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Kona Kai San Diego

Property class: 4

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Photo gallery for Kona Kai San Diego

A marina with boats, a yacht, and a balcony with two chairs and a table. - Kona Kai San Diego (San Diego)
Property video
A bar area with a curved ceiling, hanging light fixtures, and a large screen displaying a tropical scene. - Kona Kai San Diego (San Diego)
A large, domed building with a central fountain, surrounded by well-maintained gardens and a calm reflective pool. - Kona Kai San Diego (San Diego)
A pool area with lounge chairs and umbrellas, a bar, and a view of boats in the background. - Kona Kai San Diego (San Diego)
Located close to Cabrillo National Monument, Kona Kai San Diego provides a marina, 2 poolside bars, and a terrace. With a private beach, beach cabanas, and beach massages, this hotel is the perfect place to soak up some sun. Indulge in a body scrub, a Swedish massage, and aromatherapy at the onsite spa. The on-site local cuisine restaurant, Vessel Restaurant and Bar, offers breakfast, brunch, dinner, light fare, and al fresco dining. The gym offers fitness classes and yoga classes; other things to do include sailing, boat tours, and kayaking. In addition to a garden and dry cleaning/laundry services, guests can connect to free in-room WiFi.

Reviews

8.2 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi

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Room options

Available filters for rooms
Showing 19 of 19 rooms

View all photos for Bayview King

A hotel room with a large bed, a balcony with a view of the sea, and a dining area with outdoor furniture.

Bayview King

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

View all photos for Bayview Two Queen

A hotel room with two beds, a view of the sea, and a balcony with a table and chair.

Bayview Two Queen

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

View all photos for Marina View King

A hotel room with a large bed, a desk with a chair, a balcony with a view of the marina, and a patterned wall.

Marina View King

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

View all photos for Marina View Two Queen

A hotel room with a wooden desk, two patterned chairs, a lamp, a large mirror, and a view of a marina through the window.

Marina View Two Queen

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

View all photos for Deluxe King

A hotel room with a large bed, a balcony with a view, a desk, and a chair.

Deluxe King

8.2 out of 10
Very good
(31 reviews)
  • Resort view
  • 32 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Two Queen

A hotel room with two beds, a desk, and a view of the sea.

Deluxe Two Queen

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(13 reviews)
  • Resort view
  • 32 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Deluxe Junior Suite

A hotel room with a bed, a chair, a desk, and a lamp.

Deluxe Junior Suite

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

View all photos for Waterfront Fireplace Junior Suite

A hotel room with a bed, a sofa, a small table, a lamp, a painting, and a view of the sea.

Waterfront Fireplace Junior Suite

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

View all photos for Marina View Junior Suite Two Queen

A hotel room with two beds, a large window with a view of the marina, and a balcony with a table and chairs.

Marina View Junior Suite Two Queen

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Marina view
  • 39 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Bayview Junior Suite Two Queen

A hotel room with two beds, a large mirror, and a wooden accent wall.

Bayview Junior Suite Two Queen

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

View all photos for Marina View Junior Suite King

A hotel room with a large bed, a desk, and a view of a cityscape through the window.

Marina View Junior Suite King

  • Marina view
  • 39 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Bayview Junior Suite King

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a desk, and a sofa.

Bayview Junior Suite King

7.2 out of 10
Good
(7 reviews)
  • Bay view
  • 39 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Fire Pit Junior Suite

A hotel room with two beds, a large mirror, and a wooden accent wall.

Fire Pit Junior Suite

  • Resort view
  • 39 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Mobility/Hearing Accessible King

A hotel room with a bed, a desk, a bathroom with a shower, and a view of the outdoors.

Mobility/Hearing Accessible King

  • Resort view
  • 29 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Waterview One Bedroom Suite

A hotel room with a large bed, a bathtub, a fireplace, and a balcony with a view of boats.

Waterview One Bedroom Suite

  • Marina view
  • 60 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Twin Sofa Bed

View all photos for Kona Kai One Bedroom Suite

A hotel room with a large bed, a desk, a chair, a TV, and a balcony with curtains.

Kona Kai One Bedroom Suite

  • Marina view
  • 60 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Twin Sofa Bed

DOUBLE TWO DOUBLE BEDS

  • Sleeps 4

DOUBLE TWO QUEEN BEDS

  • Sleeps 4

View all photos for Deluxe Two Queen

Premium bedding, minibar, in-room safe, desk

Deluxe Two Queen

  • 42 sq m
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Queen Beds and 2 Twin Beds

About the neighborhood

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

What's nearby

  • A coastal walkway with a large tree in the foreground, a body of water, a ship, and a cityscape in the background.
    Shelter Island
    1 min walk - 0.0 miles
  • A riverboat with an American flag, passengers, and a city skyline in the background.
    San Diego Bay
    1 min walk - 0.0 miles
  • A tall palm tree with a clear blue sky in the background.
    San Diego Yacht Club
    3 min drive - 1.0 mile
  • Vessel Restaurant
    1 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Humphreys Concerts by the Bay
    19 min walk - 1.0 mile

Getting around

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

Restaurants

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

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Electric car charging station on site
  • Self parking on site (USD 54.88 per night; includes in/out privileges)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Food and drink

  • Buffet breakfast available for a fee 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM on weekdays and 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on weekends; USD 33 to 100 per person
  • 2 bars/lounges
  • 2 poolside bars
  • A restaurant
  • Snack bar/deli

Restaurants on site

  • Paloma Pool Bar
  • Tiki Bar
  • Vessel Restaurant and Bar

Things to do

  • 2 outdoor pools
  • Beach yoga
  • Bicycle rentals
  • Boat tours
  • Fitness classes
  • Full-service spa
  • Gym
  • Hot tub
  • Kayaking
  • Personal motorized watercraft
  • Sailing
  • Steam room

