Kona Kai Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort

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1551 Shelter Island Dr., San Diego, CA, 92106
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Poolside bars, bonfires on the beach, Vessel Burgers, an island vibe, and an ideal location are just a few things that make the Kona Kai Resort & Spa special.
Todd Sarouhan
Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means if you make purchases through them, I may be compensated at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
Kona Kai Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort
Prices starting at $189 / night
Kona Kai Resort & Spa
Overview of Kona Kai
Whats Nearby
Things to Know
Property Amenities
Parking
Rooms & Rates
Things to Do
Popular Activities
Neighborhood Beaches
Reserve a Room

Highlights

Rates
Amenities
To Do
Nearby
Rooms
Amenities
To Do
Nearby

A Stunning Vista Awaits You at Kona Kai Resort & Spa

Beach Cabanas at the Kona Kai Resort and SpaThe Lobby Even Has a Fireplace at the Kona Kai Resort and Spa

Are you looking for luxury on the waterfront in the Point Loma neighborhood of San Diego? Look no further than Kona Kai Resort & Spa.

This Noble House resort can be found on Shelter Island, a popular spot in part because of its deep-water marina that can accommodate large yachts. This property has all the amenities you would expect at a larger resort, even a Tesla charging station and full-service spa, yet its smaller size allows it to provide a more personal experience for its guests.

But beyond all its great features, do you want to know what really sets Kona Kai Resort & Spa apart from other hotels? Read on to hear my own take on what makes this hotel so special!

Beach and Waterfront Rooms at the Kona Kai Resort and Spa
Beach and Waterfront Rooms at the Kona Kai Resort and Spa

Amenities

With 171 rooms and suites at the hotel, you have your choice of water or resort views and all the creature comforts. The property has been recently renovated, updating the 60-year old resort with Southern California style, muted neutral hues, and wood accents. Most rooms have a private patio or balcony, and some include a fire pit, double-sided fireplace, or deep soaking tub.

Local Tips
Discover Point Loma
Enjoy walking under the Californian sun when travel meets history. Point Loma is home to Cabrillo National Monument, a park with trails, tide pools and exhibits on California history.

The welcoming staff have a full calendar of events to keep you and your family entertained, including live music, yoga, barre, and other fitness classes. In addition, Kona Kai has an adult-only quiet pool and a more family-friendly pool, each with its own cabana bar for a cool cocktail or quick snack.

For your meals, I say keep it simple and stay right on property. Dine at Vessel for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, or stop by during happy hour to unwind after a day on the water. Room service is also available if you prefer to dine al fresco on your balcony or in the privacy of your room.

The hotel features noteworthy event spaces. You can plan your meetings, corporate team-building event, or wedding at the hotel. You have a choice of indoor and outdoor space for any size occasion.

It’s also worth mentioning that Kona Kai Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort is listed as one of our top picks for the Best Luxury Hotels in San Diego!

Why You Should Consider Kona Kai Resort & Spa

It was hard to narrow down my favorite reasons why I love staying at this hotel, but here are my top five.

Lobby at the Kona Kai Resort and Spa
Lobby at the Kona Kai Resort and Spa

The Island Themed Lobby

When you first walk into the lobby, it’s perfectly laid out and a great place to come and relax in the mornings while you contemplate what you’re going to do with your day. The island theme is really fun and well put together.

Amazing Burger at the Vessel Restaurant Bar at the Kona Kai Resort and Spa
Amazing Burger at the Vessel Restaurant Bar at the Kona Kai Resort and Spa

The Vessel Burger

I really loved eating at the hotel’s very own restaurant, Vessel Restaurant + Bar, with its impressive views of San Diego Bay.

I recently tried their burger called the Vessel Burger and it is one of the best burgers I have had in quite a while.

Poolside Bar at the Kona Kai Resort and Spa
Poolside Bar at the Kona Kai Resort and Spa

Two Pools with Poolside Bars

I love that they have two beautiful swimming pools that are perfect for lounging. Both pools also have poolside bars with views of the Point Loma hills and the Kona Kai Marina!

Relax by the Fire Pits next to the Marina at the Kona Kai Resort and Spa
Relax by the Fire Pits next to the Marina at the Kona Kai Resort and Spa

Bonfires on the Beach

Alongside the harbor there is a private beach owned by the hotel that is a great place to have a bonfire at in the evening. My kids love roasting marshmallows over the fire while my wife and I love to listen to the crackling fire while enjoying the warm night sea breeze.

Main Square at El Prado in Balboa Park
Main Square at El Prado in Balboa Park

An Ideal Location

The hotel is perfect jumping off spot for going out and having fun! The resort feels out of the way - in a good way!

