14 best Airbnbs in San Diego, California

This close-to-everything property sits in the historic neighborhood of University Heights, surrounded by parks, restarurants, bars and markets. The space inside is open-plan, giving the place a communal feel and making it optimal for socializing. But the garden is the real star of the show; you've got a pool, hot tub, BBQ and plenty of seating areas at your disposal. 

What’s the budget range? Not bad for the top-notch location and amenities. 
What’s it like to stay here? You'll want to spend all of your time outdoors thanks to its decked-out backyard. 
Rooms: 3 beds, 2 baths. Sleeps 5. 

This home's beautiful backyard features a pool and hot tub for those days you just want to relax, as well as a firepit and upper patio with additional dining and seating areas. When you do feel like heading out and exploring, you’ve got local beaches right on your doorstep, and lively Downtown San Diego just a 30-minute drive away. A small caveat is that this Airbnb is only available to rent for seven-plus day stays, but you probably wouldn’t want to stay here for less than that anyway. 

What’s the budget range? A pretty fair deal for such a lavish location - ideal between eight. 
What’s it like to stay here? This home has a real cozy, modern vibe throughout and is great for outdoor entertainment. 
Rooms: 4 beds, 3.5 baths. Sleeps 8.

This is a home away from home with a few special upgrades. It was recently remodelled and has a master bedroom with a king bed and en suite bathroom, plus two other bedrooms and a pull-out couch in the living room. Dotted around you’ll find cosy rugs, quirky artwork, plants and a fully equipped kitchen and dining area to make you feel truly at home. 

What’s the budget range? Pretty decent for a few nights with the fam or a couple of pals.
What’s it like to stay here? The cozy, modern farmhouse aesthetic makes it feel really homey and inviting. The only damper is the limited parking.
Rooms: 3 beds, 2 baths. Sleeps 8.

Who needs a sofa, a tv and a couple of side tables when they could have a full-size sauna and a free-standing two-person bathtub in their living space? We totally respect the host’s dedication to the spa life in how they’ve lent almost the entire living space – plus a huge outdoor hot tub – to becoming your own personal spa. Marble walls, gleaming titles and deep green houseplants all add to the tranquil ambiance, and there’s a cocoon-like bedroom with rustic homewares. This place is perfect for couples or – dare we suggest it – some solo traveling.

What’s the budget range? A little more ‘luxury’ but still do-able.
What’s it like to stay here? Treat the whole weekend away as one super-long pamper session.
Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps two.

This apartment is full of chic appeal and high-end finishings. On the first floor, expect high ceilings, a circular stairway and stainless kitchen equipped with everything you could ever need. This one-bedroom gem boasts two bathrooms, a sprawling rooftop, and a roomy living area, so it’s perfect for two people who want to travel together but also appreciate their own space. For baseball fans, you’ll be two minutes away from Petco Park, which has great games and stunning views of San Diego Bay and the San Diego skyline. You’ll also be close to some great local eateries.

What’s the budget range? A long-term rental option (25 days plus).
What’s it like to stay here? A skip to Downtown, this place gives off industrial modern vibes. Pretty cool host too – Crystal will make sure you feel right at home. 
Rooms: 1 bed, 2 baths. Sleeps 2. 

Experience dome life in La Mesa and you’ll be amazed by its unique architecture. The dome was actually originally built in 1967 as a project for college art students. It has since been renovated and has everything from a fully equipped kitchen to a beautiful bathroom. In the living room, you’ll find a cow print sofa chair, plants, and dark wooden floors. It’s a space with great ambiance and openness. Plus, its prime location means you’ll have great views and easy access to the exciting nightlife scene.

What’s the budget range? A super affordable and unique off-grid rental. 
What’s it like to stay here? This peaceful spot in La Mesa is a great base if you dig the small-town vibes. 
Rooms: 2 beds, 1 bath. Sleeps 4. 

Get a slice of Greece in the heart of San Diego. This Santorini-inspired cottage looks like heaven, and feels like heaven. Travel 16 steps up through a Greek-inspired curving stairway with two-story high walls to find amazing views on the front balcony. Plus, this cottage has a rooftop hot tub for those lazy days, and a secluded back patio fireplace. It will be hard to believe you’re still in San Diego, and not on a European getaway! The host offers discounts for weekly and monthly stays, too.

What’s the budget range? On the luxury scale, but so worth it for those sunny vistas. 
What’s it like to stay here? Your gateway to the Mediterranean. 
Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 2. 

