Review of La Valencia Hotel I purchased a day pass here as someone who works in the hospitality industry and is always curious to experience new properties from a guest perspective--and La Valencia absolutely delivered. I arrived pretty early in the morning (optimistically expecting sunshine), but even with the typical coastal overcast, it didn't take away from the experience at all. In fact, I somehow ended up with the pool almost entirely to myself--in the middle of August, which felt like a hidden luxury. The setting is just beautiful. The views, the calm atmosphere, and the overall sense of escape made it easy to settle in and relax. I spent about five hours there and never felt rushed or overlooked. The staff, especially at the cabana bar, were fantastic--attentive, respectful, and genuinely pleasant to interact with. I ordered food and drinks throughout the day, and everything added to the ease and enjoyment of the experience. The only small downside is parking, which can be a bit tricky--but that's pretty standard for La Jolla. Overall, this was an incredible day experience and absolutely worth it. I'd do it again without hesitation. read more

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La Valencia was perfect for our daughter's wedding. The overall vibe was exactly what we were looking for - personal, classy, vintage, and comfortable. The venue was the perfect size for our 60-person wedding, and so beautiful with the ocean backdrop and landscape. There are lots of amazing spots for photography. From the moment we toured the venue, to planning details along the way, to the big day, communication was excellent. The hotel suggested vendors for our wedding that made vendor selection easy, and all of them were equally fantastic. The service the entire weekend was outstanding. The bridal suite was a fantastic space for the girls to get ready, made even better by the mimosas and treats the staff brought up. The team also went above and beyond for our family, even using the hotel golf carts to shuttle the grandparents to nearby restaurants so they wouldn't have to walk far. The food at the wedding was top-notch, with many guests raving about the meal. I was impressed with the number of wait staff who made sure the evening went smoothly. Overall, it was an incredible event, and we highly recommend La Valencia hotel. read more

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This place to me is pure California perfection. Whenever we visit San Diego, La Valencia Hotel is always a stop. We come here for the fantastic restaurants on site and the beautiful views overlooking the ocean and all the sea life. The inside bar is just perfect for relaxing. We've come here where they have live bands performing, which is a nice touch. There is sometimes a piano player, which provides a nice background noise. But even without the music, it is just a perfect spot to enjoy and take in the view. The food is delicious. On this latest visit, we got their hummus and grilled pita. We also got the cheese plate, which was perfectly balanced with a wide selection of crackers and meats. The wine is also just fantastic. I am always impressed by the service and the selection. read more

This quaint hotel in the middle of La Jolla reminds me of the little beautiful places you would find in Paris, London, Barcelona. The only exception is those places might not have an exquisite ocean view. This does, from our villa number 11 we opened our blinds and there was the beautiful park and the ocean and you could hear the seals being seals. Everyone we encountered staff wise, including that beautiful concierge that left us an anniversary bottle of bubbly we can't thank enough, right down to the valet folks who had the car when we needed. It grabbed our luggage from our room. This hotel has everything you could help for in terms of bar, patio, dining, fantastic pool, and other great decks to enjoy... Plus incredibly intimate and sexy.. to all the staff thank you for making our 31st anniversary very special read more

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A beautiful day for lunch at La Valencia on the deck looking at the Ocean --it didn't almost happen because when we arrived around 1:30 the hostess said we had to have drinks and food inside because we didn't think we wanted a full lunch. We went into bar area and I chatted with bar tender who "got it." I explained we wanted outside and couldn't guarantee we'd go the whole 9 yards.... Great guy took us outside and waited on us. Turns out cocktails for both of us an app and a shared large main. Loved it and turns out he was handsomely tipped for his attention, attitude and service. Food excellent. This is a classic hotel and restaurant in a classic town. LaJolla is hard to beat! Go! read more

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I never have a bad day at la Valencia. Perfect spot for a girls getaway. I love the pool, restaurants, location and it's super dog friendly. read more

La Valencia Hotel - Hotels Near Me - La Jolla, California

Leaving Chicago this morning (at1°) and landing in San Diego (at 68°) was a G-D send! This last December / January has been (let's say) difficult in Chicago, weather wise. The La Valencia Hotel right on the Pacific Ocean, for me is like being in paradise. The smell of salt water plus the sensible weather here at La Valencia Hotel is just what the doctor ordered. Their excellent restaurant here called La Sala is making pretty terrific food. Staying here, of course we ate several meals at La Sala, and all of these meals were "right on". I had breakfast, lunch and dinners here and all of these meals were spot on. I could not write this review without shouting out how wonderful the staff was here at the La Valencia Hotel, in particular the La Sala crew, who gave us such terrific service, with a "smile"! Every aspect of these young folks made you feel like it was their privilege to give you such an amazing experience at their restaurant. Thank you all. read more

