HI San Diego Downtown Hostel

Larry at HI Hostel is an absolute legend! His hospitality and enthusiasm create a welcoming atmosphere for guests. From check-in to local recommendations, he goes above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay. Larry's knowledge of the area is impressive, making him an invaluable resource for travelers. Kudos to the rest of the fantastic staff whose names I didn't catch; their professionalism and friendliness contribute to the hostel's overall positive vibe. The team's commitment to guest satisfaction truly sets this hostel apart.

HI is one of the cheapest options for accommodation, so you get what you pay for. I’d recommend only staying for a day or two, but it’s fine if you just want a roof over your head. While the place advertises meeting new people, most people just keep to themselves. You get a bunk and a large locker to yourself, and then everything else is shared. The bed and pillows left my back and neck so stiff, I could not last another day on them. The bed just gives in the middle so it’s terrible for back sleepers. The toilet and shower were good, water pressure and heat were great. They have extra full bathrooms around the floor so you should always have one available. The game room has 2 arcade cabinets to pay for, a pool table, and over a dozen board games to play. There’s a lot of seating for eating and it was always pretty empty. The kitchen is well-stocked with tableware and you could definitely cook a full meal with easy. The continental breakfast is extremely bare-bones: oatmeal, bagels, and cereal.

Overall fantastic - location is central, all customer service was friendly, and the hostel overall seemed clean. A secure building, front door is locked in the evening and the desk is always manned checking room passes. Note - if you plan on sleeping before 2am on a weekend, bring silicone earplugs or noise canceling headphones - they very kindly provide the usual earplugs free of charge but they don't do much against the party vibe of the gaslamp district. Other than that, hot coffee and tea 24/7, luggage lock available same day of check in/check out, and the atmosphere is welcoming to all.

First time staying at a HI USA hostel, and I gotta say I’m impressed overall. Good value stay with thoughtful amenities right in the heart of the gaslamp district. Pros: secure entry, good price, clean rooms & bathrooms, cool AC temp, lockers (bring your own lock), flexible booking/cancellations, free breakfast (oatmeal, fruit, bagels), community activities and lounge areas, kitchen & laundry rooms, very walkable. Cons: super noisy with nightlife nearby until the early AM, smelly downtown area, earplugs a must if you’re a light sleeper (they have free earplugs at the front desk), and cheap parking is atrociously hard to find. Would suggest metered parking < 1 mi. away by civic center or on 6th, otherwise be prepared to PAY for lot & garage parking. Overall would definitely recommend and come back.

Larry at HI Hostel is an absolute legend! His hospitality and enthusiasm create a welcoming atmosphere for guests. From check-in to local recommendations, he goes above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay. Larry's knowledge of the area is impressive, making him an invaluable resource for travelers. Kudos to the rest of the fantastic staff whose names I didn't catch; their professionalism and friendliness contribute to the hostel's overall positive vibe. The team's commitment to guest satisfaction truly sets this hostel apart.