Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU is a charming, family-friendly motel located conveniently near SDSU and key areas of San Diego. The motel features clean, spacious rooms with a retro and quaint feel, including kitchenettes, bathrooms, and fairly comfy beds. Some furnishings, like the carpet and sofa cushions, are from the early 80s, giving the place a nostalgic vibe, though they may feel a bit outdated. The rooms are generally well taken care of, and the staff is friendly, pleasant, and helpful, providing swift service and thoughtful touches like coffee, tea, and water available all day in the lobby. The motel offers a small outdoor pool that is clean and well-maintained, perfect for families. The included breakfast is notable for its variety and quality, offering fresh fruit, hard-boiled eggs, bagels, pastries, cereal, and a waffle maker, which kids particularly enjoy. Guests appreciate the availability of alternative milks and the effort put into making breakfast a good start to the day. Rooms with kitchenettes and separate seating areas make it suitable for extended stays, especially for families. However, some issues with maintenance have been reported, including a non-functioning refrigerator that was not repaired during the stay and the need to move belongings when housekeeping used bleach, as the smell was strong. Additionally, noise from upstairs neighbors can be a concern, and some visitors experienced unwelcome bugs. The location is excellent, close to grocery stores like Ralph’s and Trader Joe’s, various small restaurants, and within easy driving distance to attractions. Parking and driving are convenient, and the outdoor garden areas are beautifully blooming, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. Overall, Lamplighter Inn & Suites offers a clean, affordable, and cozy stay, especially appealing for families looking for a comfortable base in San Diego.
Very friendly staff and very clean property. Pool was clean and had towels available when needed. The location is good and close to SDSU and the price per night is very good for San Diego.
February 2026
Lovely place. Clean, friendly, super comfortable beds! Very nice free breakfast included. Not real fancy but for the price it is far and above most others.
February 2026
Met expectations. Room was clean, front desk was friendly, grounds were well-kept and the location is VERY walkable to just about everything. Great deal. Would definitely book again.
Property Amenities: Pool sun loungers, 24-hour front desk, Free breakfast, Safe-deposit box at front desk, Barbecue grill(s), Laundry facilities, Arcade/game room