Located on Shelter Island, you can walk across the small street in front of the hotel and watch the huge boats go in and out of San Diego Bay. You are also very close to Balboa Park, the Embarcadero, Old Town San Diego, La Jolla, and Pacific Beach, just to mention a few of my favorite places nearby.

Kona Kai Resort & Spa
Prices starting at $189 / night

Journey with Todd to where the San Diego Bay meets Point Loma for a tour of Kona Kai Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort. Both luxurious and family-friendly, see Kona Kai's private beach, tiki bar and more.

Stay at the Kona Kai Resort & Spa

What's Nearby

Pacific Ocean
Pacific Ocean
8 min Drive
Old Town San Diego
Old Town San Diego
11 min Drive
SeaWorld San Diego
SeaWorld San Diego
13 min Drive
Cabrillo Nat. Monument
Cabrillo National Monument
13 min Drive
Balboa Park
Balboa Park
14 min Drive
Embarcadero
Embarcadero
14 min Drive
Gaslamp District
Gaslamp Quarter
16 min Drive
Petco Park
Petco Park
16 min Drive
Mission Bay Park
Mission Bay Park
18 min Drive
San Diego Zoo
San Diego Zoo
19 min Drive
Beach
Coronado Beach
28 min Drive
Park Hiking
Torrey Pines State Reserve
20 min Drive
Kona Kai Resort & Spa
Prices starting at $189 / night

Things to Know Before Arrival

Neighborhood Point Loma
Get up and close with the sea life while whale watching, or go jet skiing, kayaking, paddle boarding, or surfing. Experience the beaches on the peninsula.
Check In / Check Out
4:00 PM / 11:00 AM
Pet Policy
Dogs are welcome, with a limit of 2 per room and maximum weight of 100 lbs per pet. There's a charge of $75 per accommodation, per stay. Service animals are exempt from fees.
Resort Fee
$42.86 Includes: Pool access, Spa access (may be limited), Beach access, Beach loungers, Beach towels, Fitness center access, Fitness/yoga classes, Business center/computer access, Newspaper, Phone calls (may be limited), In-room safe, In-room coffee and WiFi access (may be limited)
Wifi
Free WiFi in Lobby & Rooms
Breakfast
Not Included
Property Size
170 Rooms

Property Amenities

Bar on Property
Bar on Property
Beachfront Hotel
Beachfront Hotel
Bellhop
Bellhop
Business Center
Business Center
Concierge Desk
Concierge Desk
Conference Center
Conference Center
EV Charger
EV Charger
Family Friendly
Family Friendly
Fitness Room
Fitness Room
Golf Nearby
Golf Nearby
Hotel Near Bay
Hotel Near Bay
Laundry
Laundry
Massage Services
Massage Services
Museum Nearby
Museum Nearby
Pets Allowed with Restrictions
Pets Allowed with Restrictions
Pool
Pool
Restaurant on Property
Restaurant on Property
Spa
Spa

Parking

Valet Parking
Valet Parking
Self Parking
Self Parking
EV Charging Station
EV Charging Station
$38 / day for Valet Parking
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$38 / day for Self Parking

Room Amenities

Air Conditioning
Air Conditioning
Crib
Crib
Daily Maid Service
Daily Maid Service
Flat Screen TV
Flat Screen TV
Handicapped Accessible
Handicapped Accessible
Iron
Iron
Mini Fridge
Mini Fridge
No Smoking
No Smoking
Phone in Room
Phone in Room
Roll Away Bed
Roll Away Bed
Room Service
Room Service
Safe Deposit Box in Rooms
Safe Deposit Box in Rooms
Getting Around
SAN Airport
SAN Airport
- 6 min Drive
Trolley
Trolley Station
- 12 min Drive
Cruise Port
Cruise Port
- 13 min Drive
This Month's Forecast
63°F / 78°F
Sunny in October
Nov
56°F / 73°F
Sunny in November
Dec
51°F / 68°F
Sunny in December
Jan
51°F / 67°F
Sunny in January

Rooms & Rates

Double guest room, Kona Kai Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort

The rooms and suites at this resort cater to guests who appreciate lavish touches. Each room has air conditioning, a flat-screen television, patio or balcony, private bathroom, mini-bar, refrigerator, and daily housekeeping. ADA-accessible rooms are on property as well.

Kona Kai Resort & Spa
Prices starting at $189 / night
Deluxe Room

These rooms have a king or two queens and resort view.

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Bay View Room

Enjoy the view of San Diego Bay from these rooms, which have a king or two queens.

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Marina View Room

These rooms have a king or two queens and face the marina.

