Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina | Airport Hotel in San Diego | Free Shuttle

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Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina San Diego Exterior photo

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Key details

Hotel Overview

2051 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, California, United States, 92106-3105

Near the harbor

Great

8.4

8.7

/10

4.3

4.0

Loved by Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina guests

Bay view
Updated room
Friendly staff
Free parking
Good location

"Outstanding amenities in a high end resort overlooking marina and harbour."

Hetty from United States

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"Love the location and comfort of the place."

Alison from United States

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"The Island Palms hotel has views of water and boats from the balcony."

Mark M from United States

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Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina is a 3-star waterfront hotel featuring a relaxed atmosphere and amenities such as two tropical pools and complimentary WiFi. This San Diego hotel is located on Shelter Island, surrounded by lush landscaping and close to major attractions.

Rooms & Amenities

The hotel offers a range of guest accommodations including spacious suites with private patios, balconies, and full kitchens. Each room is equipped with modern décor, flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, and microwaves.

Dining & Nearby Options

Dining options include the Blue Wave Bar & Grill, offering California coastal cuisine, which can be enjoyed indoors or on the outdoor patio overlooking the marina. Nearby seafood restaurants such as Fathom Bistro and Vessel Restaurant + Bar are within 0.5 miles.

Leisure & Services

Guests can relax by the outdoor heated pool or participate in activities such as tennis on private courts. The hotel also provides various amenities including access to spa services and scenic marina-view areas suitable for events.

Location & Transportation

Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina is conveniently located near notable attractions including USS Midway Museum and SeaWorld, both within 3.5 miles. San Diego International Airport is easily accessible, and public transportation options such as local bus routes are nearby.

Must-do experiences

Savor the fish tacos at Oscar's Mexican Seafood on Mission Blvd.
Take a sunset stroll at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park for stunning views.
Explore the eclectic shops at Liberty Station for unique finds.
Visit the USS Midway Museum for a fascinating naval history tour.
Don't miss tasting the famous California burrito at Lucha Libre!

Location: Perfect

9.3/10Review score

Find the Hotel Location on the Map

Highlights from guests

DiningAwesome Restaurant

The restaurant's bayside outdoor seating area offered great views, alongside excellent food and drink selections.

Javier from Spain

Review on

Guest ParkingParking Perks

Across the street is free public parking, a great alternative to the hotel's parking fee.

Mei from China

Review on

Room FeaturesSuite Dreams

Our room had a well-stocked kitchenette and a lovely patio with marina views for relaxation.

Rajesh from India

Review on

Children's AmenitiesFamily Fun

A playground and fishing pier are right across the street, perfect for entertaining kids.

Nadia from Canada

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Pick the Room That Suits Your Travel Needs

Rooms for singles, families, or groups—many with breakfast, free cancellation, and exclusive airport packages

King Room Bath Tub Disability Access

2 persons

280 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Air conditioning

room details

King Room Roll Shower-Disability Access

2 persons

280 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Air conditioning

room details

Queen Room Two Queen Beds Disability Access or Non-Smoking

2 persons

280 sq. feet

2 King Size Beds

Air conditioning

room details

King Studio Suite Sofa Bed Disability Access or Non-Smoking

2 persons

455 sq. feet

1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed

Air conditioning

room details

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Facilities

Comfortable Rooms and Convenient Services to Enhance Your Layover

Facilities: Great

8.4/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Express check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
ATM/Cash machine
Fireplace

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre
Tennis court
Fishing

Services

Room service
Dry cleaning
Tours/Ticket assistance

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area

Business

Business centre
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

Outdoor swimming pool
Sun loungers
Garden area
Spa & wellness centre
Jacuzzi
Massage

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Media

AM/FM alarm clock

Dining Onsite

At Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina, guests are invited to indulge in a delightful dining experience at the Blue Wave Bar & Grill. This onsite eatery serves up California coastal cuisine in a vibrant setting, perfect for family gatherings or romantic dinners with stunning views of the marina.

Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina San Diego Restaurant photo

Blue Wave Bar & Grill

California coastal cuisine with tropical influences

Ambiance

Family-friendly, modern décor with a romantic touch and picturesque views of the marina

Key Offerings

Signature dishes crafted by Executive Chef Andrew Mroz, featuring fresh, locally inspired meals and an inviting cocktail hour to unwind after a day of adventure

Reservation

Not needed, but recommended for large parties or special occasions

Open daily from 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Location & Directions

2051 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, California, United States, 92106-3105

Map view

2051 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, California, United States, 92106-3105

City landmarks

Museum

USS Midway Museum

3.0 mi

Amusement Park

SeaWorld San Diego

3.5 mi

Landmark

Japanese Friendship Bell

2800 ft

Landmark

Shoreline Park

2200 ft

Church

Saint Agnes Catholic Church

4000 ft

Landmark

San Diego Yacht Club

2300 ft

Landmark

Shelter Island's Bali Ha'i

2400 ft

Landmark

Friendship Bell

2800 ft

Landmark

Portuguese Ses Hall

2800 ft

Landmark

Pacific Portal

3000 ft

Theatre

Point Loma Assembly

3100 ft

Monument

Cabrillo National Monument

2.8 mi

Landmark

Spanish Landing Park

1.6 mi

Mall

Seaport Village

3.3 mi

Landmark

Point Loma Sportfishing

3800 ft

Landmark

Sefton Plaza

4000 ft

Landmark

Captain Bill Poole et al

4100 ft

Landmark

Moment Cycle Shop

4100 ft

Landmark

Sportfishing Legacy

4100 ft

Park

Harbor Island Park

1.4 mi

Landmark

Naval Base Point Loma

4700 ft

Landmark

Woodbury University

5200 ft

Nearby

Island

Shelter Island

100 ft

Event hall

Humphreys Concerts by the Bay

1500 ft

Event hall

Humphreys Backstage Live

1900 ft

Park

Shelter Island Park Shoreline

500 ft

Shelter Island Yacht Basin

700 ft

Bubble Bath

1500 ft

1718 Shelter Island Dr

Tunaman's Memorial

1600 ft

Harbor Parade of Lights

2000 ft

Restaurants

Pearson Deli

3200 ft

2435 Shelter Island Dr

Point Break Cafe

4300 ft

2743 Shelter Island Dr

Marvelous Muffins

5000 ft

2907 Shelter Island Dr Ste 101

Pacific Coast Chinese Food

5000 ft

2907 Shelter Island Dr

Explore San Diego

Explore Shelter Island

Japanese Friendship Bell

10 minutes' walk

A serene spot offering beautiful harbor views and cultural significance, often visited for its unique bell and surrounding gardens.

USS Midway Museum

13-minute drive

This aircraft carrier museum features interactive exhibits and historic aircraft, perfect for history enthusiasts and families alike.

Shelter Island Park Shoreline

2 minutes' walk

A lovely park with walking paths, picnic areas, and stunning views of the marina, ideal for a leisurely stroll or sunset watching.

Spanish Landing Park

8-minute drive

A scenic park featuring art installations and picnic spots, offering beautiful views of the San Diego Bay, perfect for a relaxing outing.

Kayaking in the Bay

5-minute drive

Rent kayaks for a thrilling paddle around the bay, where you can enjoy marine life and stunning coastal views.

Yoga by the Bay

2 minutes' walk

Relax with guided outdoor yoga classes that take place by the marina, suitable for all skill levels and providing a revitalizing experience.

Biking Along the Shore

15 minutes' walk

Bike rental shops nearby offer easy access to scenic routes along the shoreline, perfect for adventure seekers and families.

Fishing Charters

10 minutes' drive

Join local fishing charters for an exciting day at sea, targeting popular fish species, with options for both beginners and experienced anglers.

Point Break Cafe

16 minutes' walk

A casual eatery known for its delicious breakfast and brunch options, featuring local ingredients and a laid-back coastal vibe.

Pearson Deli

12 minutes' walk

This deli offers a range of sandwiches, salads, and fresh baked goods, creating a cozy spot for a quick meal or snack.

Marvelous Muffins

18 minutes' walk

A charming bakery specializing in fresh muffins, pastries, and coffee, perfect for a relaxed morning treat or afternoon pick-me-up.

Pacific Coast Chinese Food

18 minutes' walk

Offering a variety of traditional Chinese dishes, this casual spot swiftly serves flavorful meals that cater to diverse tastes.

