do is party get drunk and get high here if you really like to have your stuff stolen and like to listen to brawls in the middle of the night this is the place to stay. If you want to come to San Diego and enjoy Pacific Beach. I would definitely try another hostel on top of this when I contacted Airbnb to try and get my refund back they reached out to the host. The host said he talked to his staff and told me that he thought I wasn't being honest I have screenshots from other people who have stayed there the two African-American girls page and I don't know the other ones name, but they play music blasting it early in the morning and late at night you know, I have no reason to lie about my experience half the time you don't even receive breakfast on time which is part of the whole experience. Ryan also told me that he would hook me up with a free surfboard, a free bike rental anything I wanted as long as I got a positive five star review up that was gonna be a lie. Please please please avoid this hostel at all cost. I'm begging anybody who comes across this place please avoid it you will highly regret it read more

John Anderson A.

0

6

1

1 year ago

This place was an unexpected gem, I was looking for a hostel near the ocean with good vibes, this is it. It's literally steps from the beach I counted around 70. The shared kitchen has everything pots, pans, spices, even a small coffee stand that opens in the morning right in the common area and there's a guitar hanging on the wall in case you feel inspired after sunset. I stayed for three nights over Memorial Day weekend and paid $50 per night. Yes, it's a shared space with bunk beds and a communal bathroom, but if you know what a hostel is, there are no surprises. I met travelers from all over the world, and the staff was super friendly and upbeat, they even joined the guests for outings after their shifts. I highly recommend renting a bike, the area is full of cool spots shops, bars, cafés, and the famous theo's pizza just a block away. For me, it was a great experience, It's not a resort and it doesn't pretend to be. It's a real hostel, right in front of a beautiful beach, with great energy and space to connect. I'd come back without a doubt. read more

Kristen G.

468

3

2

9 years ago

I booked my 3 week stay at Cali Dreams while I was studying at City Ballet of San Diego - and was a little nervous having never stayed in an American hostel before. I wasn't sure what to expect. When I arrived, Pedro greeted me with a big smile and I immediately felt at home! I absolutely loved every minute of my stay there - you really can't ask for more from a hostel experience. The people are friendly and inviting, the rooms and common areas are clean and well kept, the free breakfast is AMAZING and the beach is super close. I made friends from all over the world that I hope to keep in touch with for many years to come and I will most definitely return to this hostel any time I am in San Diego. I highly recommend staying here! You will not regret it :) read more

Fiona M.

0

1

0

7 years ago

Amazing hostel!!!! The staff are so lovely and helpful and offer amazing advice on all the tourist attractions in San Diego. They organize wonderful activities such as beach bonfires, trips to farmers markets and bike tours, to name but a few. The facilities are top class with a kitchen, bathrooms, beds and living area that are clean and extremely homely. I couldn't recommend this hostel more! It has really added to my California experience and made it truly enjoyable!! read more

Miguel B.

0

2

0

9 years ago

I planed to stay for 1 week surfing and I ended up extending my vacation because my experience in the hostel was awesome. The place is just 1 minute walking from the beach and around many bars and restaurants. Clean space, confi beds, warm shower and very secure. Specially mention the staff, super friendly and helpfull. Ask for Pedro he knows all the surf spots from L.A. to baja and gave us the report every morning. read more

Ciara G.

0

1

0

7 years ago

One of the best hostels I've ever stayed at. The staff were all so friendly and helpful especially Pedro, Ray Ray, Kristen and Kaleb. The common areas and dorms were always kept clean and everybody was very friendly. It felt safe and you didn't have to worry about leaving your things there during the day. They organised lots of different events for people and helped you out with recommendations if you wanted them.6 read more

Ryuutarou K.

0

1

0

9 years ago

Brand new and the most comfortable hostel in California, hands down. I would consider this hostel a hotel actually. Super clean, staff make you feel you are at home, location is amazing. Best moment of my trip when I enjoyed surfing since the beach is a 40 sec walk. Free breakfast and fast wifi speed. Def will be back read more

Spencer T.

243

6

0

2 years ago

Ben was awesome! Great service and they really helped us out. Great place and would recommend to anyone thinking of coming by.

Isabel R.

