The Best Hotels Closest to California State University San Marcos in San Marcos for 2026

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Our top choices for California State University San Marcos hotels

An outdoor patio with a grill, dining area, and seating.

A gym with treadmills and elliptical machines, large windows, and outdoor seating with umbrellas.

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.

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

1.3 km from California State University San Marcos

Paula

￥20,760

￥22,877 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 20 - Sep 21

A dining area with wooden tables and chairs, a flat-screen TV mounted on a brick wall, and framed pictures.

A lobby with a green sofa, two round tables, and striped chairs.

A stone-built outdoor seating area with a fire feature, surrounded by lush greenery and a clear sky.

A swimming pool area with a hot tub, outdoor seating, and a covered patio.

2. Hampton Inn San Marcos, CA

0.7 km from California State University San Marcos

Pedro

￥18,149

￥19,964 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 20 - Sep 21

A hotel room with two beds, a large window with a sunset view, and a wooden floor.

A swimming pool with lounge chairs and a sign for Ramada.

A dining area with round tables and chairs, a kitchen area with cabinets, and a window with curtains.

A reception area with a counter, framed artwork, and a potted orchid.

3. Days Inn by Wyndham San Marcos

1.6 km from California State University San Marcos

￥11,551

￥12,706 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 14 - Sep 15

An outdoor seating area with sofas, chairs, and tables, surrounded by a stone wall and string lights.

A spacious lobby with a central seating area, a reception desk, and a large window providing natural light.

A spacious lobby with a reception desk, seating area, and a kitchen in the background.

A hotel room with two beds, a desk with a computer, a chair, and a large window with a view of a landscape.

4. Ayres Hotel Vista Carlsbad

5.9 km from California State University San Marcos

Shannon J

￥21,843

￥24,070 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 4 - Oct 5

A swimming pool with lounge chairs and a building with multiple windows and balconies.

A hotel with a large entrance, a covered patio area, and a tower-like structure.

A spacious living area with a sofa, dining tables, and a fireplace.

A hotel room with a sofa, a small table, a desk, a chair, a TV, a mirror, and a wardrobe.

5. West Inn & Suites

16 km from California State University San Marcos

Anthony

￥16,359

￥21,801 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 27 - Sep 28

An outdoor patio with a table and chairs, a fire feature, and a view of parked cars and palm trees.

A reception area with a modern design, including a reception desk, a wall with a hexagonal pattern, and a refrigerator stocked with beverages.

A modern bar area with a long counter, multiple bar stools, and a television mounted on the wall.

A hotel entrance with a sign reading "Springhill Suites by Marriott" and a parking area with cars.

6. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Escondido Downtown

6.1 km from California State University San Marcos

Elizabeth

￥21,413

￥23,596 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 20 - Sep 21

An outdoor seating area with chairs and a fire feature, overlooking a body of water and a distant mountain range.

A hotel room with a large bed, a TV, a desk with a lamp, and a view of a lake and mountains.

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.

7. Lakehouse Resort

Lake San Marcos, 4.6 km from California State University San Marcos

Tracy

￥17,834

￥24,281 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 14 - Sep 15

A modern bedroom with a large bed, a nightstand, a painting of a coastal scene, and a bathroom visible through an open door.

A swimming pool with lounge chairs and umbrellas, surrounded by a building with balconies and a fence.

A spacious kitchen with wooden cabinets, a built-in TV, and a large window offering a view of the outside.

A building with a covered patio, palm trees, and a fountain.

8. Motel Mediteran Escondido

9.2 km from California State University San Marcos

Zenia

￥11,043

￥12,147 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 17 - Sep 18

A swimming pool area with lounge chairs, umbrellas, and safety signs.

A hotel room with a large bed, two bedside tables, a chair, and a small table.

A modern hotel lobby with a large seating area, a central table, and large windows with curtains.

9. Hampton Inn Carlsbad-North San Diego County

10.7 km from California State University San Marcos

Christine

￥18,926

￥21,424 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 4 - Oct 5

A modern hotel exterior with a stone facade, large windows, and a reception area.

A spacious hotel lobby with multiple seating areas, a stone accent wall, and a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall.

An outdoor patio with a stone barbecue, a fire pit, and seating.

A spacious lobby with a fireplace, comfortable seating, and a large TV screen.

10. Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego North San Marcos

3.3 km from California State University San Marcos

jason

￥19,217

￥21,176 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 4 - Oct 5

An outdoor seating area with a fire pit, surrounded by chairs, under a pergola.

