19 Best San Diego Vacation Rentals With a Perfect Location

From 70 miles of picture-perfect beaches to a massive variety of exceptional family attractions, like Balboa Park, San Diego is a thriving metropolis waiting to be discovered. If you’re in search of a place to stay when visiting southern California, San Diego has a myriad of options.

To give you a hand in narrowing down your choices, we’ve assembled a list of the best vacation rentals in San Diego. Each property offers something completely different from the others, including unique styles and an array of amenities to make your stay a great one.

There’s no more time to waste, lets check out the top San Diego vacation rentals!

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The Best San Diego Vacation Rentals

Modern Condo In The Heart Of Marina District

Modern, spacious, and in the heart of the Marina District, this one-bedroom and one-bathroom condo provides guests with a relaxing place to stay just a couple blocks from the vibrant downtown Gaslamp District.

The property is situated in a low-density building and designed with a chic interior and a set of charming, contemporary finishes.

You couldn’t ask for a better location, you’re only a short walk from the city’s most popular attractions. 

Marci Y. – Stayed Nov 2022
“Very central location in San Diego. Walking distance to the Gaslamp and Waterfront. Central location but still quiet and relaxing. Condo is very comfortable and the shower is awesome!”
Published Dec 20, 2022

Downtown United With Free Parking

This recently refurbished two-bedroom, one bathroom ground level apartment in the heart of Gaslamp Quarter is housed in an old historic building, just a short walk from many of the area’s top rooftop bars.

The living area is furnished with a marble countertop kitchenette, dining table, and two very inviting couches.

Take a peek inside the rooms; they’re a little bit small but oh so cozy and comfortable. Spending a day locked away from the outside world in one of them wouldn’t be such a bad idea. 

JAY V. – Stayed Sep 2022
“Easy process. Great communication. Fantastic location. Way quieter than I expected.”
Published Oct 15, 2022

Top Floor Loft In San Diego

Come inside this top floor, one-bedroom, one-bathroom vacation rental in San Diego designed to create a peaceful ambiance for guests through elegant furnishings and homely designs.

The space has a fully stocked kitchen with the best equipment, including a coffee maker, blender, and stove.

Its convenient location isn’t something to complain about, within five to twenty minutes, you could be at the world famous San Diego Zoo or the hilly neighborhood of La Jolla.

Morgan M. – Stayed May 2022
“Spacious and clean in the heart of San Diego Gaslamp district. Many great bars and restaurants within walking distance. Would definitely stay here again.”
Published Jun 15, 2022

Historic Gem In The Heart Of Little Italy

Viva Italia! This two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment is on the first floor of an attached house in Little Italy.

It boasts a full kitchen fitted with a stove, fridge, and a microwave. Plus two TVs to keep the kids busy in the evenings, and a pool table for some enjoyable entertainment. There’s one queen bed and two twin beds, and the property sleeps four.

As soon as you walk outside, you’ll be immersed in one of San Diego’s most popular neighborhoods, and one block away is the wonderful Piazza della Famiglia.

Laura M. – Stayed Nov 2022
“Had a great time staying here. Location is amazing. If we ever come back to San Diego staying here is a must!!!”
Published Dec 2, 2022

Two Bedroom Restored Victorian Apartment

A great apartment option in downtown San Diego is this vintage two-bedroom, two-bathroom property that’s a part of four restored Victorian buildings.

The property is beautifully designed with wooden floors and pretty paintings and contains two humongous queen beds. You’ll feel like you’re staying at a five-star hotel.

Downtown is the ideal place to be when visiting San Diego, the airport and the House of Blues are just minutes away.

Melissa S. – Stayed Nov 2022
“Enjoyed our stay!”
Published Dec 20, 2022

San Diego’s Most Reviewed Home

Regarded as one of the best vacation rentals in San Diego is this two-bedroom, three-bathroom home designed by a renowned interior design company in the Las Vegas area.

Contrived with only upscale materials and slick finishes, there was no penny-pinching in the process of making this masterpiece.

The affluent home has one California king bed, one queen bed, and two queen sofa beds, all of which feel as if you were sleeping on a cloud.

Each of the three floors has a new surprise waiting to be discovered, so come on, what are you waiting for?

Jared G. – Stayed May 2022
“Great house for vacation with my wife and 3 kids. Location was convenient to a lot of fun places. The owners had clearly put a lot of thought and effort into making sure we had instructions for everything and had all the basic necessities we needed. Would definitely recommend!”
Published May 30, 2022

Amazing Remodeled House

Are you ready to be blown away by this spectacular four-bedroom, three-bathroom remodeled family home?

Situated in downtown San Diego and featuring seven spacious beds with world-class Rest Recharge mattresses and a sitting room with a 10 foot Italian leather couch. It’s no surprise that this property has the second highest number of reviews in downtown.

