The Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines is a retreat nestled along Southern California’s picturesque La Jolla bluffs. Overlooking the legendary Torrey Pines Golf Course and the vast Pacific Ocean, this hotel has been a destination for golfers and visitors to nearby biotech and other businesses since its opening in 1989.
Its location provides a nice blend of seclusion and accessibility to San Diego’s attractions, making it a top choice for travelers seeking a moderately priced Hilton hotel. Plus, with direct access to Torrey Pines and exclusive tee times for guests, the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines is sure to make a memorable trip for avid fans of this historic course.
As a San Diego resident and local hotel expert, I frequently help visitors from around the world decide the best way to spend a trip here in my community of La Jolla. I’ll tell you what to expect if you stay here and, while it’s one of the best spots for golf lovers, why many travelers choose it over other San Diego hotels.
Hilton Torrey Pines Reservations
I think booking directly through Hilton using the Hilton Honors discount is the most beneficial way to book, but you can check prices across top sites here:
10950 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
WHAT I LOVE
- Breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, hotel gardens, and Torrey Pines
- Hotel guests get exclusive tee times and discounts at the Pro Shop
- Most rooms have a pretty view from the balcony (the ocean and golf view is the best)
- Can rent sunset chairs overlooking the 18th hole and pool cabanas
- Close to several beaches and fun attractions in La Jolla and San Diego
- Wi-Fi, Shiley Fitness Center, and sports court and equipment access are included
- Earning or redeeming Hilton Honors points
GOOD TO KNOW
- The hotel is about 25 minutes from San Diego International Airport (the hotel doesn’t offer shuttle services).
- Cars are parked in a private parking garage, and you can pay a parking fee for self-parking or a bit more for valet parking.
- Rooms have two queen beds (four person occupancy) or a king bed (three person occupancy). Some suites have a sofa sleeper for two.
- Guests can bring up to two pets.
- There’s plenty for kids to do around La Jolla, but this hotel is best for adult golfers.
- The hotel doesn’t have an onsite spa, but the one next door at The Lodge at Torrey Pines is one of my favorites in San Diego.
- The Champion Suite has been closed until further notice.
Why People Choose Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines
I’ll tell you about the guest rooms and features of the resort below so you can decide if it’s a fit for your trip. However, the most valuable part of this Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines review stems from my knowledge of hotels in San Diego. I know why people choose certain hotels, including this one.
Price
One really major draw of this hotel is that the average nightly price is typically lower than its more luxurious next-door neighbor, The Lodge at Torrey Pines. And it’s typically also lower than Estancia La Jolla, a few minutes down the road, closer to UC San Diego. These are the three hotels in this Torrey Pines/UCSD area.
Hilton Honors Loyalty
Many people choose hotels in San Diego based on the frequent stay program they belong to. Hilton Honors loyalists will choose Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines over its two nearby hotels and even hotels further afield in La Jolla or Del Mar so that they can earn or redeem points.
Convenient Location to Nearby Businesses
Many travelers who stay in this area need proximity to the biotech, medical, and other businesses in the area — of which there are many. It’s also close to UC San Diego and has easy freeway access.
Golf (Yes, We’ll Say It Again)
I won’t get into too many details about golf here (read more in the golf section below), but it is an enormous draw. Playing the legendary Torrey Pines Golf Course is a bucket list item for many, and not only do you have views of the course, but they’ll help you play it, too.
It’s Relatively Balanced
What I mean by this is if you want a reasonably-priced larger hotel with good dining, a nice pool, great views, a comfortable but not fancy room, and a place to work or workout ,with easy freeway access and a grab-and-go coffee shop. It is not for luxury travelers or those looking for a ton of kids’ amenities or a spa weekend. It’s practical, comfortable, and popular with Hilton Honors members.
Spacious Hotel Rooms & Suites
Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines has 394 guest rooms spread across four floors. Last fully renovated in 2013, the guest rooms’ design takes inspiration from the surrounding Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, with tasteful decor that includes wooden furniture, tan armchairs with matching ottomans, and tranquil earth tones.
All guest rooms have a 55-inch HD TV and the typical amenities, including a desk, coffee maker, mini-refrigerator, hairdryer, walk-in shower, and Crabtree and Evelyn(R) luxury bath products. Rooms are cleaned once per day.
The daily resort charge includes Wi-Fi, access to the fitness center next door, sports equipment and rental access, and two glasses of wine or tap beer daily, among other perks and discounts at the Pro Shop and gift store.
Accessible rooms at the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines include the following:
- King bed with bathtub or roll-in shower: mobility accessible
- King bed: hearing accessible
- Two queen beds with bathtub or roll-in shower: mobility accessible
- Two queen beds: hearing accessible
Guest Rooms
The standard guest room at Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines is 450 square feet, accommodating up to four people in a two queen (three people in a king). And, I’ve been in these rooms — they are lighter and brighter than pictured above.
All guest rooms feature Hilton Serenity Collection beds, 250 thread count sheets, and non-allergenic feather pillows, either with a king bed or two queens.