0

1

0

2 years ago

Bad experience. The place is kinda messy and so many people are vaping. It also smells bad too and it's noisy .

Sophia K.

0

2

0

7 years ago

Best Hostel I have ever stayed at! Great service, super clean and great people! read more

California Dreams Hostel - hostels - Updated August 2026

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Samesun Ocean Beach - San Diego

4.8

(13 reviews)

I've stayed at several hostels throughout Southern California. Samesun Ocean Beach is by far one of…read morethe better ones I've booked. . After staying downtown all weekend, I wanted a more quiet and calm spot for my last night in SD. I booked through Priceline and prepaid my stay for the night at $41 in an all female 6-bed dorm. Mark greeted me upon my arrival early Sunday evening. He was kind, professional and informative. We actually are both from the same home state, coincidentally. After checking me in, he gave me a tour. . The place is huge and very clean. Very much donned in a surfer bohemian aesthetic. They have surfboards for rent, but extra towels, blankets and yoga mats are free to use at will. There's a tv room that leads to the courtyard/lounge and kitchen areas. Plenty of seating either on small tables, benches or the patio couches. There's also a hammock, a front porch with swing chairs, a bar, & vending machines. A couple of clear door fridges are in the lounge area and duplicate in the kitchen. There are top left shelves designated to abandoned foods that are up for grabs. The kitchen is like an island surrounded by the lounge, courtyard and downstairs dorm hall. This arrangement allows the kitchen to remain open 24 hours as the dorm hall side is closed off with a sliding door. Most hostels close their kitchen at night to not disturb other guests, but this is most convenient. They also offer free tea accesible 24 hours and free breakfast from 7am-9am. . There are several single occupancy restrooms and two communal ones designated for men and women. My room was tight quarters, but overall functional. There's a nook with an overhead light next to the bed and adjacent to an outlet. The room has a big window which my fellow roomies did the right thing and opened it wide. The room also has a mirror vanity and sink which was helpful if I didn't want to go out to the hall to use the restroom. The sheets were clean, smelled phreshly washed and the blanket was thick and warm. . It's also not far from downtown. I commuted there via the trolley and the bus which took about 45 minutes. You can cheat the system and take an Uber part of the way to or from Old Town (the bus leg of the trip). I would definitely stay here again and hope to have more time in Ocean Beach. There are many restaurants, cafes and shops nearby and literally steps from the water. If you need quality accommodations, in a great location on a budget, Samesun will get the job done! . Sidenote: There are only stairs inside and outside of the building.

I had never been to a hostel before. None the less stayed at one. I'm a female. I was alone in a…read morebusiness trip. I was truthfully very scared to make this decision, but it ended up being the best one ever. If I ever stay in San Diego for work again, it'll be here. It felt like I was in college again! I felt safe. I felt secure. The environment was SO welcome and friendly. The staff were extremely helpful. The location is unbeatable. I went to the beach to watch the sunset every night. Then I went back and got work done in the common area while eating dinner. The rooms and bathrooms were clean. Yeah, I was in the top bunk of a tiny bed. With 6 other girls. But they were super respectful. It was quiet. Charging plugs attached to the bed. For what you pay, it's so worth it. Hostels aren't for everyone I'm sure, but I had such a wonderful experience. I can't wait to go back!

ITH San Diego Adventure Hostel

(80 reviews)

First time staying at a hostel. Lots to like about this place, friendly staff, daily activities,…read moreeverything was functional. It's not a 5-star hotel and it's a well used hostel, but the price was right and the experience talking to people from around the world there unbeatable. There's also free cook your own breakfast. The only downside is the same for any communal living place, people coming and going while you're trying to sleep, some pot smoking (no smoking in the hostel but if people smoke outside, you can smell it when the window are open), etc. still I had a great time. Highly recommend.

