9 Youth Hostels in San Diego

ITH Mission Beach Backpacker Hostel captures the spirit of San Diego’s surf culture, placing guests smack in the middle of the vibrant Mission Beach community. It’s more than just a place to stay; it's a gateway to water sports, beach bonfires, and boardwalk escapades. The hostel’s social events and tours encourage guests to bond and explore together, making it a top pick for solo travelers and groups alike. With its friendly staff and cozy, colorful dorms, ITH Mission Beach Backpacker Hostel is the go-to for those seeking the ultimate beach backpacker experience.

Facing the beachfront, guests at Samesun Ocean Beach can enjoy 3-star accommodations in San Diego with vibrant communal spaces, including a shared lounge and terrace. Samesun Ocean Beach offers a shared kitchen, a 24-hour front desk, and complimentary WiFi throughout. Additional conveniences include an ATM and secure luggage storage, ensuring a hassle-free stay.

Formerly known as USA Hostels Ocean Beach, this newly rebranded hostel proudly joins the Samesun family, continuing its legacy as an award-winning destination. Positioned in the heart of the lively Ocean Beach community, Samesun Ocean Beach boasts a spacious, open-air design with a variety of private and dorm rooms. The local staff are experts in the area and can arrange bikes and boards for guests eager to explore.

Ocean Beach embodies the best of California living, with sunny beaches, vibrant restaurants, and buzzing breweries. From surfing and skating to biking, yoga, or simply relaxing, there’s something for everyone. Samesun Ocean Beach’s prime location also offers convenient access to other neighborhoods in San Diego, making it an ideal base for further exploration.

HI - San Diego (Downtown) The Metropolitan Hostel serves as a peaceful oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of downtown San Diego. Offering a blend of historical elegance and contemporary comfort, this hostel provides a unique staying experience. Its prime location allows easy access to iconic landmarks and the waterfront, making it ideal for explorers. The hostel’s array of social spaces and activities foster a sense of community, ensuring guests have both the adventure of urban exploration and the warmth of new friendships. HI - San Diego (Downtown) The Metropolitan Hostel is perfect for those seeking a mix of city life and hostel culture.

In the pulsating heart of San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, Gaslamp Hostel offers an urban retreat for young travelers. This hostel is perfectly placed for nightlife enthusiasts, with easy access to the city’s best bars, clubs, and restaurants. The blend of historical charm and modern amenities, coupled with the friendly, outgoing staff, makes Gaslamp Hostel a favored spot for those looking to experience the city’s vibrant culture. It’s the ultimate urban hostel experience, where stories are shared and friendships are forged in the glow of neon lights.

Stay Classy is not just a hostel; it's an experience, offering a unique blend of comfort and social vibes in San Diego. Located in a quieter part of town, it’s perfect for travelers looking to explore San Diego’s attractions while having a tranquil base to return to. The communal kitchen and lounge area provide a great setting for making new friends, and the hostel’s variety of organized activities ensures there’s never a dull moment. Stay Classy is ideal for those seeking a classy yet affordable hostel stay, combining the best of both worlds.

Set in the heart of the city, ITH San Diego Adventure Hostel is where adventure meets community. This hostel is famed for its daily free activities, ranging from sailing trips to pub crawls, designed to immerse guests in the local culture and foster friendships. The vibrant interior and communal spaces, including a cozy fire pit, make ITH San Diego Adventure Hostel a welcoming retreat after a day of exploration. It’s the perfect spot for travelers eager to dive into San Diego’s rich tapestry of experiences with like-minded adventurers.

California Dreams Hostel - Ocean Beach stands out as the quintessential best youth hostel in San Diego for those craving a mix of sun, surf, and socializing. Nestled right in the heart of Ocean Beach, this gem offers easy access to sandy shores and bustling local eateries, making every day an adventure. With its vibrant communal areas and rooftop terrace, California Dreams Hostel - Ocean Beach is a magnet for backpackers looking to connect and share tales of their travels. Whether you’re here to catch waves or sunsets, California Dreams Hostel - Ocean Beach embodies the laid-back Californian dream with a dash of hostel camaraderie.

Located directly on the oceanfront, ITH San Diego Beach Bungalow Surf Hostel offers an unrivaled beach hostel experience. Guests can wake up to the sound of waves and enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The laid-back, surf-inspired decor and the hostel’s commitment to providing a genuine San Diego experience make it a standout. With surfboard rentals and beach activities galore, ITH San Diego Beach Bungalow Surf Hostel is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the surf culture and laid-back lifestyle of San Diego’s beach communities.

HI San Diego Downtown Hostel is where modern amenities meet the social heartbeat of San Diego’s downtown scene. Situated within walking distance to the Gaslamp Quarter and a variety of cultural hotspots, this hostel is a haven for travelers eager to dive into the city’s rich cultural and nightlife offerings. The hostel boasts a vibrant, friendly atmosphere with plenty of communal spaces for guests to mingle and share their stories. With a calendar packed with social activities and tours, HI San Diego Downtown Hostel ensures that guests have every opportunity to explore the city’s highlights together. Whether you’re here to enjoy the urban landscape or make new friends from around the globe, HI San Diego Downtown Hostel stands as a beacon for dynamic and engaging hostel life in San Diego.