San Diego Neighborhoods
Explore our guide to the must-visit neighborhoods in San Diego.
San Diego offers a variety of places to visit, like historic Balboa Park and charming Little Italy. With so many family-friendly activities in San Diego, you’ll never have to worry about keeping the kids entertained. Speak to our expert concierge service for suggestions, ideas, tips and a helping hand in arranging things to do near Kona Kai.
WANT MORE IDEAS?
Best of San Diego
Water Sports
SeaWorld® Vacation
San Diego Zoo
Point Loma
Kona Kai San Diego’s closest neighbor, Point Loma, is the go-to spot to take in a stunning SoCal sunset, hike or watch the waves crashing off the cliffs. The area is home to the Cabrillo National Monument, which commemorates the arrival of the Spanish in 1542, and the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, the highest lighthouse in the world. Spend some time with nature by exploring protected area tidal pools, catching waves at the various surf breaks or walking the one mile trail.
Historic Old Town
Featuring museums, art galleries and restaurants, the San Diego Historic Old Town also offers modern day attractions. Old Town features authentic Mexican food, along with historic (and haunted) houses. Be sure to stop and watch the tortilla making and bring some home to enjoy.
Distance: 4.6 miles or 17 minutes
Gaslamp Quarter
The San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, located in the historic heart of San Diego, features a variety of shops, boutiques, restaurants and nightclubs. A highlight of the nightlife is the abundance of rooftop bars with amazing views. This area is a great stop on the way to a Padres game.
Seaport Village
Explore 14 acres of waterfront shopping, dining and entertainment in the heart of San Diego. Recreating a harbor-side setting from 100 years ago, Seaport Village includes 54 unique shops, 13 casual dining eateries and 4 fine dining waterfront restaurants.
Little Italy
Once home to San Diego’s flourishing tuna fishing industry and generations of Italian families who made their living on the sea, Little Italy is a quaint and lively neighborhood filled with patio cafés, restaurants, pubs, art galleries, shops and the beautiful Amici Park.
Balboa Park
With 15 major museums, renowned performing arts venues, beautiful gardens and the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park has an ever-changing calendar of exhibitions, plays, musicals, concerts and classes. The best way to start your journey through Balboa Park is with a stop at the Balboa Park Visitors Center. Open from 9:30 am – 4:30 pm, the Visitors Center offers brochures, maps, audio tours, free guided tours of the Park, transportation information, dining advice, and more.
Distance: 8.5 miles or 17 minutes (next to the SD Zoo)
What to do in San Diego
Whether you want to explore it all – or relax on our private beach – you’ll find the perfect vacation in San Diego.
What to do in San Diego
Whether you want to explore it all – or relax on our private beach – you’ll find the perfect vacation in San Diego.
PACKAGES & OFFERS
Park it in Paradise
Jumping in your car to San Diego? Take advantage of this exclusive offer to save on parking and resort fees. Endless fun and relaxation await you when you park here in paradise!
Gift Cards Now Available
Give the gift of adventure, relaxation and marina-front dining in San Diego. Gift cards for Kona Kai San Diego, Vessel and SpaTerre are now available for purchase.
ADDRESS
Kona Kai San Diego Resort
1551 Shelter Island Dr
San Diego, CA 92106
Map & Directions
HOTEL DIRECT
ROOM RESERVATIONS
AWARDS & PRESS
#11 Best San Diego Resort
U.S. News & World Report, 2025
Top 500 Hotels in the World
Travel + Leisure, 2023