A modern lobby with a fireplace, seating area, and a large screen TV.

A hotel lobby with multiple seating areas, including tables and chairs, and a large screen displaying content.

A modern hotel with a flat facade, multiple windows, and a covered entrance.

11. Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego Carlsbad

12.2 km from California State University San Marcos

Oscar

￥19,455

￥22,045 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 20 - Sep 21

An outdoor seating area with modern furniture, a fire feature, and a building with large windows in the background.

A spacious conference room with a large table, multiple chairs, and a sofa. There are ceiling lights, a television, and a kitchen area visible.

A Holiday Inn hotel with a modern design, featuring a covered entrance and a flagpole.

A modern hotel lobby with a bar area, seating arrangements, and a large potted plant.

12. Holiday Inn Carlsbad by IHG

9.3 km from California State University San Marcos

Lizette

￥23,656

￥26,541 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 20 - Sep 21

A modern lobby with leather seating, a fireplace, and a large plant.

A modern Hyatt Place hotel with a glass entrance and palm trees in the foreground.

A hotel room with a sofa, two beds, a TV, and a framed picture on the wall.

A hotel lobby with a curved reception desk, seating area, and a large plant.

13. Hyatt Place San Diego/Vista-Carlsbad

8.1 km from California State University San Marcos

Brenda

￥18,126

￥19,974 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 20 - Sep 21

Two wicker lounge chairs with striped cushions, a blue umbrella, and a small table with a decorative fountain between them.

A hotel room with two beds, each with a white headboard, green and white floral bedding, and a bedside table with a lamp.

A building with a hanging flower basket, outdoor seating, and potted plants.

14. Leucadia Beach Inn

15.1 km from California State University San Marcos

James

￥12,774

￥14,051 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 8 - Oct 9

An outdoor patio area with turquoise chairs, a fire pit, and palm trees.

A modern hotel with a covered entrance, stone pillars, and a sign reading "Home2".

A modern lounge area with a sofa, colorful chairs, a coffee bar, and a large window providing a view of the outdoors.

A swimming pool with a hot tub, surrounded by yellow chairs and palm trees, with a building in the background.

15. Home2 Suites by Hilton Carlsbad

12.2 km from California State University San Marcos

cynthia

￥21,389

￥23,955 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 4 - Oct 5

A swimming pool with a clear blue edge, a metal ladder, and a stone wall in the background.

A spacious kitchen with wooden cabinets, a marble countertop, and a breakfast bar.

A reception desk with a wooden panel design and a digital kiosk, located in a modern hotel lobby with a large window and a welcome sign.

A modern lounge area with patterned sofas, round tables, and a large window offering a view of the outdoors.

16. Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA Near Del Mar

15.7 km from California State University San Marcos

April

￥21,413

￥23,554 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 27 - Sep 28

A hotel room with two beds, a desk, and a chair.

A hotel room with a kitchenette, a microwave, a coffee maker, a refrigerator, a small table with a phone and papers, a framed abstract painting, and a wooden bench.

A modern hotel room with a blue sofa, a wooden desk, a flat-screen TV mounted on a wooden panel, and a small shelf with toiletries.

A coffee station with two coffee machines and a display of coffee products.

17. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites San Diego-Escondido by IHG

5.6 km from California State University San Marcos

Lisa Ann

￥18,740

￥20,614 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 20 - Sep 21

A hotel room with a bed, bedside tables, a desk, a chair, a sofa, a window with curtains, and artwork on the wall.

An electric vehicle charging station on a sidewalk with a building and greenery in the background.

A modern dining area with tables and chairs, a kitchen area, and a chalkboard with motivational writing.

A compact living space with a dining area, kitchenette, and a large mirror.

18. TownePlace Suites by Marriott San Diego Vista

7.9 km from California State University San Marcos

Santosh

￥20,143

￥22,158 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 20 - Sep 21

A Courtyard by Marriott hotel with a modern facade, large windows, and a covered entrance area.

An outdoor patio area with seating, a fire pit, and tables with candles.

A modern living room with a flat-screen TV, grey upholstered chairs, wooden side tables, and a patterned carpet.

A modern living room with a flat-screen TV, comfortable seating, and a decorative shelf.

19. Courtyard San Diego Oceanside

16.2 km from California State University San Marcos

Sandra

￥21,813

￥24,640 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 20 - Sep 21

A rooftop pool area with lounge chairs and tables, surrounded by palm trees and modern buildings.

