
Cottages in San Diego
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Top-rated vacation rentals in San Diego
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Apartments in San Diego

State & Fir (Little Italy Loft, Free Parking)
Thank you for your speedy communication! I appreciated our stay and would stay here again.

Anna’s modern & private San Diego guest studio!
We had everything we needed. We appreciated having the kitchenette. Parking was easy. The space was just right for two of us and we were able to relax each day after sightseeing. I enjoyed reading one of the books Anna had stocked in the room. Anna was easy to get a hold of and gave us recs for sites and restaurants.

Modern & Relaxing Get-away | 1BR w/ Full Kitchen
Beautiful & private, this was the perfect spot for our visit to San Diego! Would definitely book again!

Private Studio close by North Park
JB and Ana were great hosts and were wonderfully accommodating. This was a great private room in a very convenient location. I was definitely satisfied with my experience, especially the ease of check-in/out.

Hillcrest #1 Cozy Private Balcony ZenGarden Garage
Staying at wade’s was amazing. I felt comfortable in the neighborhood and in the retreat as well! Quiet and peaceful, bed was so comfortable I slept like a rock. Would highly recommend staying at Wade’s retreats!

Calm Luxury Penthouse Getaway With Panoramic Views
I highly recommend Jessica’s place. It was clean, well stocked with everything one would need for a lengthy stay, and nicer and bigger than the photos. Great view of downtown, little Italy and the water from the huge patio that had ample seating. Jessica was a very friendly, responsive and accommodating host. The elevator has access directly into the suite which made going in and out very convenient. The area felt very safe and there are many restaurants and cafes nearby. While it was close to the airport and had airplanes flying by, the noise was minimal and not at all a problem at night. My only suggestion for guests is to bring sleep masks if you plan on sleeping on the bunk beds as that area does not have dark/black out blinds and is bright in the morning. All in all a great stay and would come back in a heartbeat.

Rustic Oceanfront Beach Pad
This place was an absolute gem. Waking up to the sound of the waves and being able to walk everywhere made our stay so relaxing. It's the kind of spot where the beach feels like your backyard and adventure is always just around the corner. Falling asleep to the ocean breeze was pure magic. All in all, a fantastic escape — we’d recommend it in a heartbeat.

Cozy Casita in Ocean Beach
For my family, in addition to cleanliness, its the little things that make an Airbnb comfortable. Multiple mirrors so we can all be getting ready at the same time, plenty of towels, lots of hooks/places to put belongings, enough kitchenware that I can make a meal for my family. Brian's casita had it all.
Vacation rentals in San Diego

LOFT: Detached Cottage with Patio
Great location and very walkable. This was a very cheerful and fun place to stay, as well as extremely comfortable. I loved how bright and airy it was, not to mention it being peaceful. I cannot wait to stay here again.

Spacious, private Mt. Helix country style studio
Absolutely worth it. Beautiful place. Cozy with gorgeous gardens. Also a nice welcome touch of bowl of fruits, chocolates and plenty to drink. Loved it.

Skyline Terrace by the Sea (Pt. Loma, Ocean Beach)
Melissa’s place was super cute and a great place for my fiancé and I. Had all the amenities you would need and was in a quiet neighborhood with easy and accessible parking. It’s about a 1.5-2 mile hilly walk to the beach/Ocean Beach/restaurant area so I wouldn’t say it’s in a super walkable neighborhood but we had a rental car so it was easy for us to get around. Melissa’s guide book was amazing and we went to several of the recommended spots. This would be a great choice if you’re wanting to explore lots of areas of San Diego as it is centrally located and close proximity to highways.

Rancho Relaxo / Spacious Detached Guest House
my daughter and I stayed at Susie and Britt's poolhouse for 6 nights when we were in the San Diego area for a wedding. At first we thought we would look for a beach rental but then heard that it can be foggy on the coast during May and June and going 5 miles inland can make a big difference with weather. we looked in Rancho Sante Fe because that we where the wedding venue was located and we really hit the jackpot! Everything is just as described- very relaxing times in the jacuzzi and by the fire pit in the evenings. The travel to the surrounding SanDiego sights was super easy. Highly recommend this rental!!!

Dreamy Spanish Style North Park Home w/ Hot Tub
Beautiful Home! My kids loved the Backyard along with all the games. My Man loved the Condiments & Kitchen He said You guys had the right equipments I loved the jacuzzi.

A 'Suite' Garage Loft in the Heart of South Park
Wonderful stay! Great neighborhood that’s walkable to many eating/shopping options. Would definitely recommend staying! Great hosts!

Beach Front Condo - Capri by the Sea - Remodeled
We had an amazing stay at Nicklas’s place in San Diego! The condo is beautifully renovated and right on the waterfront—waking up to those ocean views was such a treat. The kitchen and bathroom were fully stocked with everything we needed, making our stay super comfortable and convenient. You can tell a lot of thought has gone into making the space feel like a true home away from home. We would absolutely love to stay here again in the future. Highly recommend!

