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3-Star 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.
The Dana on Mission Bay
This hotel is a perfect choice for families and business travelers alike! Located in the heart of San Diego, it's just minutes away from Mission Bay and Belmont Park. Enjoy two outdoor pools and hot tubs, or try exciting water sports like kayaking, snorkeling, and sailing. Kids will love the playground, while adults can unwind at the fitness center or poolside bars. The on-site restaurant serves delicious Californian cuisine, and there's even a barbecue area for family gatherings. Business travelers will appreciate the conference rooms and business center. Whether for leisure or work, this place has it all!
Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Airport-Liberty Station
Homewood Suites San Diego Hotel Circle/SeaWorld Area
Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Downtown/Bayside
Courtyard San Diego Old Town
DoubleTree by Hilton San Diego Bayside
Courtyard San Diego Central
Hilton San Diego Airport/Harbor Island
Bay Club Hotel and Marina
Marriott Vacation Club, San Diego
Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town
Best Western Plus Bayside Inn
Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina
TownePlace Suites San Diego Central
Courtyard San Diego Airport/Liberty Station
Residence Inn San Diego Downtown/Bayfront
SpringHill Suites by Marriott San Diego Downtown/Bayfront
Humphreys Half Moon Inn
TownePlace Suites San Diego Airport/Liberty Station
The Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows
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
The Dana on Mission Bay
This was my first stay at The Dana on Mission Bay, and I was genuinely impressed—better than I expected. The location is fantastic: super convenient for driving around San Diego, and just a short walk from SeaWorld. On the first day, I noticed some noise from the nearby highway, but when I mentioned it to the front desk, they immediately offered to switch me to a quieter room—no hassle at all. The new room had a beautiful view of the harbor, which made the whole experience even more relaxing. The hotel’s atmosphere is peaceful and well-maintained, with modern amenities and clean, comfortable rooms. Staff were friendly, professional, and always willing to help. The only downside? Parking is $29 per day, but given how central the hotel is and how great the service is, it’s totally worth it. I’d absolutely stay here again if I’m back in San Diego. Highly recommend this gem!
Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Airport-Liberty Station
Located just minutes from Liberty Station and with easy access to downtown San Diego, this hotel offers a perfect blend of convenience and comfort. The staff are incredibly friendly and efficient, making check-in and check-out a breeze. The rooms are spacious, clean, and well-designed, with a comfortable bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. I especially appreciated the complimentary breakfast—fresh, tasty, and offering a nice variety of local flavors. The overall experience was top-notch, and I’ll definitely be returning on my next trip to San Diego. Highly recommend!
Homewood Suites San Diego Hotel Circle/SeaWorld Area
Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight! The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk or quick drive to SeaWorld, Hotel Circle, and all the main attractions in San Diego. The breakfast buffet was outstanding, with a wide variety of options that catered to every taste, including fresh fruits, pastries, and hot dishes. The rooms were clean, spacious, and well-maintained, and the staff went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable. It’s rare to find such a great value with top-notch service. I’d definitely book here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting San Diego.
Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Downtown/Bayside
Staying at the Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Downtown/Bayside was an absolute highlight of my trip. The location is perfect—right in the heart of downtown, just a short walk from the waterfront, shopping areas, and local restaurants. The hotel itself is clean, modern, and well-maintained, with spacious rooms that feel welcoming and quiet. I especially appreciated the comfortable bed and excellent soundproofing—no noise from the street or neighboring rooms. The staff were friendly and efficient throughout my stay, making check-in and check-out smooth and stress-free. And don’t miss the complimentary breakfast—it’s a great spread with fresh options, including made-to-order eggs and local favorites. For travelers looking for a reliable, convenient, and value-packed experience in San Diego, this hotel is a top choice. I’d definitely come back and recommend it to friends and family.
Courtyard San Diego Old Town
Staying at the Courtyard San Diego Old Town was an absolute delight! The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, even offering two 200ml bottles of water upon arrival—such a thoughtful touch. Parking was a breeze too; we could park for free right on the street next to the hotel, which saved us time and hassle. The location is unbeatable—walking to Old Town Square in the evening was effortless, and we were right in the middle of the vibrant Día de Muertos festivities. The streets were alive with colorful decorations, live music, local food stalls, and festive energy. It felt like being part of a real celebration. Everything about this stay—from the service to the atmosphere—was perfect. I’d highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting San Diego, especially during cultural events like this one.
