Kona Kai Resort & Spa

San Diego, California

Virgin rating

The hotel

This iconic California hotel is on Shelter Island, overlooking the famed Kona Kai Marina. With ocean views from every room type, you can laze the days away on your balcony if you fancy - complete with stunning views of San Diego bay. Although with a private beach two waterfront pools, you'll probably want to leave the room to enjoy a leisurely day by the water either way. Embrace true holiday life and head to the poolside bar for a refreshing drink – and take in the views of the marina, or pamper yourself at the spa. If you fancy something a bit more active, explore the island on one of the complimentary beach cruisers or enjoy one of the many water sports activities on offer!

Amenities

  • Bicycle Rental
  • Kayaking
  • Sailing
  • Bar
  • Evening Entertainment
  • Fitness Centre/Gym
  • Internet Access
  • Restaurant
  • Room Service
  • Spa
  • Swimming Pool
  • Beachfront location

Where is it

Located on Shelter Island on Kona Kai Marina, minutes from Downtown San Diego and San Diego’s International Airport.

Hotel information

170 rooms, including 41 luxury suites, all with spectacular water viewsfrom the private patio or balcony, as well as flatscreen TV with premium entertainment channels, complimentary coffee, mini-fridge, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, iron and board. 

Deluxe Guestrooms have 1 king-size bed or 2 queen-size beds, sleeping maximum 4 adults.

Premium Rooms offer 1 king-size bed or 2 queen-size beds, sleeping maximum 4 adults.

Suites are also available, featuring sophisticated coastal design, spa-inspired bathrooms with bath and rainfall shower, and bay or marina views from an oversized balcony. 

Vessel restaurant (local coastal cuisine, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner). Tiki Bar and adults-only pool bar. Resort pool and adults-only pool. Pool and beach cabanas*. Spa*. Fitness centre. Complimentary fitness classes. Private beach and firepits. Water activity centre* including kayaks and paddle boards. Volleyball. Badminton. Complimentary bikes. Fishing*. Beach parties. Kona Kai Marina with bay cruises* and dinner cruises*. Gift shop. Room service*. WiFi*. Self-parking $34, plus tax per night (payable locally, subject to change)

This hotel has resort fees that are included in the room rate (subject to change)

Resort fee includes: - Daily Newspaper in Lobby - WiFi - Fitness centre and steam room - Towel Service at pool and spa. Resort fee, tax and inclusions are subject to change - please see hotel check-in for current inclusions available to you upon arrival.

*Denotes local charge. 

Rating summary

  • Location Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Sleep Quality Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Rooms Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Service Image of the Tripadvisor rating
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Traveller rating

  • Excellent (1539)
  • Very good (431)
  • Average (281)
  • Poor (183)
  • Terrible (162)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Relaxing and fun! Lots of amenities but very low key. Friendly staff that doesn’t hassle you

Jul 14, 2024 Liz F

Great stay! Relaxing and fun! Lots of amenities but very low key. Friendly staff that doesn’t hassle you. Walking distance to lots of restaurants Very clean and accommodating Great for families and fishing Good food on the property Front desk helpful
Image of the Tripadvisor rating We will be back...

Jul 14, 2024 CHRISTINE L Tacoma, Washington

This is a fantastic resort. Something for everyone to do. Very clean and welcoming. Staff are friendly and professional. Love that the pool opens early and closes late. The campfires on the beach are so inviting and fun for family or romantic. Thanks again!!!
Image of the Tripadvisor rating 5 Star Team

Jul 13, 2024 Maria B

I would like to recognize the registration team. Starting with Rudy, I was helped as if I was the only person in the room. Everything was explained and even though I arrived early, they were able to accommodate me by getting me oriented to the property and offering the lounge area to relax until my room was ready. Every attention to detail was… Read more
I would like to recognize the registration team. Starting with Rudy, I was helped as if I was the only person in the room. Everything was explained and even though I arrived early, they were able to accommodate me by getting me oriented to the property and offering the lounge area to relax until my room was ready. Every attention to detail was made and I was even able to get a late check out. Thank you for a 5 star stay. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating 4th of July - Big Bay Boom - Perfect Resort!

Jul 13, 2024 LOAKESnJHARM Edmond, Oklahoma

If you're looking for the perfect resort for your family while visiting San Diego, definitely book Kona Kai! Its so easy to access EVERYTHING in or near San Diego, and the location on the bay and marina are perfection. So many fun things to do with Action Sports Rentals on property, two pools, and a wonderful fitness center. The beds are comfy… Read more
If you're looking for the perfect resort for your family while visiting San Diego, definitely book Kona Kai! Its so easy to access EVERYTHING in or near San Diego, and the location on the bay and marina are perfection. So many fun things to do with Action Sports Rentals on property, two pools, and a wonderful fitness center. The beds are comfy and you're close to everything from your room at the resort. Kids will LOVE staying here. Pet friendly! We didn't bring our dachshund but considering it for our next trip! Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Family vacation in SD

Jul 12, 2024 Maged E

Excellent place; clean, quiet, accessible to everything in SD, nice, friendly staff, great location on the bay. Games and the pool were fun & food at the vessels was delicious. Would be super if it had a toaster or microwave oven. Only negative was that WiFi was weak.