If the beach is the main reason you come to San Diego, then staying on the beach is probably a priority as well. There are also several hotels scattered around Mission Bay. Places like the Catamaran, the Bahia, the Hilton, Paradise Point and the Dana. They are not in the ocean, but they are in the water and often cater to families. Staying right on the beach is going to be the most expensive, in places like La Jolla, even more. But there are still many other options. There are several places within walking distance of the water and they tend to be a bit cheaper. So be sure to check around.

Another option near the beach is rentals. They are usually rented by the week, so if you’re only here for a day or two, that’s not an option. But if it’s you and your family, weekly rentals can save you some money. They are delivered fully furnished and with kitchen utensils. You can save some money by making your own meals and keeping the kids happy. If you decide to stay at an oceanfront hotel, be sure to ask where your room is. You don’t want to arrive and expect an ocean view only to find yourself in a back room looking out over the parking lot.

Downtown has tons of hotels. All the major chains are located there, and there are a number of smaller hotels throughout the center. Downtown, of course, has nightlife, and if the reason for your visit is business or a convention, then downtown is probably where you want to be.

Mission Valley and Old Town is another area with a concentration of hotels. Some smaller conventions are also held at a couple of the larger facilities. Room prices tend to be a bit lower than in the center and the beaches. If you plan on doing a lot of driving anyway, Mission Valley and Old Town might work for you.

Once you’ve decided where to stay, making a reservation is easy. With any of the national chains, you can call their 800 numbers. Most aggregators, like Orbitz and Priceline, can also give you deals on many of the hotels. But understand that many of the hotels in San Diego, especially on the beaches, are small and not part of a chain and do not deal with aggregators. You will want to call them directly. Calling any hotel in San Diego also has other advantages. very often that is the way to get a good deal. Just remember that during the summer months and major conventions like Comic-Con, hotels will be packed. Calling the hotel directly may be the only way to get a room.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask about discounts. Most hotels offer deals to auto club members or members of certain retiree groups. Military families also often have a break in San Diego. So ask.