Once you’re settled in, take the kids out for a fun-filled day to the nearby San Diego Zoo Safari Park, home to all kinds of animals, from African rhinos to majestic cheetahs.

Kirk D. – Stayed Aug 2022
“The layout worked great to have a couple of people on each floor with plenty of room in the living room, a great kitchen, and good accessibility to downtown. Super helpful host!”
Published Sep 1, 2022

Stunning Four Bedroom Home In Little Italy

This delightful four-bedroom, two-bathroom home is a historic beauty tucked away in San Diego’s acclaimed area of Little Italy.

Only recently refurbished in 2020, the property holds some outstanding designs and a massive kitchen equipped with the latest appliances which can be used to cook your partner’s favorite dish.

Since it’s in the middle of all the action, the only parking available is on the street. Be warned, the area tends to get a little noisy as the day goes on, so if you think that might bother you, choosing another property on this list might be a good idea.

James S. – Stayed Nov 2022
“Stayed here for work and loved it. Very nice place next to awesome places to eat and have a drink. I highly recommend staying here for work or pleasure.”
Published Dec 17, 2022

Modern Luxury Executive Condo

Want to feel like you’re in the movies? Well, then this one-bedroom, one-bathroom condo is the place for you.

Adeptly designed, staying here will give you a taste of what it’s like to experience the high-life San Diego lifestyle.

Soak up the views of skyscrapers in the distance from the king bedroom window, enjoy a sense of calm among a concrete jungle, and when night time comes, head to the top floor for a dip in the pool.

John Y. – Stayed Feb 2022
“We had a great stay in Little Italy and San Diego. We thoroughly enjoyed our condo in the sky! Little Italy is steps from the property as well as access to the Trolley. Secure and safe building with really nice workers and friendly residents!”
Published Apr 10, 2022

One Of A Kind House In Downtown San Diego

Enjoy a relaxing retreat hidden away in San Diego’s downtown, but never too far from the hustle and bustle.

This vacation rental offers two full bedrooms with three beds, one with a king bed and the other with two twins, and two opulent bathrooms, one of which has a commodious bathtub.

Close by are all of the city’s most sought-after attractions, including the best San Diego beaches.

Stayed Nov 2022
“Excellent location! Spacious, clean, updated, quiet, and safe area! Communicating with the host is very easy! We did the parking on the street for $10/day, and had no problem finding parking within 1 to 1 1/2 block area. Highly recommend!”
Published Dec 22, 2022

Beautiful 1200 Sq. ft Apartment With Free Parking

One block from the Manchester Grand Hyatt is this enchanting two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment with exquisite furnishings, HD Smart TVs, and a communal rooftop pool, jacuzzi, and gym.

It sounds more like a palace than anything else. Situated in a residential apartment complex, this property spans over 1200 sq. ft. and sleeps five people in total.

The property ranks a 96 out of 100 walk score with dozens of well-liked entertainment venues, theaters, bars, lounges, and clubs all in near proximity. My husband and I live just around the corner from this place and the area can’t be beat. You’ll be in walking distance from most tourist attractions in downtown and the San Diego bay.

Helene H. – Stayed Jul 2022
“Nice area. Nice place to stay.”
Published Jul 31, 2022

Stylish Loft With 2 Patios

Located within steps of San Diego County’s Little Italy sign and some of the tastiest restaurants serving a wide range of international cuisine, this adorable one-bed, one-bath condo is the perfect place to call home.

Planned and designed by one of San Diego’s most creative architects, the property features two private patios with grills and seating areas. Plus one room with a queen bed, and another in the upstairs loft.

If you’re looking for a simple property with everything you need, you have it right here.

Joseph R. – Stayed Jul 2022
“Great stay. Good communication.”
Published Aug 1, 2022

Remodeled Gaslamp Smart Condo

This newly remodeled one-bedroom, one-bathroom smart condo in San Diego, CA is conveniently located in the heart of the lively Gaslamp Quarter.

Up to four people can stay in the accommodation, which offers a pool and hot tub, two queen beds, and an abundance of amenities to make you feel right at home. One of the rooms has a walk-in closet that contains extra supplies, such as pillows and blankets, in case what you have isn’t enough.

When you stay here, the San Diego Convention Center is right on your doorstep.

Jim G. – Stayed Jul 2022
“Great stay. Convenient. Clean. Amenities were great.”
Published Aug 15, 2022

Welcome to the Heart of Little Italy in Downtown San Diego!

A quaint, fashionable loft awaits you in Little Italy.

This attractive one-bedroom, one-bathroom vacation home is right by the Little Italy sign and is surrounded by delicious eateries.

