Comparison between two Homewood suites near the hotel circle

Question

Hello,

I am planning for about a week's trip to San Diego with my family. Total 3 people.

We'll probably be going around La Mesa and Torrey Pines/Carmel Valley area.

Almost decided to stay at the Homewood suites, but quite confused between Homewood suites Hotel circle/Sea wold area and Homewood suites San Diego Mission Valley/San Diego Zoo.

Just a couple of miles apart, they seem to be pretty same property. Is any one of those any better than the other?

Thank you.

Answer

Both Homewood Suites in the Hotel Circle/SeaWorld area and the Mission Valley/San Diego Zoo area are very similar in terms of room layout, amenities, and service quality, as they are both part of the same Homewood Suites brand. The main differences come down to location and convenience depending on what you plan to do in San Diego.

Location and Access

Hotel Circle / SeaWorld area: This location is closer to SeaWorld, Mission Bay, and the western parts of San Diego like Pacific Beach and La Jolla. It’s convenient if your family plans to spend time around the bay or wants quicker access to beaches and coastal attractions.
Mission Valley / San Diego Zoo: This property is slightly closer to Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo, as well as downtown San Diego. It’s more central if you want to access La Mesa, Carmel Valley, and inland attractions like Torrey Pines, making your drives to these areas a bit shorter than from Hotel Circle.

Other Considerations

Traffic: Hotel Circle can be slightly busier in mornings and evenings due to proximity to the freeway and hotel traffic, though the difference is usually minor.
Dining & Shopping: Both areas have restaurants and shopping nearby, but Mission Valley has slightly more options within walking distance, including large shopping centers.
Parking: Both properties generally provide free parking, so no significant difference here.

In summary, if your main focus is visiting La Mesa and Carmel Valley/Torrey Pines, the Mission Valley / San Diego Zoo Homewood Suites is likely the more convenient option due to slightly shorter drives to these areas. If you plan to spend more time near the coast or SeaWorld, the Hotel Circle location might feel more convenient. Other than that, the experience at both hotels should be very similar for a family of three.