Hotels in Kensington

Kensington: Where Urban Charm Meets Coastal Serenity

Kensington, nestled in the heart of San Diego, is a charming neighborhood brimming with character and community spirit. This enchanting locale boasts tree-lined streets adorned with historic Craftsman homes, offering a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls. Visitors can explore unique boutiques, cozy cafes, and vibrant local eateries, all while soaking in the laid-back Southern California vibe. With nearby urban parks and easy access to downtown attractions, Kensington serves as a delightful off-the-beaten-path escape. Experience the perfect blend of culture, history, and modern living in this hidden gem of San Diego.

Discover great hotels in Kensington

Kensington, San Diego offers a range of accommodation options, from cozy boutique hotels to upscale stays. You’ll find inviting spaces with easy access to local attractions, parks, and dining. Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere in this charming neighborhood, perfect for a laid-back getaway. Here are some of the best hotels in Kensington that our travelers love:

1. Days Inn by Wyndham Mission Valley/SDSUOpens in a new window: This charming 2.0-star hotel embraces an LGBTQIA welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for leisure travelers seeking a vibrant and inclusive vacation experience. With its stylish design and inviting common areas, visitors appreciate the warm ambiance that fosters connection and enjoyment. The property’s focus on comfort and community creates a delightful environment for those wishing to explore the local culture and nightlife, allowing for a memorable getaway in Kensington.
2. Rodeway Inn San Diego Near SDSUOpens in a new window: This adventurous 2.0-star hotel caters to thrill-seeking leisure travelers with a plethora of exciting activities nearby. Guests can indulge in various adventure sports such as mountain biking, windsurfing, and snorkeling, ensuring an action-packed stay. The hotel features a business center, making it versatile for those mixing work with play. Visitors enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere, as well as the availability of amenities that enhance their overall experience, making it a perfect choice for those looking to blend relaxation with adventure.
3. Navajo LodgeOpens in a new window: Designed for pet-loving travelers, this 2.0-star hotel is a welcoming haven for those wanting to enjoy a getaway with their furry companions. With a friendly pet policy, the property ensures a comfortable stay for both guests and their pets, allowing them to explore the Kensington area together. Travelers appreciate the inviting atmosphere and the accommodations that cater to their needs, resulting in a delightful experience that celebrates the bond between pets and their owners.

Top locations to stay in Kensington

When staying in Kensington, San Diego, California, United States of America, you’ll find yourself near Balboa Park, San Diego State University, and Hotel Circle. Balboa Park offers cultural attractions and outdoor activities, San Diego State University provides vibrant campus life and events, while Hotel Circle features numerous accommodations and dining options. For first-time visitors, staying near Balboa Park is ideal for its diverse experiences.

1. Near Balboa ParkOpens in a new window: Staying near Balboa Park places you in the heart of San Diego’s cultural scene. This expansive park is home to world-class museums, beautiful gardens, and stunning architecture. You can easily explore the San Diego Zoo, enjoy a performance at the Old Globe Theater, or take a leisurely stroll through the park's picturesque paths. Plus, with a variety of shopping options nearby, including Fashion Valley Mall, you’ll have everything you need within reach.
2. Near San Diego State UniversityOpens in a new window: Staying near San Diego State University offers a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of local charm. This area is close to cultural attractions such as the San Diego Civic Theatre, where you can catch exciting performances. The nearby shopping spots, like Mission Valley Mall, provide a range of retail experiences. You’ll also find beautiful outdoor spaces perfect for relaxation and recreation.
3. Near Hotel CircleOpens in a new window: If you stay near Hotel Circle, you’re in a prime location to access a variety of attractions and amenities. This area is convenient for shopping at places like Little Saigon and Mission Valley Mall. It’s also close to cultural hotspots such as the Balboa Park Carousel, offering a fun and nostalgic experience. With easy access to major highways, exploring the greater San Diego area is a breeze.

Things to do near Kensington

Kensington offers a delightful blend of urban parks, sandy beaches, and vibrant entertainment options. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls through lush greenery, indulge in shopping sprees, or catch a live performance at an arena. With educational opportunities nearby, it's a perfect spot for family fun and relaxation.

• Mission BayOpens in a new window – Enjoy a day of sun and fun at Mission Bay, where you can indulge in various water activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply lounging on the sandy shores. The bay's tranquil waters make it an ideal spot for families, offering picnic areas and playgrounds for kids to explore. Don’t forget to take a stroll along the scenic paths that wind through this beautiful waterfront area.
• Mission BeachOpens in a new window – Just a short distance from Mission Bay, Mission Beach invites you to soak up the sun on its lively beach. With its bustling boardwalk, you can rent bikes or rollerblades, grab a bite at beachside eateries, or take a dip in the ocean. The atmosphere is vibrant, making it a great place for people-watching and enjoying the coastal vibes.
• Balboa ParkOpens in a new window – Spend an afternoon in Balboa Park, home to stunning gardens and remarkable architecture. This expansive park offers a beautiful setting for a leisurely walk or a picnic, with plenty of spots to relax and take in the scenery. Explore the many cultural institutions located within the park, showcasing art, science, and history in a serene environment.
• Hotel CircleOpens in a new window – As you navigate through San Diego, don’t miss Hotel Circle, a central hub for accommodations. This street is lined with a variety of hotels, making it a convenient base for your adventures in the area. Plus, its proximity to attractions ensures you're never far from the action, whether you’re headed to the beach or a local attraction.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Kensington

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Kensington is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices are typically lower. For those looking to explore the area's rich landmarks and cultural heritage, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. This duration allows visitors to appreciate key sites such as historic buildings, urban parks, and monuments, all while enjoying great value for money. Plus, during these months, prices may drop even further, making it an ideal time for travelers on a budget to experience Kensington's attractions.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals in Kensington, start by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Enabling email alerts or push notifications can keep you informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, so you could find the best options for your stay. This way, if prices drop or new rooms become available, you'll be among the first to know for your last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay at a Kensington hotel. If you're in search of something distinctive, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized experience and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you whether the price for your selected dates is above or below average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll recommend alternative dates that could help you find a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to popular attractions or downtown areas can be convenient, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, look for hotels in neighborhoods that are a bit farther away, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you want to visit. You might also consider independent hotels located outside the main areas, which can offer a more authentic experience at a budget-friendly price.
5. Become a Member: Join our membership program for free and start planning your next stay in Kensington! Enjoy exclusive member prices on over 100,000 hotels worldwide, ensuring you get the best deals possible. As a member, you'll have the opportunity to advance through various tiers and unlock fantastic perks, including complimentary room upgrades (when available) and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties. Don't miss out on these amazing benefits—sign up today and start saving on your travels!

Best time to go to Kensington

Kensington has a varied climate due to its size, so the best time to visit depends on the region and your preferences for weather and crowds. The peak travel months to visit Kensington are March, April, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny to mostly sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. In contrast, January, November, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no to light rainfall and sunny to mostly sunny conditions.