Old Town or La Jolla

Question

Hello! I will be spending two nights in San Diego in March. I currently have a reservation at the Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel in Old Town. The reviews aren’t that great but the location seems very convenient, and the property looks unique. I’ve been thinking of changing my reservation to La Jolla to be closer to the ocean. I was considering The Shoal La Jolla Beach. I will be traveling with two young kids so being in a safe neighbourhood is a priority. Should I stay where I am? I plan to see the San Diego Zoo, Coronado Island, Balboa Park…and we are coming from LA so La Jolla will be on the way down. Thanks!

Answer

For a short two-night stay in San Diego with young kids, both Old Town and La Jolla offer different advantages, so your choice depends on what you prioritize: convenience, beach access, or atmosphere.

Staying in Old Town (Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel):

Convenient location for arriving from LA, as it’s near I-5 and fairly central to downtown and Balboa Park.
Close to Old Town attractions, restaurants, and shops, which can be fun for a brief visit.
Driving to the San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park from Old Town is manageable (~15-20 minutes depending on traffic).
The hotel itself is unique with historic-style architecture, but reviews are mixed, so plan for basic accommodations rather than luxury.

Staying in La Jolla (The Shoal La Jolla Beach):

Beautiful oceanfront location, perfect for scenic walks and letting kids enjoy the beach.
Safe, upscale neighborhood with a relaxed atmosphere.
Close to La Jolla Cove, seals, tide pools, and small boutiques; great for morning or late afternoon excursions.
Driving to the Zoo, Balboa Park, and Coronado Island will take longer (~25-30 minutes to the Zoo), so you may spend more time in traffic.

Recommendation:

Since your stay is short and you plan to visit the Zoo, Balboa Park, and Coronado, Old Town is arguably more practical. You will save driving time and can quickly reach most major attractions. La Jolla is ideal if you want a more relaxed, beach-focused experience and don’t mind spending extra time in the car for sightseeing.

Another option is a hybrid approach if possible:

Stay in Old Town for convenience, then spend part of a morning or afternoon in La Jolla for beach exploration.
This allows you to experience the coastal charm without changing hotels and losing time on check-in/out.

Both areas are safe for families, but with young kids and limited time, Old Town offers the most efficient base for your itinerary while still allowing a quick trip to La Jolla for ocean views and fun.

Old Town or La Jolla

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