A modern light-filled home with views of the woods
Absolutely incredible stay! I cannot say enough good things about this Airbnb! From the moment we arrived, everything was spotless, beautifully decorated, and thoughtfully prepared. The host went above and beyond to make us feel welcome—fresh towels, cozy bedding, and even some local recommendations that ended up being trip highlights. The location was perfect—close to everything, but still peaceful and private. It truly felt like a home away from home. I’ve stayed in a lot of Airbnbs, and this was easily one of the best. Highly recommend and would 100% stay again!
Beachfront cottage rentals in San Diego

Beach Bungalow on the Sand & Sea - Cottage #23
this was a wonderful little vacation spot. the location really can't be beat and aja was extraordinarily responsive. this is my second time staying in this cabin and I will definitely be back!

New! 1 bd/1 ba Beach Front Bungalow
My friend and I, and my golden retriever enjoyed our time at this house. The proximity to the dog each and restaurants was great! No need to drive anywhere once you arrive. Definitely want to stay here again, great use of the space. The Murphy bed in the bedroom is a twin (photos look smaller) and mattresses were very comfy. This is near a lot of foot traffic and the dog beach parking lot with overnight parkers. You will hear outside and airplane noise but it was not an issue for us, we slept with the windows open.

Renovated Central Beach House w AC, Steps to Beach
We loved our stay at Hans’ place in Ocean Beach. Hans was super responsive and sent us great instructions for arrival and departure. The house was just as we expected from the listing. You couldn’t get a better location if you are wanting to spend a lot of time at the beach and walk to local restaurants. It was also super quick to get to the zoo. My kids loved the sand toys that were at the listing! The air traffic in Ocean Beach is definitely no joke, but it does stop at night and with the sound machines we brought, it did not wake us up when it started back up in the morning. We would definitely stay here again!

Oceanfront Cottage ON Beach w/ Prvt. Yard & Garage
This is my second stay, with my son, and it was great! We had a great time, great place to stay, great communication, great recommendations. We absolutely love it here! The warm outdoor shower and the view is the best!! Thank you for the great stay, as always! we hope to be back soon!

Walk to Beach & Village-AC-King Beds
We had a wonderful stay! The location was perfect just a short walk to the beach, which made everything so easy with our toddler. Judy really thought of everything: from bedside chargers with USB ports to extra towels, bedding, and a full set of beach gear. The space was clean, cozy, and incredibly well-stocked. Our toddler especially loved the adjustable play furniture such a thoughtful touch! We’d absolutely stay here again.

Yellow 2-Bedroom Cottage Steps to The Beach
This is our third year staying here with our grandkids and they ask every year to go back to Yellow House 😊 we love it and cant wait for next year.

726 Steps to the Sand-Upscale Beach Cottage
First and foremost thank you for the hosts for the local suggestions and most importantly the hospitality into their home. Being able to stay in a peaceful and mellow area while being able to be so close to the waves of the ocean was one of the best experiences. Not only is it surrounded by good food but also by amazing experiences that the person has to look for. Overall a 10/10 experience and I would recommend. One of the only exceptions would be the parking situation but it’s understandable for the capacity of the neighborhood surroundings.