La Valencia Hotel - The art works are beautiful! - Hotels Near Me - La Jolla, California

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Very nice stay for a wedding. Elegant ambiance, excellent interior design and customer service. Beautiful ocean views . The cuisine was delicious. read more

La Valencia Hotel - Hotels Near Me - La Jolla, California

Beautiful hotel! Nice restaurant and classic cocktail bar. The #10 Villa was so very nice. The hotel staff are very helpful and work hard to make the experience memorable and enjoyable. It's a wonderful hotel and one I highly recommend when staying in La Jolla. read more

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This is the spot! Spent our wedding night with panoramic views of the La Jolla coastline. This hotel strikes the right balance of history, elegance, comfort, and care. Their staff are superb. If you enjoy staying at a nice hotel, you've found it. read more

This hotel is super nice! Especially being one of the older hotels in La Jolla they do maintain it very well. Staff were sweet from the valet boys to the front desk we have no complaints. It definitely is on the pricier side but makes sense because again LOCATION. You're on the shore of La Jolla. It was comfy/rainy when we were there so we weren't able to fully enjoy the pool area but it looked nice I'm sure it's lovely during warmer days. I do wish there was better parking like a garage. You have to get your car valet or find parking somewhere. read more

La Valencia Hotel - View from our room - Hotels Near Me - La Jolla, California

I had drinks with my girlfriends at La Valencia. The view was STUNNING. Beautiful ambiance especially at this time of year when it's a little chilly. We were worried being inside would hamper our chances of a nice view but this bar did not disappoint! Not pictured is the very talented musician they had for live music and the sound was not too loud we can have conversations but also enjoy the musical ambiance. 10/10 for this window side table. Drinks did not disappoint. They're on the pricier side ~18-20 per drink but that's to be expected with this view. The drinks were solid in alcohol content and beautiful mixed. The mixologist might have done our favourite table side smoked old fashion and espresso martinis. Had to get a second round! All in all happy we stumbled upon this gem read more

La Valencia Hotel - Table side smoked whiskey - Hotels Near Me - La Jolla, California

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This is a classic hotel in La Jolla with beautiful ocean views with a piano bar and a few restaurants to choose from. I love staying at this hotel as it is old-school elegance and the service is amazing. The location is to die for and their wine list is extensive. Also the food is so very good with a great selection as well. It is centrally located in the beautiful beach town of La Jolla and you can walk down the streets and find other coffee shops along with shops and restaurants when you step into this hotel it's like you're stepping it back in time and when you go there you'll see for yourself what I mean. It is also one of the best wedding venues.! read more

My friend and I came in here randomly last week around sunset. We got a table on the balcony and ordered drinks just before the sun went down. It was absolutely breathtaking! The drinks were good, the food was great (especially the hamachi) and our server was friendly. There was even a pianist playing modern songs. This place has a very romantic vibe. I plan to come back! read more

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Great stay with very friendly and accommodating staff. Location can't be beat either.

La Valencia Hotel is iconic and is known as the Pink Lady in La Jolla. This hotel has been around since 1926 and has had a historic Hollywood glam following. La Valencia was built and originally named Los Apartamentos Sevilla, with Spanish style influences in its design details throughout. Over the years and after multiple owner and management changes, this hotel maintains its iconic status in the La Jolla community. This hotel is perched above La Jolla Cove with spectacular coastal ocean views. The hotel is smallish, with no seating for guests in the lobby. There is seating outside the patio which faces Prospect St. There's usually a live band playing music. However, this hotel is a popular destination for wedding and party celebrations, with a small grassy garden. The outdoor swimming pool and hot tub are both also smallish. The Whaling Bar which opened earlier this year is a small bar lounge connected to La Valencia Hotel and when there's a long wait for valet, this is a great place for a martini. Other than room service, the main restaurant is the Mediterranean Room which offers indoor and outdoor seating. Most sunny days, most diners prefer outdoor seating in the umbrella shades patio with views of the garden, pool and the ocean. My previous pics were mistakenly posted under La Valencia Hotel, when the pics should have been posted under Mediterranean Room, mea culpa. Of all the times I've been here, I was always cordially greeted, the entire staff from the valet, concierge, staff members service has always accommodating and been above satisfactory. La Valencia Hotel is the best place in La Jolla for a rendezvous whether it's for business or pleasure. Recommend! read more

