Skip to main content

The 10 Best Hostels in San Diego, USA

Some of the best backpacker spots in San Diego

Filter by:


Review score

Superb: 9+ Very good: 8+ Good: 7+ Pleasant: 6+
Our top picks Lowest price first Star rating and price Top reviewed

See the latest prices and deals by choosing your dates.

Facing the beachfront, Samesun Ocean Beach offers 2-star accommodation in San Diego and features a shared lounge and terrace. Among the facilities at this property are a shared kitchen and a 24-hour front desk, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The accommodation provides an ATM, and luggage storage for guests.

Ocean Beach is 300 metres from the hostel, while Sunset Cliffs Beach is 2.5 km away. The nearest airport is San Diego International Airport, 6 km from Samesun Ocean Beach.

The staff is very helpful and friendly. Location is amazing, located in the most populqr street in ocean beach. Common area is spacy, outside, super chill and it is a open minded social enviroment. During my stay the people other people staying there were chill, friendly, respectful and outgoing.

Show more Show less
9
Superb
1,670 reviews
Price from
SAR 147
per night

Stay Classy is well located in the centre of San Diego, and provides a shared lounge and free WiFi. The property is located 1.4 km from San Diego Convention Center, 2.8 km from San Diego - Santa Fe Depot Amtrak Station and 3.1 km from USS Midway Museum. The accommodation features a shared kitchen, and luggage storage for guests.

The shared bathroom is equipped with a shower, free toiletries and a hairdryer. At the hostel each room is fitted with bed linen and towels.

This is one of the best hostel in the world! No bunk beds, lots of intimacy and space for yourself. With the curtains, it's like having your own room with a shared bathroom. In my space I had a double ben, light, a fan for cooling (but the temperature was ok in the room), 3 shelves, and electricity outlets. They have a separate room with electrical hair stuff for women (dryer, some stuff for curls & straightening) and that is just awesome. The hostel has washing machines & dryers (25 cents), free coffee, and tea, and huge & modern common spaces. 5 minutes walk to the tram station. Perfect to get around the city. They also give very good recommendations for restaurants, and the staff is great.

Show more Show less
9
Superb
1,050 reviews
Price from
SAR 214
per night

Ideally set in the Downtown San Diego, Gaslamp Hostel features air-conditioned rooms, a shared lounge and free WiFi. The property is around 3.3 km from Balboa Park, 5 km from San Diego Zoo and 7 km from Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. The property is 10 km from University of San Diego and 11 km from SeaWorld San Diego.

The workers and owners are friendly. Almost every day they organize events... a very nice stay!

Show more Show less
8.6
Fabulous
1,704 reviews
Price from
SAR 189
per night

Set in a Victorian house in the heart of Central San Diego's Little Italy Neighbourhood of Downtown, this hostel offers dormitory rooms and private rooms with free Wi-Fi, breakfast and hosted social activities.

The cleanliness is top notch especially the bathrooms. Given they are shared, it’s impressive how impeccable they maintain it at all times. They also have rules for guests displayed clearly. It creates a distinct advantage for them over other hostels in the vicinity. Santiago and the volunteers are always happy to help on any front. It feels like at home. The location is super convenient. You can walk all downtown, close to public transportation (Trolley and bus), great neighborhood for restaurants, Farmers market, Bay Area etc.

Show more Show less
8.2
Very good
1,052 reviews
Price from
SAR 165
per night

Accommodation at HI San Diego Downtown Hostel includes heating and a fan. Private air-conditioned rooms are available with en suite bathrooms and hairdryers. Personal lockers are available for each dorm bed. Free high-speed WiFi is included in public areas.

The room was clean, neat, and has everything that I need. It was very close to the restrooms. I had breakfast during my stay at this hostel and the variety was enough for me. For some afternoons, I used kitchen supplies. As I used kitchen different days and times, I can say that it was kept clean for their guests. I especially appreciated the Hi San Diego Downtown Hostel staffs' behaviors. They were helpful and attentive to all my questions. I belive if I ever visit San Diego again, I 'll stay at this hostel.

Show more Show less
8.1
Very good
1,362 reviews
Price from
SAR 149
per night

Set in San Diego, within 200 metres of Mission Beach and 1.4 km of Sail Bay Beach, ITH Mission Beach Backpacker Hostel provides accommodation with a shared lounge and free WiFi. The property is around 3.8 km from SeaWorld San Diego, 6.6 km from Old Town San Diego State Historic Park and 6.6 km from Sunset Cliffs. The accommodation offers evening entertainment and a shared kitchen.

The location was fantastic, the staff were amazing. Its one of the most well run hostels I’ve stayed in yet.

