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From41US$ /night
Check-in
15Jan2026Select date
Check-out
16Jan2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

521 Market Street, San Diego, California, United States, 92101
-
Close to the harbor
Great
8.5
8.8
/10
4.1
4.2
/5

Rooms: Comfort and Amenities

All 48 rooms include comforts such as laptop-friendly workspaces and air conditioning. Rooms also feature separate sitting areas and separate dining areas. Some units include a seating area. Rooms feature heating and a fan. Each air-conditioned room features an en suite bathroom, heating, a fan, a hairdryer and a shower. Air-conditioned rooms provide a private bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer.

Dining: Free and Local

This non-profit hostel serves a daily breakfast. It offers free coffee, tea, hot chocolate and filtered water 24-hours a day. Hi San Diego Downtown Hostel is in the Gaslamp Quarter, home to some of downtown San Diego's best restaurants.

Leisure Activities

Guests can play billiards at the hostel. Whale-watching is among the area's activities. A launderette and laundry facilities are available. Staff will help you with self-guided walking tour guides and tips for finding the best tacos and carne asada fries. The hostel has a 24-hour front desk and no curfew. The hostel has a shared kitchen. Hostelling International is a member based organization. Free high-speed WiFi is included in public areas.

Location: Downtown San Diego

HI-San Diego Downtown Hostel is set in the Downtown San Diego district in San Diego and in Gaslamp Quarter, featuring gourmet dining, luxury shopping and a variety of entertainment. Petco Park, home of the San Diego Padres Major League Baseball team is located near the hostel. The USS Midway Museum and San Diego Zoo can be visited. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Balboa Park and Mission Bay. Landmarks nearby: San Diego Zoo - 2.5 km, San Diego Chinese Historical Museum - 0.5 km, Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House Museum - 0.3 km, U.S.S. San Diego Memorial - 0.5 km, San Diego Museum of Man - 2.5 km, San Diego Air & Space Museum - 2.5 km, Petco Park - 1 km, Horton Plaza Park - 0.5 km, and Seaport Village - 1 km. The nearest airport is San Diego International Airport, 4 km from the property.

Services: 24-Hour Assistance

A 24-hour front desk is at the property. Awesome staff will help you get to know the city. Safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit. Groups of 10 or more can book at HI San Diego Downtown. Only bookings from non-local guests are accepted.

“This place seems ideal if you're after a social atmosphere and don't mind the quirks of hostel life; the central location is a definite plus for exploring. I noted some past guest found the rooms a bit hit-or-miss in terms of noise and cleanliness, so pack your earplugs. It could be a great budget base, depending on your tolerance for late-night sounds.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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Select your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Bed Men's 4-Bed Dormitory
2 persons
11 m² 
1 Bunk bed
Shower
Heating
Bed Women's 4-Bed Dormitory
2 persons
11 m² 
1 Bunk bed
Shower
Heating
Private Double Room
2 persons
9 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Private Single Bunk Room
2 persons
9 m² 
1 Bunk bed
Shower
Heating
Click button to see more rooms
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Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • 24-hour reception
  • No pets allowed
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Locker room
  • Lift
  • ATM/Cash machine
  • Vending machines
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Hiking
  • Billiard tables

Guest Parking

  • Shared kitchen

Services

  • Laundry

Business

  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Board games
  • Game room

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Garden furniture
  • Ironing facilities

Self-catering

  • Shared kitchen

Media

  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Parquet floor
  • Curtains
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Location