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We had breakfast overlooking the courtyard and the Pacific Ocean, it was very beautiful and picturesque. The grounds were meticulously manicured. As we ate our breakfast groundskeeper were planting roses and flowers on the terrace below. Our breakfast was exceptional! The service was impeccable. Our servers were very attentive to our needs and courteous. After breakfast, we walked down to the courtyard and down to the ocean. It was truly a unique experience and dining pleasure. Highly recommended. read more

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This hotel is dreamy! It's in a great location that's walkable to nearby restaurants, shops, and beaches. The staff are friendly and helpful. We recommend getting an ocean view room! read more

La Valencia Hotel - Hotels Near Me - La Jolla, California

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Came here for the tree lighting and had the most lovely experience! Cookies and hot chocolate upon arrival, the cutest decorations. All of our drinks and food were top notch, they make a great martini and the soup was delicious, Mike was our server and he was very friendly from the start and helped us through the menu, highly recommend! read more

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Came here for a drinks after having lunch. I would come back here again. Staff was really attentive I wish I got his name. I ordered the espresso martini. We sat outside to look out the view the inside was packed. We came on a weekday. read more

La Valencia Hotel - Espresso martini - Hotels Near Me - La Jolla, California

This hotel is amazingly beautiful, at a beautiful location with great history. The staff and team are so on top of their service that it makes me wish I could live here. The restaurant is amazing and I need to recommend their grilled octopus. Super tender and delicious. The room I had was mesmerizing with an ocean view. I'll be sure to be back again in the near future. read more

What a wonderful escape these last few days! La Valencia far exceeded our expectations. Our room was perfect.. king vintage ocean view. Quiet at night and convenient to walking. Their customer service was amazing. We ordered room service and ate at The Mediterranean and The Whaling bar. All meals served hot and delicious. By far the best was our afternoons at the pool and our meals and drinks. The hotel is very lucky to have Michael as an employee! Friendly, hard working but he hums and smiles like he truly loves his job. We will definitely be back! read more

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Lexi at the spa was amazing!! She was exceptional and made me feel taken care of the moment I stepped inside. So kind, warm, and perceptive. Fantastic experience at the spa. Thank you Lexi and La Valencia spa!! read more

Amazing place, beautiful veiws, so close to the water. Food is fantastic, cocktails just as good! Stay for a few days or just drop into the Restraunt next time you're in the area . read more

My family stayed for two nights and were absolutely horrified by the conditions in our room. We were placed directly above the Whaling Bar, where extremely loud, pounding music blasted from 6:00 p.m. until midnight on both nights. The noise was relentless and unbearable--so disruptive that sleep was impossible. By the end of the stay, we were beyond frustrated and practically ready to scream. We complained repeatedly to the front desk, yet staff were dismissive and made no meaningful effort to resolve the issue or acknowledge how unacceptable the situation was. The rooms above the bar are fundamentally uninhabitable and should never be sold as guest rooms--especially at the premium prices charged by La Valencia. This was, without exaggeration, one of the worst hotel experiences we have ever had. Being subjected to this nightmarish level of noise with no concern from hotel management is shocking. If a zero-star rating were possible, I would give it without hesitation. We were given a terrible room, endured a miserable stay, and left deeply disappointed. I would strongly caution anyone against staying here unless they are certain they will not be placed above the bar. read more

ove La Valencia and have stayed here frequently over the years, but my recent experience at the pool bar left a very bad taste in my mouth. The bartender was incredibly rude from the moment we approached the bar--curt, unwelcoming, and clearly uninterested in providing decent service. We were charged for a Grand Marnier float we never asked for, which felt like a sneaky upcharge. I paid in cash and didn't scrutinize the bill closely at the time--my mistake--but I later realized gratuity was already included. Unfortunately, I tipped again on top of that, unknowingly giving an over 40% tip to someone who did not deserve even a fraction of that for the level of service we received. When I returned to ask about it, the bartender just gave me a smug smile. No apology, no explanation. Just condescending energy that summed up the entire interaction. It's a shame, because the hotel itself is beautiful and I've always loved coming here. But this kind of customer service is unacceptable--especially at a property that prides itself on luxury. It makes me seriously rethink where I'll stay next time I'm in town. read more

