Our recent stay at The Pearl Hotel in San Diego was filled with charm, relaxation, and a touch of nostalgia. We chose the Grand Pearl room, intrigued by the name and curious to see what the hotel had in store for us. The room itself had so much character and distinct Californian charm that we quickly fell in love with its unique vibe.
The Pearl isn’t your typical, polished luxury hotel. Instead, it feels like a hidden gem, a place that invites you to unwind and enjoy a more laid-back, authentic experience of San Diego. The Grand Pearl room was cosy and inviting and was also complete with a small balcony, with a mid-century modern aesthetic that perfectly captured the spirit of California in the 1960s. It had the classic vintage feel that makes the hotel so distinctive, with subtle nods to the era that reminded us why The Pearl has been such a favourite in San Diego’s boutique hotel scene. Every detail, from the retro décor to the quirky furnishings, made it clear that The Pearl is not aiming to fit in with other high-end hotels—it’s aiming to stand out, and it does so beautifully.
The highlight of our stay, however, was undoubtedly the outdoor pool area, which serves as the heart of the hotel. During the day, it’s the perfect place to relax, with a mix of guests lounging poolside and taking in the Southern California sunshine. As night falls, though, the pool area transforms into something truly magical. Fairy lights illuminate the space, casting a warm and inviting glow that makes the whole area feel like a hidden oasis. We absolutely loved spending our evenings here, just relaxing poolside and soaking in the atmosphere.
What made the experience even better was the classic black-and-white movies that the hotel projects on a large screen overlooking the pool. It’s such a unique touch, and it really makes you feel like you’re part of something special. There’s a nostalgic feeling to watching an old movie under the stars, surrounded by people who are also there to unwind and enjoy a simple pleasure. It felt as though we’d been transported back in time, sitting under the Californian sky with a drink in hand, and it’s a memory I know we’ll cherish.
Speaking of drinks, Ponyboy—the hotel’s restaurant and bar—is an absolute gem. It’s a small space with big personality, just like the hotel itself. The staff there were welcoming and friendly, and we could tell they took pride in crafting drinks and dishes that fit The Pearl’s unique vibe. The drinks were delicious and well-prepared, with creative twists that elevated them beyond your average cocktail. It became part of our evening routine to grab a drink from Ponyboy and head out to the pool area, where we’d settle in for the evening’s movie screening. Whether you’re a fan of craft cocktails or prefer something more classic, Ponyboy has a little something for everyone.
"it feels like a hidden gem, a place that invites you to unwind and enjoy a more laid-back, authentic experience of San Diego"
There’s something so refreshing about staying at a hotel that doesn’t rely on over-the-top luxury or flashy amenities to create a memorable experience. Instead, The Pearl feels comfortable and unpretentious, yet it’s clear that a lot of thought has gone into every detail. The hotel’s small size and intimate layout make it easy to feel at home here, and we found that the staff went out of their way to make us feel welcome. They were knowledgeable about the local area and always ready with recommendations, which made exploring the neighbourhood even more enjoyable.
Location-wise, The Pearl is situated in Point Loma, a charming neighbourhood that’s close enough to San Diego’s main attractions yet feels like its own little world. We loved exploring the area, from the waterfront views at Shelter Island to the unique shops and restaurants nearby. Being able to come back to The Pearl after a day of exploring San Diego was a treat in itself—it felt like returning to our own little oasis each evening.
If you’re looking for a hotel that offers a sense of place and character, The Pearl is a great choice. It’s the kind of place where you can truly relax and enjoy the moment, with the added bonus of thoughtful touches like the movie screenings and cosy bar. The Grand Pearl room, with its distinctive charm, and the enchanting pool area are just a few highlights in what was an all-around fantastic experience.
In a world full of cookie-cutter hotels, The Pearl stands out as a refreshing, unique option that feels like a true escape. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, savour the small moments, and connect with the people around you. We left feeling completely refreshed, whether you’re a local looking for a staycation or a visitor hoping to experience something different, The Pearl offers an experience that’s truly one-of-a-kind.
The Bill: £210 per night
