Find hotels in San Marcos, CA from CA $79

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Compare 5,811 hotels, room rates, hotel reviews and availability. Most hotels are fully refundable.

Signature Temecula

3.0 star property
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1515)
"Great place to stay"
The price is CA $94
CA $105 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 25 - Aug 26
Signature Temecula

Best Western Plus Temecula Wine Country Hotel &Suites

2.5 star property
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1003)
"Great clean hotel will come again "
The price is CA $134
CA $150 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 2 - Sep 3
Best Western Plus Temecula Wine Country Hotel &Suites

Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA

3.0 star property
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1003)
"Great place! Great location !"
The price is CA $194
CA $213 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 26 - Aug 27
Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA

Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego North/San Marcos

2.5 star property
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1002)
"Great hotel, clean, quiet and friendly staff. "
The price is CA $176
CA $193 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego North/San Marcos

Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego North San Marcos

3.0 star property
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1000)
"Just a great stay all and all!!"
The price is CA $209
CA $230 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego North San Marcos

Days Inn by Wyndham San Marcos

2.0 star property
7.4 out of 10, Good, (1003)
"I’ll definitely stay here again!"
The price is CA $107
CA $118 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 25 - Aug 26
Days Inn by Wyndham San Marcos

Hampton Inn San Marcos, CA

2.5 star property
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1002)
"Great stay "
The price is CA $175
CA $193 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Hampton Inn San Marcos, CA

Extended Stay America Premier Suites - San Diego - San Marcos

2.5 star property
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (597)
"Love that place "
The price is CA $143
CA $158 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 2 - Sep 3
Extended Stay America Premier Suites - San Diego - San Marcos

Motel Mediteran Escondido

2.5 star property
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1001)
"Loved the privacy the room offered !"
The price is CA $85
CA $94 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 27 - Aug 28
Motel Mediteran Escondido

West Inn & Suites

3.5 star property
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1079)
"Great breakfast and free parking. We enjoyed our stay."
The price is CA $173
CA $225 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 27 - Aug 28
West Inn & Suites

Ayres Hotel Vista Carlsbad

3.5 star property
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1798)
"Excellent hotel!!!!"
The price is CA $178
CA $196 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Ayres Hotel Vista Carlsbad

Best Western Premier Hotel Del Mar

3.0 star property
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1006)
"I have stayed here before, nice hotel"
The price is CA $175
CA $198 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Best Western Premier Hotel Del Mar

Leucadia Beach Inn

2.5 star property
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1005)
"Delightful staff and nice room. "
The price is CA $135
CA $149 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 23 - Sep 24
Leucadia Beach Inn

Pala Casino Spa And Resort

4.0 star property
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (3774)
"Great place to get away."
The price is CA $185
CA $228 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 23 - Sep 24
Pala Casino Spa And Resort

Harrah's Resort Southern California

3.5 star property
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1002)
"Great amenities and food options "
The price is CA $199
CA $219 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 22 - Sep 23
Harrah's Resort Southern California

Temecula Creek Inn

4.0 star property
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1003)
"Just stayed overnight but place seemed nice and clean"
The price is CA $209
CA $263 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 25 - Aug 26
Temecula Creek Inn

Sonesta ES Suites San Diego - Sorrento Mesa

3.0 star property
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1002)
"Great place to stay!"
The price is CA $173
CA $199 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Sonesta ES Suites San Diego - Sorrento Mesa

Pala Mesa Golf Resort

3.5 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (630)
"Very comfortable stay and decent food and bar on site"
The price is CA $113
CA $139 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 23 - Sep 24
Pala Mesa Golf Resort

Hyatt Vacation Club at The Welk, San Diego Area

3.5 star property
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1390)
"Great stay."
The price is CA $167
CA $236 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 23 - Sep 24
Hyatt Vacation Club at The Welk, San Diego Area

The Encinitan Hotel & Suites

3.0 star property
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1122)
"Easy check-in, nice view, close to the ocean and restaurants. "
The price is CA $152
CA $188 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 1 - Sep 2
The Encinitan Hotel & Suites
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Where to stay in San Marcos

Find the best San Marcos areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.

San Elijo Hills

While San Elijo Hills might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park and Stone Brewing.

Learn more about San Marcos

Nestled between rolling hills and blooming flower fields, this college town offers hiking trails and craft breweries within minutes of each other. Visit Double Peak Park for panoramic views, then explore the bustling farmers market where local vendors sell everything from fresh produce to handmade jewellery.

