Oceanfront stay - surf?

Question

My husband and I will be staying in/near San Diego in early March. I am looking at oceanfront hotels as far north as La Jolla. Price isn't too much of a concern. I really enjoy the sights and sounds of the ocean and rolling surf. The bigger the waves the better. I don't want to swim in it....just listen and watch. Beyond beachfront, we like to be close to shops and restaurants. We are on the back end of a longer trip so can either keep or return our rental car.

What are some hotel suggestions?

Answer

For an oceanfront stay near San Diego with strong surf, scenic views, and convenient access to shops and restaurants, La Jolla and nearby coastal neighborhoods offer some of the best options. Early March is a great time for dramatic waves along the coast, especially if you are more interested in watching and listening rather than swimming.

Some top hotel options include:

La Valencia Hotel, La Jolla: Iconic oceanfront property with panoramic views of the Pacific. Walking distance to La Jolla Village shops and restaurants. The waves can be impressive, especially during winter swells.
Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa: Slightly inland but offers beautiful grounds and quick access to La Jolla Shores. Some rooms provide ocean glimpses, and you can enjoy restaurants and spa amenities.
Grande Colonial La Jolla: Located in the heart of La Jolla Village, a few blocks from the ocean. Offers elegant rooms and easy access to shops and dining, though ocean views may be limited.
Hotel del Coronado: A bit further south but truly oceanfront with wide beach views. Excellent waves and a classic resort atmosphere. Restaurants and shops on-site and nearby in Coronado Village.
Pacific Terrace Hotel, Pacific Beach: Oceanfront location with direct beach access. Popular for its surf views and casual ambiance, with boardwalk shops and restaurants just steps away.

Additional tips:

If you want to maximize ocean sound and view, request a room on a higher floor facing the ocean, preferably on the west side of the building.
La Jolla Cove and La Jolla Shores often have larger swells in winter and early spring, perfect for observing waves.
Keeping your rental car is useful if you want to explore nearby beaches such as Torrey Pines, Pacific Beach, or even Del Mar for additional coastal scenery and restaurants.
Check hotel cancellation policies; some premium oceanfront rooms sell out quickly during spring break, even in early March.

In summary, La Jolla offers a blend of spectacular ocean views, larger surf, and proximity to dining and shopping, while Coronado and Pacific Beach provide alternative oceanfront experiences if you prefer a different vibe. Choosing a room with direct ocean exposure is key to enjoying the sights and sounds of the waves without needing to swim.

Oceanfront stay - surf?

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