Hotel Filters
4.7-Rated Hotels Near Hillcrest
Hillcrest pulses with local flavor—colorful cafés, indie boutiques, and vibrant street art line every corner. It’s not just shopping; it’s savoring the heartbeat of San Diego, one quirky detail at a time.
Sonder the State
Kasa Little Italy San Diego
Hillcrest House Bed & Breakfast
Stay Classy
ITH Zoo Hostel San Diego
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Hillcrest
Hillcrest Inn is a top choice, located in the heart of Hillcrest with easy access to local cafes, art galleries, and boutiques. The boutique hotel features a private courtyard and a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of San Diego's skyline. Its prime location is just a 10-minute drive from San Diego Bay and close to multiple bus lines, making it convenient for visiting UC San Diego and downtown attractions. Guests also enjoy complimentary bike rentals, perfect for exploring nearby trails and the vibrant neighborhood vibe.
Take the MTS Bus (routes 258 or 671) directly into downtown San Diego—about 25 minutes with frequent service. For more comfort, Uber or Lyft are widely available, with trips taking 15–20 minutes. Alternatively, Hillcrest is near the I-5 freeway entrance, allowing a quick 10-minute drive to downtown. Some local hotels also offer shuttle services, enhancing convenience for travelers seeking flexibility and comfort.
Hillcrest thrives on cultural diversity and creativity. Visit the weekend street markets to sample authentic foods from Mexican, Southeast Asian, and European vendors. Join a neighborhood walking tour to explore historic buildings and independent artist studios. Outdoor enthusiasts should hike the Cabrillo Trail for coastal views and wildlife spotting. In the evening, explore Barrio Logan’s mural alleyway, soak in Latin American culture, and enjoy craft beer and live music at intimate local bars.
The Inn at Hillcrest stands out as a boutique hotel in San Diego's Hillcrest neighborhood, offering stylish rooms and personalized service. Located steps from local eateries and art galleries, it features a serene courtyard garden and private balconies perfect for relaxing. Guests enjoy easy access to Hillcrest Park and the scenic La Jolla Cove, ideal for morning walks or sunset views. Just 15 minutes from downtown, it’s an excellent base for exploring Southern San Diego.
Hillcrest is well-connected via multiple SDMTD bus routes, including Route 902, providing quick access to downtown San Diego, Balboa Park, and La Jolla. Many local landmarks—such as Hillcrest Community Center and Casa de los Gatos Art Gallery—are walkable or bike-friendly. For drivers, the I-5 Freeway entrance is just a 5-minute drive away, making it easy to reach destinations like Coronado Island and San Diego Bay.
Hillcrest hosts the annual Hillcrest Art Walk, showcasing local artists with live music and pop-up markets. The renowned Casa de los Gatos Art Gallery features contemporary Latin American and California art. Every Saturday, the Hillcrest Farmers Market offers fresh produce and artisanal foods, reflecting the neighborhood’s vibrant community spirit. Guided walking tours also provide insights into Hillcrest’s rich history and cultural diversity.
Hillcrest Park is perfect for families, featuring playgrounds, basketball courts, picnic areas, and shaded benches. The adjacent Hillcrest Community Center hosts regular family workshops and summer camps. Nearby, the Tijuana River Estuary Trail offers nature walks ideal for birdwatching and learning about intertidal ecosystems—great for educational outings.
Take SDMTD Bus Route 902 from Hillcrest—about a 25-minute ride with frequent departures and scenic views. Alternatively, drive via the I-5 Freeway northbound to the Balboa Park Exit, then turn onto Park Blvd. The journey takes only 15 minutes. Arrive early to avoid traffic and allow ample time to explore key exhibits like the Giant Panda Pavilion and African Savanna.
Hillcrest boasts hidden culinary gems: Cafe Gratitude serves creative plant-based dishes in a lush, eco-friendly setting. Lola's Tacos is beloved for handmade corn tortillas and house-made salsas. The Melt offers inventive sandwiches using local ingredients—perfect for a casual lunch. All are within walking distance, ideal for discovering authentic neighborhood flavors.
Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers say about Hillcrest
Sonder the State
We absolutely loved having a private space all to ourselves—no shared hallways or noisy neighbors. The studio was compact but thoughtfully designed, making it feel much larger than it actually is. We were both impressed by how cozy and functional it felt, and honestly, we’d consider living in something like this if we could. The location was perfect—walkable to great restaurants, cafes, and local attractions—and having a full kitchen saved us a ton on dining out. Cooking our own meals was not only budget-friendly but also a fun way to unwind after a long day. It’s rare to find such a well-balanced mix of comfort, convenience, and value, and we couldn’t recommend it more.
Hillcrest House Bed & Breakfast
Staying at Hillcrest House Bed & Breakfast in San Diego felt like coming home—warm, welcoming, and full of charm. The historic American-style cottage is beautifully maintained, spotlessly clean, and radiates a cozy, inviting atmosphere. The hosts are genuinely kind and personable, making you feel like a guest in their own home rather than just another booking. Their homemade breakfast is an absolute highlight—fresh, delicious, and thoughtfully prepared. The secret recipe peanut butter was something I’ve never tasted before and became my favorite part of the day. Every detail, from the thoughtful touches around the house to the quiet neighborhood vibe, made the experience unforgettable. It’s a perfect base for exploring San Diego, with easy access to public transit and nearby attractions. If you're looking for a heartfelt, authentic stay in a peaceful setting, this place is absolutely worth it.
ITH Zoo Hostel San Diego
My stay at ITH Zoo Hostel San Diego was absolutely fantastic! The staff were incredibly welcoming and made me feel right at home—always smiling, asking how I was doing, and inviting me to fun events around the property. My room was fresh, clean, and cozy, with a comfortable bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. A special shoutout to Sam at the front desk—he had such a positive energy and went above and beyond to make my visit memorable. From the vibe to the service, everything felt genuine and well cared for. I’d highly recommend this place to any traveler looking for a warm, friendly, and unique experience in San Diego.
Mission View Inn & Suites San Diego SeaWorld/Zoo
Staying at Mission View Inn & Suites in San Diego was an absolute delight from start to finish. The staff went above and beyond with their warm, attentive service—always smiling, helpful, and genuinely interested in making your stay comfortable. The room itself was spotless, immaculately clean, and incredibly well-maintained. Every detail, from the crisp linens to the pristine bathroom, showed a real commitment to hygiene and comfort. I especially appreciated how close it was to SeaWorld and the San Diego Zoo—just a short ride away, and everything else in the area was easily accessible too. The neighborhood felt safe, vibrant, and full of great dining options. For the quality, location, and service, this hotel offers incredible value. If you're visiting San Diego, don't miss this gem—it's definitely a top pick for me.
Gaslamp Hostel
I'm giving this place a solid 5-star review! The hostel is clean, welcoming, and perfectly located for exploring downtown San Diego—super easy to get around by public transit. That said, I do need to mention something that concerned me during check-in: the front desk staff asked for my credit card, wrote down all the information by hand, and even removed the CVV protection sticker on the back of the card. It felt really risky and made me uneasy about potential fraud or misuse. While everything turned out fine, I’d strongly recommend the team reconsider this practice for guest safety and peace of mind.
Pendry San Diego
Staying at Pendry San Diego was an absolute delight. The location is perfect—right in the heart of downtown San Diego, yet close enough to the beach for a quick morning walk. Everything about the hotel worked flawlessly: the room was spacious and beautifully designed, the Wi-Fi was fast, the air conditioning ran smoothly, and the bathroom amenities were top-notch. The staff went above and beyond with their friendly and efficient service—always ready to help without being intrusive. From check-in to check-out, the experience was seamless. It’s rare to find such a high level of comfort and attention to detail in a modern urban hotel. I’d definitely recommend this place to anyone visiting San Diego, especially those who value style, convenience, and quality.