Show more Show less
8.6
Fabulous
197 reviews
Price from
SAR 150
per night

Situated in San Diego, 2.7 km from Ocean Beach, California Dreams Hostel - Ocean Beach features accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a shared lounge. Among the facilities at this property are a shared kitchen and an ATM, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The accommodation provides evening entertainment and a tour desk.

Staff were brilliant, young friendly vibrant and very helpful. All were great to mix with, especially Laney. Karaoke night with the team was brilliant. Breakfast was supplied and adequate. Location was good close to shops and public transport.

Show more Show less
8.5
Very good
692 reviews
Price from
SAR 165
per night

Situated in San Diego, 100 metres from Pacific Beach, California Dreams Hostel - Pacific Beach features accommodation with a shared lounge, free private parking and a terrace. Among the facilities at this property are a shared kitchen and an ATM, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The accommodation provides evening entertainment and a tour desk.

everything was clean, good vibes, people are awesome and respectful!

Show more Show less
8
Very good
372 reviews
Price from
SAR 152
per night

Located in the centre of San Diego, PodShare San Diego is set 1.1 km from San Diego - Santa Fe Depot Amtrak Station and 1.1 km from Maritime Museum of San Diego. Among the facilities at this property are a shared kitchen and a shared lounge, along with free WiFi throughout the property. Private parking is available on site.

USS Midway Museum is 2 km from the hostel, while San Diego Convention Center is 3.2 km away. The nearest airport is San Diego International Airport, 2 km from PodShare San Diego.

The staff is very friendly and do their best to help. The beds and sofas are very comfortable. A quiet place to relax and work at the same time or to explore the wonderful place little italy and indulge in culinary delights.

Show more Show less
7
Good
184 reviews
Price from
SAR 258
per night

Situated directly on the boardwalk in Pacific Beach, ITH Beach Bungalow Surf Hostel San Diego offers oceanfront accommodation 3 km away from world famous Belmont Amusement Park. This eco-friendly hostel features BBQ facilities, a garden and a shared lounge.

The location was incredible, waking up every morning to the ocean. The vibe of this place is super cool! And a big thank you to the staff who were always smiling, full of energy and great ideas for activities. They make this hostel unforgettable.

Show more Show less
7.9
Good
951 reviews
Price from
SAR 140
per night

Looking for a hostel?

Budget travellers know that there is no better way to make the most of their trip than by staying at a hostel: save money for exploring during the day, and swap stories with fellow backpackers in the shared kitchen or bar in the evening. Dorm-style bedrooms with shared bathrooms are standard hostel fare, but private rooms are also available for those willing to pay a bit more.
Search hostels in San Diego

Most booked hostels in San Diego this month

Great access to the city centre! Check these hostels in San Diego

  • Stay Classy
    9.0
    Scored 9.0
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 1,050 reviews

    Stay Classy is well located in the centre of San Diego, and provides a shared lounge and free WiFi.

    The staff and the ambience at the hostel were superb!

  • Samesun Ocean Beach
    9.0
    Scored 9.0
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 1,669 reviews

    Facing the beachfront, Samesun Ocean Beach offers 2-star accommodation in San Diego and features a shared lounge and terrace.

    One of the coolest places I've ever stayed in :)

  • Gaslamp Hostel
    8.6
    Scored 8.6
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 1,705 reviews

    Ideally set in the Downtown San Diego, Gaslamp Hostel features air-conditioned rooms, a shared lounge and free WiFi.

    Location, staffs, cleanness and friendly environment

  • ITH Mission Beach Backpacker Hostel
    8.6
    Scored 8.6
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 197 reviews

    Set in San Diego, within 200 metres of Mission Beach and 1.4 km of Sail Bay Beach, ITH Mission Beach Backpacker Hostel provides accommodation with a shared lounge and free WiFi.

    Great staff, good community vibe of people, very clean

  • California Dreams Hostel - Ocean Beach
    8.5
    Scored 8.5
    Very good
    Rated very good
     · 692 reviews

    Situated in San Diego, 2.7 km from Ocean Beach, California Dreams Hostel - Ocean Beach features accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a shared lounge.

    The setup was great and everybody was friendly and helpful

  • ITH Adventure Hostel San Diego
    8.2
    Scored 8.2
    Very good
    Rated very good
     · 1,052 reviews

    Set in a Victorian house in the heart of Central San Diego's Little Italy Neighbourhood of Downtown, this hostel offers dormitory rooms and private rooms with free Wi-Fi, breakfast and hosted social...

    Friendly staff, great location, safe neighborhood.

