Kona Kai San Diego Resort
We recently spent seven unforgettable days at the Kona Kai San Diego Resort on the quaint Shelter Island—and every moment felt like a true escape. From the second we pulled into the circular drive; the ambiance of the property immediately set the tone for a relaxing stay. A striking water fountain framed by elegant fire features greeted us at the entrance, creating a memorable and almost cinematic arrival experience.
Upon stepping through the front doors, we were welcomed by a subtle yet captivating signature scent that filled the air—fresh, clean, and somehow indulgent. To the right, a crackling fireplace glowed warmly, surrounded by stylish armchairs and cozy seating areas. The lobby manages to be both upscale and inviting, instantly making you feel like you're somewhere special.
Our room wasn’t quite ready when we arrived, so we took the opportunity to explore the resort’s on-site restaurant. While slightly on the pricier side, the setting and atmosphere were well worth it. We sat out on the patio, which overlooks the private marina—a peaceful view of docked sailboats gently bobbing in the harbor. It was the perfect place to unwind while waiting.
Once our room was ready, we were genuinely impressed. The accommodations were spacious and tastefully appointed with coastal-inspired décor and upscale finishes. The bathroom was especially luxurious, featuring modern fixtures, plush towels, and a spa-like shower that made getting ready feel like part of the vacation. One of the biggest highlights was our private balcony overlooking the harbor. Waking up to that view every morning felt like a dream.
The bed deserves a special mention. It was exceptionally comfortable—firm enough to offer proper support but soft enough to feel indulgent. Given that my husband is recovering from recent back surgery, this was a make-or-break detail for us, and we both slept soundly every night. For travelers who are particular about mattress quality, this resort delivers.
While the property doesn’t have direct beach access, it does feature a well-designed manmade sandy area complete with inviting fire pits. These are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is key. We purchased the charming s’mores kits from the front desk and joined a few other guests around the fire. The experience was both fun and community-driven—we even made a few vacation friends while toasting marshmallows under the stars. The only minor drawback was the early shutdown time for the fire pit area, which felt slightly restrictive for those who enjoy lingering longer into the night.
Though we didn’t get the chance to enjoy the pool ourselves, it looked incredible—surrounded by cabanas, chic loungers, and a full-service poolside bar. It gave off the perfect vacation vibe, and we regretted not carving out time for at least one pool day.
Spa Day
What we did make time for, however, was the spa—and it was nothing short of spectacular. My husband and I booked a couples massage while our daughter enjoyed a teen facial. From the moment we arrived, the service was attentive and personalized. Luxurious robes, complimentary champagne, and a tranquil atmosphere elevated the entire experience. We left feeling pampered and completely recharged. This was, without question, a highlight of our trip and something I would recommend to anyone staying at the resort.
The upstairs gift shop was another pleasant surprise. It’s well-curated, offering a mix of elevated souvenirs, boutique apparel, and thoughtful travel essentials—definitely worth browsing before you check out.
Fitness-minded guests will also appreciate the on-site gym. It’s more than just a token hotel workout space—well-equipped with a solid range of cardio machines, free weights, and ample space for stretching or bodyweight exercises. It’s nice to see that the resort doesn’t sacrifice wellness for luxury.
Overall, we absolutely loved our stay at Kona Kai. Every detail—from the welcoming lobby scent to the harbor views, plush spa experiences, and family-friendly amenities—made our vacation truly special. And as a helpful tip for fellow travelers, we booked our stay through Costco Travel, which offered an excellent value. Kona Kai encapsulates everything you want in a San Diego escape: beauty, comfort, and coastal charm. We wouldn’t hesitate to return.