The ground-level rooms can see the surrounding gardens of the hotel, many of which face Torrey Pines Golf Course, via private patios with sliding glass doors. On the higher floors, guests can opt for spacious hotel rooms with a view of the pool or the Pacific Ocean and golf course, with a private balcony to soak in the breathtaking views.
In addition to the standard amenities, guest rooms come with room service and HBO streaming. Guests can also bring up to two pets (dogs or cats) with a combined weight of 75 pounds max.
Ocean Golf View Terrace Suite
The Terrace Suite is 900 square feet and automatically comes with a full ocean and golf course view, accessible via a 400 square feet furnished terrace with an outdoor dining set. It also has two private balconies attached to the bedroom and living area, though the latter only has a partial view.
Following the same design and color scheme as the rest of the hotel, the Terrace Suite has a natural aesthetic that encourages guests to fall into a relaxed Southern California lifestyle.
Inside, the suite has a dining room that can seat eight, a living room with a sofa bed, and a private bedroom with a king bed. Aside from an extra 55-inch TV, the amenities are the same. The bathroom is situated near the entrance and has virtually all the same features and layouts as the standard guest room.
Coastal View Vista Suite
The Vista Suite is one step up, featuring a larger furnished terrace overseeing the coast, two bathrooms, and three private balconies in a 1,350-square-foot arrangement.
It has the same amenities as the Terrace Suite, except this one comes with a larger bathroom, double vanity, dual-head shower, and additional closet space. Similarly, it sleeps up to four people with a sofa bed in the living area and a king bed in a separate bedroom.
The dining area has a large table that can seat eight people, as well as a mini bar with a small sink. Aside from the bathrooms, every room in the Vista Suite can easily view the outdoor scenery through the terrace or its own balcony.
Champion Suite
The Champion Suite was the largest accommodation at Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines at 2,925 square feet, but it’s no longer available for guests to book in 2024. We mention it here because it’s still listed on their website.
Dining at Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines
Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines has one main restaurant, Torreyana Grille, and a few places for small plates, coffee, and drinks. Room service is available from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., which can also deliver meals poolside or to the sunset chairs overlooking the 18th hole of Torrey Pines Golf Course.
Torreyana Grille
Torreyana Grille is a casual restaurant that serves American fare and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I’ve eaten here, and held a couple of meetings here. It’s pretty good.
It’s open from 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and has indoor and outdoor seating, including fire pits for colder nights watching the sunset. The menu has something for everyone, from avocado toast and breakfast burritos to fresh salmon, burgers, and personal pizzas.
Guests can also visit the Torreyana Lounge to watch a game on one of the fourteen TVs, including an 82-inch flatscreen with surround sound. It’s open from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. most days and closes at midnight on Friday and Saturday.
The lounge has a menu featuring small plates and entrees, handcrafted cocktails, and craft beer on tap (happy hour Monday-Friday, 3 to 6 p.m.).
Horizons Coffee Café
This eatery is conveniently located in the lobby and sells Starbucks coffee, an assortment of teas, breakfast sandwiches, and more. It’s open from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily and is a great spot to grab a quick bite or coffee before an early tee time or a full day of sightseeing.
Pacific View Pool Bar
Guests can sit at the Pacific View Pool Bar and enjoy small snacks, appetizers, and drinks. Service is also available for guests who book a poolside cabana.
However, the Pacific View Pool Bar changes hours depending on the season, usually with later closing hours in the warmer months.
Amenities at Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines
Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines has numerous amenities, but it’s primarily known as a golfer’s paradise with direct access to Torrey Pines’ North and South Courses. Beyond golf, guests who want to stay active can enjoy the outdoor pool, fitness center, and hard courts for various sports.
The hotel also has a 24/7 concierge, a business center with Wi-Fi, and twenty-two meeting rooms that can accommodate ten to 1,000+ people for practically any event.
Torrey Pines Golf Course
Golfers looking for a challenge can enjoy 18 holes on the Torrey Pines South Course, home to the 2008 and 2021 U.S. Open Championship.
While you walk in the footsteps of legends like Tiger Woods, you can take in the scenery of the surrounding gardens and the Pacific Ocean, which is only a few steps away from the course.
For a slightly less technical experience, you can take on the North Course but feel just as immersed in the beauty of La Jolla. Moreover, avid golf fans can visit in January to watch the pros play in the annual PGA Tour’s Farmers Insurance Open, which uses both courses.
Guests staying at the Hilton also have access to a driving range and putting green before hitting the course. Likewise, they get access to exclusive daily tee times and a 15% discount at the Torrey Pines Pro Shop. You can book tee times by calling or emailing the hotel before your visit, as well as schedule professional golf lessons if interested.
Heated Outdoor Pool
The pool and hot tub at the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines are in the middle of the property, just across from the South Course. You can easily see the greens and the Pacific Ocean as you enjoy a dip in the Tuscan-style saltwater pool, which is heated year-round.
