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Set on 11 acres of tropical gardens at the tip of Shelter Island, Kona Kai Resort & Spa offers a laid-back luxury escape that feels worlds away from the bustle of downtown San Diego. The waterfront resort combines Southern California's relaxed coastal lifestyle with upscale amenities, featuring a private beach, marina, lush landscaped grounds, and panoramic views of San Diego Bay. Guest rooms and suites embrace a contemporary coastal aesthetic, with many offering private balconies, marina or bay views, and spacious layouts designed to maximize the resort’s idyllic waterfront setting. Guests can spend their days lounging at either the family-friendly pool or the adults-only Paloma Pool, enjoying private cabanas, exploring the bay by bike, or simply unwinding amid the resort’s serene island atmosphere.
The resort’s dining and wellness experiences further enhance its appeal for luxury travelers. Vessel Restaurant + Bar serves coastal-inspired cuisine with sweeping waterfront views, while poolside bars provide cocktails and casual fare throughout the day. At SpaTerre, guests can indulge in personalized massages, facials, and wellness treatments complemented by eucalyptus steam rooms, relaxation spaces, and a fully equipped fitness center.
Kona Kai Resort and Spa
1551 Shelter Island Drive
San Diego, California
92106
Nearest Airport: SAN
Great customer service by staff! Hotel advertises as a resort with a private beach, it does not have a private beach or even beach access, rooms and hotel is outdated. Beds are comfterable but not worth the price per night.
Wander408895 - Gilbert, a
Very beautiful and the tropical vibe was like paradise
Rochelle R
The Kona Kai is my favorite hotel in San Diego. It’s on the quiet side of Shelter Island with beautiful views. The rooms are well appointed and decorated. The beds are fantastic and the staff go out of their way to help you. The pools, jacuzzis, gym, restaurant all add to the great experience.
RockinLife007 - San Diego, California
Rooms-moldy and old (and bathroom still had hair from previous guest-gross!) Spa-as for Marvin. Amazingggg massage!! Dated locker room. Restaurant-vessel, food was ok. Waitress was not. Manager was so attentive! -bird poop is EVERYWHERE. Every pool chair, etc. it’s a real Problem. But I know it must be hard to manage being at the marina, but still no fun trying to find one chair that is somewhat clean. -front desk. Chewing was a badddd way to start a fun trip. He was rude. Leaving a totally different experience, older guy who was very sweet. -overall it’s about a 6/10. Parking is a real rip off which makes me want to never stay there again ($48/day!!) and for the dated “motel” style room with no view is also a real consideration.
W A - Orange county
My daughter booked our travel on Costco Travel. It was a great deal and a wonderful experience. Everything was clean, very well kept, and our favorite part was the fire pits. They are on every night and are very enjoyable. We would HIGHLY recommend this hotel to other guests.
JuliB09
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