Best Western PLUS Island Palms Hotel & Marina

Best Western PLUS Island Palms Hotel & Marina Overview

First Impressions

The Best Western PLUS Island Palms Hotel & Marina sits right on Shelter Island Drive in Point Loma, and honestly, the location alone makes this place worth considering. I mean, you’re literally steps away from the marina — I could hear the gentle clinking of sailboat masts from my window, which was actually pretty soothing. The hotel has that classic three-star comfort level without any pretense, and the staff genuinely seemed to care about making sure guests were happy.

The Location Magic

Here’s what you need to know about this spot in San Diego — Point Loma is where locals go to escape the downtown crowds while still being close to everything. You’re about ten minutes from the airport (super convenient for early flights), and Shelter Island has this laid-back maritime vibe that feels worlds away from the typical tourist hustle. The couples who stay here absolutely love it, and I can see why — there’s something romantic about watching the sunset over the harbor while you’re planning your next day’s adventures.

The Room Experience

My room faced the marina, which I’d definitely recommend requesting when you book. The space was clean and comfortable — nothing fancy, but everything worked perfectly. The beds are actually quite good (I’m picky about mattresses), and there’s enough space to spread out your stuff without feeling cramped. What I appreciated most was how quiet it stayed at night, despite being so close to the water and the main road.

Breakfast and Practical Perks

The breakfast setup here is honestly better than I expected. They’ve got vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, which covers pretty much everyone’s needs these days. The American breakfast classics are solid too — I mean, sometimes you just want regular scrambled eggs and bacon, you know? If you’re rushing out early, they do breakfast to go, which saved me one morning when I had an early whale watching tour. Oh, and there’s parking right at the hotel, which anyone who’s tried to park in San Diego will tell you is a genuine blessing.

Why Guests Love It

This place works because it gets the fundamentals right without trying to be something it’s not. The marina location gives you that authentic San Diego waterfront experience, but you’re not paying resort prices for it. I watched people come back from day trips looking genuinely relaxed, and I think that’s because the hotel creates this calm base where you can actually unwind. The combination of being near the water, having easy access to both downtown and the beaches, plus not having to worry about restaurant reservations every night (there are great casual spots within walking distance) makes it feel like a smart choice rather than just a place to sleep.

Best hotels in San Diego blend rooftop cantinas, airy coastal suites, and chef-led Baja seafood classes.

Facilities