Family friendly

  • 2 outdoor pools
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Snack bar/deli

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • ATM
  • Gift shop/newsstand
  • Luggage storage

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Multilingual staff
  • Porter/bellhop
  • Proposal/romance packages
  • Tour and ticket assistance
  • Wedding services

Business services

  • 24-hour business center
  • 5 meeting rooms
  • Computer station
  • Conference center (56,000 square feet of space)

Outdoors

  • Beach cabanas (surcharge)
  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Garden
  • Marina
  • On a private beach
  • On the bay
  • On the boardwalk/promenade
  • Pool cabanas (surcharge)
  • Pool loungers
  • Pool umbrellas
  • Terrace

Full-service spa

  • 6 treatment rooms
  • Aromatherapy
  • Body scrubs
  • Body wraps
  • Couples treatment rooms
  • Deep-tissue massages
  • Facials
  • Hot stone massages
  • Hot tub
  • Manicures/pedicures
  • Prenatal massages
  • Spa open daily
  • Sports massages
  • Steam room
  • Swedish massages

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Braille/raised signage
  • Elevator
  • Stair-free path to entrance
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible business center
  • Wheelchair-accessible concierge desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible gym
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path to elevator
  • Wheelchair-accessible pool
  • Wheelchair-accessible public washroom
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible restaurant
  • Wheelchair-accessible spa

More

  • 3 floors
  • 8 buildings
  • Ballroom
  • Built in 1959
  • Fireplace in lobby
  • Reception hall
  • Smoking not allowed
  • Traditional architecture

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Blackout drapes
  • Pillow menu
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Designer toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 42-inch flat-screen TV with premium digital channels
  • iPod dock
  • Pay movies

Food and drink

  • Champagne service
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Minibar
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Access via exterior corridors
  • Air conditioning (climate-controlled)
  • Connecting rooms available
  • Desk
  • Free local calls
  • Heating (climate-controlled)
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone
  • Safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: 2:00 AM

Late check-in subject to availability

Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

An adult age 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property

Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

Pets allowed for an extra charge of USD 113 per accommodation, per stay (maximum USD 170 per stay)

Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees

Welcoming dogs only

2 total (up to 65 lbs per pet)

Food and water bowls are available

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

2 children, up to the age of 17 years, can stay for free if using existing beds when occupying the parent or guardian's room

Rollaway/extra beds are available for USD 20.0 per night

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay the following charges at the property. Fees may include applicable taxes:

  • Deposit: USD 110.00 per night
  • Resort fee: USD 60 per accommodation, per night
The resort fee includes:
  • Beach access
  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels
  • Business center/computer access
  • Fitness center access
  • Fitness/yoga classes
  • In-room coffee
  • In-room safe
  • Newspaper
  • Phone calls
  • Pool access
  • Spa access

We have included all charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

  • Fee for buffet breakfast: approximately USD 33.00 to 100 per person
  • Self parking fee: USD 54.88 per night (in/out privileges)
  • Pet fee: USD 113 per accommodation, per stay (maximum USD 170 per stay)
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Rollaway bed fee: USD 20.0 per night

The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Noise-free guestrooms cannot be guaranteed
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property

We should mention

Pool access available from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Reservations are required for massage services and spa treatments; reservations can be made by contacting the property prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms
The property has connecting/adjoining rooms, which are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property using the number on the booking confirmation
Guests under 18 years old are not allowed in the spa

Frequently asked questions

Does Kona Kai San Diego have a pool?

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

Is Kona Kai San Diego pet-friendly?

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

How much is parking?

Self parking is available for USD 54.88 per night.

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

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

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

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Kona Kai San Diego located?

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

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

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

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Reviews

Kona Kai San Diego Reviews

8.2

Very Good

8.6

Cleanliness

8.2

Amenities

8.4

Staff & service

8.4

Property conditions & facilities
Rating 10 - Excellent. 530 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 207 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 131 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 67 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 68 out of 1003 reviews

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Lindsey

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

10/10 Excellent

Leida

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

10/10 Excellent

Michelle

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

8/10 Good

David

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

10/10 Excellent

Jack

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

8/10 Good

LEONARDO

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

10/10 Excellent

Michael

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

10/10 Excellent

Robert

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

6/10 Okay

Jamie

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

8/10 Good

Clara

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

8/10 Good

cynthia

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

10/10 Excellent

Susan

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

8/10 Good

Joanne

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

10/10 Excellent

Juan

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

6/10 Okay

Appu

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

10/10 Excellent

Claudia

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

8/10 Good

Erika

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

10/10 Excellent

Anthony K

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We came for the first time on our honeymoon and 10 years later we came back and it was just as incredible as the first time. Perfect location, gorgeous views, the staff is amazing. Love all yhe amenities from the pool, the spa, and thr fire pits, all of it. Our room was a tad dated but nothing to fuss over. Got hit with resort and parking fees but thats to be expected so budget accordingly. Otherwise its an incredible experience staying here. You're less than 20 minutes away from all SD attractions- downtown, Balboa Park, La Jolla, Coronado - all relatively close. We may come bacl for our 20 year!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Brittney

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

10/10 Excellent

Joseph Roman

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

10/10 Excellent

Barbara

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

10/10 Excellent

Stefanie

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

10/10 Excellent

Todd

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We were on our Honeymoon and we fully enjoyed our stay. It was clean and convenient with so many amenities. We are totally going back for our next San Diego trip.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Diana

Great location
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

John

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Very nice accommodations & a fun, relaxing, pretty property. Thank you!!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025