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From133US$ /night
Check-in
10Jan2026Select date
Check-out
11Jan2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

1551 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, California, United States, 92106
-
Near the harbor
Great
8.0
8.0
/10
4.2
/5

Kona Kai Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort, is a 4-star San Diego hotel offering a private beach, luxurious spa treatments, and vibrant dining options. This resort features spacious guest rooms with private balconies, making it suitable for both families and adults seeking relaxation.

Rooms & Amenities

Accommodations at Kona Kai Resort & Spa include recently-renovated guest rooms and suites with private balconies that provide bay or marina views. Amenities in each room feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and mini-bars.

Dining Options

The Vessel Restaurant + Bar at Kona Kai offers New American cuisine with panoramic waterfront views, and guests can enjoy drinks at the Tiki Bar or Paloma Bar while lounging by the pool. Daily happy hour is available with sunset marina views.

Leisure & Activities

Guests can access a full-service Shelter Island spa for various treatments and relax by the adults-only pool or the family-friendly pool with beach access and poolside service. Activities include complimentary bike rentals and water sports from the onsite rental center.

Services & Local Area

Kona Kai Resort & Spa is pet-friendly, accommodating four-legged guests with special amenities and local pet-friendly activities. The resort is less than 10 minutes from the airport and nearby public transportation options include local bus services.

“This San Diego resort cultivates a tranquil beach escape, unique for its California setting. The vibe centers on the water, enhanced by spa rituals and waterfront dining. I think it's a smart pick for travelers seeking a relaxed pace with a touch of luxury, especially those with pets.”
Hotel logo
Sophia TurnerEditorial Director at Spahotels
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Choose your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Junior Suite Balcony
4 persons
36 m² 
2 King Size Beds
Bathtub
Balcony
Junior Suite
3 persons
36 m² 
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Bathtub
Balcony
Standard King Room
2 persons
30 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Balcony
King Room Bay View
2 persons
32 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Balcony
Click button to see more rooms
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Price and Room Availability

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Locker room
  • Private beach
  • Allergy-free rooms
  • Lift
  • ATM/Cash machine
  • Vending machines
  • Smoke detectors
  • Electric vehicle charging station
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre
  • Water sports
  • Cycling
  • Yoga class
  • Fishing

Services

  • Pet amenities available
  • Housekeeping
  • Dry cleaning
  • Welcome drink
  • Happy hour

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Poolside snack bar
  • Outdoor dining area

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Board games
  • Children's menu

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled
  • Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

  • Heated swimming pool
  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Beach access
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Sun loungers
  • Live entertainment
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Steam room
  • Jacuzzi
  • Pedicure
  • Manicure
  • Waxing
  • Body scrub
  • Facial
  • Treatment room
  • Body wraps
  • Back massage
  • Full body massage
  • Foot massage
  • Pool with view
  • Shallow end
  • Make up services

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Mini-bar
  • Sitting area
  • Patio
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Bathtub
  • Free toiletries

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Parquet floor
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Dining Onsite

Kona Kai Resort & Spa offers an inviting array of dining experiences that celebrate local flavors and the stunning surroundings. Guests can indulge in health-conscious meals with vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options while soaking in beautiful views and relaxing atmospheres.
Kona Kai Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort San Diego Restaurant photo
Kona Kai Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort San Diego Restaurant photo

Vessel Restaurant + Bar

Local with vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options
Ambiance
Modern space featuring stylish decor and a lively atmosphere, perfect for casual dining or special occasions.
Key Offerings
A menu that emphasizes local ingredients, along with a diverse selection of craft cocktails. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner.
Reservation
Recommended
Open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and cocktail hour; hours vary.

Paloma Bar at Kona Kai

Casual bar offering a selection of drinks and light bites
Ambiance
Charming outdoor setting with scenic views and comfortable cabanas, inviting guests to unwind under the sun or stars.
Key Offerings
Signature cocktails and seasonal favorites, ideal for a laid-back afternoon or evening gathering.
Reservation
Not needed
Hours vary.

