After numerous trips to sunny San Diego, I’ve become quite familiar with the hostels in the area. I’ve stayed at quite a few in the region, all over the city. San Diego is home to some of the most charming and (…psychedelic!!) interesting places to stay in southern California. Each place has a unique atmosphere, which provides you with the opportunity to truly customize your trip.

The Best Hostels to Stay at in San Diego

If your inner party-animal needs to chase the night lights around the clubs, or if the trippy-hippie inside you needs a place as colorful as your lifestyle, you’re in luck: San Diego has a place for you.

ITH Adventure Hostel

Located near downtown San Diego, this hostel offers the perfect location for exploring the Maritime museums, Coronado, shopping centers and San Diego night life. Small bungalows are set up within a compound, securely surrounded by a large  privacy fence. Because each dorm is separated by more than just a wall, this hostel is quieter than most.

My favorite part of this place was the outdoor patio. During one of the few times of rain in San Diego, I had a beer with other travelers as we waited it out beneath the cover.

 Banana Beach Bungalow Hostel

Tucked away along Mission Boulevard, Banana Beach Bungalow is a bit of a party hostel, but still maintains it’s beach vibes. If you aren’t into surfing, grab a volleyball and head to the beach.

To be fair, some of the best times I enjoyed were learning how to surf with the people I met here.

Ocean Beach Hostel

By far the favorite for any hippie-loving adventurer. This psychedelic beach house is as colorful as it is fun. With a back deck full of lounge-gear (including a hammock), a tented television area, and a cute breakfast nook, Ocean Beach s super cozy. There are a few free wet suits to rent, as well as bi-weekly beach yoga classes. (Um, yes?!)

Make sure you catch the free shuttles to La Jolla, Tijuana and Old Town. I enjoyed every day that I spent here.

There are so many places to stay in San Diego, but some places are certainly maintained better than others.  I made the mistake of staying at Hostel Habibi- which has a rather convenient location among many bars, clubs, and restaurants, but I found to be unorganized, unsafe and unsanitary. While I was there, an employee was fired and a bathroom was broken and left unfixed for days. The hostel itself rather resembles an office building that’s been altered. In any case…I would avoid this one, folks.

Have you been to San Diego? What are your favorite hostels?