Perfection! Steps to the Sand w/ Air Conditioning!
The cottage was as beautiful as the pictures. It was very comfortable, with ac and great hot water and an antique bath tub . It truly felt like home. We were 4 adult women and were very happy with the space; 3 bedrooms . The beds were comfy.We lacked nothing. There was even a first aid kid which came in handy. Thank you! The neighborhood location is superb; on the Bay side and a couple of blocks away from the beach. We did a lot of walking to Trader Joe’s nearby, experiencing local restaurants and shopping…and we also uber into town, La Jolla, Old Town, San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, and The Friendship Japanese Gardens. The cottage is also nearby public transportation and has a garage which we did not use but is a rare amenity in San Diego. We had a wonderful time at Molly‘s and would love to come back! Thanks again!
Quick stats about vacation rentals in San Diego
Total rentals
20K properties
Total number of reviews
1.1M reviews
Family-friendly rentals
10K properties are a good fit for families
Pet-friendly rentals
6.6K properties allow pets
Rentals with a pool
4.9K properties have a pool
Rentals with dedicated workspaces
11K properties have a dedicated workspace
Your guide to San Diego
Introduction
Laidback surf-town vibes meet a buzzing metropolitan center in San Diego, a city situated on the Pacific coast just 15 miles from California’s southern border. Catch your first wave at Mission Bay and follow it up with a tasting flight at one of the 150 local craft breweries. Neighborhoods such as La Jolla and the Gaslamp Quarter offer trendy dining experiences that visitors expect from the Golden State, but San Diego’s abundance of sandy beaches and outdoor spaces such as Balboa Park encourage you to slow down and enjoy the sunshine. Resist the temptation to cram everything into one vacation, and savor the relaxed demeanor that permeates San Diego.
The best time to stay in a vacation rental in San Diego
San Diego’s climate remains relatively moderate year-round: Highs hover between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and lows only dip down to the mid-40s in winter. After the gray, overcast skies of June Gloom clear away, the air becomes more humid than average through September. Late summer and early fall bring ideal conditions for experienced surfers as the Santa Ana winds kick up, but pay attention to local weather reports, as the Santa Anas also increase wildfire risk in Southern California. During all seasons, be sure to pack layers — after spending all day in the sun, you may want a light jacket to stave off the slight evening chill.
Top things to do in San Diego
Balboa Park
Encapsulating 17 museums, 19 gardens, a 100-year-old carousel, and even a miniature train, Balboa Park can feel like its own city. Highlights include the Botanical Building, one of the largest wooden lath structures in the world, the San Diego Natural History Museum, and the open-air Spreckels Organ Pavilion, home to a 5,000-pipe organ, the world’s largest.
Old Town
This small, stroller-friendly neighborhood offers opportunities to soak up Spanish Colonial architecture, pop into boutique shops, and treat your dog to lunch on a pet-friendly restaurant patio. Fans of thrills and chills should visit the Whaley House Museum, considered by some the most haunted house in the United States.
Mission Bay
Head to Mission Bay for equipment rentals and lessons in sailing, kayaking, waterskiing, and more. Bordering the bay is Ocean Beach and Pacific Beach, both ideal spots to learn how to surf. While in the area, check out Mission Beach to watch X Games hopefuls at the skatepark and take a spin on a 95-year-old wooden roller coaster at an oceanfront theme park.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the weather in San Diego?
San Diego enjoys a mild, Mediterranean climate. Summers typically see temperatures around 75°F (24°C), while winters hover around 50°F (10°C) with occasional rainfall. Its sunny year-round weather makes it perfect for outdoor activities at any time of year.
What are some of the best things to do in San Diego?
In San Diego, visitors enjoy exploring its historic sites such as Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, relaxing at its numerous beaches such as La Jolla Cove, and experiencing thrilling outdoor activities like surfing and paddleboarding. Animal lovers also appreciate visiting the Birch Aquarium and SeaWorld San Diego.
What is the best time of year to visit San Diego?
San Diego is typically most visited in the summer months, particularly from June to August, when the weather is warm and the city hosts the San Diego County Fair and Comic-Con International. However, the mild climate makes it a pleasant destination year-round.
What are the best places to stay in San Diego?
Popular places to stay in San Diego include Downtown, known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse dining scene, and La Jolla, loved for its picturesque beaches and upscale boutiques. Pacific Beach is also popular among those seeking a laid-back beach vibe.
What are the best places to visit in San Diego?
Some frequently suggested places to visit in San Diego include Balboa Park, home to numerous museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo, and the USS Midway Museum, a historical naval aircraft carrier museum. The Gaslamp Quarter, a dynamic downtown neighborhood with Victorian architecture, is also often recommended.
What are some hiking trails in San Diego?
San Diego has a variety of hiking trails for different fitness levels. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve has scenic trails overlooking the Pacific Ocean, while the 6 mile (9.6 km) Cowles Mountain trail offers panoramic views of the city. For a more leisurely hike, the flat trail around Lake Miramar is a great choice.
What are some family activities to do in San Diego?
San Diego is filled with family-friendly activities. You can explore the interactive exhibits at the New Children's Museum, embark on a safari adventure at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, or discover marine life at the Birch Aquarium. The LEGOLAND California Resort also provides a fun-filled day for families.
What are some of the best day trip ideas in San Diego?
Day trip ideas from San Diego include a visit to the artistic town of Julian, famous for its apple pies, or a trip to the Temecula Valley for hot air ballooning and horseback riding. For a nature escape, a visit to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park or the Cabrillo National Monument is often recommended.
Are there vacation rentals near San Diego's top attractions?
You're in luck! Stay at the heart of it all with our vacation rentals near San Diego's top attractions. We offer over 18,270 vacation rentals near San Diego Zoo, over 18,080 vacation rentals near Balboa Park December Nights, over 18,110 vacation rentals near Balboa Park, over 18,070 vacation rentals near Balboa Park (San Diego) station, and over 6,850 vacation rentals near Torrey Pines State Reserve, and so much more! Experience the best of San Diego right on your doorstep.
What types of vacation rentals are available in San Diego?
Uncover the perfect home-away-from-home with our diverse selection of vacation rentals in San Diego. From over 4,280 apartment rentals, over 2,820 condo rentals, over 8,250 house rentals to over 300 cottage rentals, we've got you covered. For even more variety, explore our Airbnb Categories to find the ideal space for your getaway.
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