Kona Kai Resort & Spa

San Diego, California

Virgin rating

The hotel

This iconic California hotel is on Shelter Island, overlooking the famed Kona Kai Marina. With ocean views from every room type, you can laze the days away on your balcony if you fancy - complete with stunning views of San Diego bay. Although with a private beach two waterfront pools, you'll probably want to leave the room to enjoy a leisurely day by the water either way. Embrace true holiday life and head to the poolside bar for a refreshing drink – and take in the views of the marina, or pamper yourself at the spa. If you fancy something a bit more active, explore the island on one of the complimentary beach cruisers or enjoy one of the many water sports activities on offer!

Amenities

  • Bicycle Rental
  • Kayaking
  • Sailing
  • Bar
  • Evening Entertainment
  • Fitness Centre/Gym
  • Internet Access
  • Restaurant
  • Room Service
  • Spa
  • Swimming Pool
  • Beachfront location

Where is it

Located on Shelter Island on Kona Kai Marina, minutes from Downtown San Diego and San Diego’s International Airport.

Hotel information

170 rooms, including 41 luxury suites, all with spectacular water viewsfrom the private patio or balcony, as well as flatscreen TV with premium entertainment channels, complimentary coffee, mini-fridge, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, iron and board. 

Deluxe Guestrooms have 1 king-size bed or 2 queen-size beds, sleeping maximum 4 adults.

Premium Rooms offer 1 king-size bed or 2 queen-size beds, sleeping maximum 4 adults.

Suites are also available, featuring sophisticated coastal design, spa-inspired bathrooms with bath and rainfall shower, and bay or marina views from an oversized balcony. 

Vessel restaurant (local coastal cuisine, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner). Tiki Bar and adults-only pool bar. Resort pool and adults-only pool. Pool and beach cabanas*. Spa*. Fitness centre. Complimentary fitness classes. Private beach and firepits. Water activity centre* including kayaks and paddle boards. Volleyball. Badminton. Complimentary bikes. Fishing*. Beach parties. Kona Kai Marina with bay cruises* and dinner cruises*. Gift shop. Room service*. WiFi*. Self-parking $34, plus tax per night (payable locally, subject to change)

This hotel has resort fees that are included in the room rate (subject to change)

Resort fee includes: - Daily Newspaper in Lobby - WiFi - Fitness centre and steam room - Towel Service at pool and spa. Resort fee, tax and inclusions are subject to change - please see hotel check-in for current inclusions available to you upon arrival.

*Denotes local charge. 

Rating summary

  • Location Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Sleep Quality Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Rooms Image of the Tripadvisor rating
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Traveller rating

  • Excellent (1456)
  • Very good (421)
  • Average (271)
  • Poor (176)
  • Terrible (153)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating S’mores on the beach? Yes please!

Apr 15, 2024 eriksamuelson

We booked through Costco and didn’t have too high expectations. But this place is really amazing. Few “resorts” live up to that name, but Kona Kai does. Great pool and hot tub, legitimate gym, and the fire pits were so much fun (splurge for the smores kit, it’s worth it). Staff were wonderful, views in both directions, close to everything—couldn’t… Read more
We booked through Costco and didn’t have too high expectations. But this place is really amazing. Few “resorts” live up to that name, but Kona Kai does. Great pool and hot tub, legitimate gym, and the fire pits were so much fun (splurge for the smores kit, it’s worth it). Staff were wonderful, views in both directions, close to everything—couldn’t be happier. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Amazing Stay

Apr 14, 2024 Christine D

Beautiful rooms and property. Great pool area and so nice to sit on the beach at night with the bonfires. Super safe area to walk in the morning and night with amazing views. I will add that most hotels do not give daily housekeeping anymore, and each and every day our beds were made, room cleaned and new fresh towels. Great place to stay if you… Read more
Beautiful rooms and property. Great pool area and so nice to sit on the beach at night with the bonfires. Super safe area to walk in the morning and night with amazing views. I will add that most hotels do not give daily housekeeping anymore, and each and every day our beds were made, room cleaned and new fresh towels. Great place to stay if you are visiting Point Loma💚💛 Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Great massage! Best ever!

Apr 12, 2024 Kate P San Diego, California

I was gifted a massage with David Handel and it was fantastic. David has the most calming and gentle, but firm, touch felt through his hands. I felt a great connection with his technique and was truly wowed with the experience. I would highly recommend seeking him out!!
Image of the Tripadvisor rating remarkable

Apr 7, 2024 zhelliebeans Rancho Cucamonga, California

the room was so clean and the pillows were so soft. The area was very quiet as well and the staffs were amazing. The food prices were expensive but very delicious. I love all the available amenities in the area. Definitely going back again soon.
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Fun family spring break at KKSD

Apr 7, 2024 nili420 San Francisco, California

Amazing Resort and fun hotel to be spending the spring break with the family. Filled with fun recreation activities for all ages including family. Hotel GM Scott keeping the resort clean and safe. All staff members are friendly and welcoming.