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

Key details

About the Hotel

2051 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, 92106-3105

Steps from the Harbor

Great

8.4

8.7

/10

4.3

4.0

"The room was nice and clean. We were able to view the bay from our hotel room and in the evening had dinner at the restaurant that overlooked the marina."

Brandi from United States

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"Free 2 hour bike hire to explore the area."

Darren from United Kingdom

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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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3-star Marina hotel in San Diego with stunning waterfront views

Amenities

Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina offers a comprehensive range of amenities tailored for leisure and relaxation. The hotel has two outdoor pools, a fitness center, and barbecue grills available for guest use. Additionally, the beachfront area provides direct access to the scenic marina, enhancing outdoor activities on the water.

Rooms

The hotel features 200 spacious guest rooms, including waterfront views with private balconies. Each room is equipped with a refrigerator and microwave to provide convenience during stays. There are also family-friendly accommodations that can accommodate larger groups or families.

Location

Situated on Shelter Island, Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina is nestled between the vibrant city of San Diego and the serene coastline. The facility is located near popular attractions such as the San Diego Zoo and the USS Midway Museum. Its positioning provides a blend of both urban adventure and seaside relaxation.

Dining

The hotel offers on-site dining at the Blue Wave Bar & Grill, where guests can enjoy a diverse menu of American cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood. Breakfast options include a complimentary buffet featuring hot and cold selections. Room service is also available for added convenience.

Business Facilities

Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina has a fully equipped business center with copying and printing services. Meeting space is available for up to 100 attendees, making the hotel suitable for small to mid-sized events. High-speed internet access supports business needs throughout the venue.

Highlights

Location: Shelter Island, waterfront access

Rooms: 200 spacious guest rooms with balconies

Dining: Blue Wave Bar & Grill with seafood emphasis

Business: Meeting space for up to 100 attendees

Location: Perfect

9.3/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningBreakfast Bomb!

The restaurant's breakfast was a bomb. Dinner outside? Excellent! I couldn't ask for a better experience.

Ricardo from Spain

Review on

Spa & LeisureFun Pool Area

The pool and hot tub area was a blast! I also enjoyed the spa, and had an excellent location.

Naomi from Canada

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Guest ParkingParking convenience

Although there are extra fees for parking per night, it is worth it.

Oliver from Australia

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Room FeaturesLoved the patio

Our suite had a spacious patio, so relaxing with great views. The room was homey and comfy.

Mei from China

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Select your room type

The hotel provides a selection of rooms—doubles, family rooms, and suites—with perks like free cancellation, breakfast options, and great value deals

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 Queen Size Beds
Air conditioning
room details

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Room rates & availability calendar

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Amenities & services

Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking

Facilities: Great

8.5/10Review 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

Direct dial telephone
AM/FM alarm clock

Dining Onsite

At the Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina, dining is a delightful experience that embodies the spirit of California coastal cuisine. The signature Blue Wave Bar & Grill invites guests to enjoy scrumptious meals in a vibrant setting, featuring tropically inspired dishes crafted by Executive Chef Andrew Mroz, all while soaking in breathtaking views of the marina.

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

Blue Wave Bar & Grill

California coastal cuisine

Ambiance

Family-friendly and modern, with a warm setting close to the marina and plenty of natural light.

Key Offerings

Signature dishes include fresh seafood and hearty American classics, paired with craft cocktails during the popular cocktail hour.

Reservation

Not needed

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

Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina Location

2051 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, 92106-3105

Map view

City landmarks

Landmark

Japanese Friendship Bell

2800 ft

Church

Saint Agnes Catholic Church

4000 ft

Museum

USS Midway Museum

3.0 mi

Landmark

Shoreline Park

2200 ft

Landmark

Friendship Bell

2800 ft

Landmark

Spanish Landing Park

1.6 mi

Landmark

Sefton Plaza

4000 ft

Park

Harbor Island Park

1.4 mi

Landmark

USS Recruit

1.2 mi

University

Point Loma Nazarene College

1.4 mi

Amusement Park

SeaWorld San Diego

3.5 mi

Museum

Women's Museum of California

1.9 mi

Gallery

Visions Art Museum

1.9 mi

Monument

Cabrillo National Monument

2.8 mi

Gallery

San Diego Comic Art Gallery

2.0 mi

Park

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

2.1 mi

Park

Ingram Plaza

1.8 mi

Landmark

52 Boats Memorial

1.8 mi

Market

Liberty Public Market

2.1 mi

Museum

New Americans Museum

1.9 mi

Landmark

Sunset Cliffs

2.0 mi

Landmark

Cancer Survivors Park

1.9 mi

Landmark

North Island

2.0 mi

Beach

Smuggler's Cove

2.0 mi

Park

Cleator Community Park

2.3 mi

Mall

Seaport Village

3.3 mi

Landmark

Zuniga Point

2.1 mi

Nearby

Island

Shelter Island

100 ft

Park

Shelter Island Park Shoreline

500 ft

1718 Shelter Island Dr

Tunaman's Memorial

1600 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

Local Highlights

Japanese Friendship Bell

10 minutes' walk

A beautiful bell located in a tranquil garden setting, showcasing Japanese culture and offering stunning bay views.

USS Midway Museum

13-minute drive

A historic aircraft carrier turned museum, featuring exhibits and interactive displays about naval aviation history.

Spanish Landing Park

8-minute drive

A picturesque park with beautiful waterfront views, picnic areas, and walking paths ideal for leisurely strolls or picnics.