If you’ve been feeling a little grey – or even a little blue – recently, try getting a dose of technicolor back in your life with a stay here. This studio flat in University Heights has been playfully redesigned to treat guests to the full range of the rainbow. Interiors hits include the sugar-pink living space with pop art feels, the fun teal-and-terracotta kitchen and the multi-colored abstract shower curtain. You also get access to a pool, a hottub and a BBQ, all shared with just a couple of neighbors.

What’s the budget range? Just higher than ‘mid’.
What’s it like to stay here? Brighten up your mood and life with a shot of color and joy.
Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps two.

Designed by world-famous architect Irving J. Gill, this San Diego Airbnb has heaps of character and retains its historic charm – paired with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for guests. It sleeps up to four people in a queen-size and double bed, perfect for best buds wanting to explore the city or for a couple wanting a romantic break away. You'll find modern conveniences such as a Smart TV, Wi-Fi, and even a dedicated office for those who can't get away from their work. Close to the water and green space, you'll get the best of the city in this location.

What’s the budget range? This sweet escape is a tad on the pricier end (three nights minimum).
What’s it like to stay here? This gorgeous home benefits from a lot of sunlight, so take full advantage of the cute courtyard and balcony. 
Rooms: 2 beds, 2.5 baths. Sleeps 4. 

A tropical garden studio with bright walls and plenty of plants (sure to give you a boost of dopamine)? Yes, please. A craftsman-style house with a full bedroom, bathroom and patio, it’s perfect for a solo traveller looking for some serenity. It has everything you need for either a short-term or long-term stay and is a great location close to the zoo, Balboa Park and restaurants – all within a five-minute drive. Side note: The shower is small, so just be mindful of that if you’re really tall!

What’s the budget range? Backpacker-friendly prices for such a well-situated little abode. 
What’s it like to stay here? This vibey studio feels like a secluded retreat, while the North Park area is quite the hipster hotspot. 
Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 2. 

This beach house will make you feel like you’re in Florida. It's modern, sleek and has three huge bedrooms, six beds and three bathrooms to accommodate up to 10 guests. It’s perfect for a big family holiday or a getaway with the squad. There are Gold TV packages perfect for cosy movie nights, and plenty of grocery shops nearby for snacks and home-cooked dinners. It’s also easy to have fun days out as you’d be ​​just a minute's drive to Sea World, Downtown and Balboa Park.

What’s the budget range? The more the merrier and the cheaper too. 
What’s it like to stay here? If you want laid-back beachy vibes, this one is right on the money. 
Rooms: 3 beds, 3 baths. Sleeps 11. 

This family-friendly home is based in an eclectic neighbourhood on a small main street lined with amazing restaurants and bars, so you have access to fun right on your doorstep. But the undeniable best feature of this home has to be the rooftop deck with a stargazing igloo, where you and the family can enjoy pizza parties and movie nights. It’s also perfect for meditation and relaxation. The front and back fenced patios are all yours to enjoy, too.

What’s the budget range? A moderately-priced short break for all the fam. (five-night stay minimum). 
What’s it like to stay here? It's a fun and cozy residence in a walkable neighborhood - great for traveling with the kids. 
Rooms: 2 beds, 1 bath. Sleeps 6. 

Get a taste of Spain in the heart of San Diego. You’ll feel transported back in time in this 1924 Spanish revival bungalow court. It has recently had some modern touches added, and in the living room, you’ll find full air conditioning, a sofa bed, Chromecast, Wi-Fi, Cable Hi Def TV and HBO. “Sitting in the Patios at Alcazar Court watching the world go by is the best. Enjoy coffee in the morning and Prosecco in the afternoon,” says the host, Kristen. This home has a lot of character and is cozy inside and out.

What’s the budget range? A cheap and cheerful unique find. 
What’s it like to stay here? This whitewashed home is a real beauty if you ask us, especially for those gorgeous summer nights. 
Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 4. 

It’s in the name. This is a simple and convenient home that’s available to rent for an impressively low price. It’s newly constructed with classic modern decor, so we wouldn’t blame you for thinking you're staying at a fancy hotel. Instead, you’re staying at a rental with all the comforts of home. It fits up to five guests, perfect for a small family. There’s also a large deck great for relaxing and enjoying beautiful hillside sunsets. It’s close to San Diego Zoo too so you won’t have to travel far with the family. 

What’s the budget range? A for affordable. 
What’s it like to stay here? Home from home vibes – situated on a quiet residential street and Only a 20 drive to the beach. 
Rooms: 2 beds, 1 bath. Sleeps 5.