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Waterfront Fireplace Junior Suite

This spacious room has an open floor plan with a sitting area, king bed, and a dual-sided fireplace opening to the patio or balcony.

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Deluxe Junior Suite

This roomy suite has an open floor plan with a sitting area, oversized soaking tub, and resort view.

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Bayview Junior Suite

This oversized room has an open floor plan with a sitting area, roomy soaking tub for two, and a view of the bay from the patio or balcony.

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Marina View Junior Suite

This large room has an open floor plan with a sitting area, wooden accents, oversized soaking tub, and a view of the marina.

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Fire Pit Junior Suite

This room features a private fire pit on the patio in addition to an open floor plan with sitting area, oversized soaking tub, and garden view.

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Kona Kai One-Bedroom Suite

This bay view suite has a separate living room with wet bar, a king bed, and two bathrooms.

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Water View One-Bedroom Suite

The most luxurious of the suites offers guests a marina view, separate living room with dining area, and dual-sided fireplace that opens to the bedroom, which has a king bed.

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Kona Kai Resort & Spa
Prices starting at $189 / night

Nearby Things to Do At and Around Kona Kai Resort & Spa

Kona Kai has plenty to do on site and nearby without having to leave Shelter Island or the Point Loma area. Downtown San Diego is a short drive away, and guests can explore as much of the city as their visit allows.

Here are just a few of the many activities you can enjoy.

Things to Do At the Hotel

Being situated right beside the San Diego Bay has a lot of perks, whether you’re looking for a fun day at the beach or wanting to enjoy a relaxing drink by the poolside.

Here are four of my favorite Kona Kai Resort & Spa activities you can enjoy without leaving the hotel.

View of Downtown San Diego from San Diego Bay
View of Downtown San Diego from San Diego Bay

The Beautiful San Diego Bay

San Diego Bay is your playground when you stay at this resort!

You’ll be treated to a private beach right outside, one of only a few in California. Reserve a cabana on the shore or by the pool for a special indulgence.

Beach cruisers are on site for guest use, and every evening, you can join your fellow guests for a bonfire.

Beautiful Decorations at the Vessel Restaurant Bar at the Kona Kai Resort and Spa
Beautiful Decorations at the Vessel Restaurant Bar at the Kona Kai Resort and Spa

Vessel Restaurant + Bar

Enjoy waterfront dining and Southern California cuisine with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean at Kona Kai Resort & Spa’s Vessel Restaurant + Bar. Remember, this is the restaurant with one of the best burgers in San Diego!

Adult Pool at the Kona Kai Resort and Spa
Adult Pool at the Kona Kai Resort and Spa

Adult-Only Fun with a View

Kona Kai Resort and Spa understands that not every vacationer brings along their family. I think the hotel is and incredible place for couples or staycationers to rest and recharge.

I say head to the pool and enjoy views of the Kona Kai Marina and the Point Loma hillside at one of the hotel’s two poolside bars, Paloma Pool and Bar and the Tiki Bar and Pool.

Nighttime Bonfires

Marshmallows, the smell of a fire and friends and family spending time together are all possibilities when you stay at Kona Kai Resort.

I love to relax by a crackling fire on the resort’s private beach while being surrounded by breathtaking views of Point Loma, Kona Kai Marina, and Southern California sunsets.

Things to Do Near the Hotel

Activities abound when you venture outside the Kona Kai Resort & Spa. Whether you’re a history lover, an adventure and thrill lover, a shopper or foodie, or an animal lover, there will be something to excite you nearby!

Here are my six favorite things to do not too far from the resort.

Beautiful June Day at La Jolla Cove
Beautiful June Day at La Jolla Cove

Decide on a Water Activities

Swimming, surfing, kayaking, and paddle boarding are all available on the beach or in nearby La Jolla Cove.

Kids Love Sailing in San Diego Bay
Kids Love Sailing in San Diego Bay

Try a New Adventure Tours

The marina can arrange pedal boats, sailing, jet skis, or power boat rentals. You can also charter a boat for deep-sea fishing or arrange a whale-watching tour through the concierge.

Main Lighthouse at Cabrillo National Monument
Main Lighthouse at Cabrillo National Monument

Learn About the Nearby History

Visit the Old Point Loma Lighthouse or hike to Cabrillo National Monument.

Fish Decorations at Seaworld San Diego
Fish Decorations at Seaworld San Diego

Go to a Theme Parka

Take your family to SeaWorld San Diego or LEGOLAND California for fun and adventure.