521 Market Street, San Diego, California, United States, 92101
Map view
521 Market Street, San Diego, California, United States, 92101
Nearby
Museum
The New Children's Museum
550 m
Mall
Westfield Horton Plaza
450 m
Museum
Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House Museum
130 m
Museum
San Diego Chinese Historical Museum
320 m
Harbor Drive & G Street
U.S.S. San Diego Memorial
400 m
Mall
Horton Plaza Park
480 m
715 J St
Bub's at the Ballpark
300 m
Library
San Diego Central Library
590 m
Cabrillo Bridge
600 m
Garnet Street
600 m
Night club
OMNIA Nightclub San Diego
140 m
435 Fifth Ave
Oxford Social Club
160 m
Night club
Whiskey Girl
160 m
Night club
FLUXX Nightclub
170 m
Restaurants
Burger Lounge
110 m
528 5th Ave
Ciro's Pizzeria & Beerhouse
10 m
536 Market St
Funky Garcia's
90 m
421 Market St
Taqueria Los Chuchys
180 m
543 Fourth Ave
Tin Roof
180 m
401 G Street
Olala Crepes
20 m
453 5th Ave
Tacos "El Cabron"
190 m
532 4th Ave
Food Shop
210 m
455 5th Ave
Explore San Diego
Activities and Dining Near Hi San Diego Downtown Hostel
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House
5 minutes' walk
Historical museum featuring exhibits on Gaslamp Quarter history, housed in the first building in the area, with engaging guided tours.
The New Children's Museum
7 minutes' walk
Innovative museum focusing on contemporary art and play, ideal for families with kids; offers free admission days and interactive installations.
Petco Park
12 minutes' walk
Home of the San Diego Padres, this ballpark features stunning views, events year-round, including games and concerts for all ages.
Embarcadero Marina Park South
14 minutes' walk
Scenic waterfront park with lush lawns, picnic areas, and beautiful harbor views; perfect for walks, leisure, and family picnics.
Bike Rental at Seaport Village
15 minutes' walk
Biking along the waterfront offers a thrilling way to explore the coastline. Rentals available for various skill levels and group sizes.
Yoga by the Bay
15 minutes' walk
Relaxing outdoor yoga sessions available near beaches. Ideal for unwinding; classes often held in beautiful locations near the water.
Ciro's Pizzeria & Beerhouse
1 minute' walk
Laid-back pizzeria specializing in wood-fired pizzas and craft beers; great for casual dining, with vegetarian options available.
Burger Lounge
2 minutes' walk
Casual burger joint known for its grass-fed beef and fresh ingredients; offers a delicious range of burgers and gluten-free options.
Tin Roof
3 minutes' walk
Vibrant live music venue featuring genres from rock to country; hosts events and offers a lively atmosphere perfect for night outings.
The Headquarters at Seaport
15 minutes' walk
Shopping and entertainment hub with restaurants, boutiques, and regular live events; ideal for families and all ages.
Getting around
City Centre
San Diego22 min  ·  1.8 km
Airports
San Diego International Airport (SAN)9 min  ·  5.4 km
El Cajon (CJN)37 min  ·  24.1 km
Train
Santa Fe Depot14 min  ·  1.1 km
Bus
Bus stop2 min  ·  100 m
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
is available in for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
59
Questions of the users
About Hi San Diego Downtown Hostel
Is there a facility to store my luggage before check-in or after check-out?
12 November 2023
Luggage storage is available for guests before the official check-in time and after check-out. Simply visit the front desk for assistance with this service.
Can I expect a peaceful environment during the night at the hostel?
25 December 2023
For a quieter room, make sure to request it during your reservation. The hostel's prime location in the vibrant Gaslamp district means there will be lively activity outside, but the interior can be restful.
How do I obtain the membership required to stay here?
17 January 2024
To stay at this hostel, it's essential to have a HI/YHA membership. Membership can be purchased online, or a day membership is available upon arrival for just $4.
What are the parking options available near the hostel?
10 February 2024
There are multiple parking lots and garages nearby, with overnight rates starting around $15. On Sundays, metered parking is free. The staff can help direct you to the closest options.
Are there any age restrictions for guests staying in the dorm rooms?
5 March 2024
Guests aged 18 and older are welcome to stay in the dorms, with no upper age limit.
What is the earliest I can check in if I arrive before the official time?
28 April 2024
Although the check-in time is set at 3 PM, early check-in is possible if a room is available. If no rooms are ready, luggage storage can be provided at no extra charge.
Is the kitchen equipped for preparing meals?
9 May 2024
Guests have access to a communal kitchen, which includes two microwaves for cooking. This allows everyone to prepare their meals comfortably.
How far is the hostel from the San Diego International Airport?
20 June 2024
The hostel is located approximately 6.4 kilometers from the airport, accessible via public transport. A membership is still needed for accommodation.
Can I use a debit card for payment upon check-in?
30 July 2024
Payment by debit card is accepted upon check-in, so there's no need to worry if you don't have a credit card available.
Is there free parking available at or near the hostel?
14 August 2024
While there is no free parking on-site, guests can find metered street parking and several paid lots nearby, with Park It on Market being a recommended option.
Is there a limit on how long guests can stay at the hostel?
5 September 2024
Guests may stay for up to 21 days within a calendar year, ensuring a welcoming environment for travelers.

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