A coastal town with a lake, surrounded by mountains and greenery.

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Check availability on Lake San Marcos Cheap Hotels

Tonight
Sep 29 - Sep 30
Tomorrow
Sep 30 - Oct 1
This weekend
Oct 2 - Oct 4
Next weekend
Oct 9 - Oct 11

Our top choices for Lake San Marcos cheap hotels

An outdoor seating area with chairs and a fire feature, overlooking a body of water and a distant mountain range.
A pool area with a view of a mountain and a town in the background.
A spacious living area with a wooden table, a sofa, and a chair, overlooking a scenic view of a body of water and hills.
A hotel room with a large bed, a TV, a desk with a lamp, and a view of a lake and mountains.

1. Lakehouse Resort

Lakehouse Resort
Lake San Marcos
United States
Kassandra
NT$3,690
NT$5,024 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 5 - Oct 6
Lakehouse Resort
An outdoor seating area with sofas, chairs, and tables, surrounded by a stone wall and string lights.
A spacious lobby with a reception desk, seating area, and a kitchen in the background.
A spacious lobby with a central seating area, a reception desk, and a large window providing natural light.
A modern hotel lobby with a reception desk, seating area, and a fireplace.

2. Ayres Hotel Vista Carlsbad

Ayres Hotel Vista Carlsbad
Vista
United States
Shannon J
NT$4,630
NT$5,102 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 18 - Oct 19
Ayres Hotel Vista Carlsbad
A hotel room with two beds, a large window with a sunset view, and a wooden floor.
A reception area with a counter, framed artwork, and a potted orchid.
A dining area with round tables and chairs, a kitchen area with cabinets, and a window with curtains.
A swimming pool with lounge chairs and a sign for Ramada.

3. Days Inn by Wyndham San Marcos

Days Inn by Wyndham San Marcos
San Marcos
United States
Douglas
NT$2,402
NT$2,643 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 8 - Oct 9
Days Inn by Wyndham San Marcos
A modern lobby with leather seating, a fireplace, and a large plant.
A hotel lobby with a curved reception desk, seating area, and a large plant.
A hotel room with a sofa, two beds, a TV, and a framed picture on the wall.
A modern Hyatt Place hotel with a glass entrance and palm trees in the foreground.

4. Hyatt Place San Diego/Vista-Carlsbad

Hyatt Place San Diego/Vista-Carlsbad
Vista
United States
Jonathan
NT$3,750
NT$4,132 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 18 - Oct 19
Hyatt Place San Diego/Vista-Carlsbad
A modern hotel exterior with a stone facade, large windows, and a reception area.
A modern hotel room with a pool table, a sofa, a small round table, and a television.
A spacious lobby with a fireplace, comfortable seating, and a large TV screen.
A spacious hotel lobby with multiple seating areas, a stone accent wall, and a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall.

5. Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego North San Marcos

Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego North San Marcos
San Marcos
United States
Lekeshia
NT$4,258
NT$4,692 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 8 - Oct 9
Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego North San Marcos
A modern hotel lobby with a reception desk, seating area, and a large wall mural.
Private kitchen
A modern dining area with a long table and bar stools, a vending machine, and a water dispenser.
A multi-story hotel with a sign for 'extended STAY AMERICA premier suites'.

6. Extended Stay America Premier Suites - San Diego - San Marcos

Extended Stay America Premier Suites - San Diego - San Marcos
San Marcos
United States
Eliseo
NT$3,260
NT$3,591 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 5 - Oct 6
Extended Stay America Premier Suites - San Diego - San Marcos
A hotel room with a bed, bedside tables, a desk, a chair, a sofa, a window with curtains, and artwork on the wall.
A modern dining area with tables and chairs, a kitchen area, and a chalkboard with motivational writing.
An electric vehicle charging station on a sidewalk with a building and greenery in the background.
A compact living space with a dining area, kitchenette, and a large mirror.

7. TownePlace Suites by Marriott San Diego Vista

TownePlace Suites by Marriott San Diego Vista
Vista
United States
Bianca
NT$4,303
NT$4,734 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 21 - Oct 22
TownePlace Suites by Marriott San Diego Vista
An outdoor patio with a grill, dining area, and seating.
A pool area with lounge chairs, a pool, and a covered seating area.
A Fairfield Inn & Suites Marriott hotel with a modern design, featuring a prominent entrance and a well-lit facade.
A modern hotel lobby with a stone fireplace, a reception desk, and a blue seating area.

8. Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego North/San Marcos

Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego North/San Marcos
San Marcos
United States
Paula
NT$4,544
NT$5,007 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 18 - Oct 19
Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego North/San Marcos
An outdoor seating area with modern furniture, a fire feature, and a building with large windows in the background.
A sandy beach with footprints and seagulls.
A modern hotel lobby with a bar area, seating arrangements, and a large potted plant.
A spacious conference room with a large table, multiple chairs, and a sofa. There are ceiling lights, a television, and a kitchen area visible.

9. Holiday Inn Carlsbad by IHG

Holiday Inn Carlsbad by IHG
Bressi Ranch
United States
Lizette
NT$4,290
NT$4,814 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 29 - Oct 30
Holiday Inn Carlsbad by IHG
A swimming pool area with lounge chairs, umbrellas, and safety signs.
A modern hotel lobby with a large seating area, a central table, and large windows with curtains.
A hotel room with a large bed, two bedside tables, a chair, and a small table.
A hotel room with a wooden shelf unit, a door, and a wall with a circular pattern. There are two refrigerators with various food items and beverages.