The Westin San Diego Bayview
The Westin San Diego Bayview is an absolute gem! The front desk staff went above and beyond—when I realized I left my watch in the room after check-out, they immediately reissued my key card so I could retrieve it without any hassle. The room itself was brand new, spotlessly clean, and very comfortable. Location-wise, it’s perfect: just a short walk to the waterfront area with great views and plenty of scenic spots to explore. Santa Fe Depot is literally right around the corner, making train trips to Irvine super convenient. Being in downtown San Diego means getting around is easy—whether taking an Uber or hopping on the Trolley, everything is within reach. This hotel offers excellent value, top-notch service, and unbeatable convenience. I’ll definitely be back!
Howard Johnson by Wyndham San Diego Sea World
My stay at Howard Johnson by Wyndham San Diego Sea World was absolutely fantastic! The hotel is quiet and peaceful, perfect for a relaxing getaway. The room was spacious, spotlessly clean, and free of any bugs or pests—something I truly appreciate. The air conditioning worked perfectly, and the bathroom was well-maintained with all necessary amenities. I was especially impressed by the in-room facilities: a mini-fridge, microwave, coffee maker, and even an iron—everything you need for a comfortable stay. What really stood out was a small but meaningful gesture: I accidentally dropped my rental car key late at night, but found it neatly hung on the car handle the next morning. That little detail gave me so much confidence in the hotel’s security, especially when traveling with family. Breakfast was simple but delicious, and overall, the value for money was excellent. I’d definitely recommend this place to anyone visiting San Diego looking for comfort, cleanliness, and peace of mind.
Crowne Plaza San Diego - Mission Valley
I've stayed here twice now, and each time I left feeling completely refreshed. The location is fantastic—just a short ride into downtown San Diego, with plenty of dining and shopping options nearby. The hotel itself is well-maintained, with clean, spacious rooms and a serene atmosphere that makes it easy to unwind. The on-site restaurant and bar are excellent—great food and drinks, perfect for a relaxing evening. The outdoor pool is spotless and inviting, especially during the sunny days. My favorite part? The balcony in the room—it’s ideal for sipping morning coffee while watching the sunrise. Everything about this stay was top-notch, from the attentive service to the thoughtful touches throughout. Highly recommend this place if you're looking for comfort, convenience, and a little luxury without the hassle. Will definitely be back.
Residence Inn San Diego Downtown/Bayfront
The location is unbeatable—just a 10-minute walk to the Midway Museum, making it super convenient for exploring downtown San Diego’s highlights. The hotel itself is well-located near the bayfront, with easy access to attractions and public transit. Breakfast was surprisingly good for an American chain—plenty of options, fresh ingredients, and great value. Everything about the stay was top-notch: clean rooms, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere. I’d absolutely recommend this property to anyone visiting San Diego, especially those who want a comfortable, central base with a great breakfast and easy access to major sights.
Heritage Inn San Diego
I absolutely loved staying at Heritage Inn San Diego! The location is perfect—just a short walk from shops, restaurants, and local attractions. I didn’t need to go far for anything; everything I needed was right outside the door. The neighborhood feels safe and clean, even in the evening. The room was cozy with a nice blend of classic charm and modern comfort. It’s rare to find such a great value with this level of convenience and style. I’ll definitely be returning next time I visit San Diego.
Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle
Staying at the Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle was a fantastic experience. The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming from the moment we arrived—always smiling, ready to help with anything, and made us feel right at home. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and had a fresh, clean smell. The bed was comfortable, and the bathroom was modern and tidy with no signs of mold or grime. I especially appreciated how close it was to public transit—just a short walk to the metro station, which made getting to SeaWorld super easy. The location is convenient, the value is outstanding, and the overall atmosphere is warm and inviting. I’d definitely stay here again on my next trip to San Diego, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting the area.
Other Destinations You Might Like
Explore more amazing destinations