San Diego Hotels Vs. Vacation Rentals

San Diego is fast becoming a premier destination spot, offering visitors endless entertainment, shopping, fine dining and family-oriented activities. Whether you are considering an extended stay vacation or planning a trip with two or more families, there are many great deals and options available when it comes to lodging options in San Diego.

Finding Hotels or Vacation Property in San Diego

Hotel properties are often much easier to find online than San Diego vacation rentals. They are so plentiful that locating them is a breeze. However, finding a rental home in San Diego has recently become much easier. The Internet provides convenience as you search online listings for available property. You can search for property in specific areas of the greater San Diego area for rental property just as easily as you would search for a hotel. There is complete anonymity as you search, so there is no need to give out personal information until you are ready to contact a renter. Many hotels are offering more variety in room styles beyond your typical standard room. Some hotels provide one, two and three bedroom condo-style accommodations, or luxury suites. A vacation rental, however, could be a single family home, a duplex, a condo or an apartment.

San Diego Hotels vs. Vacation Rentals -- Location Considerations

Many hotels are located in heavily populated areas in order to attract more guests. Vacation rentals often offer more of a variety when it comes to location. You may choose to rent a restored craftsman single-family home in North Park, or a charming Spanish tiled duplex in Kensington. You may even decide that you belong in the hustle and bustle of the city and instead rent a sleek apartment or condo in San Diego’s downtown district.

San Diego Hotel vs. Vacation Rental Amenities

A vacation rental is the obvious choice for those looking for an extended stay property. Vacation rentals have much more space than the average hotel can provide. These properties normally offer separate, multiple bedrooms, full kitchens and more than one bathroom (unlike the efficiency style of most standard hotel rooms). Some rentals may even have balconies, spacious yards with patios for cookouts, playgrounds and pools. In many instances pets are welcome, but it is always best to check with the owner first. The privacy provided by vacation rentals is a handy option if you are looking to house two or more families, or a large group. Because most of these properties are freestanding, they automatically provide residents with lots of privacy. This is a desirable amenity if young children are staying with you.

Customer Service -- Hotels vs. Vacation Rentals

When you call to contact a hotel property to ask about their service, there is usually someone available to answer your questions 24 hours a day. Many vacation rentals do not provide this kind of customer service. It is not uncommon to contact the owner of a vacation property, leave a voice message, then wait a day or two before hearing back.

Most San Diego hotels offer daily cleaning service for their guests. The cleaning staff makes sure that the sheets are changed daily and the bathrooms are wiped down and disinfected. However, most rental properties do not offer this service.

In most cases, vacation rentals are individually owned properties rather than big corporate chains. It can be less complicated to discuss the leasing terms with one person, and you may be able to negotiate some of the terms. Some property owners may even delight in surprising their guests with fun treats. For example, a proprietor may leave fresh cut flowers in vases throughout the property, or leave a special recipe on the kitchen counter for homemade cookies with all of the ingredients in a decorative basket. The owner may even leave a list of local places to visit, like a neighborhood coffee shop or Farmer’s Market. Single-family vacation rentals also have more of a “homey” feeling about them.

Hotels vs. Vacation Rentals -- Pricing Differences

San Diego vacation rentals may be higher in price than standard hotels. With a vacation rental, you receive more square footage for your money. This means more space to share with your family and friends. An extended stay also offers you an opportunity to explore San Diego and get to know the area. Many residents enjoy spending time visiting the San Diego Zoo or spending a lazy afternoon with the family at Del Mar Beach.

Many hotels charge extremely high prices for an extended stay and some charge fees for more than one extra guest. If you are traveling with another family, you need to purchase an additional room. Rooms without a kitchen increase the cost of your visit significantly when you begin to factor the cost of meals.

Carefully weigh all of your options when planning a San Diego vacation. Decide how long you plan to stay and what you need when trying to decide on a hotel or vacation home. Use the Internet to help you get the deal and location to ensure an ideal family vacation.