Guide to Planning Your Cruise From San Diego

Booking a hotel near the cruise port helps cut down on travel time and stress.

Consider staying at one of our favorite hotels when you’re cruising in or out of the port of San Diego, or check out our list of the best places to stay near the cruise port.

InterContinental San Diego, an IHG Hotel

InterContinental San Diego is a waterfront hotel with great views of the bay from high rise rooms. Rooms are decorated in a thoughtful, sleek style with WiFi, on-demand movies, coffee makers, and an in-room mini-bar.

Each booking comes with access to the lounge, which includes daily breakfast and complimentary drinks.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott San Diego Downtown/Bayfront

Enjoy the conveniences of complimentary breakfast, a rooftop bar and lounge, and an on-site convenience store at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott. Take in a breathtaking view of the ocean from the rooftop pool, or use the hotel’s fitness center.

SpringHill Suites has on-site parking and rooms are pet-friendly for an additional fee.

The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego

Nestled between the Gaslamp Quarter and the bay, The US Grant is a hotel that radiates sophistication. Treat yourself at the bar or the hotel spa, have a gourmet deal at the Art Deco-inspired restaurant, and enjoy valet parking.

Additional amenities include meeting rooms, a fitness center, in-room coffee makers, and high-speed WiFi.

The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

The Guild Hotel dates all the way back to 1924 and combines modern comforts with historic charm. This hotel features artfully decorated rooms with forward-thinking amenities like rain showers, integrated Bluetooth, and smart TVs.

Drink at the Prohibition-era-style hotel bar, or simply lounge in comfort in this immersive piece of history.

Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton

Just a few minutes away from top attractions, Carte Hotel is a relaxed, comfortable place to stay with convenient amenities like a fitness room, WiFi, meeting rooms, an outdoor rooftop pool, and a boutique.

Rooms are pet-friendly and offer great views of both the bay and the Downtown San Diego area.

The Best Attractions in the Area

You can get discounted admission to many of the attractions around the cruise port with advanced purchase of a Go City San Diego Pass. For even more savings, use our discount code (GVSD5OFF), or buy the All-inclusive version of the pass which allows you to skip the lines at entry and bundle the maximum discounts!

The following fun activities are all eligible for discounted admission through the Go City San Diego Pass. Read on to learn more!

San Diego Zoo

The world-famous San Diego Zoo is one of the most fun things to do in San Diego and a can’t-miss attraction for wildlife lovers. See hundreds of species of animals from all across the world at one of the country’s largest and most famous zoos in Balboa Park.

USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum

Learn about San Diego’s military history aboard the USS Midway Museum. Step back in time to experience naval battles and hear war stories at this hands-on, family-friendly museum.

One Hour San Diego Harbor Cruise by Hornblower Cruises

See the historic sights of the harbor in style and comfort on a Hornblower Cruises Harbor Cruise. This guided tour of the San Diego Bay includes live narration so you can learn while you sightsee.

Whale Watching by Hornblower Cruises

A Hornblower cruise is a great way to see gray and blue whales as they migrate in the harbor on a Whale Watching Tour. Other species you may spot include humpback whales, dolphins, and sea birds.

San Diego Speed Boat Adventures

Take a thrill ride through the bay on a San Diego Speed Boat Adventure. Cruise past historic naval vessels and coastal landmarks, all while feeling the wind in your hair.

PETCO Park Tours - Home of the San Diego Padres

Take a tour of PETCO Park, a massive baseball stadium, home of the San Diego Padres in the Gaslamp Quarter. During the tour, you’ll walk out onto the field and also catch the stunning view from the top of the stands.

San Diego Pier Fishing

Fishing enthusiasts can embark on a San Diego Pier Fishing excursion, complete with gear rentals. Commonly caught fish include mackerel, halibut, perch, bass, and more.

The New Children’s Museum

The family-friendly New Children’s Museum is a hands-on art gallery designed with kids in mind. The specially curated exhibits are exciting for all ages and help encourage a love of the arts in younger children.

GoCar San Diego Tours: 30-Minute Navigational Tour

Explore San Diego’s vibrant streets on a narrated GoCar San Diego Tour. This is a fun and family-friendly way to get around town and learn about local landmarks.

San Diego City Tour

Explore all the best spots in the city on a San Diego City Tour. This comprehensive tour is ideal for familiarizing yourself with popular destinations and attractions while taking in the view.

The Best Free Things to Do in the Area

In addition to saving money on attractions with the Go City San Diego pass, there are plenty of free things to do around the cruise port.