Location

1551 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, California, United States, 92106
Map view
1551 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, California, United States, 92106
Nearby
1401 Shelter Island Dr Shelter Island
Japanese Friendship Bell
250 m
1500 Shelter Island Dr
Friendship Bell
270 m
1718 Shelter Island Dr
Tunaman's Memorial
500 m
Restaurants
Vessel Restaurant
70 m
1551 Shelter Island Dr
Explore San Diego
Explore San Diego Activities
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Shelter Island
Shelter Island
10 minutes' walk
A tranquil waterfront area offering scenic views, parks, and paths, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnicking.
USS Midway Museum
USS Midway Museum
14-minute drive
An iconic naval aircraft carrier turned museum showcasing maritime history and aircraft with engaging exhibits.
Cabrillo National Monument
Cabrillo National Monument
15-minute drive
Historical site with stunning coastal views, hiking trails, and a lighthouse. Great spot for photo opportunities.
Japanese Friendship Bell
Japanese Friendship Bell
4 minutes' walk
A beautiful bell symbolizing friendship between San Diego and Yokohama, with serene surroundings perfect for reflection.
Water Sports at Shelter Island
10 minutes' walk
Kayaking and paddleboarding opportunities for all skill levels, with rentals available nearby. Stunning ocean views await.
Relaxation at The Spa at Kona Kai
0 minutes' walk
On-site spa offering massages and wellness treatments for guests seeking rejuvenation amid a serene atmosphere.
Hiking at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
11-minute drive
Thrilling trails boasting dramatic ocean views and incredible sunsets, great for outdoor enthusiasts and photography lovers.
Vessel Restaurant
Vessel Restaurant
1 minute' walk
Contemporary eatery with fresh seafood and craft cocktails in an elegant setting; reservations recommended.
Fathom Bistro Bait and Tackle
6 minutes' walk
Casual vibe offering delicious breakfast and lunch options. Known for creative dishes and waterfront seating.
Café 21
10-minute drive
Farm-to-table eatery featuring globally inspired dishes; great for brunch. Gluten-free options available.
Kona Kai Marina
0 minutes' walk
This marina hosts events and live music; perfect for evening outings with family and friends.
SeaWorld San Diego
SeaWorld San Diego
13-minute drive
Family-friendly theme park featuring marine life shows and rides. Offers fun for all ages with thrills and learning.

Getting around
City Centre
San Diego11 min  ·  7.2 km
Airports
San Diego International Airport (SAN)10 min  ·  6.2 km
El Cajon (CJN)53 min  ·  34.7 km
Train
Coaster Santa Fe Station9 min  ·  5.9 km
Bus
Bus stop9 min  ·  700 m

Reviews and Ratings

Reviews from guests about their experience.
Guest reviews
5.0/10
based on 5 reviews
4/5 based on 1996 reviews
8.0
8.0/10 based on 11 reviews
#68 of 283 hotels in San Diego based on Tripadvisor
Scarlett
United Kingdom, March  2025
7.4/10

Kona Kai is a lovely resort with stunning views and friendly staff, making it a decent choice for a relaxing getaway. The rooms are comfortable, although a bit small, and the dining options are good, especially with the happy hour. However, some amenities are limited, and it's a bit isolated, which might inflate the costs for food and drinks if you don't come prepared.

Rooms
7.0
The rooms were clean and comfortable, boasting beautiful views from the balcony. However, they felt a bit small for larger groups.
Service
9.0
The staff was very accommodating and eager to help, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere during my stay.
Location
6.0
The hotel is located in a serene area right by the marina and close enough to access downtown with a short ride, although it's not within walking distance to many attractions.
Dining
8.0
The food was delicious, and I really enjoyed the happy hour prices, especially for beer and wine. However, options outside the single restaurant were limited.
Facilities
7.0
The resort offered nice amenities like fire pits on the beach and a clean pool area. However, the closure of the bar early was a bit of a bummer.
William
United Kingdom, February  2025
8.0/10

My experience at the hotel was a mixed bag. On one hand, the service we received was exceptional, with welcoming staff who went above and beyond to make our stay memorable. Unfortunately, our initial room situation was less than ideal as we ended up with a view of the parking lot. The amenities and overall comfort made up for it, but I wish the dining options were more varied.

Rooms
8.0
We had a bay view room that turned out to be much nicer than we expected. While it initially overlooked a parking lot, the view of the bay was beautiful and compensated for it. The room was cozy, feeling modern and spacious.
Service
10.0
The service was outstanding! Sean at the front desk made us feel immediately welcome and took the time to check in on us throughout our stay. The staff, including Bree and Reese, really made our experience special.
Location
7.0
The hotel is located right on the bay, providing gorgeous views and a peaceful atmosphere. However, it can be a bit far from other attractions, which might not be ideal for everyone.
Dining
7.0
The dining experience was enjoyable, with good food but limited breakfast options. We appreciated the One dinner we had, especially the scenic view while we ate.
Facilities
8.0
The facilities were well-maintained, with lovely fire pits around the property. However, the access to the main building could be improved as it's a bit of a trek from some rooms.
Mike
United Kingdom, January  2025
8.8/10

I recently enjoyed a fantastic getaway at this hotel! The beauty of the property and its stunning ocean views were truly breathtaking. The staff was always available and eager to assist, making my stay feel extra special. However, the parking situation could be improved, as it was a bit of a hassle at times. Overall, it was an excellent experience with many amenities, but parking was a notable downside.