DoubleTree by Hilton San Diego Bayside
Staying at the DoubleTree by Hilton San Diego Bayside was a fantastic experience! The room was spotless and spacious, offering plenty of comfort—plus it was remarkably quiet, with only faint voices from nearby rooms barely noticeable. Check-in was smooth and friendly, thanks to the welcoming staff. The amenities were well thought out: while toothbrushes and toothpaste weren’t provided, they did include a hairdryer, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and even body lotion—great for travelers who forget to pack extras. One small improvement would be adding a kettle in the room (though I know that’s not standard). Also, since we were a group of four, having four bath towels instead of just two would’ve been more convenient. Overall, the location is unbeatable, the atmosphere is relaxing, and the service makes this hotel stand out. Highly recommend for both business and leisure travelers!
Hilton San Diego Airport/Harbor Island
Staying at the Hilton San Diego Airport/Harbor Island was an absolute delight. The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk from the harbor and downtown, with plenty of great dining options nearby. I especially loved strolling westward to a fantastic seafood spot right by the water; the view was breathtaking and the food was fresh and delicious. The hotel itself is beautifully maintained, with a welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this place offers comfort, charm, and excellent value. I highly recommend it—definitely planning to return!
Bay Club Hotel and Marina
Staying at Bay Club Hotel and Marina was an absolute delight. The location is peaceful and quiet, far from the city noise, yet still convenient for exploring San Diego. I loved how serene the surroundings were—perfect for unwinding after a busy day. Parking was super easy, with plenty of spaces available, which made the whole experience stress-free. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and incredibly comfortable—the bed was cozy, and I slept like a baby. The views from the lobby and along the marina are simply stunning, especially at sunset. It’s a great blend of relaxation and accessibility. If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat with excellent value, this place is a must-try. Highly recommend for anyone who appreciates a calm, clean, and beautifully situated stay.
Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town
This hotel is absolutely charming with a true resort vibe. Nestled on a gentle hillside, the separate cottages give it a unique, laid-back feel—though it might be a bit tricky to find at first glance due to the varying elevations. Once you get settled in, it all makes perfect sense. The breakfast buffet is fantastic—abundant, delicious, and served with scenic views that make mornings even better. The staff are incredibly friendly and welcoming, always going the extra mile. Best of all, it’s just a 5-minute walk from Old Town train station and the main bus terminal, making getting around San Diego super easy. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or exploring the city, this place offers great value and a memorable stay.
Best Western Plus Bayside Inn
The building doesn’t look impressive from the outside, but the rooms are surprisingly spacious and well-maintained—definitely more than expected. We were pleasantly surprised by the breakfast package, which included a variety of fresh options we didn’t anticipate at all. It made our morning so much better. The only downside was the $30 parking fee, which is a bit steep, but considering how close the hotel is to downtown San Diego and the waterfront, it’s worth it for the convenience. Overall, an excellent stay with great value, especially for travelers who prioritize location and comfort.
Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina
Staying at the Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina was a pleasant surprise. The property is quite large, and it takes a short walk from the lobby to the rooms—something that actually adds to the resort-like vibe. While some of the facilities show their age, everything is well-maintained and functional. What stood out most was how quiet the rooms were—perfect for a restful night’s sleep with zero noise from the outside. Located right by the waterfront, the ocean views from the rooms are lovely, and it's just a quick stroll to the marina area. Public transportation access to downtown San Diego is convenient if you're planning to explore the city. Overall, despite the slightly dated touches, the peaceful atmosphere, scenic location, and good value make this a solid choice for a relaxing getaway.
Courtyard San Diego Airport/Liberty Station
This is my second stay at the Courtyard San Diego Airport/Liberty Station, and I’m just as impressed as the first time. The location is unbeatable—just a quick walk or short ride to the airport, which made my travel plans so much smoother. The hotel is clean, well-maintained, and the rooms are comfortable with great bedding that ensured a restful night’s sleep. Staff are friendly and efficient throughout check-in and check-out. There are several dining options and convenience stores nearby, making it easy to grab a bite or essentials after dark. Overall, the value for money is excellent. I’ll definitely be returning here on my next trip to San Diego—it’s a reliable, convenient, and welcoming choice.
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