Kona Kai San Diego in San Diego

I’ve always wondered about this hotel on the bay, besides the view you get, the aesthetics of it was great! However, first experience wasn’t what I expected.

Checked in using the kiosk they had, and unfortunately got stuck while making my room key. I then stood in line to finish the process at the front desk. Was told a room number, and even double checked what he wrote on the card sleeve, and walked to that room to open it up, and encountered a do not disturb sign hanging. Figured I do my due diligence and try a different room that had the first and last 2 of the same numbers and it worked.

However, when I walked in, I was a bit confused as to why it wasn’t the layout I requested and book (but was never communicated regarding the change at the front desk). I decided to go back to the front desk and addressed the issue with another employee, and asked him about the room number first since I was confused why I was told different.

I then asked why didn’t the other employee tell me when checking me in, and he said so the guests don’t walk away. Honestly, I would rather be told up front rather than walk into a surprise. I asked if the room layout I requested is available, and he said unfortunately they’re all sold out after trying to accommodate my request.

I just dealt with the change and went back to the room since I was already exhausted. Room was mediocre at best for the price, and the parking at $50. I would’ve been nice to get accommodated for the change w/o notice!

When we travel to San Diego, we always stay on Shelter Island because we like the area. The staff was very friendly and helpful. For the price, Kona Kai is not worth the amount of money you pay to stay there. The resort was nice, but the cost of the rooms and resort fees are excessive. I believe the other hotels on the island are just as nice and far more affordable. Other issues: the bar at the adult pool closed at 5pm on Thursday, the hair dryer in our room was sticking with hair on it, the bathroom door was a barn door and did not lock- very little privacy, and the room was a bit dusty. My family enjoyed the fire pits at night fall and our view of the marina was nice.