Find hotels in San Marcos, CA from ￥8,297

Top reasons to visit San Marcos

• Family-Friendly Activities: San Marcos is ideal for families, offering a variety of attractions and experiences for all ages.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy the beautiful beaches, urban parks, and stunning vistas that make San Marcos a nature lover's paradise.
• Vibrant Art Scene: Experience local culture through engaging art shows that showcase the creativity of the community.
• Diverse Accommodations: A wide range of lodging options caters to families, business travelers, and pets, ensuring a comfortable stay.
• Proximity to Theme Parks: Enjoy easy access to nearby theme parks for thrilling family fun and entertainment.

Find great hotels near San Marcos

San Marcos offers a diverse selection of accommodations, perfect for families, business travelers, and pet owners alike. From resorts to hotels, you'll find options featuring accessible guest rooms, barbecue facilities, and complimentary bikes for your use. Enjoy a comfortable stay that caters to your specific needs while exploring the beautiful surroundings of this vibrant California city.

• Motel 6 Carlsbad, CA Beach: Experience a laid-back beach getaway at Motel 6 Carlsbad, CA Beach, located a short drive from San Marcos. This pet-friendly motel caters to travelers who wish to bring their furry companions along for the adventure. With amenities such as designated pet areas and a welcoming atmosphere, you can relax and enjoy your stay without worrying about leaving your pets behind. The motel's convenient location also allows easy access to beautiful beaches and local attractions, making it a great base for your California exploration.
• Hyatt Vacation Club at The Welk, San Diego Area: Nestled just 9.7km from San Marcos, the Hyatt Vacation Club at The Welk offers a perfect blend of business and leisure. This eco-certified hotel is ideal for environmentally conscious travelers and those seeking a golf-themed experience. With facilities such as a fully equipped business center and accessible conference spaces, it caters to both corporate guests and vacationers. Enjoy the lush golf courses and beautiful surroundings, making this a top choice for a productive yet relaxing stay.
• Days Inn by Wyndham Encinitas Moonlight Beach: Just 16.1km from San Marcos, Days Inn by Wyndham Encinitas Moonlight Beach welcomes you to a vibrant beach adventure. This LGBTQIA-friendly motel offers direct beach access and is perfect for thrill-seekers. With a range of adventure sports nearby, including snorkeling, surfing, and boat tours, you’ll find endless opportunities for fun and excitement. The friendly atmosphere and commitment to inclusivity make it a great choice for travelers looking for a lively beach vacation.

Where to stay in and around San Marcos

San Marcos, California, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures. Explore the beautiful beaches nearby, bask in the California sun, and take in the stunning vistas. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary or seeking a relaxing getaway, the friendly atmosphere and charming neighborhoods promise a memorable experience. Venture out to discover local excursions that highlight the beauty of San Marcos and create lasting memories with loved ones.

• Lake San Marcos: Nestled in the heart of San Marcos, Lake San Marcos offers a picturesque village atmosphere ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. With a variety of activities, including golf and relaxing at the resort, visitors can enjoy a perfect blend of leisure and recreation. The nearby attractions, such as family-friendly beaches and a theme park, make it a fantastic spot for a day of fun. The warm summer months from June to August see a peak in visitors, making it a vibrant time to explore this charming locale.
• Country Club: Located a mere 4.8km from San Marcos, the Country Club neighborhood is a peaceful retreat that caters to families and couples seeking a romantic getaway. With its lush golf courses and elegant resorts, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting to unwind in a serene setting. The area is also home to attractions like a prominent theme park and local event venues, perfect for creating lasting memories. The best time to visit is during the summer months, when the atmosphere is lively and inviting.
• San Elijo Hills: San Elijo Hills, situated around San Marcos, is a vibrant neighborhood that combines family-friendly activities with scenic outdoor experiences. The area features shopping centers and beautiful parks, perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics. This neighborhood tends to attract visitors during the spring and summer months, particularly in March to April and July, when the climate is ideal for outdoor adventures. Proximity to stunning beaches ensures that you can enjoy both relaxation and exploration during your stay.