Cabrillo National Monument

14-minute drive

Offers breathtaking coastal views, tide pools, and historical sites commemorating Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo's voyage in 1542.

Water Sports at Shelter Island

1 minute walking

Exciting water activities including kayaking and paddleboarding available right at Shelter Island for all skill levels.

Yoga on the Beach

4-minute drive

Relaxing beach yoga sessions suitable for any level at nearby Ocean Beach, with local instructors leading classes.

Hiking at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

10-minute drive

Thrilling coastal hikes with dramatic views and opportunities for whale watching during migration seasons.

Family Biking Along the Bay

15-minute drive

Scenic bike paths along the bay ideal for family outings; bike rentals available at nearby shops for convenience.

Point Break Cafe

16 minutes' walk

A cozy cafe serving delicious breakfast and brunch options, known for its fresh ingredients and beachy vibe.

Pearson Deli

12 minutes' walk

Charming deli offering a variety of sandwiches, salads, and snacks, perfect for a quick bite or picnic essentials.

Pacific Coast Chinese Food

18 minutes' walk

Authentic Chinese cuisine with a variety of dishes made fresh; perfect for a casual dining experience.

Marvelous Muffins

18 minutes' walk

Beloved for its tasty muffins and pastries, great for a sweet treat or quick coffee on the go.

Humphreys Concerts by the Bay

5-minute drive

A fantastic outdoor concert venue featuring live music performances in a stunning waterfront setting.

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

10-minute drive

A perfect spot for family-friendly gatherings with breathtaking sunsets and pathways for all ages.

Cameo Nightclub

5-minute drive

A popular nightlife spot offering DJ music and dancing, creating a vibrant atmosphere for night owls.

Cinema Under the Stars

10-minute drive

Outdoor movie experience showcasing classic and new films; a nostalgic treat for all ages in a relaxed environment.

Getting around town

City Centre
San Diego 10 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 Station 8 min · 3.3 mi
San Diego Old Town Transportation Center 8 min · 3.3 mi
Bus
Bus stop 10 min · 2700 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 16:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Breakfast

A full breakfast is served at the price of USD 15.0 per person.

Children & extra beds

There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Year renovated:

2011

Number of rooms:

227

Reviews and Ratings

What past guests shared about their stay

Review score

Based on 4 verified reviews

7.6 /10

Very good

100%

Recommend

Cleanliness

8.6/10

Comfort

8.7/10

Facilities

8.5/10

Free Wi-Fi

8.7/10

Location

9.3/10

Staff

8.7/10

Value for money

8.1/10

Molly from United States

Family with children

suite

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 06, 2026

9.3/10

a peaceful island escape

attentive staff helpful staff homelike feeling

danny at the front desk always handles every need. he seems to anticipate what is needed before i ask. clint and ben also are attentive staff members always seeking to help. i felt at home .

the lighting in the room was dim i wished there were brighter options and a wider range. i also noted the internet connection in my room was unreliable. it dropped frequently and showed weak signal strength so working remotely was difficult.

Rooms

9/10

my suite had extra space , made it easy for our family. it featured a comfortable bed and a very clean bathroom. a large patio offered lovely views.

Facilities

9/10

i appreciated the multiple pools and heated hot tubs especially because they were open late. there are safe easy pathways , made evening walks good. the beautiful setting added a peaceful calm feeling.

Dining

9/10

the breakfast at the hotel was very nice. service was also perfect and attentive. dining at the hotel's restaurant on site was awesome.

Service

10/10

the front desk staff was amazing and very helpful during my check-in. danny is very friendly and quick to address any concerns i might have.

0 Helpful

Kathleen from Ireland

Family with children

Deluxe King Room Marina View

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 25, 2026

9.0/10

excellent stay near the marina

marina view patio chairs thoughtful staff

the room with the marina view offered a beautiful sight. i enjoyed using the chairs on the patio to have breakfast and watch the sailboats glide by. the staff were kind and thoughtful (which i appreciated greatly).

I wish the hotel had coffee makers in all rooms. I had to go to the lobby for a cup, a minor inconvenience.

Service

9/10

the front desk was very helpful with directions. on-site restaurant staff provided excellent service and quick seating. staff members were friendly and always available to answer any questions we had.

Rooms

9/10

the room included a microwave and a small refrigerator. the bathroom featured ample counter space. the bed was comfortable with fresh, clean linens (i found this particularly important for a good night's sleep).

Location

10/10

the hotel is centrally located near the marina and many points of interest. the location allows easy access to several areas. the neighborhood felt safe and quiet, ideal for walking along the bay in the morning.

Dining

8/10

the on-site restaurant offered a great lunch menu with many options. the restaurant sits up on a deck, overlooking the marina and pool. i found the burger and brew special particularly delicious.

0 Helpful

nicholas from united kingdom

Single

standard king room

3 nights in August 2026

Reviewed: November 07, 2025

6/10

dirty fan broken air conditioner

the room i booked was not great. the fan above the bed was too dirty for use. i also noticed some bugs. the air conditioner wasn't working properly either.

0 Helpful

Peter from United Kingdom

Single

Standard King Room

4 nights in August 2026

Reviewed: October 10, 2025

6/10

mixed bag, i suppose

broken microwave flickering light

The room i got wasn't exactly what i had in mind. there were these weird chips in the blinds. the microwave decided to quit on me during my whole stay and the light was flickering constantly. It was pretty annoying. also, room service only showed up once . so, that wasn't ideal.

0 Helpful

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