Stay near popular San Marcos attractions

Find out more about San Marcos

Find out more about San Marcos

Top reasons to visit San Marcos

  • Family-Friendly Attractions: San Marcos features exciting spots like Legoland Resort and a thrilling water park, perfect for families seeking adventure.
  • Beautiful Outdoor Spaces: Enjoy the serenity of Lake San Marcos and explore scenic parks that cater to relaxation and outdoor activities.
  • Charming Neighborhoods: Discover friendly locals and romantic spots in quaint neighbourhoods, ideal for leisurely strolls.
  • Diverse Accommodations: San Marcos offers a range of hotels, from budget-friendly to luxurious, catering to all types of travellers.
  • Proximity to San Diego: Take advantage of nearby San Diego's vibrant culture and attractions for an enriched vacation experience.

Find great hotels in San Marcos

Discover a diverse selection of hotels in San Marcos, California, catering to every traveller's needs, from budget-friendly options to luxurious stays. Whether you're seeking a family getaway, a pet-friendly retreat, or a business-oriented environment, San Marcos has something for everyone. Notable accommodations, including the Wyndham San Marcos, provide a comfortable and memorable experience, making it an ideal destination for all types of visitors.

  • Hyatt Vacation Club at The Welk, San Diego Area: This 3.5-star hotel is a family-friendly oasis located 9.7km from San Marcos. The Hyatt Vacation Club offers a unique blend of Family, Golf, and Spa themes, making it a perfect choice for families looking to unwind and indulge. Guests can enjoy on-site golf facilities, a full-service spa, and a variety of amenities tailored for children, including a shared playground, arcade game room, and supervised childcare (for a fee). For relaxation, take advantage of the spa with sauna and steam room, or lounge by the poolside bar while the kids have fun in the children's pool.
  • Motel 6 Carlsbad, CA Beach: Positioned 14.5km from San Marcos, the Motel 6 Carlsbad offers a pet-friendly environment ideal for those travelling with furry companions. This budget-friendly motel features a welcoming Pet theme, with amenities that include restrictions on pets for the comfort of all guests while allowing dogs and cats. The relaxed atmosphere and convenient location near the beach ensure that you and your pets can enjoy a stress-free stay while exploring the picturesque coastal area.
  • La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Carlsbad - Legoland Area: Situated 14.5km from San Marcos, this hotel is a delightful choice for families and adventure seekers, featuring Beach, Adventure, and Family themes. With direct access to the beach, guests can partake in a variety of water sports and recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, swimming, waterskiing, and surfing nearby. The hotel is well-equipped for families, offering amenities such as complimentary cribs and window guards to ensure a safe environment for children. Experience the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation at this family-oriented property.

Where to stay in San Marcos

San Marcos, California, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and tranquil escapes. From the scenic Lake San Marcos, perfect for relaxation, to nearby San Diego's vibrant culture, there's something for everyone. Explore the charming neighborhoods that boast friendly locals and romantic spots, making it an ideal getaway in Southern California. Whether you seek outdoor adventures or a peaceful retreat, San Marcos promises a memorable experience for all travellers.

  • Lake San Marcos: Nestled within the San Marcos area, Lake San Marcos is a charming village that beckons visitors year-round. While it experiences a peak in travel during the summer months, it offers a delightful escape for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The picturesque lake is perfect for leisurely strolls, while the nearby golf courses and casino provide engaging activities for all ages. Family-friendly beaches and a local theme park ensure that there’s something for everyone, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure.
  • Country Club: Located approximately 4.8km from San Marcos, Country Club is a vibrant neighborhood that attracts visitors with its family-oriented and romantic atmosphere. With similar seasonal travel patterns, the area flourishes in the summer months, drawing in those seeking outdoor activities and leisure. Golf enthusiasts will find numerous courses nearby, while the local casino adds a touch of excitement. Families can enjoy the proximity to a theme park and a beautiful beach, making Country Club a wonderful destination for creating lasting memories.
  • San Elijo Hills: Situated in the vicinity of San Marcos, San Elijo Hills offers a scenic blend of outdoor experiences and urban living. This neighborhood sees a moderate seasonal influx, particularly in the spring and summer months. It is perfect for families and those wishing to explore the great outdoors. The area boasts shopping centres alongside golf courses, providing a mix of leisure and retail therapy. With nearby parks and family-friendly beaches, San Elijo Hills is a fantastic spot to unwind while enjoying the natural beauty of California.