Things to do in and around San Marcos

San Marcos, California, is perfect for family-friendly vacations and outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including educational experiences, golfing, and resort amenities. Don’t miss the vibrant art shows, which highlight the local culture and creativity. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or excitement, San Marcos has something for everyone.

Shopping

For a great shopping experience in San Marcos, visit the Carlsbad Premium Outlets, located 14.5km away, offering a variety of brands and family-friendly vibes. If you're up for a drive, check out Bates Nut Farm and Encinitas Surfboards, both just over 16.1km away, for unique gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

At Twin Oaks Golf Club, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by beautiful landscapes and vibrant outdoor vibes. Just two miles away, Escondido Country Club offers a similar experience for golf enthusiasts. For relaxation, visit Double Peak Park, where you can unwind amidst serene natural beauty and wellness vibes.

Adventure

The Wave Waterpark, located 9.7km from San Marcos, offers thrilling water slides and family-friendly attractions for a fun-filled day. For surf enthusiasts, Eli Howard Surf School, 17.7km away, provides expert lessons in a vibrant outdoor setting. Explore the scenic Hosp Grove Trails, 16.1km from the city, for a picturesque hiking experience.

Nightlife

In San Marcos, the Moonlight Amphitheatre offers captivating performances in a romantic setting just 9.7km away. Regal Edwards San Marcos invites you to enjoy the latest films right in town, while Boomers Vista, 11.3km away, delivers thrilling arcade adventures for an exciting night out.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Marcos

San Marcos, California, is budget-friendly for travelers, offering free attractions like Moonlight State Beach and Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park. To save on transportation, consider renting a car. The best months to visit for lower rates are November to January, with Tuesdays being the least expensive days to stay. Use Expedia to find affordable hotels and package deals that combine your stay with flights and activities. Explore eco-friendly hotel options to align with sustainable travel while keeping costs down. Remember, prices peak during the summer months of June to August.

• 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: Expedia’s search tool makes it easy to customize your travel experience by letting you specify your budget, preferred location, and other preferences. You can arrange your search results to display hotels from the most affordable to the more expensive options, ensuring you find the best deals first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll see a list of sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in San Marcos with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around San Marcos

San Marcos is perfect for family-friendly and outdoor vacations, offering a variety of attractions. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches, enjoy urban parks, and experience the excitement of theme parks. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures or a fun-filled family experience, San Marcos has something for everyone to enjoy during their stay.

• LEGOLAND® California: Experience a world of creativity and imagination at LEGOLAND® California, a family-friendly theme park located 14.5km from San Marcos. Enjoy thrilling rides, interactive attractions, and stunning LEGO displays that captivate visitors of all ages.
• California State University San Marcos: Nestled in the heart of San Marcos, California State University San Marcos offers a vibrant campus atmosphere. Explore modern facilities and enjoy cultural events, art exhibits, and lectures in this dynamic educational setting.
• Moonlight State Beach: Just 16.1km away, Moonlight State Beach is a picturesque destination for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking. With its soft sands and gentle waves, it's the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the California coastline.

Best time to go to San Marcos

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 Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
March	56.7°F (13.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
April	59.7°F (15.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
June	66.9°F (19.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	71.8°F (22.1°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	73.4°F (23.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	72.5°F (22.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	66.9°F (19.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	60.3°F (15.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to San Marcos

Traveling to San Marcos, California, is convenient with several major airports nearby. San Diego International Airport (SAN) is located 45.1km away, with excellent hotel options like the 5-star Pendry San Diego and The US Grant, both just a few miles from the airport. Orange County's John Wayne Airport (SNA) is 88.5km from San Marcos, offering luxurious stays at The Resort at Pelican Hill and The Viv Hotel, Anaheim, within a short distance. Additionally, Tijuana's General Abelardo L. Rodriguez International Airport (TIJ) is 69.2km away, featuring hotels such as the Quartz Hotel & SPA, all easily accessible from the respective airports.