I stayted all hostels around Downtown San Diego and I can say this hostel is the best!!! This is my…read morefirst choice when I travel to San Diego. Location: heart of Little Italy, so many restaurant, few minutes walking to trolley station, walking to habor, easy to connect anywhere you want to go. Price: it will be cheaper if you book online and price will change everyday depend on seasons. Probably more expensive but not much compare to another hostel around but it deserved because the room and your bed absolutely better. Room and bed: clean, very comfortable, they clean every day after check out time 11am, and then they always check and clean bathroom many time on the day. They have so many bathroom, so I never wait when I need to use. Kitchen: big with all stuffs you need for cooking, coffee, tea, water alway ready to serve you for free. They have breakfast every morning at 7am to 9am with sandwich, eggs, bananas, pancake that make by yourself. Customer service: Thank you very much for treat me like home during my staying time here. I lived here over 2 months for working travelling so I know all of employees here. They are very friendly and helpful. They host a lot of activities during a week. It will great if you are solo traveler and want to make new friends around the worlds. Thank you again for all, I truly have good time when I stayed at ITH hostel! Very high recommend for all travellers!!!

California Dreams Hostel - Ocean Beach

3.6

(8 reviews)

Great vibes at this hostel. Hospitable and accommodating staff. The beds and facilities were…read moredecent. Good price. The free bagels, fruit, and cereal breakfast was clutch. Didn't use the surf and bike rental but if I was staying there it would be clutch. Consider this spot if you are staying in San Diego.

Very attentive and helpful staff member/Josephina ... she ensured guests are comfortableread more

The Hostel California, THC

4.7

(3 reviews)

Stayed here for a birthday weekend and it was such a great experience. The hosts were super…read morefriendly and generous.

This was my first time ever staying at a hostel and I had a wonderful experience. At first I was…read moreworried about my items being stolen because u never know with living with strangers, but coming here and meeting everyone and checking out the vibe made me more confident. Everyone was very friendly and welcoming, got to meet people from all over the world and experience new cultures. Great place to vibe and smoke a joint. 420 friendly!!! Overall great place with great vibes... will definitely be coming again soon :)

Stay Classy Hostel

3.3

(9 reviews)

Happy 2025. Here goes my first yelp review for the first year. My cousin and I were lucky to attend…read more"BIG NIGHT SAN DIEGO". Of course these days everybody's living on a budget. My cousin scored this hostel via Expedia. For both my cousin and I, this was our first time at the hospital. Too much our surprise it was a very nice experience. Every time I imagined what it was like to stay in a hostel, I think of those horror suspense movies of travelers in there. It's a small two floor building. There is very limited signage so unless you are staying there, you would not know that was a hostel. I'm not sure if the structure is completely brand new or just an overhaul of a different place. But certainly it was clean & safe. It seems to be set up in little nooks or pods with queen size beds, and outlets next to it. The bathrooms and the shower area amazing. Literally no smells of anything. There is a laundry, kitchen, and lounge area on the bottom. Definitely worth the price for the quality of this day

Just Believe Foundation purchased a seven-night lodging reservation for a client at a total cost of…read more$366.83. The client personally paid for the first night of the stay. Unfortunately, during that first night, the client experienced a nightmare and was asked to leave the property. As a result, the remaining reservation, which had already been paid for, was canceled before the client was able to check in for the additional nights. Despite multiple requests, the Foundation has not received a refund for the unused portion of the reservation. We were repeatedly directed back and forth between Agoda and Stay Classy regarding responsibility for processing the refund. Agoda advised that the refund must be issued by Stay Classy, while Stay Classy directed us to Agoda. We have made numerous phone calls in an effort to resolve this matter but have been unable to obtain a satisfactory resolution. Additionally, we experienced difficulty reaching management, and our requests for assistance were not adequately addressed. Based on our experience, we found the customer service and communication throughout this process to be disappointing and unprofessional. As a result, Just Believe Foundation will not be conducting future business with this company and cannot recommend its services to others.

ITH Mission Beach Backpacker Hostel

4.2

(9 reviews)

We had a great time at this hostel. The location was perfect, lots to eat & drink & entertain. The…read morebeach was beautiful & close. The boardwalk was lovely to ride bikes on which were available on the same block. The workers at the hostel really made it amazing. The place was always clean: bathrooms, showers, floors, kitchen. The vibes were fun and inclusive. We can't wait to visit again and try the other locations. Thank you!