A modern hotel lobby with a central bar area, seating arrangements, and large windows providing natural light.

A modern hotel with a curved facade, multiple balconies, and a sign indicating it is a Marriott Residence Inn.

A spacious lobby with a dining area, seating arrangements, and a large window providing natural light.

20. Residence Inn by Marriott Carlsbad

11.7 km from California State University San Marcos

John

￥27,206

￥30,524 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 27 - Sep 28

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Compare popular hotels close to California State University San Marcos

Property	Star rating	Guest rating
Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego North/San Marcos	9.4 Exceptional 1,002 reviews	View
Hampton Inn San Marcos, CA	8.6 Excellent 1,001 reviews	View
Days Inn by Wyndham San Marcos	7.6 Good 1,002 reviews	View
Ayres Hotel Vista Carlsbad	9.6 Exceptional 2,152 reviews	View
West Inn & Suites	9.4 Exceptional 1,069 reviews	View

Top California State University San Marcos Hotel Reviews

Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego North/San Marcos

10/10 Excellent

"Rooms were cleaned every other day which was fine. We just requested clean towels everyday which were delivered. Breakfast was the usual continental, but it was nice. They kept it stocked and cleaned up. Parking was great. No extra cost and enough spots so you weren't driving around looking for one."

Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego North San Marcos

8/10 Good

"For some reason, I was given an accessible access room with features for a deaf person. The room was clean and they allowed me to check in early, which I was very, very grateful for. I also brought my service animal along in which they required me to fill out paperwork stating what my disability was. Other than that staff was kind- we had to pay to park when I saw other fraternizing sketchy conduct in the parking lot. I also saw a gentleman puke in their front entrance and it sat there until the morning. Was going to extend stay, however they were doing some fire alarm testing which was incredibly loud and I was unable to work! Overall- would stay again if needed!"

Ayres Hotel Vista Carlsbad

10/10 Excellent

"Clean room and grounds with pleasant staff."

Best Western Escondido Hotel

8/10 Good

"Overall the stay was fine. Clean rooms, decently maintained hotel, friendly staff. The parking lot is thunder dome. The lines are nearly invisible and the ones that do exist are super narrow so no one parked in any sort of pattern and loading/unloading was an issue."

Garden vibe stationary RV in No. San Diego County with WiFi, AC. TV. Views.

10/10 Excellent

"It was a very nice vibe and plenty of things to make a stay comfortable."

Luxury Estate - Sleep 24 - Infinity Pool & Hot Tub

10/10 Excellent

"Absolutely outstanding property. You can’t beat that view! Host was very responsive and helpful!Plenty of pool and bath towels. All of the amenities were happily appreciated by the kids and adults. Highly recommend and we hope to visit again! You will not be disappointed."

Casa Tranquila - Lovely 5-bedroom house, Mountain views in charming Escondido

10/10 Excellent

"Great hosts, very helpful and nice to communicate with. House has a nice layout, plenty of room for the family. And about 35 minutes from Legoland, the San Diego zoo and sea world. We had a great time and would rent again."

Private Pool, Hot Tub & Valley Views Near Wineries | The Ranch by AvantStay

10/10 Excellent

"Great property for our party of 18. Kid friendly and the pool was exceptional."

Two Estates w/ Pools, Hot Tub, Game Rooms, Views & Tennis Court Near Wineries

10/10 Excellent

"Beautiful area and house. The house was a little older than I thought but still great to stay in. Plenty of rooms and space. Did not get to try the pool but the basketball/tennis court was great to have. The small towns nearby were great and had everything we needed in terms of eating and supplies. Best part was communication with staff. Leading up to stay there was plentiful communication and the concierge service was a great tool to have with set up and getting extra air mattresses for our stay.Check in was great as well; Kim was there and walked us through everything. Response time was excellent. There was an issue with water pressure that happened late in the evening but her response was quick and someone was there to check it out early in the morning which we appreciated.Was one of the better trip experiences because of the staff and quick communication between all involved. Lessened the stress of preparation and allowed me to focus on planning the trip without worrying about last minute surprises at the property. "

Other attractions near California State University San Marcos

Double Peak Park

8.4/10 (48 reviews)

After visiting Double Peak Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in San Marcos. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area, or check out its lively breweries.