Love this beautiful hotel and restaurant. But please bring back the Mahi-Mahi Sandwich for lunch! So disappointed that it was no longer on the menu. read more

First time here. We planned for just 1 night but we extended our stay after a few hours into the evening. It's on the pricier side but absolutely worth every penny to stay in this exquisite hotel.... It gives off a glamorous Hollywood feel. This resort sits in a very prime location in La Jolla. My husband said to expect it to be like Suc & Sand in Laguna but this is way better on many levels. This place is historic and run very well.I recommend the room we had, Oceanfront King suite. The service from valet to front desk to bell helpers and even to the restaurant were top-notch. I love how pet-friendly this pace is, the restaurant even has a menu for dogs. The only part I disliked is when I had to check out. I will most definitely be back! read more

La Valencia Hotel - Hotels Near Me - La Jolla, California

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Well, the best things in life are free like the view that you will see if you're here for a wedding or if you're walking through But if you're here to stay, we'll, you will pay a pretty penny (three times the cost of the hotel next door?) and you will decide for yourself if it's worth it. One thing is for sure. This hotel is a thing of beauty. Classy, elegant, and gorgeous Spanish architecture are kissed everyday with La Jolla sunshine and California sunsets with the fragrance of blooming flowers everywhere to greet you. It's not the biggest; it's not the cheapest; but it will make a memory in your mind, one stamped with exquisite beauty and 1920's charm. read more

La Valencia Hotel - Here for a wedding :) - Hotels Near Me - La Jolla, California

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I had the 'Greek' Caesar- iceberg lettuce, a few radishes and cherry tomatoes drenched in what must have been Greek Caesar dressing (possibly from the jar). Horrible Saving Grace was I added Salmon which was perfect- but almost $50.00 Need to up the salad for that price. read more

Was brought here for the very first time by a new date (probably one of the worst dating experience I have had unfortunately....!) BEAUTIFUL lobby and entry into bar. We ordered a quick drink at bar while we waited for a table to open up. I wish the main window was somehow larger and open, as there were few seats that actually had an ocean view. The date wanted to keep on playing musical chairs, so we moved three times a bit closer each time to the window, which again didn't have an ocean view unless you were at the window. Service to clean the table didn't happen unless we asked them, which was too bad. Seems service was lacking. Charcuterie plate was amazing. Overall, nice, but for the (limited) view, I'd rather go somewhere else for drinks like George's on top, or even Dukes. read more

La Valencia Hotel - Hotels Near Me - La Jolla, California

My spouse and I recently were married at La Valencia. The coastal views are gorgeous and created the perfect backdrop for our wedding. The staff was attentive, professional, and handled everything seamlessly. Everyone is still talking about the food. The atmosphere, service, and food made our wedding weekend feel extra special. read more

I'm gonna give them a "1" because of their poor communication. I've tried for days to get info on the Thanksgiving dinner, including leaving a Vmail for the GM days ago who never returned my call. Also, they transfer u into Vmails that have no greeting indicating who the Vmail belongs to and so u have no comfort in knowing you were transferred correctly. Very unprofessional for such an expensive place! read more

What a beautiful, iconic venue located in the heart of La Jolla! My sister got married here in Nov 2022. Built in the 1920s, this place gives you class, style, and charm all at once, with an amazing view of the ocean as the backdrop for the wedding ceremony. Makes you feel like you're in the Mediterranean. The Veranda room where we had the reception was intimate yet spacious enough for the wedding party. We had lots of family and friends visit from the Midwest and this was honestly a great way to show them how beautiful San Diego is! We've also had brunch here at the restaurant and have come here for drinks. Service is great there and the ambience is classy yet relaxing since it's by the beach. Go grab some bites or some cocktails and enjoy this historical landmark in La Jolla! read more

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This was the greatest hotel in La Jolla, but things have changed. I attended a wedding reception . We started with drinks in the bar area. The waiter, Pete, was surly and rude. We next had appetizers and cocktails in the garden The appetizers were cold and dried out. We then went into a full sitdown dinner . At a table of eight 6 were women and all but one ordered chicken. The Jadore chicken was tough and dried out.We could not cut it. None of us ate the chicken. An elderly woman at the table had ordered the beef dish. She was served the chicken when she told the waiter of the mistake. She replied "well that's what was on the ticket if we have any beef left over will let you know." I have frequented this hotel for years with the previous owners the Allens and this type of behavior and food service would never happen when they owned it I am just so sorry that this grand old hotel has come to this. read more

