San Diego Holiday Vacation Rentals | Christmas & New Year

Discover San Diego holiday vacation rentals for Christmas & New Year’s. Book luxury short-term rentals with Select Stays for an authentic local stay.

By Jay Ullrich on 12/17/2025

What if your Christmas morning included ocean views, palm trees, and sunshine instead of snow boots and icy roads? Or imagine ringing in the New Year with rooftop fireworks overlooking downtown San Diego rather than a crowded hotel ballroom.

If that sounds like your kind of holiday, San Diego vacation rentals offer one of the most refreshing and memorable ways to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s. And when it comes to premium short-term rentals in San Diego, nothing compares to the personalized experience of booking with Select Stays San Diego.

Whether you’re planning a family holiday escape, a romantic year-end getaway, or an extended winter stay, this guide will help you find the perfect San Diego accommodations for the holidays—and show you why a vacation rental beats a hotel every time.


Why Spend the Holidays in San Diego?

San Diego transforms into something special during the holiday season. While much of the country bundles up, you’ll enjoy:

  • 🌴 Average winter temperatures in the mid-60s

  • 🎄 Festive neighborhoods and coastal Christmas events

  • 🎆 Iconic New Year’s Eve celebrations across the city

  • 🌊 Fewer crowds and stunning winter sunsets

From beach towns to downtown hotspots, San Diego offers diverse experiences—all without sacrificing comfort, space, or convenience.


Why Choose a San Diego Vacation Rental Over a Hotel?

More Space for Holiday Comfort

Holiday travel often means traveling with family, friends, or extra luggage. A vacation rental in San Diego gives you multiple bedrooms, full kitchens, living spaces, and outdoor areas—perfect for Christmas dinners or New Year’s gatherings.

Live Like a Local

Instead of being confined to a hotel district, you’ll stay in authentic neighborhoods like La Jolla, Mission Beach, or Downtown San Diego—where locals actually celebrate the holidays.

Better Value for Groups

For families or groups, short-term rentals in San Diego often cost less per person than booking multiple hotel rooms—especially during peak holiday season.


The Best San Diego Neighborhoods for Holiday Vacation Rentals

Downtown San Diego – New Year’s Energy & Fireworks

Perfect for couples and groups looking to celebrate New Year’s Eve in style.

Why stay here:

  • Rooftop views of fireworks

  • Close to Gaslamp Quarter celebrations

  • Walkable restaurants, bars, and waterfront attractions

Select Stays manages luxury downtown properties with rooftop access and modern amenities—ideal for ringing in the New Year without relying on rideshares.


Mission Beach & Pacific Beach – A Coastal Christmas

Yes, people really do spend Christmas morning walking the beach here.

Why stay here:

  • Oceanfront and near-ocean rentals

  • Bike paths, beach walks, and sunsets

  • Great for families and laid-back holiday travelers

A beachfront Christmas vacation rental in San Diego lets you trade snow for sand—while still enjoying festive lights and coastal charm.


La Jolla – Luxury & Serenity

For travelers seeking upscale comfort and peaceful surroundings.

Why stay here:

  • Scenic coastal views

  • Proximity to La Jolla Cove and upscale dining

  • Ideal for couples and extended holiday stays

Select Stays’ La Jolla properties are among the most sought-after luxury San Diego vacation rentals for the holidays.


North Park & Hillcrest – Festive, Local, and Walkable

Perfect for travelers who want a true neighborhood feel.

Why stay here:

  • Local holiday markets and events

  • Excellent dining and nightlife

  • Easy access to Balboa Park’s December Nights


Christmas in San Diego: What to Expect

Holiday Events You’ll Love

  • Balboa Park December Nights – One of the largest free holiday festivals in the U.S.

  • San Diego Bay Parade of Lights – A must-see waterfront tradition

  • Hotel del Coronado Christmas Display – Iconic holiday décor

Why a Vacation Rental Makes Christmas Better

  • Cook a full holiday meal in your own kitchen

  • Decorate your space and create traditions

  • Enjoy quiet mornings without hotel noise

A family-friendly holiday rental in San Diego gives you the freedom to celebrate your way.


New Year’s Eve in San Diego: Celebrate Without the Hassle

San Diego offers one of California’s best New Year’s Eve scenes—from harbor cruises to rooftop countdowns.

Top NYE Experiences

  • Fireworks over the bay

  • Gaslamp Quarter parties

  • Private rooftop celebrations at your rental

Booking a New Year’s Eve vacation rental in San Diego means you can host your own celebration, avoid surge pricing, and enjoy the countdown in comfort.


Why Book Your Holiday Rental with Select Stays San Diego

With over 40 professionally managed luxury properties, Select Stays San Diego offers something hotels simply can’t: a curated, local-first experience.

What Sets Select Stays Apart

  • ✔ Handpicked, high-quality properties

  • ✔ Prime San Diego locations

  • ✔ Hotel-level cleanliness & service

  • ✔ Personalized local recommendations

  • ✔ Responsive guest support—even on holidays

You’re not just booking a place to sleep—you’re booking peace of mind during the busiest travel season of the year.


Tips for Booking San Diego Holiday Vacation Rentals

Book Early

Christmas and New Year’s are peak seasons. The best San Diego holiday vacation rentals often book months in advance.

Book Direct

When you book directly through selectstays.net, you’ll get:

  • Better rates

  • Exclusive availability

  • Direct communication with local experts

Choose Location Based on Your Plans

Beach Christmas? Downtown New Year’s? Select Stays’ team can help you choose the perfect neighborhood.


Who Are San Diego Holiday Vacation Rentals Best For?

  • 👨‍👩‍👧 Families wanting space and comfort

  • 💑 Couples seeking romantic holiday escapes

  • 🧳 Business travelers extending year-end stays

  • 🎉 Groups celebrating New Year’s together

No matter your travel style, there’s a vacation rental San Diego option designed for you.


Ready to Book Your San Diego Holiday Stay?

The holidays are about creating memories—and where you stay matters more than you think.

Skip the hotel and discover why travelers choose Select Stays for authentic San Diego experiences.
Book directly with Select Stays for the best rates and personalized local recommendations.
Ready to experience San Diego like a local? Browse Select Stays’ curated collection of premium vacation rentals at
selectstays.net.

Holiday availability is limited, and the most popular properties book fast. Secure your Christmas or New Year’s stay today and celebrate the season—San Diego style.


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