Hotels in Solana Beach

Serenity by the Sea: Discover the Hidden Charms of Solana Beach

Escape to the enchanting Solana Beach, a charming coastal gem in California where sun-kissed shores meet artistic vibrancy. Renowned for its picturesque beaches and stunning ocean views, this idyllic destination invites families and couples alike to indulge in leisurely strolls along the sandy coastline or explore the colourful boutiques and galleries of Cedros Avenue. With luxurious beachfront hotels offering serene retreats, Solana Beach is perfect for those seeking relaxation or adventure. Enjoy surfing, tide pooling, and delightful dining, all set against the backdrop of a breathtaking sunset, making every visit an unforgettable experience.

Discover great hotels in Solana Beach

Solana Beach offers a range of hotel accommodations, from charming sea lodges to luxurious beachfront options. You can find both budget-friendly and upscale star hotels, with many providing stunning ocean views. Room rates vary, making it easy to find a place that suits your needs while enjoying the coastal vibe. Here are some of the best hotels in Solana Beach that our travellers love:

1. Hilton San Diego/Del MarOpens in a new window: This 4.0-star resort is perfect for adventure seekers and business travellers alike. With an array of exhilarating activities available, including waterskiing, snorkeling, and kayaking nearby, guests can immerse themselves in the excitement of the great outdoors. The hotel features essential business amenities, such as a 24-hour business centre and conference space, ensuring a seamless experience for those on work-related trips. Reviewers appreciate the adventurous atmosphere and the convenience of having both leisure and business facilities in one place, making it a popular choice for trend-aware travellers seeking a distinctive experience.
2. Del Mar Beach HotelOpens in a new window: Del Mar Beach Hotel is a charming 2.0-star hotel ideal for beach enthusiasts looking for a pet-friendly escape. With direct access to the beach, guests can relax in the sun or stroll along the shoreline at their leisure. This hotel welcomes pets, creating a warm and inviting environment for those travelling with their furry companions. Reviewers highlight the relaxed beach atmosphere and the comfortable accommodations, making it a delightful choice for leisure travellers seeking a laid-back coastal getaway.
3. Cardiff by the Sea LodgeOpens in a new window: Cardiff by the Sea Lodge is a delightful 3.0-star bed and breakfast that offers direct access to the beach and a variety of adventure activities. Guests can indulge in surfing, windsurfing, and biking, providing an invigorating escape into nature. This hotel captivates travellers with its relaxed ambience and personalised service, making it an excellent option for those who cherish unique experiences. Reviewers praise the inviting atmosphere and the opportunity to engage in exciting outdoor activities, ensuring a memorable stay for leisure adventurers.

Top locations to stay in Solana Beach

When visiting Solana Beach, California, consider staying in La Jolla, Encinitas, or Del Mar. La Jolla is renowned for its stunning beaches and marine life, while Encinitas offers a vibrant surfing culture and beautiful coastal views. Del Mar is perfect for horseback riding along the shore. For first-time visitors, La Jolla is the ideal choice, with its picturesque scenery and family-friendly attractions.

1. La JollaOpens in a new window: La Jolla is a stunning coastal gem known for its breathtaking ocean views and pristine beaches. It's an ideal spot for those who love the sea, with opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and exploring the picturesque coves. The area is also home to the famous La Jolla Cove, where you can often spot sea lions basking in the sun. Beyond its natural beauty, La Jolla offers a vibrant arts scene with numerous galleries and cultural attractions, making it a lovely place to stay for both relaxation and inspiration.
2. Del MarOpens in a new window: Del Mar is a charming coastal town that combines laid-back beach vibes with upscale amenities. It's particularly famous for its beautiful beaches and the Del Mar Racetrack, which hosts exciting horse racing events. This area is perfect for those who enjoy leisurely strolls along the shore or indulging in boutique shopping. Del Mar's picturesque surroundings and local events create a welcoming atmosphere, making it a delightful choice for a relaxing getaway.
3. EncinitasOpens in a new window: Encinitas is a vibrant beach town with a laid-back surf culture and a lovely array of outdoor activities. Known for its beautiful beaches and stunning coastal bluffs, it's a fantastic spot for sunbathing and surfing. The area is also celebrated for its botanical gardens, unique shops, and lively farmers' markets. Encinitas is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in a friendly community atmosphere while enjoying the best of Southern California’s beach lifestyle.

Things to do in Solana Beach

Nestled between stunning coastal bluffs and the shimmering sea, this charming beach destination invites travellers to unwind on golden sands or explore scenic trails. With options for boating, sea diving, and hiking, plus a vibrant scene of live music and festivals, it’s an ideal spot for relaxation and excitement alike. Luxurious beachfront hotels offer the perfect retreat after a day of adventure.

• La Jolla CoveOpens in a new window – Dive into the stunning beauty of La Jolla Cove, a picturesque bay known for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs. Ideal for snorkelling and kayaking, this spot allows you to get up close with marine life. After a day of adventure, relax on the shore and soak in the breathtaking views.
• La Jolla BeachOpens in a new window – Spend a leisurely day at La Jolla Beach, where soft sands meet gentle waves. This beach is perfect for sunbathing, beach games, or simply enjoying a good book. Explore the nearby tide pools to discover fascinating sea creatures and enjoy a picnic with your loved ones while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean.
• Del Mar BeachOpens in a new window – Known for its wide sandy expanse, Del Mar Beach is a fantastic spot for families and surfers alike. Take a stroll along the shoreline, try your hand at surfing, or build sandcastles with the kids. As the sun sets, witness the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant colours, making it a perfect ending to your day.
• Moonlight State BeachOpens in a new window – Experience the charm of Moonlight State Beach, where the atmosphere is perfect for a fun-filled day with family and friends. With picnic areas, volleyball courts, and a playground, there’s something for everyone. Swim in the refreshing waters or take a leisurely walk along the scenic coastline as you watch the surf roll in.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Solana Beach

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable times to visit Solana Beach are in January, November, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For a budget-friendly getaway that allows you to fully appreciate the area's rich history and cultural offerings, a stay of at least 3 to 4 days is recommended. During your visit, you can explore the local theatre scene, enjoy live music events, relax on the beach, and partake in activities such as horseback riding, football matches, and vibrant festivals. Additionally, the opportunities for surfing and enjoying the beautiful sea make Solana Beach a great value for money destination.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals for Solana Beach, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay updated on flash sales and special promotions. With Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window, a handy comparison tool available via the app, you're more likely to see options to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you secure the best hotel deal for your last-minute getaway. This way, you’ll be among the first to know if prices drop or rooms become available.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay at a hotel in Solana Beach. If you’re seeking something distinctive, boutique hotels can provide a more personalised experience and potentially better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, helping you to secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Solana Beach's excellent public transport links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a little further afield that remains well connected. For those wishing to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even some lesser-known nearby towns, there is often great value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Solana Beach

Solana Beach experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 56.8°F (13.8°C), while August to September are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 71.6°F (22.0°C). December is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Solana Beach, April, June, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, with no rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by no to light rainfall and sunny to mostly sunny conditions.