When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Kona Kai Club
Why Kona Kai Club is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Kona Kai Club, located on the picturesque Shelter Island in San Diego, is a prestigious private beach club offering an exclusive sanctuary for members seeking to unwind and enjoy the quintessential Southern California lifestyle. This members-only club features a stunning private beach, reserved poolside cabanas, and a marina-front fitness center complemented by over 20 weekly exercise classes, including yoga. Guests also have access to lavish amenities such as a spa with unique treatments like massages on heated alpha-quartz sand beds and a vibrant culinary scene at the Vessel restaurant, where tropical breezes accompany fine SoCal cuisine. The club’s ambiance offers a perfect setting for social gatherings, fitness activities, and relaxation, making it an ideal spot for friends to meet up and enjoy a sophisticated, yet tropical environment. Additionally, members benefit from exclusive club events, special discounts at all areas of the club, and dedicated service that enhances the overall experience. The combination of scenic waterfront views, premium resort facilities, and a welcoming atmosphere cements Kona Kai Club's reputation as a top-tier destination for leisure and camaraderie in San Diego.
Here's what people think of Kona Kai Club
As of recent, Kona Kai Club holds a 3.6-star rating based on 12 reviews.
Member and guest reviews of Kona Kai Club reveal a mixed yet generally positive impression. Many users praise the club's scenic location on Shelter Island, highlighting the beautiful beachfront, relaxing cabanas, and the high quality of amenities such as the fitness center and spa facilities. Positive feedback frequently notes the attentive and courteous staff, the elegance of the Vessel restaurant with its exquisite local cuisine, and the exclusivity provided by the private club setting. Members also appreciate the extensive calendar of social and fitness events, which foster a strong communal atmosphere and provide diverse opportunities for engagement and wellness. On the negative side, some reviews point out areas where service and facilities could be improved, such as occasional maintenance issues and the premium pricing structure that might limit accessibility for some prospective members. There have been comments about specific service lapses or the waiting times for certain amenities, reflecting room for operational enhancements. Overall, the reviews conclude that Kona Kai Club delivers a compelling blend of luxury and comfort, making it a desirable destination for individuals and friends seeking a refined private beach club experience, while also indicating that attention to detail in service could further elevate its standing.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Laurie Petty
This property claims to be a “newly transformed and expanded resort” that touts “modern luxury” when, in reality, it is none of the above. At best, it is a low rack motel quality room with poor/nonexistent amenities pretending to be a luxury resort for which you will pay nearly $500/night and a $39/day resort fee. We were placed in two different rooms during our stay. The first “marina view” room had a view obscured by a thatched roof pool cabana and overlooked the kids’ pool — a far cry from the beautiful, relaxing marina view we were promised when we booked with central reservations. When we called to say that they must have made a mistake, we were told it was the last room they had and the very loud music/screaming/party would end around 10 pm. — disappointing after we had travelled all day. Two days later, the desk manager finally called to follow up and promised to move us to a quieter room where we could actually see the marina. The second room was in a sad state of disrepair: holes in the linens, a tub shower with a thin topping over the old tile that was peeling and exposing active mold, filthy grout on the bathroom floor and thread-bare carpeting (“recently renovated”?). When we followed up with them about this sad, shabby room, the front desk manager pretended to be aghast, but did not come to see — didn’t know or didn’t care? The disillusionment with this place was not limited to the rooms. A disappointing visit to the pools found a jug of water with no glasses, no towels, and no bartender or servers. The single restaurant that was open had adequate food, but extremely poor service— first visit=20 minutes to get a $7 cup of tepid black coffee to go; second visit=75 minutes to get 2 bowls of clam chowder and a glass of wine (at a not busy noon lunch, after being abundantly patient, we had to approach the host to ask for our food and had to return to host stand to pay our check). The one single moment in our whole stay where resort staff showed some alacrity was several hours after we checked out, we realized we left something in the room safe. We called the front desk and were told the room had been cleaned out, but the new guests had not yet arrived. Front desk manager Elie personally ran to the room and found our items still in the safe. While I appreciated her hustle, a friend in the hospitality industry pointed out that items from prior guests in the safe would cause new guests to accurately suspect their room had not been thoroughly cleaned in preparation to be turned over, so the “resort” would have a huge incentive to get those items out of the safe before the next guests arrived. And, finally, I asked on several occasion to speak to the general manager and never once received a call from him while we were on property or after we returned home. All in all, this “resort” is nothing it claims to be — there are plenty of other options in San Diego — do not be deceived by Kona Kai.
Rachel Getsinger
My family and had our room moved several times because “the reservation was cancelled” when it wasn’t. We were placed into a makeshift ADA room with no bathtub. 5 of us packed into a room with 2 queens and a cot that we had to fight to get. Parking lot is insane and difficult to park in. People were directing each other in order to safely park. Two simultaneous weddings at the “resort” meant there wasn’t enough staff to help the other people staying there. Waited over 2 hours for towels to because our room didn’t have towels already. Glad we only stayed a night, but paid way too much for it.
Nick Banes
Great resort for families. We visited for my wife's first Mother's Day and wanted a place that was family friendly and had a spa that was open during COVID. The resort was very clean and the staff was very accommodating when it came to an early check-in and a late check out. We will definitely be coming back to stay here!
KC GEM
Our favorite place! Highly recommend becoming club members. The best!
Luis Cano
Good food, variety of amenities, well located.
