For over 50 years, Hostelling International USA, San Diego (HI-San Diego), a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization, has helped the San Diego community develop a deeper appreciation of countries and cultures different from their own. HI-San Diego fosters experiences that forever change the way people regard each other and the world. Our mission is "to help all, especially the young, gain a greater understanding of the world and its people through hostelling."

Hostelling is educational travel. HI-San Diego advocates global awareness with two welcoming, comfortable and affordable hostels to over 15,000 people annually. With a full kitchen and comfortable common areas available to guests, hostels are designed to provide a forum for intercultural dialogue. Community members are invited into the hostels through volunteering and through community service projects.