Struggling with location and accommodation choice

Question

Hi everyone. We are a family of 4 from Australis coming for our first visit Dec 9-13 - w/two boys 13 & 9.

I thought I had narrowed our accommodation choices to:

Catamaran, OPI or Wayfsrer - but then read on another forum about Springhill suites Bayfront.

Aussie $ is crap - so max budget/night is $450 USD /night

I think we want to have an ocean or bay view (as opposed to urban setting). We will have just spent 4 days in Anaheim at DL.

Our itinerary will include but may not get to all (in no particular order):

Seaworld, Zoo, Balboa park museums, LaJolla, Midway

We are planning to take the train from Anaheim to SD and may hire a car or may just take Ubers as we plan one full day each at SW and SdZoo. Leaving us really only 1 additional full day there before departing on the 13th.

Guidance is greatly appreciated! Thank you

Answer

For a first-time family visit to San Diego with two boys aged 13 and 9, choosing the right accommodation and location can make a big difference in your overall experience. Since your priorities include an ocean or bay view and easy access to major attractions, it helps to weigh location convenience, amenities, and budget.

Accommodation options:

Catamaran Resort: Located on Mission Bay with oceanfront views, this resort has a resort-style feel with pools, water sports, and walking paths. It’s family-friendly and close to SeaWorld (5–10 minutes by car). Bay views are generally available, though direct ocean views are more limited. Staying here makes SeaWorld very convenient, but it is a bit farther from the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, La Jolla, and Midway.
Ocean Park Inn (OPI): Near Pacific Beach, right by the ocean. Offers direct beach access and a more relaxed, small-hotel vibe. Best for experiencing the beach, walking along boardwalks, and casual dining nearby. However, attractions like SeaWorld, the Zoo, and Balboa Park are farther away (20–30 minutes by car), which could add transit time when traveling with kids.
Wayfarer Hotel: Located in Gaslamp Quarter or nearby downtown, offering modern rooms with urban or partial bay views. Excellent for dining and nightlife options, but limited direct ocean views and less of a family-focused resort feel. Attractions like the Zoo and La Jolla are a moderate drive away, while Midway is closer.
SpringHill Suites Bayfront: This hotel offers bay views, easy access to Seaport Village and Midway, and family-friendly suites. It’s convenient for downtown activities and getting to La Jolla (20–25 minutes drive) and Zoo/Balboa Park (10–15 minutes). The pool and spacious rooms make it practical for families. While not directly on the ocean, the bayfront location gives scenic water views and quick access to ferry rides or harbor walks.

Location considerations:

If your main goal is proximity to SeaWorld, Mission Bay, and beach activities, Catamaran is ideal.
If your focus is the beach experience, boardwalk, and casual seaside walks, OPI works well.
If you want a downtown location with easy access to restaurants and Midway, plus spacious family suites, SpringHill Suites Bayfront is very convenient.
Wayfarer Hotel is more urban and trendy, but may not appeal as much to younger kids due to fewer family-focused amenities.

Transportation options:

With limited days and only one additional full day beyond SeaWorld and the Zoo, having a rental car will be extremely helpful, especially for La Jolla, Balboa Park, and other attractions outside the immediate hotel area.
Ubers/Lyfts can work if you prefer not to rent a car, but it can add cost and waiting times for multiple daily trips.

Given your short stay and family setup, the SpringHill Suites Bayfront offers a balanced mix of convenience, family-friendly amenities, and scenic views within your budget. Catamaran is excellent if beach and SeaWorld proximity are your highest priorities, though commuting to the Zoo or Balboa Park will take more time. OPI is ideal for a true beach experience but less central for attractions. Wayfarer is less suitable for a family focused on kids’ attractions.

Struggling with location and accommodation choice

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