Harbor Island Park

25 minutes' walk

A vibrant area with picnic spots and a playground, perfect for families, with stunning sunset views and nearby harbor activities.

Café 21

10 minutes' drive

An energetic venue with live music and events, ranging from comedy nights to vibrant dance parties, perfect for nightlife enthusiasts.

The Laugh Factory

13-minute drive

A comedy club hosting renowned acts and fun open mic nights, creating a lively atmosphere for an entertaining night out.

SeaWorld San Diego

11-minute drive

This marine mammal park combines entertainment and education with various shows, rides, and animal exhibits, suitable for all ages.

How to Navigate the City

City Centre

San Diego10 min · 4.1 mi

Airports

San Diego International (SAN)11 min · 4.3 mi

El Cajon (CJN)51 min · 21.1 mi

Train

Coaster Old Town Station8 min · 3.3 mi

San Diego Old Town Transportation Center8 min · 3.3 mi

Bus

Bus stop10 min · 2700 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 16:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site at USD 25 per day.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

A full breakfast is served at the price of US$15 per person per day.

Children & extra beds

There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Year renovated:

2011

Number of rooms:

227

Real Guest Reviews & Ratings

What Previous Guests Had to Say

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

The Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina enjoys a great location on Shelter Island, offering guests convenient access to the bay and marina views. Many guests appreciate the ample parking and find the cement picnic tables a useful addition, though some have noted that not all rooms are created equal, with smaller rooms possibly impacting the experience. The hotel also boasts on-site dining and some rooms feature well-equipped kitchens with a stove top, fridge, and microwave, making longer stays more comfortable.

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Review score

Based on 1172 verified reviews

8.5/10

Great

83%

Recommend

Location

9.3/10

Breakfast

9.0/10

Paid Wi-Fi

8.0/10

Value for money

8.1/10

Pros

Efficient check-in

Quiet location

Marina views

Clean rooms

Comfortable beds

Cons

Musty smell

Broken air conditioner

Limited coffee

Juliet from United Kingdom

Couple

Suite

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:January 20, 2026

9/10

spacious layoutresort pool

the suite had a spacious layout. the resort pool was very nice and faced the marina. i used the resort restaurant, it was great.

the hotel is slightly older.

0 Helpful

Evelyn from United Kingdom

Family with children

Deluxe King Room Marina View

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:January 17, 2026

9/10

Wonderful Marina Views and Quick Check-In

cozy bedmarina view

Check-in was fast. The staff was very pleasant. I loved the room and marina view. The bed felt cozy, and the pillows felt great.

0 Helpful

Evelyn from Canada

Family with children

King Suite Sofa Bed Marina View

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:November 29, 2025

8.5/10

Wonderful Stay with Marina Views

island locationmarina gardenexcellent suitefalse charge

I appreciated the hotel's location on the island. I enjoyed seeing ships daily when leaving the hotel, especially during morning runs. The suite upgrade was excellent, with an outdoor area that overlooked the marina garden. The pool area was very pleasant and faced the marina (it was an excellent touch).

I found an overcharge upon checkout. I had to carefully check the bill to remove false charges. This required extra attention during departure.

Rooms

9/10

The room was very spacious and included a comfortable seating area. It featured modern decor and a large window that provided plenty of natural light. There was also ample closet space (I especially appreciated this).

Location

8/10

The hotel is conveniently close to many local restaurants and attractions. The hotel is also near the airport, providing easy access for travelers. There is a park with a beach and dock across the street (perfect for walks).

0 Helpful

Peter from United Kingdom

Single

deluxe king room water view

4 nights in August 2025

Reviewed:October 14, 2025

9/10

great experience

friendly staffself parking

The location overlooks the harbor! all staff were friendly and helpful. self parking is available. All entrances require key access.

0 Helpful

John from United States

Couple

Deluxe King Room Marina View

4 nights in June 2025

Reviewed:September 08, 2025

9/10

cement tablesquiet area

The hotel grounds feature cement picnic tables. Plenty of parking is available on site. This was very convenient. The pathway along the marina was especially lovely in the mornings. The area felt quiet and safe.

The single coffee maker in the lobby created a line during peak hours.

0 Helpful