How to Find Cheap Hotels in San Diego

With plenty to do for families and couples alike, San Diego is known for attractions such as the Gaslamp Quarter, Coronado, Little Italy, the San Diego Zoo and Sea World. It's also a good starting point for hiking, camping or fishing in the nearby Anza Borrego Desert State Park or a visit to one of the 20-plus local wineries. Accommodations in San Diego range from budget hostels and motels to five-star luxury resorts, and lodging can be expensive, especially in the Gaslamp District, La Jolla and Coronado. It is possible to get a good room at a great price with some money-saving tricks.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step 1

Compare rates online. Websites like Expedia, Priceline and Travelocity all can compare rates across dozens of San Diego hotels. Check back often to take advantage of special deals and track the best rates.

Step 2

Go last minute. The Wotif website offers rates up to 50 percent off on last-minute hotel bookings in San Diego. You won't see a deal on every hotel in town, but expect to choose from a good selection of two- to five-star hotels. You can book up to two weeks in advance, but the best deals are offered 24 to 48 hours ahead of your visit.

Step 3

Be flexible with dates. San Diego is popular with convention groups, which can bring thousands of visitors to the city at once. It also hosts popular events like the Dixieland Jazz Festival in November and Comic Con in July. Look to stay midweek or choose a weekend without a major event.

Step 4

Widen your search. The most expensive San Diego Hotels are downtown, in and around the Gaslamp Quarter. You'll find a better deal in Old Town, the historic center of the city, or Hotel Circle, which is close to Sea World and Mission Bay.

Step 5

Use a coupon. The San Diego Convention & Visitors Bureau's website offers coupons for popular San Diego hotels, hostels and bed and breakfasts. Deals include discounted rates, free nights or room upgrades. While you're there, find coupons for restaurants, tours and attractions like Sea World and the San Diego Zoo.

Step 6

Watch for hidden costs. Expect to pay a 10.5 percent occupation tax when you stay in a San Diego hotel. You'll find some hotels also charge extra for parking, Internet and phone services, so factor these costs into your final rate. Hotels in Hotel Circle generally offer free parking, but you'll find fewer options for affordable dining.

Article Written By Hailey Williams

Hailey Williams is a freelance writer and editor from Los Angeles, California. She has a particular interest in culture, lifestyle, health, and women's interest reporting, and her work has been published in magazines including TV Week and Sugar. She graduated from the University of Sydney.

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