Rooms
8.0
The room I stayed in was quite comfortable and had a lovely view of the marina. It met all my needs, although it felt a bit snug for three people.
Service
10.0
The service was outstanding! The staff went above and beyond, even surprising us with a complimentary bottle of bubbles and chocolates to celebrate our occasion.
Location
9.0
This hotel is in a great location, surrounded by water on three sides. It offered easy access to activities and stunning bayside views.
Dining
9.0
The dining options were fantastic, especially breakfast. I ordered room service one morning, and it was delicious with a stunning view of the sailboats.
Facilities
8.0
The facilities were excellent, with a gorgeous main pool and spa area. However, be prepared for weekend crowding if you're visiting during peak times.
Grace
United Kingdom, November  2024
9.2/10

This hotel offered a stunning resort experience with breathtaking views while being conveniently close to the city's attractions. The staff was incredibly welcoming, making every moment special. The dining experience stood out, especially with room service, but there were a few small letdowns, notably the limited pool area. Overall, it's a delightful place to unwind, though the price point reflects its luxurious nature.

Rooms
9.0
Our room was super clean, spacious, and extremely comfortable, providing a perfect retreat after a day out.
Service
10.0
The service was warm and welcoming, with every staff member going out of their way to make us feel special.
Location
10.0
Located near all the major attractions and restaurants, the views from the hotel were absolutely spectacular, offering both bay and marina views.
Dining
9.0
Dining was excellent with a fantastic restaurant on-site, and I couldn't recommend the room service enough-it truly complemented our stay.
Facilities
8.0
The facilities were impressive, with two pools catering to different needs, though the pool area could use some more space.
Mason
United Kingdom, November  2024
9.4/10

My stay at Kona Kai was incredibly memorable, especially for my husband's 40th birthday celebration. The staff went above and beyond to make our experience special, from room decorations to a celebratory Prosecco. The grounds were stunning and the activities plentiful, although we did face an issue with the air conditioning one night. Overall, it felt like a tropical oasis, and I can't wait to return!

Rooms
9.0
The rooms were beautifully decorated and immaculate, which added to our lovely experience. However, there was a brief inconvenience with the air conditioning that was promptly addressed by the staff.
Service
10.0
The service was stellar, with attentive and caring staff who truly made our stay enjoyable. They even replaced our faulty air conditioning while we were out for breakfast!
Location
9.0
The location was beautiful and serene, perfect for a relaxing getaway. It felt like we were on a tropical island, yet conveniently close to town for other activities.
Dining
10.0
Dining at Vessel was fantastic. Chef Roy's dishes were delightful and the atmosphere was lovely, making our meals a highlight of our stay.
Facilities
9.0
The facilities were excellent, with two lovely pools that catered to both families and adults. The well-kept grounds also contributed to a relaxing environment.
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Choose your spa escape today!
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-23:59
Check-out
from 02:00-11:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site at USD 46 per day.
Internet
is available in for free.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Year renovated:
2007
Number of rooms:
164
Former name
Kona Kai Resort
FAQs
About Kona Kai Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort
What is the distance from Kona Kai Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort to San Diego International Airport?
Kona Kai Resort & Spa is located 5 km from San Diego International Airport, approximately 10 minutes by car.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Kona Kai Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort?
Check-in is at 16:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
Does Kona Kai Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort have a private beach?
The resort features a private beach for guests to enjoy.
What dining options are available at Kona Kai Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort?
The on-site restaurant, Vessel, offers New American cuisine and fresh seafood throughout the day.
What recreational activities are available at Kona Kai Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort?
Guests can enjoy beach volleyball, cycling, and water sports, as well as two heated outdoor swimming pools.
Is parking available at Kona Kai Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort?
Private parking is available on-site for a fee of 46 USD per day.
What room amenities can guests expect at Kona Kai Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort?
Rooms include free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and private balconies or patios.
Are pets allowed at Kona Kai Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort?
Pets are welcome at the resort, with fees of 100 USD for up to 3 nights, or 150 USD for 4-7 nights.
What services are available for business travelers at Kona Kai Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort?
The hotel offers meeting facilities and a business center for corporate events.
What wellness options does Kona Kai Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort provide?
The resort features a full-service spa with a variety of treatments and a fitness center.
How far is Kona Kai Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort from the San Diego Zoo?
The San Diego Zoo is located 15 km from the resort, which is approximately a 15-minute drive.
What is the closest attraction to Kona Kai Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort?
Cabrillo National Monument, known for hiking and tidepooling, is about 3 km away.

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