During the summer months, it’s not uncommon to see many guests take advantage of the rentable poolside cabanas to escape the sun. Plus, with the Pacific View Pool Bar nearby, guests can relax with drinks, eats, and the surrounding La Jolla scenery after playing 18 holes on the course.
Fitness Center
The fitness center at Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines was recently renovated and features newer equipment, including treadmills, ellipticals, personal weights, and a Peloton bike. The fitness center is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The hotel’s guests can also use the Shiley Sports and Fitness Center next door (included with each stay). This full exercise gym has more equipment, an outdoor heated lap pool, and exercise classes. It’s less than a 5-minute walk from the hotel, and the hours are as follows:
- Monday to Thursday: 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Friday: 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Saturday: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Pickleball, Tennis, and Basketball
Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines has a few outdoor hard courts available for pickleball, tennis, and basketball. These are available to rent from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in one-hour increments for up to four people. All equipment is included.
Daily Yoga
Guests at the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines can visit the Fairway Garden from 6 a.m. to 12 p.m. for self-guided yoga. It takes place in a serene part of the hotel where you can see the fairway and surrounding gardens, and all equipment is provided by the hotel.
Spa Services
Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines doesn’t have an onsite spa and wellness center, but they offer skinauthority® packages. These include various products for facials, calming masks, moisturizing, and mineral and UV protection. Guests can purchase these products at the front desk.
Additionally, guests can visit The Spa at Torrey Pines, which is inside The Lodge at Torrey Pines boutique hotel, about a five-minute walk from Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines. This spa is a luxurious and relaxing place to get a massage, facial, manicure, and more. It has fourteen treatment rooms, a steam and sauna room, an outdoor pool, and a whirlpool. I can speak from much personal experience, while not the biggest spa in San Diego, the quality of the treatments is high. I get massages here sometimes and then have lunch at AR Valentien restaurant upstairs.
Guests can call The Spa at Torrey Pines directly to book an appointment.
Surrounding Area and Attractions
Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines is only a few miles from Del Mar and La Jolla Shores. Guests would go to the beach in either one of these places. One perk of the hotel’s location is that it’s only a few minutes to the I-5 freeway, providing easy access to downtown San Diego attractions and fun things. For instance, Balboa Park, which has eighteen museums and the San Diego Zoo, is less than twenty minutes away by car.
Torrey Pines State Reserve is just north of the hotel and is one of the most beautiful spots in the area. It’s the perfect place for a brisk walk or hike, and it’s not uncommon to see dolphins in the ocean.
La Jolla Cove is five miles south of the hotel, give or take 15 minutes by car. The waves here aren’t powerful, so it’s an excellent spot for snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, and exploring the caves at low tide. It’s also a popular destination to spot sea lions and La Jolla seals, not to mention for dining and shopping along La Jolla’s famous Prospect Street just up the road.
Staying at Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines with Kids
Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines is a great San Diego area hotel for golfers, but it’s not the best place to stay with kids if you’re looking for a huge list of things to do outside of a heated swimming pool. It offers some activities over the summer (usually until Labor Day), including crafts, cookie decorating, board games, and coloring contests.
Aside from this, the hotel doesn’t have a smaller pool or regularly scheduled activities for kids. While one parent golfs at Torrey Pines, the rest of the family can head out sightseeing or play at the beach, pool, or hard courts. You can read my full list of things to do for kids in San Diego.
Unique Features and Design
The Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines stands out for its proximity to world-class golf courses that will make the bucket lists of passionate golfers. In addition to golf, here are several unique features of the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines that cater to both leisure and business travelers:
- Gardens and Landscaping: The hotel grounds are absolutely stunning and carefully maintained, featuring pathways surrounded by native Californian plants and stunning ocean and golf course views.
- Expanse Views: Whether from the guest rooms, the lobby, or the Torreyana Grille, guests are treated to breathtaking views of La Jolla. Likewise, outdoor spaces at the hotel are thoughtfully created to provide a serene and unforgettable experience.
- Weddings: The hotel is a beautiful location for weddings, with lush outdoor gardens and a variety of ballrooms, ensuring that every couple can find a setting that matches their vision.
- Proximity to Beaches: Located moments away from various San Diego beach destinations, notably Torrey Pines State Beach and La Jolla Shores, the hotel is perfect for guests looking to enjoy surfing, fishing, or swimming.
Events and Activities
Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines holds occasional events and activities throughout the year, but it’s known for the annual Farmers Insurance Open in January. This tournament lasts four days, and the hotel offers several special packages and exclusive access to the event.
From rooms overlooking the 18th hole to cabana rentals to access the course gate, Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines is the place to be when the pros come to town. Once the tournament wraps up, guests can enjoy the after-party, which includes live entertainment, chipping contests, and a curated food menu.
I have been to a few weddings here as there are larger ballrooms, sometimes these events host cocktail hours at the pool. It’s a nice convention or wedding hotel and you may run into something like this during your stay.
Have you stayed at Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines? Let us know in the comments.
