Where to Stay in San Diego

Hello! We're traveling from Canada to San Diego/Anaheim in July/August. We're looking at staying in San Diego first (July 27-30th for 3 nights) and doing Legoland/Sea World/San Diego Zoo. I am debating booking on Priceline because we can get a 4* for around $100 a night. I just need to know what area we should stay in...what do you think?

Fun! Summer is a great time to come visit.

As to where to stay, Mission Valley is a popular area, as there are many hotels and restaurants, it's easy to get to (just off the freeway), and is centrally located to most things and just minutes from the airport. However, it's pretty industrial so not the most eye-catching location.

Mission Bay would be nice, with great views of the bay and ocean. It's very close to Sea World.

Harbor Island and Shelter Island are nice, too, and located close to the airport. It's easy to get just about anywhere in San Diego from these areas.

I prefer Carlsbad, though, as the location is more low-key and it can be beach-close, depending on where you stay. It's got a very walkable downtown area, with lots of little shops and restaurants. The freeway is nearby, so jaunts south to Sea World and the Zoo are only 30 minutes, and Legoland is just a quick 5 minutes away.

Hope that helps!

Happy family travels,
Jen & Family