Kona Kai Resort & Spa

San Diego, California

Star rating

Deluxe King Room
Vessel Restaurant
Terrace
Deluxe Queen Room
Marina Terrace
Marina View Junior Suite
Deluxe King Room
Vessel Restaurant
Terrace
Deluxe Queen Room
Marina Terrace
Marina View Junior Suite

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
  • Service Image of the Tripadvisor rating
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Traveller rating

  • Excellent (1699)
  • Very good (467)
  • Average (318)
  • Poor (208)
  • Terrible (185)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Lovely dining and bar experience

Jul 18, 2025 Wanderer55910732616

Staff is amazing always seeing friendly faces, especially Nootsy! She always greets us with a smile. Grew up going here and it's always great food and service.
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Wonderful Experience

Jul 18, 2025 Kamryn B

We had the most incredible stay at Kona Kai Resort in San Diego! The location on the water is absolutely stunning, and the whole vibe is peaceful, fun, and relaxing. Our room was gorgeous, super clean, and felt like a private retreat, with a perfect view of the marina. We loved the evenings around the fire pits, especially with the s’mores kit!… Read more
We had the most incredible stay at Kona Kai Resort in San Diego! The location on the water is absolutely stunning, and the whole vibe is peaceful, fun, and relaxing. Our room was gorgeous, super clean, and felt like a private retreat, with a perfect view of the marina. We loved the evenings around the fire pits, especially with the s’mores kit! During the day, we loved kayaking and exploring the area. The Vessel Restaurant is a must-try! The food was amazing and the views from the patio made every meal feel extra special. This resort has the perfect balance of luxury and laid-back beach vibes. Highly recommend for anyone visiting San Diego. We can’t wait to come back! Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Kona Kai Resort - Amazing Experience!

Jul 18, 2025 Mary M

From start to finish, our experience at Kona Kai Resort was absolutely amazing! The location is stunning, right on the water with the most beautiful views! The rooms were spotless, stylish, and incredibly comfortable, with thoughtful touches and a peaceful vibe. We loved waking up and overlooking the marina. In the evenings, we cozied up around… Read more
From start to finish, our experience at Kona Kai Resort was absolutely amazing! The location is stunning, right on the water with the most beautiful views! The rooms were spotless, stylish, and incredibly comfortable, with thoughtful touches and a peaceful vibe. We loved waking up and overlooking the marina. In the evenings, we cozied up around the resort's fire pits with the s’mores kit. There’s also plenty to do during the day. We loved the kayaks and the jet skis. One of the highlights of our stay was dining at Vessel Restaurant—the food was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The atmosphere was both elegant and welcoming, and the views from the patio were incredible. This resort has everything: charm, comfort, great food, and so many unique amenities. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Kona Kai is the place to be. We’re already dreaming about our next trip back! Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating My Stay at Kona Kai Resort on Shelter Island

Jul 16, 2025 techiecoupons

Kona Kai is a beautiful, resort-style retreat offering tropical vibes, waterfront views, family‑friendly pools, and fun water activities. It’s ideal for guests wanting relaxation and island charm while still being close to San Diego’s main attractions.
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Wonderful family vacation

Jul 15, 2025 Kelly R

Our trip was a refreshing getaway, made even better by the clean and spacious accommodations that provided plenty of room for the whole family. Traveling with three kids can be a challenge, but they were thrilled by the amenities—especially the pool, where they spent hours playing and relaxing. One of the biggest highlights was the stunning view… Read more
Our trip was a refreshing getaway, made even better by the clean and spacious accommodations that provided plenty of room for the whole family. Traveling with three kids can be a challenge, but they were thrilled by the amenities—especially the pool, where they spent hours playing and relaxing. One of the biggest highlights was the stunning view of the harbor, filled with all kinds of interesting boats that kept the kids fascinated. The setting was peaceful and family-friendly, making it the perfect backdrop for quality time together. A relaxing, fun-filled experience that struck the right balance for everyone. Read less