How to reach Kona Kai Club
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Why Kona Kai Club may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Kona Kai Club with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Kona Kai Club offers an exceptional chance to connect and create lasting memories in a truly unique San Diego setting. Situated on Shelter Island, this private beach club blends exclusive luxury with an inviting, relaxed atmosphere that caters perfectly to groups seeking both adventure and relaxation. From the moment you arrive, you’re embraced by sweeping views of San Diego Bay, stunning marina sights, and lush grounds stretching 11 acres, setting an idyllic backdrop for any social meetup. Its reputation as a historic and prestigious club adds a touch of sophistication to your gathering without sacrificing comfort or warmth. Whether your group is looking to lounge poolside, share a gourmet meal with ocean breezes, or engage in a variety of activities—from fitness classes to bonfire evenings—Kona Kai Club serves as a versatile and inspiring venue that appeals to diverse tastes. It’s this combination of exclusivity, scenic charm, and abundant choices that makes Kona Kai an outstanding rallying point to celebrate friendship, family, and community.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Kona Kai Club?
Kona Kai Club offers a rich selection of activities tailored to offer something for everyone in your group. Fitness enthusiasts can dive into over 20 weekly classes, including invigorating yoga, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), aqua aerobics, and more, all led by certified instructors in a beautiful marina-front gym. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, the club’s private sand beach and resort-style heated pool provide perfect spots to relax under the Californian sun. Evening bonfires on the beach, complete with complimentary s’mores kits on Fridays, create a cozy environment for storytelling and laughter against the backdrop of the bay’s glowing waters. Members also enjoy access to various social events such as wine nights, bingo, game nights, ladies’ nights, and book clubs, designed to enhance social connection and fun. For families, kids’ activities are available, making it an inclusive destination for all ages. This extensive array of wellness, recreation, and social options makes Kona Kai a dynamic and welcoming place to host your group.
How does Kona Kai Club accommodate group meetups?
Kona Kai Club is exceptionally well-suited for group meetups thanks to its thoughtfully designed amenities and exclusive member services. The club offers reserved poolside cabanas and private club lounges, providing intimate yet spacious environments ideal for socializing within your circle. The Vessel Restaurant + Bar features signature Southern California cuisine, perfect for group dining experiences with marina views and a vibrant ambiance. Reservations are recommended to ensure seamless service, and the culinary team can cater to various preferences, guaranteeing everyone in your group finds something delightful. Additionally, Kona Kai’s calendar is packed with exclusive member-only events, which offer fantastic opportunities for groups to bond through shared experiences. The club’s welcoming atmosphere, combined with attentive staff and an emphasis on personalized service, ensures your group’s gathering is comfortable, convenient, and memorable.
What makes the location and environment special for gatherings?
Located on the picturesque Shelter Island, Kona Kai Club boasts one of California’s rare private beaches in addition to a vibrant marina filled with luxury boats and yachts. This location offers uninterrupted views of the San Diego skyline, Coronado Bay Bridge, and the bustling yet calm waters of the bay—creating a scenic and peaceful backdrop that elevates any social occasion. The club’s lush grounds are peppered with tropical landscaping and comfortable outdoor seating, making it easy to find the perfect nook for quiet conversation or group celebration. Gentle bay breezes and stunning sunsets enhance the sensory experience, and fire pits on the beach extend your gathering into evenings filled with warmth and charm. The tranquil yet upscale environment lends itself to a balanced blend of relaxation and excitement, appealing to varied group dynamics and moods.
Are there special wellness and relaxation options at Kona Kai Club?
Kona Kai Club goes beyond typical social venues by offering premium wellness and relaxation facilities that support a restorative experience for you and your friends. The Shelter Island SpaTerre features exclusive treatments like massages on a heated alpha-quartz sand bed, promoting relaxation and rejuvenation. Members receive a generous discount for these spa services, which makes indulgence accessible and appealing for group members looking to unwind individually or together. Beyond spa treatments, the club’s fitness offerings include not only regular workouts but also gentle Hatha yoga sessions bath in natural sunlight—ideal for those wanting a peaceful moment of mindfulness. This wellness approach ensures every guest can balance social activity with personal well-being during their visit, leaving everyone refreshed and energized.
What dining and culinary experiences can your group expect?
The culinary experience at Kona Kai Club centers around Vessel Restaurant + Bar, which showcases exceptional Southern California cuisine using locally sourced ingredients and culinary expertise. The restaurant’s marina-front location invites diners to enjoy fresh seafood, artisanal dishes, and a thoughtfully crafted wine and cocktail menu—all enjoyed amid panoramic views and gentle bay breezes. The club occasionally offers special themed dining nights, such as “Coastal Catch Wednesday,” featuring a San Diego-inspired lobster roll meal paired with bubbly, enhancing the social dining experience. Its ambiance and upscale-yet-welcoming service make it great for casual gatherings or more elegant celebrations. Moreover, private dining options and events can be arranged for groups seeking exclusivity or customized menus, ensuring an extraordinary dining experience for any occasion.
What makes Kona Kai Club a unique private beach club in San Diego?
Kona Kai Club stands out as one of San Diego’s most historic and prestigious private beach clubs, attracting a diverse membership including families, couples, and individuals who appreciate an exclusive yet vibrant social setting. Its long tradition of hosting celebrities and dignitaries highlights the club’s status, while its contemporary amenities and active event calendar keep it fresh and engaging. Membership offers access to a rare combination of private facilities—a secluded beach, expansive fitness options, a luxurious spa, and world-class dining—all within a single location. This array of benefits under one roof creates a comprehensive lifestyle experience rarely found in one place. Additionally, the club’s commitment to inclusivity, such as special pricing for military and first responders, reflects a welcoming community spirit alongside its exclusivity. For groups seeking a refined yet lively atmosphere in a stunning natural setting, Kona Kai Club offers an unparalleled venue to rally and recharge together.