Check out local beaches, go for a walk, and explore the city, all without spending a dime!

Walk Along the Embarcadero

The coastal Embarcadero is the perfect spot for a midday stroll. Enjoy the sun and light sea breeze, watch the ships in the harbor, and stretch your legs with a light workout.

The view of the San Diego Bay is especially stunning during sunset.

Go to Balboa Park

Home to dozens of museums and other popular attractions, you can have fun in Balboa Park just by walking through the 17 gorgeous gardens. Stroll around and enjoy the beautiful San Diego weather and scenery.

People Watch in the Gaslamp Quarter

The gorgeous architecture of the Gaslamp Quarter provides the perfect atmosphere for people watching. Relax on a bench in Horton Plaza Park and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Walk Around Coronado Island

To reach Coronado Island, you’ll need to take the ferry over from the bay, which does cost money. However, once you’re there, walking around Coronado Ferry Landing Park is totally free and full of beautiful views and people watching opportunities.

Coronado Central Beach

Coronado Central Beach is totally free and well-known for its excellent swimming conditions. Lounge and sunbathe, enjoy a picnic lunch on the sand, or walk along the shoreline at this pristine, popular beach.

Visit the Famous Hotel del Coronado

You don’t have to book a night at Hotel del Coronado, a.k.a. The Del, to admire the stunning architecture and laid-back charm of this famous beach resort. The iconic hotel has existed for over 130 years, and was named a National Historic Landmark in 1977.

Visit Old Town San Diego

As the location of San Diego’s first European settlements, Old Town is brimming with history and culture. Check out Victorian-era architecture and visit local historic landmarks as you walk through the neighborhood.

Visit La Jolla

La Jolla is the surfing capital of San Diego, but the incredible beaches are only part of the appeal. There are also plenty of great restaurants, and you can window shop local wares at boutique stores.

There’s food and drink to suit just about any palette near the harbor, for picky eaters and more adventurous foodies alike. Just a 3-minute walk from the cruise port, you’ll find Portside Pier, which has a wide variety of restaurants and bars right along San Diego Bay.

Here are some top picks for places to eat nearby.

Brigantine Seafood and Oyster Bar at Night next to the Cruise Port

Brigantine Seafood and Oyster Bar

Located on Portside Pier, Brigantine Seafood and Oyster Bar serves up only the freshest seafood. Enjoy locally-caught fish, lobster, and oysters, as well as imported specialties.

King and Queen Cantina

The hip and trendy King and Queen Cantina is between the cruise port and Little Italy. This cantina has a fun atmosphere and great food, including authentic Mexican dishes and cocktails.

Stone Brewing Tap Room - Kettner

Grab a beer just steps away from the cruise port at Stone Brewing Tap Room. This brewery serves a rotating, seasonal selection of beers in the pet-friendly tasting room.

Puesto At The Headquarters

Right along the Embarcadero, you’ll find Puesto At The Headquarters. This Mexican restaurant serves both individual and family-style meals made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Miguels Cocina at Portside Pier next to the Cruise Port

Miguel’s Cocina

Located along Portside Pier, Miguel’s Cocina cooks up fajitas, burritos, enchiladas, and more. Dine on hand-made tortillas, mouth-watering Mexican food, and hand-shaken margaritas.

Barleymash

Heading toward the Gaslamp Quarter from the cruise port, you’ll find Barleymash, an energetic sports bar. Watch the big game and enjoy a selection of pub favorites.

Topsail

Topsail on the Portside Pier serves tasty seafood paired with cocktails and wine. This classy eatery has its own rooftop terrace complete with fire pits and waterfront views.

The Boardwalk in Front of the Ketch Grill at the Port of San Diego

Ketch Grill & Taps

Ketch Grill & Taps, located on Portside Pier, is a trendy modern tavern with a wide selection of craft beers, wines, and cocktails paired with locally-sourced American fare.

If you’re flying into San Diego, the cruise port is only about 2 miles from the San Diego International Airport (SAN). You won’t have to worry about renting a car, as rideshares such as Uber or Lyft are readily available to get you, your family and your baggage to the port or your nearby hotel. However, you can also make use of public transportation like the coaster, which stops right outside the cruise port.

If you’re driving in, the cruise port doesn’t have its own lot, but there are a few garages in the area. Wyndham San Diego Bayside Garage and BRIC North Garage are both right across the street from the terminal, though you can find cheaper options a little further away.