Where to Stay in San Diego: 3 Neighborhoods You’ll Never Want to Leave

Southern California is quite possibly one of the most beautiful areas in the United States. Just south of Los Angeles on the Pacific Coast is San Diego, where the weather is warm, the beaches are stunning, and the locals are friendly.

For visitors, San Diego offers a thriving entertainment scene, restaurants, bars, and plenty of nightlife. The shoreline is second to none with stunning views, serene white sand beaches, rugged cliffs, and tide pools. San Diego is one of the best locations for travelers who love sand and surf because both are plentiful here.

Sunny San Diego offers diverse districts to visit, each with its own distinctive flavor and charm. The following compilation is a go-to guide for where to stay in San Diego. For each district, we share what you’ll find nearby and which Domio rentals are our top picks for the area.

For Foodies: Little Italy

The most significant wining and dining neighborhood of San Diego is, of course, Little Italy. Generations of Italian settlers made this location home and brought their traditions, food, and culture with them. This lively district features craft beer shops, art galleries, and charming patio cafes.

Little Italy is home to many renowned chefs and restaurants boasting the finest Italian cuisine the city has to offer. Be sure to visit the authentic deli and market Mona Lisa Italian Foods while in the neighborhood.

What’s Nearby

Little Italy is considered to be a neighborhood within downtown San Diego. Downtown is a bustling center of activity and there are many attractions within this district. The culturally significant Balboa Park, Seaport Village for waterfront shopping, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo are all within a short distance from Little Italy.

The Gaslamp Quarter, which takes the title for the city’s historic center, is worth checking out too. The Gaslamp Quarter is the city’s entertainment district and is filled with a mix of Victorian-era structures and modern buildings, theaters, museums, shopping centers, and nightclubs.

Beautiful 2BR/2.5BA Apt in Little Italy by Domio — San Diego, CA 

Where to Stay

A charming two-bedroom, two-bathroom Domio townhouse in the heart of Little Italy is perfect for staying in walking distance to the best cafes, restaurants, and shops in the district. The decor is contemporary, bright, and colorful. The townhouse is comfortable, stylishly upgraded, and made to sleep up to five guests. Plus, it’s fully stocked with all of the necessary amenities like a washer and dryer and cable TV.

For Beach Goers: Mission Bay

Mission Bay is the perfect location for beach enthusiasts and lovers of watersports. Mission Bay is a charming beach community and Mission Beach a great place for wakeboarding, kitesurfing, paddle-boarding, and sailing. This laid-back location is made for beach lovers, families, or couples looking for a relaxing getaway. Beachy, palm-tree studded Mission Bay is a mix of exhilarating and tranquil.

What’s Nearby

One of the best waterpark attractions in the United States is a short drive away. Approximately 15 minutes from Mission Bay is SeaWorld San Diego, one of the greatest marine mammal parks and aquariums. LegoLand is also within a short driving distance and is the perfect amusement park for families to visit.

Also nearby is Point Loma, a stunning area of rocky cliffs, crashing waves, and tide pools full of ocean life to explore. When visiting Point Loma, there is a chance to visit the quaint and picturesque Coronado Island. Coronado Beach is a beautiful getaway for couples who are looking for a relaxing place away from the chaos of city life.

Wonderful 3BR/2BA Home in Mission Beach by Domio — San Diego, CA

Where to Stay

Stay right in Mission Bay and discover all that it has to offer at this beachy chic Domio home. This luxury boutique home is steps from the beach — so close you can hear the waves crashing on the shore. Bright and sunny with three bedrooms and close to trendy SoCal cafes, this is the perfect place to settle in after a day exploring Mission Bay.

For Luxury Seekers: La Jolla

La Jolla Shores is known for the stunning views, an upscale atmosphere, and seaside opulence. La Jolla means “the jewel” in Spanish, and it definitely lives up to this reputation. The town is filled with not only natural beauty, but an abundance of activity like boutique shops, art galleries, and plenty of upscale dining. La Jolla is perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and shopping.

Outdoorsy types will love Torrey Pines State Reserve, a coastal park with eight miles of hiking trails, views of the Pacific, possible whale sightings, and beaches to relax on.

What’s Nearby

Just south of La Jolla lies Pacific Beach, a relaxed beach town with a casual three-mile boardwalk. Pacific Beach offers a young, trendy vibe and is filled with boutique shops, yoga studios, and watersports. There is also a bar-hopping crowd here that keeps the cool bars and casual drinking spots busy.

Modern 3BR SD Home steps to PB by Domio — San Diego, CA

Where to Stay

A short distance from La Jolla and mere steps away from Pacific Beach is modern three-bedroom home by Domio. This boutique home is fresh, breezy, and spacious with a balcony and patio for entertaining or just relaxing after a day exploring the San Diego bays and lush beaches. Walk, drive, or bike from this location to several nearby outdoor attractions or nightlife. This roomy home easily accommodates a group of up to eight friends traveling together.

No Matter Where You Stay, Domio Offers a True SoCal Experience

San Diego is a perfect getaway for families, friends, or couples looking for a relaxed, beachy location in a warm climate. Whether you find yourself sampling the Mexican food in Old Town, sauntering around in shops in La Jolla, or catching some waves in Ocean Beach, there is sure to be a Domio rental that suits all of your needs in close proximity your favorite San Diego neighborhood.  

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