Margaritaville Hotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter has opened in downtown San Diego, marking the brand’s first city-center location on the West Coast. Following a nearly $30 million property-wide reimagination, the property at 435 6th Ave. is a Southern Californian take on the Margaritaville experience and is now home to a rooftop pool deck, three dining and entertainment destinations, and flexible events spaces.

“After much dreaming and planning, we are delighted to formally open our doors,” said Jim Hollister, general manager of Margaritaville Hotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter. “With our signature ‘no worries,’ easy-going vibes, and welcoming service, we look forward to bringing this unique style of hospitality to our beloved city of San Diego.”

From the firm Dawson Design Associates in partnership with San Diego-based Rossi Architecture, the hotel’s design infuses island visuals with a Californian sensibility. Taking a local spin on the Margaritaville look, the lobby is reminiscent of Baja California with a Mission style utilizing raw materials like stucco and concrete, custom hand-made furnishings from reclaimed wood, and creative works from Mexican artists. Even the margarita glass chandelier is unique to the region and was hand-blown in Mexico.

Extending from the lobby into the halls and common spaces, the design was also influenced by Jimmy Buffett’s Laurel Canyon days, evoking the “Summer of Love” with art and décor that echoes the Golden State in the 1960s. The entrance boasts portraits in the vein of Andy Warhol, while murals of Volkswagen buses stacked with colorful surfboards adorn the elevator lobbies. Visible from the rooftop pool deck, two parrot murals are painted across the exterior walls.

A Taste of Paradise

With three unique dining venues open to guests and the public, visitors can have drinks with island-inspired twists, and listen to regular live music performances. Nestled on the largest rooftop pool deck in downtown San Diego, is the hotel’s 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar. Whether spending the day sipping poolside, stopping in for a bite, or listening to live entertainment, guests can pull up a seat and take in the views of downtown and Petco Park.

Serving the signature LandShark burger, fish sandwiches, tacos, and fresh salads, LandShark Bar & Grill, on the hotel’s ground floor, puts a contemporary twist on classic American beach fare. Coastal-inspired menus boost the breezy beach bar vibe, as do the large garage-style doors that open onto the streets of the Gaslamp Quarter. Guests can sip on LandShark Lager or choose from a selection of local beers, craft cocktails, and frozen concoctions. Margaritaville Coffee Shop allows guests to kickstart their mornings with a specialty latte or grab a mid-day sandwich on the go.

Coastal Cool Accommodations

The hotel’s 235 guest rooms and suites have a vintage beach bungalow aesthetic with authentic surfboards hung on the walls alongside tropical accents and framed Jimmy Buffett albums. Offering a range of sizes and styles fit for couples, groups, or families.

The hotel offers two unique, specialty suites that open onto the pool deck – the Jimmy Buffett Suite and Nothin’ But Breeze Suite. With elevated amenities and expansive accommodations, these two retreats offer sprawling square footage.

To celebrate the grand opening, Margaritaville Hotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter is offering a special package that includes 20% off the best available rate, two specialty cocktails from LandShark Bar & Grill or 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar, and $10 off parking, available to book until Oct. 31. Visit margaritavilleresorts.com/margaritaville-hotel-san-diego for information.