10. Hampton Inn Carlsbad-North San Diego County

Hampton Inn Carlsbad-North San Diego County
Aviara
United States
Jamie
NT$3,880
NT$4,392 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 25 - Oct 26
Hampton Inn Carlsbad-North San Diego County
View all properties

Find out more about Lake San Marcos

Discover cheap things to do in Lake San Marcos

Lake San Marcos, California, is a hidden gem for budget-conscious travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation without breaking the bank. Start your exploration at the scenic Lake San Marcos itself, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll or rent a kayak for a small fee, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding hills. For those interested in history, the nearby San Marcos Historical Society offers free tours that dive into the rich past of the area, providing an engaging experience for families. Nature lovers can hike the nearby Double Peak Park, which boasts breathtaking vistas and is completely free to explore. If you’re looking to savor local flavors, check out the San Marcos Farmers Market, held every Saturday, where you can sample fresh produce and affordable artisan treats. When it comes to accommodations, consider staying near the lakefront area, where several budget-friendly hotels offer comfortable amenities and are just a short walk from both the lake and the market. This location allows families to easily navigate to various attractions while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the area, ensuring you feel both pampered and taken care of during your stay.

Top Lake San Marcos Hotel Reviews

San Diego Marriott La Jolla

San Diego Marriott La Jolla

10/10 Excellent
"I love staying here! It is always comfortable, clean, I love the bedding. I enjoy the fabulous $19.95 breakfast buffet each day! The staff is always great. I love the bar/restaurant area. I love the fact that this is in walking distance to UTC mall, many restaurants and coffee shops. It"
Donna 2-night trip
Posted 6 hours ago
San Diego Marriott La Jolla
Lakehouse Resort

Lakehouse Resort

10/10 Excellent
"😃"
Luis 2-night trip
Posted 7 hours ago
Lakehouse Resort
La Jolla Shores Hotel

La Jolla Shores Hotel

8/10 Good
"It was fine…a bit dated. Location is amazing but it could use some updating."
Katie 3-night trip
Posted 8 hours ago
La Jolla Shores Hotel
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego La Jolla

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego La Jolla

8/10 Good
"Love this location. It’s dated and furniture needs upgrades. Overall good"
Rudy 3-night trip
Posted 8 hours ago
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego La Jolla
Hyatt Vacation Club at The Welk, San Diego Area

Hyatt Vacation Club at The Welk, San Diego Area

10/10 Excellent
"The property was pristine. The rooms were clean. The kitchen had everything you need doe your stay. I love the huge tub. I would definitely stay at the Welk again."
Regenia 4-night trip
Posted 8 hours ago
Hyatt Vacation Club at The Welk, San Diego Area
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham San Diego - Miramar

La Quinta Inn by Wyndham San Diego - Miramar

8/10 Good
"We stayed in a King room with a sofa bed. I noticed there was no available bedding for the sofa bed. It was challenging to get extra towels, etc. Breakfast is barely basic. To be fair, there is limited space for the breakfast area. It is quiet, clean, and appears to be safe."
Dennise 5-night trip
Posted 12 hours ago
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham San Diego - Miramar
Motel 6 Oceanside, CA

Motel 6 Oceanside, CA

10/10 Excellent
"Clean nice staff"
alfredo 1-night trip
Posted 14 hours ago
Motel 6 Oceanside, CA
Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort & Spa

Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort & Spa

10/10 Excellent
"Balcony rooms have beautiful sunset views. Chandler restaurant doesn't have very good service but food is good."
Maria 2-night trip
Posted 14 hours ago
Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort & Spa
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Diego North, CA

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Diego North, CA

8/10 Good
"Room was good. Service is good too. Hot tub pool was small just for 4 ppl at a time. Parking was paid, it should be free if they are not taking responsibility of vehicles. Restaurant was BAD, Got Gauvac with Chips, it was spoiled one, even after they gave replacement. Nachos was very bad out of 20 Nachos chips only few had cheese on i, looks not interested in giving food. Totally Waste of money."
Ashish 2-night trip
Posted 15 hours ago
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Diego North, CA

Frequently asked questions

What is Lake San Marcos like for travelers on a budget?
Discover discount places to stay in Lake San Marcos on Expedia.com and book a vacation that stays within your budget. Lake San Marcos is a destination that travelers visit for its fantastic dining options and lakeside setting. You can browse a wide selection of hotels and other types of accommodation with Member Prices to find the best deal for you. Guided by our site's helpful page filters, you can limit results by price per night, or by amenities that customers often look for like free parking and free WiFi. The location filters are a great way to see affordable options near specific attractions, such as The Links at Lakehouse. While you browse, click the heart button to save your favorites so that it's easy to find them when you're ready to decide. Interested in a flight or a rental car too? Choose from the Bundle and Save travel packages and discover big savings when you reserve your transportation at the same time.
When is the best time for a budget trip to Lake San Marcos?
Weather will likely play an important role when you plan your trip to Lake San Marcos, and keep in mind that cheaper options are usually available when the weather isn't as good. 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 Lake San Marcos is 14 inches.
What is there to see and do in Lake San Marcos?
Lake San Marcos attracts visitors with its fantastic dining options and lakeside setting, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the top local attractions on your list, such as LEGOLAND® California and San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and then make time for other wallet-friendly activities. Check out the area's cultural spots like California Center For The Arts and Mission San Luis Rey Church, or get outdoors at Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park.
How can I get to Lake San Marcos and get around on a budget?
Scoping out the transportation options in Lake San Marcos is a smart way to keep your trip affordable. The nearest airport is 3.9 mi (6.3 km) from the center in Carlsbad, CA (CLD-McClellan-Palomar). However, if that doesn't suit your budget, you can look into flights to San Diego, CA (MYF-Montgomery Field), which is 22.1 mi (35.6 km) away. Lake San Marcos might not have many public transportation choices so renting a car could be an economical alternative to see more of the area.

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