Quaint, luxurious, grand, scenic, beautiful, historical...all words to describe the La Valencia Hotel in La Jolla. I have been acquainting myself with this incredible hotel ever since I was a child. My parents and grandparents would bring me here to take in the views, have a Shirley temple and a treat at the bar and feel a bit of luxury. Though we never stayed here it was always a magical place to come and visit. As an adult I had to bring my husband and daughter (even though she's only 9 months) to experience this wondrous place. The day we came it was pouring rain which somehow enhanced the experience because we were the only ones out and about and in the bar area, so we got the views and the service all to ourselves. We ordered some coffee and just sat and enjoyed. The hotel itself is very old. It is charming, elegant and traditional. It's a lovely nod to simpler times set amidst the hustle and bustle of the modern day. Rooms are nice but small and the prices are steep, though that is to be expected. There is something about the La Valencia that puts you at ease and let's you take in the moment. The views are incredible, and on a clear day you can see miles of the coast. The restaurant here is one of the best I've ever had the pleasure of dining at. The service is wonderful, food spectacular (I highly recommend the brussel sprouts) and ambience romantic. Though we did take my daughter and I went as a child, it isn't really a place for kids. Take them to see the hotel, but it's more of a relaxing and romantic adult stay rather than for kid fun. The La Valencia boasts elegance, charm, views, food, and service on a 5 star scale. Go take a look for yourself. read more

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We came back here to for our 1 year wedding anniversary and stopped by to say hi and saw our mixologist Tina! To our amazement she remembered my wife's drink and made it for us! I'm in amazement how she remembered our drink last year! Tina's hospitality was 5 stars and made our wedding feel more special! Bobby (Director of Catering) and staff made our wedding fantasy become a reality , we thank the staff and the historic beauty of La Valencia. Bobby went above and beyond to make us feel secure and planned right, it was magical. read more

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I have dined in the Mediterranean Room for years. Today I ordered the Cesar Salad...forgettaboutit, so bland and full of unnecessary add-ons like tomatoes, why? The dressing was skimpy and bland, no tangy kick to it, more like the midwest US rather than Tijuana, Mexico.. Suggest that the chef review the original TJ recipe, and not deviate from perfection, because the end result is a boriing salad that is not Cesar. read more

This hotel has one of the BEST restaurants in La Jolla! The terrace tables overlook the pool and the ocean which is a beautiful addition to the best food! There is street parking free for two hours which is plenty for a nice meal. The drink menu has plenty of craft cocktails with premium wines and beers. We had crab cakes, tuna aguachile a house hamburger and truffle fries. My husband said that it was the best burger he has had in San Diego! We will be back soon for dinner! read more

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This is likely the place we will stay when we come to visit San Diego. We tried a Junior Suite and it was fine. I would've loved more storage or surfaces in our bathroom. There was this large dead space in the corner of the nice large bathroom, but it is unusable without some kind of table there. Or shelving. The shower could've been slightly cleaner, but I always try not to look too close. The location was do you wanna go outside for very nice and i appreciate an establishment that offers a variety of living options. The location was perfect and I appreciated the valet parking. On our second day, the valet parking attendant offered us cold waters, which was quite a treat. I also appreciate the water in the room because every time I get to a place I'm immediately obsessed with getting freshwater, springwater specifically. I was really looking forward to shopping in a gift boutique because I love shopping and I love hotel gift boutiques they have a collection of unique vacation items that sometimes surprises me and I'm a sucker for merch, Perhaps in vintage establishment there is not the space for it come to think of it there isn't a shop at New York hotels. I guess I was thinking because of the beach there would be a fun shop. I asked if there was an online store at the front desk and I was told "no". And not a friendly "no" either. Come to find out, by looking at their webpage, there is a little bit of merch online. The same stuff that was displayed in some windows in the lobby however I was told they don't keep much stock on hand. Okayyyyyyz I like the puzzle they offered but I want about to beg for it so, whatever. I'll be back, even if I look like I'm a lookie-loo tourist asking about the store, please don't be snobby please don't be snob next time. Oh, I will say that the Consierge gave a very friendly hello as I walked by to leave, a nice sentiment for my departure of a very relaxing weekend. read more