Things to do in San Marcos

San Marcos, California, is perfect for a family vacation with a variety of outdoor and city-themed activities. Visitors can enjoy attractions like the local casino, educational experiences, and top-notch golf courses. Key highlights include the exciting water park, the renowned Legoland Resort, and various tennis clubs in San Diego, making it an ideal destination for adventure and relaxation.

Shopping

For great shopping in San Marcos, check out the Carlsbad Premium Outlets, located 14.5km away, offering a variety of brands. If you're up for a drive, visit Bates Nut Farm and the State Street Farmers Market, both 17.7km away, for unique gifts and local flavours.

Recreation

At Twin Oaks Golf Club, enjoy a round of golf amidst beautiful scenery and outdoor vibes. Just 3.2km away, the Escondido Country Club offers a similar experience for golf enthusiasts. For relaxation, Double Peak Park provides a serene environment for wellness and leisurely strolls in nature.

Adventure

At The Wave Waterpark, located 9.7km from San Marcos, enjoy thrilling water slides and family-friendly attractions for a splashing good time. Experience the thrill of surfing at Eli Howard Surf School, 17.7km away, where expert instructors guide you through exciting water sports. Explore the scenic Hosp Grove Trails, 16.1km from the city, for breathtaking views and invigorating hikes.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in San Marcos by visiting the Moonlight Amphitheatre for a romantic show, or try your luck at Valley View Casino for a thrilling evening. For family fun, Boomers Vista offers arcade games and adventures, perfect for creating lasting memories.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Marcos

San Marcos, California, offers numerous ways for Canadian tourists to save money. Enjoy free attractions like Stone Brewing, Moonlight State Beach, and Carlsbad Premium Outlets. Travel during the off-peak months of November to January for lower accommodation rates, especially on Tuesdays. Utilize Expedia to find eco-certified hotels and bundle your hotel, flights, and activities for better deals. Sorting by price can help you find the best offers. By planning wisely, you can maximize your enjoyment while minimizing expenses.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in San Marcos are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in San Marcos is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in San Marcos is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your San Marcos hotel reservations with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in San Marcos

San Marcos, California, is an excellent destination for families seeking outdoor adventures and urban experiences. With its beautiful beaches, exciting theme parks, and scenic urban parks, there are plenty of attractions to explore that cater to both relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun or enjoy thrilling rides, San Marcos has something for everyone, making it a perfect vacation spot for Canadian travellers.

  • LEGOLAND® California: A fantastic theme park located 14.5km from San Marcos, LEGOLAND® California offers an immersive experience filled with interactive rides and attractions. Families can explore themed areas, enjoy live shows, and marvel at impressive LEGO structures, all in a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere.
  • California State University San Marcos: Situated within San Marcos, this modern university features beautiful architecture and a lively campus. Visitors can experience the energetic city vibes while exploring the scenic grounds, engaging with students, and enjoying local events that celebrate education and culture.
  • Flower Fields of Carlsbad: Located 14.5km from San Marcos, this stunning flower garden showcases vibrant blooms in a breathtaking outdoor setting. Perfect for families, it's an ideal place for leisurely strolls, photography, and appreciating nature's beauty during the spring season.

Best time to go to San Marcos

Visitor numbers in San Marcos is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit San Marcos is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January54.9°F (12.7°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
February54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
March56.7°F (13.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April59.7°F (15.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
May62.1°F (16.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June66.9°F (19.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
July71.8°F (22.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August73.4°F (23.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
September72.5°F (22.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October66.9°F (19.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
November60.3°F (15.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to San Marcos

To reach San Marcos, California, the major airport options include San Diego International Airport (SAN), located 45.1km away, and John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Orange County, which is 88.5km away. Near SAN, you can stay at the luxurious Pendry San Diego and The US Grant, both 3 and 3.2km away respectively, and the esteemed Lodge at Torrey Pines, located 13.2km from the airport. For SNA, consider The Resort at Pelican Hill, 9.7km away, or the Viv Hotel, Anaheim, and The Westin Anaheim Resort, both 14.5km from the airport. Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) is another option, situated 69.2km away, with nearby hotels like Real Inn Tijuana.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to stay in San Marcos?

Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego North/San Marcos is a favorite property for Expedia customers. This hotel offers free breakfast and an outdoor pool. Other top choices based on reviews include Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego North San Marcos and Lakehouse Resort. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in San Marcos.

What are some of the best vacation rentals that San Marcos has to offer?