  • HI San Diego Downtown Hostel
    8.1
    Scored 8.1
    Very good
    Rated very good
     · 1,362 reviews

    Situated in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, this non-profit hostel, has a fully-equipped kitchen and offers free coffee, tea, hot chocolate and filtered water 24-hours a day. Balboa Park is 4.8 km away.

    the location and that it's clean and organized

  • California Dreams Hostel - Pacific Beach
    8.0
    Scored 8.0
    Very good
    Rated very good
     · 372 reviews

    Situated in San Diego, 100 metres from Pacific Beach, California Dreams Hostel - Pacific Beach features accommodation with a shared lounge, free private parking and a terrace.

    Literally a beachfront property, only a 2 minute walk .

  • ITH Beach Bungalow Surf Hostel San Diego
    7.9
    Scored 7.9
    Good
    Rated good
     · 951 reviews

    Situated directly on the boardwalk in Pacific Beach, ITH Beach Bungalow Surf Hostel San Diego offers oceanfront accommodation 3 km away from world famous Belmont Amusement Park.

    Nice weekly schedule, friendly staff and great location.

  • Lucky D's Youth and Traveler's Hostel
    7.4
    Scored 7.4
    Good
    Rated good
     · 738 reviews

    Located 5 minutes’ walk from the Gaslamp Quarter, this East Village San Diego hostel offers free Wi-Fi. A common room features a DVD player and XBOX system.

    it was super clean and the staff were always nice!

  • PodShare San Diego
    7.0
    Scored 7.0
    Good
    Rated good
     · 184 reviews

    Located in the centre of San Diego, PodShare San Diego is set 1.1 km from San Diego - Santa Fe Depot Amtrak Station and 1.1 km from Maritime Museum of San Diego.

    Friendly staff and everything was very comfortable.

FAQ about hostels in San Diego








Hostels that guests love in San Diego

  • Avg. price/night: SAR 786.86
    7.7
    Scored 7.7
    Good
    Rated good
     · 1,172 reviews
    Hotel was in a great location with the bars and restaurants of Gaslamp district and trolley stop only a couple of mins walk away. The room was well equipped with a coffee machine, fridge, safe and large TV, even the windows opened which is a rarity in hotels these days. The beds were so comfy, you literally just melted into it which was bliss after a days sightseeing.
    Suzannah
    Group
  • Avg. price/night: SAR 262.13
    9.0
    Scored 9.0
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 1,050 reviews
    One of the best hostels ever: clean, safe, in a great location, providing both privacy and community spirit. Lives up to the name!
    Julia
    Solo traveller
  • 7.9
    Scored 7.9
    Good
    Rated good
     · 951 reviews
    This hostel is great for the location and meeting people. The rooms are as clean as they can be taking in the factor that the beach is on the door step. Free breakfast is great and they have lots of activity options if you are travelling alone
    Emma
    People with friends
  • Avg. price/night: SAR 262.13
    9.0
    Scored 9.0
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 1,050 reviews
    The best hostel I have stayed in. Very clean. Well thought out and had all the amenities required. The host moved the dates at a request due to work commitments.
    Lauren
    Group
  • Avg. price/night: SAR 511.71
    7.0
    Scored 7.0
    Good
    Rated good
     · 245 reviews
    Great location, comfy room. Area felt safe and easy to use public transport to get into San Diego.
    Ella
    Solo traveller
  • Avg. price/night: SAR 471.29
    9.0
    Scored 9.0
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 1,669 reviews
    Great location and a really clean and well run hostel. We had a private room which was extremely comfortable
    James
    Young couple
  • Avg. price/night: SAR 414.77
    8.1
    Scored 8.1
    Very good
    Rated very good
     · 1,362 reviews
    Great location, nice free breakfast, helpful staff, communal areas were clean. Hostel was quiet and the staff were very good with keeping the place safe and secure, generally all round it was very good.
    Charlotte
    Young couple
  • Avg. price/night: SAR 262.13
    9.0
    Scored 9.0
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 1,050 reviews
    Great location (very central) and very clean property. also lots of privacy for that it’s a hostel. would stay again!
    D
    Daria
    Solo traveller
  • Avg. price/night: SAR 471.29
    9.0
    Scored 9.0
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 1,669 reviews
    From the outside you would think this is the most relaxing and fun „hippie“ place. On the inside then, the style is much more „organised“, „clean“ and „protected“. Very clean place. Food needs to be marked with name and departure date. No smoking inside. Modern youth hostel furniture. Central Ocean Beach, close to the beach.
    Maxi
    Solo traveller
  • Avg. price/night: SAR 471.29
    9.0
    Scored 9.0
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 1,669 reviews
    BEST hostel in the world. As a solo backpacker, 100% recommended. Comfortable beds, clean, amazing vibes, good breakfast included, amazing staff, great location... I only wish I could have stayed longer!!!
    Julia
    Solo traveller

Research, refine and make plans for your whole trip