Enjoy the 2nd day FREE with this LEGOLAND® California Hopper Ticket! Save BIG when your 2nd visit occurs within 9 days of your 1st to LEGOLAND California, SEA LIFE Aquarium or the LEGOLAND Water Park.

Giraffes Reaching for Food at the San Diego Zoo
Giraffes Reaching for Food at the San Diego Zoo

Visit the San Diego Zoo or San Diego Zoo Safari Park

No trip to San Diego would be complete without a visit to the world-famous San Diego Zoo.

Featuring over 3,500 animals and 650 species, this zoo is the heart of Balboa Park. There are multiple exhibits & experiences for all ages to learn about animals and their habitats.

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a bit further out from Downtown San Diego in Escondido, but I must say it’s drive! I think the most notable thing to me may just be the amount of space they have at the Safari Park. They also have larger animals like elephants, giraffes, zebras and so much more!

Seaport Village in the Embarcadero of San Diego
Seaport Village in the Embarcadero of San Diego

Explore Downtown San Diego

With a stay at Kona Kai, you’re not far from the energy of the Downtown area neighborhoods.

For an easy way to get around, I recommend using the FRED Electric Shuttle service. From the theaters in Core Columbia, to shopping and dining in the Gaslamp Quarter, Little Italy, and Seaport Village, you won’t run out of things to do in the this area.

Popular Activities

Belmont Park Ride and Play Pass
Belmont Park Ride and Play Pass
Spend a family-friendly day at one of San Diego’s best amusement parks. Roller coasters, bumper cars, a carousel and the largest heated pool in SoCal, Belmont Park is guaranteed fun for kids of all ages!
Learn More
Hop On & Off Narrated Trolley Tour
Hop On & Off Narrated Trolley Tour
Jump onto one of the authentic trolleys, and see over 100 sights in San Diego! Listen to the tour guide and learn as you go. Create your own tour with 12 boarding areas!
Buy Now
San Diego Harbor Cruise
San Diego Harbor Cruise
Enjoy this ‘San Diego Top Pick Award’ winner as you set sail on a three level luxury ship providing 360-degree views of San Diego’s scenic beauty. Relax for a 1-2 hour narrated tour, learn about the city from the bay.
Buy Now
The World Famous San Diego Zoo
The World Famous San Diego Zoo
Spend the day at the iconic San Diego Zoo! Featuring over 3,500 animals and 650 species, this zoo is the heart of Balboa Park. There are multiple exhibits & experiences for all ages to learn about animals and their habitats.
Learn More
USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum
USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum
Located in downtown San Diego, the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum provides history of aircraft built in California. The museum includes over 60 exhibits with restored aircraft and tours of the carrier.
Learn More
Visit SeaWorld San Diego
Visit SeaWorld San Diego
The world-famous SeaWorld San Diego is home to animal shows, roller coasters and other rides for the entire family. Enjoy encounters featuring the famed Orcas, dolphins and sea lions, or take a tour through the habitats.
Learn More
GoCar: Downtown & Gaslamp Loop
GoCar: Downtown & Gaslamp Loop
The future is here - enjoy learning about the history of downtown San Diego and the Gaslamp District from a talking GPS car! You'll wind through multiple areas such as Petco Park & Little Italy on this loop!
Buy Now
LEGOLAND Hopper Ticket
LEGOLAND Hopper Ticket
Enjoy the 2nd day FREE with this LEGOLAND® California Hopper Ticket! Save BIG when your 2nd visit occurs within 9 days of your 1st to LEGOLAND California, SEA LIFE Aquarium or the LEGOLAND Water Park.
Learn More
Mission Bay Private Duffy Boat Rental
Mission Bay Private Duffy Boat Rental
Grab 10 of your closest friends and cruise around Mission Bay in an electric Duffy Boat! Choose either a 90-minute or 3-hour ride, directions and life vests are included. Watch out for sea lions & dolphins!
Buy Now
San Diego Automotive Museum
San Diego Automotive Museum
Enjoy the San Diego Automotive Museum in Balboa Park while in San Diego. Learn about technology and the social impact of the automotive industry. Visit their exhibits and collections of past, present and future.
Learn More
Solana Beach: 2 Hr Surf Lesson
Solana Beach: 2 Hr Surf Lesson
Learn to surf at your own pace on the calm waves of Solana Beach! This 2-hour lesson is led by an experienced surf instructor and is suitable for all levels. Wetsuit and surf board is included in this lesson.
Buy Now
Visit the Japanese Friendship Garden
Visit the Japanese Friendship Garden
The Japanese Friendship Garden is a traditional Japanese garden in the heart of San Diego. Japanese techniques are used to bring this experience to America. Visit and become inspired by Japanese culture.
Learn More

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