Displaying a hip design and an unorthodox layout, a stay here will be a completely different experience than any place you’ve stayed before (in a good way).

Pets can join on your holiday here for an added fee, so you don’t have to leave the little guys at home alone.

Francesca L. – Stayed Dec 2021
“It was our first visit to Little Italy and we weren’t disappointed! Cory was very thorough in communicating the check-in and checkout process during our stay. The loft was the perfect size for our party of 6 and is conveniently located near a lot of shops and restaurants within walking distance. The trolley stop is just down the road as well! Looking forward to another visit and stay in San Diego!”
Published Jan 17, 2022

Hidden Gem In Downtown San Diego

While it’s no beach house rental, this gorgeous downtown San Diego condo surely makes up for the lack of waves and seaside views.

The property has two furnished bedrooms and one full bathroom. There’s also an outside patio with a bathtub where you and your group can unwind while sipping one or two beers. The kitchen has all of the amenities you need, whether you’re there for a quiet weekend away or for a couple of weeks.

Guests can walk to all of San Diego’s prime locations due to the property’s central location.

Austin W. – Stayed Aug 2022
“We really enjoyed staying here, the property was nice and in a perfect location to walk to many different places. We will definitely be back in the future!”
Published Aug 16, 2022

Jaw-Dropping San Diego Condo Next To Petco Park

This gleaming two-bedroom, two-bathroom condo is in the popular Icon Building in East Village.

The two bedrooms are furnished with queen beds, and one of the bathrooms has an extremely oversized bathtub that you’ll love. Throughout the unit there are hardwood floors, and the kitchen is fully stocked with the latest appliances and a dining area for mealtime.

You’re right next to Petco Park Stadium in the Ballpark District, and if you want to get out of town for the day, Mission Bay is only a 15-minute drive away. 

Lars P. – Stayed Dec 2018
“Fabulous apartment with a super rooftop to watch the sunset. Clean and close to everything. Heather was punctual in responding to all our needs and was easy to work with. We had a great week. Would love to return one day.”
Published Jan 13, 2019

Amazing Luxury Condo In The Historic El Cortez

On the 8th floor of the historic El Cortez building is this two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment offering exciting landscape views of Coronado and San Diego Bay.

The property has recently been redeveloped to cater to all guests’ needs with suites of furniture, an ample dining area, and an added luxurious touch to the bathrooms. Guests can make the most of the hotel’s complimentary services, such as valet parking, a gym, a pool, an onsite restaurant and bar, a concierge service, and more.

The Cortez Hill neighborhood is located right beside Balboa Park, which is sometimes referred to as San Diego’s 1,200 acre backyard. It’s sure to be fun to explore with your loved ones.

Emily G. – Stayed Mar 2021
“We thoroughly enjoyed the chance to stay in the El Cortez building and Art’s place. The condo was so unique and comfortable, and I would 100% come back.”
Published May 7, 2021

Modern Condo In East Village In The Center Of Downtown

This special two-bed, two-bath apartment provides foreign and domestic travelers with an affordable escape right in central San Diego, in the redeveloped area of East Village.

Home to a beautifully designed loft with tons of artwork gathered by the hosts on their travels around the globe, it adds a special touch unfound in any of the other properties on this list of vacation rentals.

Some of the condo’s attractive features include the 14-foot floor-to-ceiling windows, an oversized patio looking out to the city, three flat-screen televisions, and a garage with one parking space available.

Staying at this 5-star accommodation, you couldn’t be any closer to where all the activity happens.

Jill C. – Stayed Jan 2021
“Fantastic location and the condo had everything we needed. Evan was incredibly helpful with providing information about the area around the condo-restaurants, supermarkets, etc. Would absolutely stay again-highly recommend.”
Published Mar 3, 2021

18th Floor Apartment With Breathtaking Ocean Views

The only San Diego vacation rental on this list that’s close to the beach is this truly sensational two-bedroom, two-bathroom luxury highrise apartment with breathtaking ocean views. This is the perfect spot for your San Diego beach vacation!

In recent years, it has been entirely renovated with a brand new kitchen, remote-controlled shades, shiny hardwood floors, and bright new shades of paint. The master suite has dual closets, one of which is a walk-in covered by frosted glass doors, a dual marble vanity, and dual showers with a rain shower head.

The second bedroom contains a cosmic queen bed and a twin bunk above it, suited for the little ones if you have any.

Seaport Village, the USS Midway Museum, and the Port of San Diego are less than a mile away.

Mark S. – Stayed Apr 2022
“We are having a great time. Love our view. A very clean place.”
Published Jun 2, 2022

As you can see there are so many great San Diego vacation rentals to choose from. Where will you stay?

Last Updated on May 5, 2023 by Maria Haase

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