Find parking at a beach hostel can sometimes feel like winning the lottery, so having a public…read moreparking lot just across the street was a huge plus from the start. It's only a short stroll to the front door, and if the winding beach traffic leaves you feeling exasperated, the staff are absolute angels over the phone. Jocelyn was endlessly patient as I called more than once to make sure I was in the right area. By the time I finally arrived, she greeted me with such warmth and even rushed in front to help me with my bags. It was the kind of kindness that instantly makes a place feel like home. Jocelyn, you are the absolute sweetest receptionist and a sparkling gem of this hostel! The hostel itself feels less like a temporary stop and more like a cozy little hideaway tucked into the heart of Mission Beach. The rooms have a familiar charm of college dorms, complete with bunk beds, oversized mirrors, and color paintings that brighten the walls. Every little detail feels thoughtfully placed, as though someone wanted guests to feel welcomed rather than simply accommodated. The kitchen might have been my favorite space. With its gleaming gold colored silverware, warm wooden touches, and cottage-like charm, it felt as though it belonged to a tiny village where neighbors gather over tea and fresh bread. It was impossible not to linger for a moment and soak in the comforting atmosphere. Then, with one glance out the window, the spell gently shifts. Beyond the cozy interior lies the vibrant heartbeat of Mission Beach- the amusement park buzzing with laugher, the beach calling to surfers and sunbathers, and the lively boardwalk reminding you that adventure is only a few steps away. It felt like having the best of both worlds: a peaceful little nest tucked inside one of San Diego's most energetic neighborhoods. Even the hallways carried their own personality, dressed in rich navy blue with golden accents that gave the space an unexpectedly regal feel. The single restrooms that were separate from the showers were sparkling clean and adorned with little touches of green foliage that made them feel fresh and inviting. They're a little cramped in terms of size, kind of like the ones in an airplane, but the focus here would more so be practicality. More than anything, I loved the people. Conversations flowed effortlessly and before long I found myself swapping stories with travelers from every corner of the world. Although I didn't get to spend as much time exploring the excitement just outside the hostel as I would have liked, I left feeling as though I'd stumbled upon one of those rare places that offer both comfort and connections. If you're looking for a stay that feels equal parts seaside adventure and storybook retreat, this little hostel is well worth the visit.

Old Town Inn

4.3

(431 reviews)

My first real time in San Diego. I randomly booked a place at the last minute because it seemed in…read morea vaguely sort of convenient location. I didn't know what I was expecting. I had a great time! Beat my expectations a lot given the extremely low price. So the room was WAY bigger than expected for what I paid for it. I understand that it was the suite, but I wasn't expecting a large suite at all because it was so cheap. The front service was super friendly, helpful, everything. They were able to facilitate complimentary early check-in as well. In short, the service was very good and everyone at the front desk was super helpful and accomodating. Apparently there's some sketchy areas nearby if you walk to Old Town through a very weird direction (you should actually cross the street and go through the underground passage). Location is convenient, the prices are SUPER affordable, and it's just overall nice and cozy. Complimentary breakfast was also nice and easy. Had a very pleasant stay and would likely stay here again the next time I'm in this part of San Diego!

This is a 3.5 star but I have them 3 because half stars aren't an option…read more Staff was nice Rooms were clean they have a little mini kitchen which is great for cooking in your room if needed hot plate and sink Great location we walked to old town but not much else in the area. Free parking The big downer was the breakfast the protein oatmeal or yogurt....they had boiled eggs they need to have some scrambled eggs and meat. Even the motel six has a better breakfast we have stayed all over and this was a lack luster breakfast to say the least

La Jolla Riviera Inn

4.1

(21 reviews)

What a great place to stay. We rented a one-bedroom, and it was very comfortable. Clean and quiet…read morecomplex. Walking distance to the beach and restaurants.

