Orli La Jolla Earns a MICHELIN Key — A Big Moment for Boutique Hotels in San Diego

La Jolla just scored a major win in the MICHELIN Guide world: Orli La Jolla has been awarded a MICHELIN Key, placing it among the newest hotels in the U.S. recognized for standout stays. If you’ve been following MICHELIN’s expansion into hotels, this one feels especially exciting for San Diego.

In the latest MICHELIN selection, Orli received one Key, MICHELIN's mark for a "very special stay." The system goes up to three Keys, but getting even one is a big deal — especially for a small, design-forward property competing against major luxury brands. Making the full list of MICHELIN Key hotels is no small feat.

Orli earns it. The building’s century-old structure gives it character, while the interiors feel warm and modern without losing the neighborhood’s coastal soul. It manages to be stylish without sacrificing personality, making it easy to understand why MICHELIN took notice.

Travelers pick up on its relaxed atmosphere immediately. The ocean is a short walk from the hotel, and the surrounding streets are some of the most charming in San Diego. Staying here naturally slows your pace and draws you into the neighborhood. MICHELIN emphasizes intentionality within its Key hotels, and Orli certainly delivers on that.

What makes this win especially interesting for La Jolla is how different Orli feels compared to the area’s classic coastal hotels and polished resort properties. It offers an experience defined by simplicity, style, and walkability — exactly the direction boutique hotels in Southern California should be heading in 2025.

Why Travelers Should Pay Attention

MICHELIN may be globally known for its MICHELIN Star restaurants, but its hotel awards are expanding quickly in the United States. Only a handful of San Diego properties made this year's selection, so Orli’s Key adds meaningful credibility to the region’s hotel scene. It signals that San Diego isn’t just a beach destination — it’s home to hotels worth traveling for.

And now, with both Orli La Jolla and The Lafayette Hotel earning MICHELIN Keys, San Diego is officially part of the conversation. I’m excited to see how the city’s boutique hotel scene evolves from here as more properties aim for that same sense of design and experience.

To book a stay at Orli La Jolla, click here.

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