Stunning Private Spanish Casita “La Jolla’s Secret Jewel” blocks to Beach/ Cove : This vacation home rental near San Marcos offers a balcony, a garden, and WiFi to help you feel perfectly comfortable in your new surroundings. Kitchen amenities include a dishwasher, a fridge, and a stovetop. See all vacation rentals in San Marcos.

If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in San Marcos, will I receive a refund?

Yes, the majority of room reservations are refundable provided that you cancel prior to the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If you have a reservation that's non-refundable, you might still have the option to cancel and be given a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in San Marcos.

Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip to San Marcos?

For more information about rescheduling or cancelling your trip to San Marcos, go to https://www.expedia.com/service/.

What's the best accommodation for a family trip to San Marcos?

Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego North San Marcos is a hotel with an outdoor pool and in-room kitchens, and it's a top choice on Expedia for families. Hampton Inn San Marcos, CA is another good option for your stay with the kids. Attractions in the area like LEGOLAND® California and San Diego Zoo Safari Park are also fun for kids of all ages. Find more child-friendly accommodations in San Marcos.

What's the best place to stay for couples in San Marcos?

Hillside Villa - 2 bed/2bath 1st floor of subdivided home with full privacy/pool is a favorite guesthouse for couples, and features private pools and free WiFi. See all romantic hotels in San Marcos.

What is the favorite LGBTQ-friendly accommodation in San Marcos?

Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego North San Marcos is a top LGBTQ-friendly hotel, and features free breakfast and in-room kitchens. Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego North/San Marcos and Hampton Inn San Marcos, CA are two other good options for your trip. See all available hotels listed as LGBTQ-friendly in San Marcos.

What's the best pet-friendly accommodation in San Marcos?

Lakehouse Resort is a top dog-friendly resort, and offers 2 outdoor pools and 2 hot tubs for its human guests. Two other good options for you and your pet include Days Inn by Wyndham San Marcos and Extended Stay America Premier Suites - San Diego - San Marcos. See more pet-friendly hotel accommodations in San Marcos.

What's the best place to stay near California State University San Marcos?

Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego North/San Marcos is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveler data, and this hotel offers free breakfast and an outdoor pool. It's located just a short 0.9 mi (1.5 km) from California State University San Marcos. Another good choice is Hampton Inn San Marcos, CA, located just 0.5 mi (0.9 km) away.

What about the best place to stay close to Palomar College?

One of the top choices for your stay is Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego North San Marcos, located a short 0.5 mi (0.8 km) from Palomar College, and this 3-star hotel offers free breakfast and an outdoor pool. Days Inn by Wyndham San Marcos, located just 1 mi (1.5 km) away, is another good option for your stay.

What's the best hotel for a golf vacation in San Marcos?

Lakehouse Resort is a top resort that has a golf course and features pillowtop beds. Another good option is Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego North/San Marcos if you'd like to stay near a golf course while in town. You can tee off at Twin Oaks Golf Club, Lake San Marcos Executive Course, or St. Mark Golf Club while you're in town. See more golf hotels in San Marcos.

What are some accommodations with pools in San Marcos?

Lakehouse Resort is a top resort with 2 outdoor pools, 2 hot tubs, and 3 outdoor tennis courts. Hillside Villa - 2 bed/2bath 1st floor of subdivided home with full privacy/pool is an additional hotel that offers an onsite pool. View all hotels with pools in San Marcos.

What's the best hotel for staying near San Diego International Airport (SAN)?

Sheraton San Diego Hotel and Marina is a popular 4-star hotel featuring a marina and 3 outdoor pools. It's located a short 0.4 mi (0.6 km) from San Diego Intl. Airport. Other places to stay near the airport are  Hampton Inn & Suites San Diego Airport Liberty Station and Wyndham San Diego Bayside.

What is staying in San Marcos like?

Families will find kid-friendly activities in San Marcos, and visitors give high marks for the lakeside setting, top-notch restaurants, and shopping. This relaxing city also attracts tourists with its breweries and sporting events. Top sights around the area include LEGOLAND® California and San Diego Zoo Safari Park. In San Marcos, there are 63 hotels and other accommodations to choose from. Find out more about San Marcos.

What should I see while I'm in San Marcos?

Favorite places to visit include Twin Oaks Golf Club, Lake San Marcos Executive Course, and Lucky Strike San Marcos. You'll also find LEGOLAND® California and San Diego Zoo Safari Park in the area. Check out what more to see and do in Expedia's San Marcos guide.

What's the weather like in San Marcos?

The hottest months are usually August and September with an average temp of 71°F, while the coldest months are February and January with an average of 55°F. Average annual precipitation for San Marcos is 14 inches.