Very cute. It's apartments that are now converted into the Inn. There is street parking or parking…read morespots they reserve for $15 per night. The common area is super cute with the swimming pool adorning the center and rooms along the sides. We were upgraded to a 2 bedroom suite at no extra cost which was a nice perk. The room is basically an apartment - nice living room, dining table for 6, kitchen, a master and second bedroom and a bathroom. There is a covered patio that overlooks the tennis club and golf course and you can see a sliver of the ocean. We loved it! The bed was actually quite comfy, but more so the pillows. The kitchen came equipped with utensils, cutlery, etc and coffee. But no soap to clean so I could only rinse everything out and keep. What was a bit disappointing was that the heating only seems to be there for the living room. We couldn't find a vent in the bedroom. Also all fans have the plunger things you have to pull, which is discomforting when you are 5'1" and standing on the bed as you try to switch the fan off in the middle of the night, avoiding your head from slicing open. Loved that we had our own little apartment and didn't have to see anyone else. Check in was also through a lockbox. We will come back here for sure!!

Humphreys Half Moon Inn

3.3

(775 reviews)

If anyone asked me where they should stay in San Diego, I would point them to Humphrey's Half Moon…read moreInn! It's a perfect slice of tropical paradise in Shelter Island area of San Diego. I had a 2-night midweek stay because my work booked our annual department in-person workshop here. This hotel had a beautiful pool and outdoor seating area, it was so nice to lounge here in the spring sunshine. Lots of lush tropical plants all around to give more of that paradise vibe. They even had 2 macaws hanging around and a koi pond! It is a pretty small property, so never too far to walk around. This is also a concert venue, so some rooms face the stage area, which is pretty cool! The room looked renovated, there were new fixtures, but the carpet and some of the structure felt old. It was pretty spacious though. First floor rooms do get a small outdoor patio, which would be nice to enjoy coffee in the morning. My room ended up facing the parking lot, which wasn't so glamorous, lol. Shelter Island is a nice, safe place to walk around, super close to Liberty Station and Sunset Cliffs. Not too far of a drive from beaches and the airport. My company had our workshop in the harbor room, connected to the restaurant. It overlooked all of the boats parked in the bay, which was a pretty sight. The catering was good, not the worst but not the best. We got breakfast burritos (yummy), box lunch sandwiches (ran out of meat options), and bagels (just okay, turkey slices were the only protein source). My favorite meal was actually a lunch that was hosted in the restaurant, where I got a stuffed gnocchi dish with a slice of cheesecake at the end. Really delicious and SUPER filling! Overall, a beautiful work stay-cation in San Diego, I'd highly recommend for anyone visiting :)

Picture this. You're…read morea single mom who saved to take your two sons and your mom on a two-night getaway. A chance to relax, make memories, and recharge. I spent over $1,000 on Room 408, plus $200 for parking and another $460 at the hotel. I knew I was splurging for my family and expected a comfortable stay. Instead, it was a nightmare. I called ahead requesting early check-in due to a meeting and was told it sounded promising. We arrived at 1 PM, but the room wasn't ready until almost 4 PM. In extreme heat, my mom and toddler waited outside at a pool with almost no shade. When we finally got into Room 408, we loved it. But that night, the AC didn't work. We barely slept. The next day, water started pouring from the AC unit and vents, soaking the carpet. Maintenance blamed a nonexistent bathroom drain and left a towel on the floor. An hour later, water came from another vent. The room was unbearably hot. My kids, my mom, and I were sweating. We were moved to another room, which we were told was "the biggest room they had." We didn't need the biggest room--we needed working AC. The replacement room was outdated, had a ripped chair, crayon on the table, a rusty bathtub with no stopper, and terrible soundproofing. We got no sleep again. To recap: Over $1,000 for the room $200 parking $460 spent at the hotel Hours waiting in extreme heat Broken AC and water leaking from vents A stressful room move with two children A damaged, noisy replacement room When we called about a communication issue with maintenance, the front desk responded to my mother with "GEEZ!" as if we were the problem. After all of this, the resolution offered was a $50 credit. I worked for Marriott for six years. I understand issues happen. What I don't understand is the complete lack of meaningful hospitality recovery after a stay was ruined. I saved for this trip. I wanted memories with my boys and my mom. Instead, we left exhausted and disappointed. A $50 credit does not match this experience. Management: do you truly believe this was an appropriate resolution? I will never stay here again. I hope future guests think carefully before spending their hard-earned money here. Now days later, I'm getting double charged by them. As if ( as a single mother) I wasn't already negatively affected enough.

The Wayfarer San Diego

(358 reviews)