Kona Kai Resort & Spa

San Diego, California

Virgin rating

Deluxe King Room
Vessel Restaurant
Terrace
Deluxe Queen Room
Marina Terrace
Marina View Junior Suite
Deluxe King Room
Vessel Restaurant
Terrace
Deluxe Queen Room
Marina Terrace
Marina View Junior Suite

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. 

  • Book by 30 Sep 24' to receive $30 resort credit per room per stay, with stays between 24 Aug 24' – 30 Jun '25. Terms and conditions apply. Blackout Dates apply. Applies to certain room types.

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
  • Value Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Cleanliness Image of the Tripadvisor rating

Traveller rating

  • Excellent (1593)
  • Very good (448)
  • Average (291)
  • Poor (188)
  • Terrible (167)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Quiet Beautiful Resort

Sep 23, 2024 Lori T

This was an amazing getaway. It’s very quiet, rooms are clean, beds are comfortable and Vessels food and service is amazing. I wish I could remember everyone’s names. When we check into hotels, usually the customer service is not that great BUT we were greeted with a warm welcome from Rudy. Upon check out, I had a great short conversation with… Read more
This was an amazing getaway. It’s very quiet, rooms are clean, beds are comfortable and Vessels food and service is amazing. I wish I could remember everyone’s names. When we check into hotels, usually the customer service is not that great BUT we were greeted with a warm welcome from Rudy. Upon check out, I had a great short conversation with Ray. We will be back. This was my family’s favorite getaway! Thank you!! Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Fun stay at a great place

Sep 22, 2024 Jet08291271936

The place has everything you need. Close to many activities. It is a large property yet easy to get around offering many options for activities on the property. The restaurant is good but it's best to plan on eating at nearby places if staying more days.
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Not good for the price.

Sep 22, 2024 WanderingCG

Nice location, friendly staff and good food in restaurant. The bad....common areas had stained, smelly carpets, rooms need updating, cleanliness was an issue. Not worth the price.
Image of the Tripadvisor rating need to improve the upkeep

Sep 22, 2024 dralexander2024

rooms were very average. i travel for business and conference all over and this by far was very below average
Image of the Tripadvisor rating First time to Kona Kai

Sep 21, 2024 jeffdskinner

We visit San Diego often to see our son and normally stay at the Liberty Station Marriott Courtyard. It was booked this trip and I was alway curious about Kona Kai, so we booked it. We were not disappointed. The room and the staff were fantastic. I will definitely stay again.