I stayed here from Sept 23 thru Sept 28, 2026. The service here is impeccable, the room – pristine. The staff were very kind, welcoming, attentive, helpful, thoughtful, informative, and even offered suggestions for things to do and places to eat at. The rooms are large and airy and the air conditioning in the rooms sometimes worked so well that the room became much colder than I expected it would get, which for me was a plus and I could simply adjust the thermostat slightly for it to warm up a bit. The bed was incredibly comfortable (not too plush, but also not too firm) and was appointed with down bedding and pillows. The bathroom was furnished with a very large vanity where you could also sit and apply your makeup. The shower, omg the shower…. I’m impressed by the shower head so much that I’m going to begin researching and shopping for one by the manufacturer. I’ve never been in a shower with that much water pressure – it felt like I was getting a water massage every time I got in there!! The brass fixtures, hardware, and decorative touches really added statement to this classy hotel while the pocket doors for the closet and toilet/shower area really added the historic charm I’ve grown to love. But be cautious… those pocket doors are solid wood and quite heavy to pull closed. The location of this hotel in the Gaslamp quarter was incredibly convenient to Old Town, Sea World, The San Diego Zoo, Moonlight Beach in Encinitas, Little Italy, and many other conveniences. I would recommend this hotel to anyone going to visit, you WILL NOT be disappointed!!!

As a wedding photographer, the Westgate Hotel is one of my favorite venues in all of San Diego. I’ve photographed there multiple times, and it never gets old.

The architecture alone sets it apart. The French-inspired design throughout the hotel gives every corner a sense of grandeur that you just don’t find at most venues. There’s no shortage of stunning backdrops to work with: the Versailles Ballroom with its Baccarat crystal chandeliers, the grand lobby staircase with its ornate wrought iron railings, the antique-filled sitting rooms, and more. As a photographer, that variety matters a lot.

The getting-ready suites for both the bride and groom are spacious and well-lit with beautiful window light. No cramped, cluttered, or dark corners to work around. The rooms are photogenic on their own.

For couples who want that downtown San Diego energy, the rooftop Fountain Terrace is a fantastic option for ceremonies or cocktail hour, with the city skyline as your backdrop. The Versailles Ballroom doubles beautifully as a ceremony space for those who prefer to stay indoors and really lean into the hotel’s architecture. Both work incredibly well photographically.
The staff has always been helpful and accommodating every time I’ve been there. You can feel that the whole team takes the experience seriously.

If you’re planning a wedding in San Diego and want a venue that photographs beautifully from morning prep through the last dance, the Westgate is hard to beat.

— Paul from PMC Photography