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Lucky Strike San Marcos

You can take time to visit Lucky Strike San Marcos during your travels to San Marcos. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the shops in this family-friendly area.

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Regal Edwards San Marcos

You can take time to visit Regal Edwards San Marcos during your travels to San Marcos. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the shops in this relaxing area.

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Stone Brewing

8.8/10 (127 reviews)

You can take time to visit Stone Brewing during your travels to Escondido. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

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Twin Oaks Golf Club

8.4/10 (60 reviews)

Play a round of golf in San Marcos at Twin Oaks Golf Club, and enjoy other activities such as surfing. Discover the top-notch restaurants and great live music in this family-friendly area.

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The Links at Lakehouse

8.6/10 (78 reviews)

Play a round of golf in Lake San Marcos at The Links at Lakehouse, and enjoy other activities such as surfing. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its lively breweries.

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The Executive Course at Lakehouse

8.4/10 (43 reviews)

Play a round of golf at The Executive Course at Lakehouse and enjoy other activities in San Marcos such as surfing. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the beautiful sunsets in this family-friendly area.

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Play by Play Sports Facility

After visiting Play by Play Sports Facility, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Escondido. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

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Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around California State University San Marcos?

California State University San Marcos is located in a family-friendly area of San Marcos known for its lively breweries and array of dining options. You'll find 207 hotels and other accommodations within a few miles for a convenient home base.

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

Hampton Inn San Marcos, CA is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveler data, and this hotel offers free breakfast and free parking. It's located just a short 0.4 mi (0.7 km) from California State University San Marcos. Another good choice is Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego North/San Marcos, located just 0.8 mi (1.3 km) away.

How many hotels should I expect to find close to California State University San Marcos?

Expedia has 207 hotels and other accommodations a few miles from California State University San Marcos.

If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near California State University San Marcos, will I receive a refund?

Yes! You'll find that most hotel room reservations are refundable if you cancel prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which often is within 24-48 hours of your arrival date. If you have a non-refundable reservation, you might still have the option to cancel and receive a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Enter your dates, click on "Search", then use the "fully refundable" filter to view the top deals on offer near California State University San Marcos.

Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip in the area near California State University San Marcos?

For additional details about rescheduling or cancelling your stay near California State University San Marcos, click here.

What can I see and do near California State University San Marcos?

You can check out the local talent at California Center For The Arts, Patio Playhouse, and Ritz Theater. Spend some time wandering around Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, Montiel Dog Park, and San Elijo Hills Dog Park. Create some family memories at Center for the Performing Arts Escondido and California Fruit Wine.

Find hotels near California State University San Marcos, San Marcos from ￥12,147

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Our top choices for California State University San Marcos hotels

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

2. Hampton Inn San Marcos, CA

3. Days Inn by Wyndham San Marcos

4. Ayres Hotel Vista Carlsbad

5. West Inn & Suites

6. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Escondido Downtown

7. Lakehouse Resort

8. Motel Mediteran Escondido

9. Hampton Inn Carlsbad-North San Diego County

10. Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego North San Marcos

11. Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego Carlsbad

12. Holiday Inn Carlsbad by IHG

13. Hyatt Place San Diego/Vista-Carlsbad

14. Leucadia Beach Inn

15. Home2 Suites by Hilton Carlsbad

16. Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA Near Del Mar

17. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites San Diego-Escondido by IHG

18. TownePlace Suites by Marriott San Diego Vista

19. Courtyard San Diego Oceanside

20. Residence Inn by Marriott Carlsbad

Compare popular hotels close to California State University San Marcos

Top California State University San Marcos Hotel Reviews

Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego North/San Marcos

Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego North San Marcos

Ayres Hotel Vista Carlsbad

Best Western Escondido Hotel

Garden vibe stationary RV in No. San Diego County with WiFi, AC. TV. Views.

Luxury Estate - Sleep 24 - Infinity Pool & Hot Tub

Casa Tranquila - Lovely 5-bedroom house, Mountain views in charming Escondido

Private Pool, Hot Tub & Valley Views Near Wineries | The Ranch by AvantStay

Two Estates w/ Pools, Hot Tub, Game Rooms, Views & Tennis Court Near Wineries

Other attractions near California State University San Marcos

Double Peak Park

Lucky Strike San Marcos

Regal Edwards San Marcos

Stone Brewing

Twin Oaks Golf Club

The Links at Lakehouse

The Executive Course at Lakehouse

Play by Play Sports Facility

Frequently asked questions