Top 10 Luxury Hotels and Resorts in La Jolla Area

La Jolla and the surrounding beach communities of San Diego are some of the most beautiful and luxurious parts of California. This part of the Pacific Coast is known for its crystal-clear beaches, striking architecture, and incredible wildlife both above and under the sea. Because of this, La Jolla is a fantastic place to choose as a vacation spot in California. It not only has all of these amenities, but it is also full of high-quality resorts that deliver the best vacation experience Southern California has to offer. Whether you like lavish and jaw-dropping or quaint and quiet, this list of top luxury hotels in La Jolla area is sure to have something perfect for you on it.

10 Top Luxury Hotels in La Jolla Area

La Jolla has long been recognized as the jewel of San Diego. It’s an affluent enclave with a beachy vibe, where surfer dudes in board shorts mix nicely with ladies who lunch. Home of Torrey Pines Golf Course, Scripps Aquarium, San Diego Museum of Contemporary Art, designer boutiques and bazillion dollar homes, La Jolla is also blessed with a chill luxury vibe.

Here are 10 of the top luxury resorts in La Jolla and the surrounding area of San Diego California. 

1. The Lodge At Torrey Pines 

Located 15 minutes from downtown La Jolla, The Lodge at Torrey Pines is one of the most prestigious and luxurious resorts in all of California. Positioned right on the famous Torrey Pines Golf Course, the Lodge offers spectacular ocean views. There are many activities at the resort such as golfing, spa treatments, hiking, and live music, as well as dozens of outdoor activities to do around and near the property. The Lodge is also the perfect place to go for honeymoons, weddings, and romantic getaways. While not inexpensive with rooms starting at over $400 per night, The Lodge at Torrey Pines is an excellent option for those looking for a luxury experience. Sometimes it’s worth it to spend a little more money and get all of the luxuries that come along with the price. 

11480 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037 

(858) 453-4420

2. Grande Colonial Hotel

Established in 1913, the Grande Colonial Hotel is one of the oldest luxury hotels in San Diego. Its historic architecture, as well as its many amenities, make it a fantastic choice for an oceanfront getaway. Those who love Victorian and turn of the century architecture and culture will be especially pleased with this hotel. Located right in downtown La Jolla, the Grande Colonial offers guests easy walks to the beach, restaurants, or to shopping centers close by the hotel. Starting around $250 a night, it is a more affordable option. But this hotel is not skipping any of the luxury appeal that you would want from one of the top luxury resorts in La Jolla. 

910 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037 

(858) 386-4442

3. Fairmont Grand Del Mar 

Perfect for golf lovers, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar is a stunning hotel that has the architecture and style that you would expect from a Southern California prestige property. The resort derives its style from Mexican and Spanish historical architecture influences. With activities such as horseback riding, pools, golf, world-class spas, and luxury dining experiences, this  resort has something for anyone and everyone.  It’s a great option for romantic getaways, honeymoons, and  family vacations. The Fairmont Grand Del Mar is not directly located on the beach. But not to worry – there are plenty of reasons to stay here. Plus the resort is only a short drive away from the beach and has accessibility to many other fun activities. Also of note is the incredible cuisine at Addison, San Diego’s first three-star Michelin restaurant. Starting at around $400 per night it is another luxury option. For everything you get and its premier location, you simply couldn’t ask for a better price. 

5300 Grand Del Mar Ct, San Diego, CA 92130 

(858) 314 2000

4. La Valencia Hotel 

Located directly on La Jolla Beach, the La Valencia Hotel is a majestic and beautiful resort that opened its doors in 1926.  Right in the heart of downtown La Jolla, the Valencia Hotel has a 1920s style, giving it a majestic and retro feel. For those who enjoy historic hotels, vintage cars and being close to the action, the Valencia hotel is a fantastic option. Some of the most beautiful views and experiences in La Jolla can be enjoyed at this luxury property. Starting at around $525 a night, it is most definitely on the more expensive side. However, prime experiences, luxury locations and incredible ocean views are some of the reasons why guests willing to pay this price. Visitors will not be disappointed. 

