San Diego
When? 1 room, 1 guest

Kona Kai Resort and Spa

San Diego, California

8.1 Moderate Deluxe
Select dates for prices
Check-in/Check-out

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About the Hotel

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.

Location

Kona Kai Resort and Spa
1551 Shelter Island Drive
San Diego, California 92106

Nearest Airport: SAN

Amenities & Services

  • Pool
  • Spa
  • Childcare
  • Fitness Center
  • Restaurant
  • Bicycles Available
  • Bar/Lounge
  • Room Service
  • Pet-Friendly Rooms
  • Kids Club/Programs
  • Beach Access
  • Marina Access
  • Hot Tub
  • EV Charging

Reviews for Kona Kai Resort and Spa

Horrible experience at the Kona Kai Resort

TripAdvisor Traveler Review Rating Reviewed 3 days ago

Besides the attitude problems I encountered with two front desk employees, to not getting my critical medication delivered to my room, to walking through bushes to get to my room per instruction by the front desk reception at arrival, to seeing cockroaches in the hallway late at night, to hearing about a rat running across a colleague's balcony, to not having the phone repaired in the room that I stayed in, to having a tub that wouldn't drain, to not having table clothes over the long desk tables throughout the conference in rooms of Point Loma where my arms would get scratched and clothing getting snagged along the edges of the tables, to having no manager on site for two days without a backup manager to address my credit card application questions and other concerns, to being given the wrong information by an untrained front desk rude woman, I will never recommend this place to anyone, ever. The worst stay of any motel, resort, or hotel chain I've been to, and I have stayed at Motel 6's to the Ritz-Carlton's across the USA. In my opinion, one is better off at another facility that knows how to treat their guests with respect and has back up plans for when manager's go off on vacation for days at a time.

Carmen D


Perfect place to stay when exploring San Diego

TripAdvisor Traveler Review Rating Reviewed 1 week ago

I had a wonderful stay at this property. The location was excellent and very easy to get to, especially if you’re new to the area. The staff was friendly and welcoming, and the rooms were clean and comfortable. I also appreciated the thoughtful bathroom amenities. Everything was provided, including toiletries, a blow dryer, and even a magnifying mirror, which was especially helpful. The neighborhood was another highlight. There were beautiful picnic and seating areas where you could take a walk or jog along the harbor while enjoying the stunning views. You may even spot a seal, whale, or dolphin while you’re out exploring. There’s also a statue commemorating the area’s tuna fishermen, which offers a fascinating glimpse into San Diego’s history. Overall, the convenient location, friendly staff, cleanliness, thoughtful amenities, and beautiful harbor surroundings made for a very enjoyable stay. I would definitely recommend this property to anyone visiting San Diego.

Tammie J


Relaxing stay

TripAdvisor Traveler Review Rating Reviewed 1 week ago

We had a great stay! The room was clean, the bed was super comfortable, and the location was beautiful and quiet. Bino at the front desk was wonderful—so friendly and helpful with all our questions. We’d definitely stay here again!

Carey M - Vancouver, Washington


Great Stay at Kona Kai

TripAdvisor Traveler Review Rating Reviewed 1 week ago

Kona Kai has the most friendly staff of any hotel I have ever been to. They do a great job of making you feel welcome and make sure your stay is fun and relaxing. The rooms are perfect and have great views no matter what side of the hotel you are on. Joesph who works there is the absolute best and did an amazing job of making my friends and I feel welcome. I will definitely be coming back to stay at Kona Kai. Kyler A.

Kyler A


Be aware of extras

TripAdvisor Traveler Review Rating Reviewed 1 week ago

Beautiful resort and great location! Don’t expect a welcoming service, you are not greeted but pointed to the machines to check you in, after few tries was told it rarely work. I understand the idea of moving to modern times but the warm welcome by staff if no longer there. Room was nice and clean, but be aware that water bottles in the room aren’t free, although no signs indicate otherwise. Also if you find a stuff toy in your room, also not free but a bait to buy? AC is extremely loud, enough to wake you up.

Gina C - Calgary, Canada


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