1132 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037 

(855) 476-6870

5. Paradise Point Resort & Spa 

For those who have larger families, or simply would rather enjoy more affordable luxury, The Paradise Point Resort & Spa is a fantastic option. Located minutes from downtown La Jolla, Paradise Point Resort & Spa is close to both Pacific Beach and La Jolla beaches. It’s a prime spot for those hoping to spend the majority of their vacation on the beach. The hotel literally has cottages located right on the sand. It also has a family-friendly feel, as well as amenities for children and adults alike. Guests can even reserve a fire ring on the beach equipped with all the makings for s’mores. With beautiful palm trees throughout the resort as well as a massive pool, this resort feels like a secluded tropical oasis. Starting at $230 a night, this hotel is a great alternative to some of the more expensive hotels in La Jolla. Yet The Paradise Point Resort & Spa still gives you a luxurious and memorable experience. 

1404 Vacation Rd, San Diego, CA 92109 

6. La Jolla Shores Hotel 

Holding court on La Jolla Shores beach, the La Jolla Shores Hotel has been fulfilling guests’ dreams for many decades. Generations within families have grown up loving the casual vibe at this hotel. Many continue to come back year after year, now with children of their own and grandparents in tow. After a recent room remodel, the spacious guest accommodations at La Jolla Shores Hotel are impressive. Oceanfront rooms have balconies and stunning views of La Jolla Shores beaches north and south. Guests can enjoy watching the waves along Scripps Pier, kids playing in the surf, and kayaks paddling out to sea. Rooms at La Jolla Shores Hotel are reasonable in terms of top luxury resorts in La Jolla. Room rates start at around $300/night.

(855) 923-8058

7. Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa 

Perfect for family reunions, gatherings, and other large events, the Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa offers a high-class villa-style hotel. Guests are greeted with a beautiful Spanish-style courtyard and fountain, along with meticulous landscaping and flowering plants. With rooms starting at $210 a night, this hotel is perfect for any large families or gatherings of people who aren’t looking to spend exorbitant amounts of money. The Spa at Estancia is also especially luxurious. Located in La Jolla Village, the Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa is within short driving distance of the beach, shopping, and all the amenities of the La Jolla and Del Mar area. 

9700 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037 

858-412-0500

8. L’Auberge Del Mar 

Technically a little way outside of La Jolla (about 25 minutes to be exact) the L’Auberge Del Mar is one of the top luxury hotels in La Jolla area. While being a little ways away from downtown La Jolla, it has definite benefits in its prime Del Mar location. Offering the amenities of Del Mar beaches and quaint downtown shopping and dining, this resort comes well equipped. There are ocean views, pools and cabanas throughout this resort, which is great for guests who are looking to relax. Its proximity to Del Mar Racetrack and the wealthy groups that horse racing attracts is an added benefit. Costing about $520 a night, guests are paying for top quality, but also experiences and location. For those trying to escape the stresses of daily life for a little bit, this resort is a fantastic option. 

1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014 

858-386-1336

9. Catamaran Resort Hotel 

The Polynesian-inspired Catamaran Resort Hotel is the least expensive resort on this list. However, that does not mean it skips on any of the luxury or quality that the rest of these resorts offer. There is a casual elegance to this resort, complete with tropical vegetation, tiki torches, koi ponds and waterfalls. Located in Pacific Beach right on Mission Bay, this hotel has beautiful bay views and sandy beaches. There are boat rentals, bicycles, cabanas, and paddle boarding all available onsite. Great for families looking to get away during any time of the year, the Catamaran Resort Hotel is just a few minutes drive to downtown La Jolla. The resort offers rooms starting at only about $200 per night. This is a fantastic price as one of the top luxury hotels in La Jolla area. 

3999 Mission Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92109

(858) 488-1081

10. Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines

To round out this list, the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines is my pick for the top hotel in the La Jolla area for business commuters. This hotel has everything you need for a business trip from workout rooms to dining. The Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines hotel offers a fantastic traveler experience that is true to the Hilton reputation. Starting at about $215, this is a fantastic option for business people who are willing to spend a little bit more to get a lot more in quality and experience. Not only is it a fantastic place to stay for work but for fun as well. It’s also located in a prime location to explore the La Jolla area. The hotel is very close to Torrey Pines State Reserve, Torrey Pines Gliderport, Blacks Beach, UC San Diego, Scripps Aquarium and so much more. 

10950 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California, 92037

(858) 558-1500

More Fun Things to Do in San Diego

Whether you are in the La Jolla area for a vacation, a wedding, or a business trip, I hope this list has compiled a couple of options to suit your needs. Don’t forget to check out our list of fun things to do in San Diego, including a list of top sites like San Diego Zoo, San Diego County Fair, snorkeling at La Jolla Cove and more.