Photo by David Simmington

Find hotels in Descanso, CA from ฿1,954

Start date: Check-in selected.
To Date
End date: Check-out
  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation
  • Treat yourself

    Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check prices for these dates

This weekend
Next weekend

Filter by

Guest rating
Guest rating
Star rating

Our top choices for Descanso hotels

Orchard Hill

Orchard Hill
3.0 star property
Julian
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (275)
Wake up to scenic Julian views before exploring Anza Borrego Desert State Park just a short drive away. This hotel offers a welcoming bar, peaceful garden terrace, and convenient free WiFi while keeping you close to local attractions.

"Awesome place and staff is terrific as well "
United States
Sean
The price is ฿7,559
฿9,171 total
includes taxes & fees
26 Dec - 27 Dec
Orchard Hill

Julian Gold Rush Hotel

Julian Gold Rush Hotel
2.5 star property
Julian
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (845)
Set in Julian near the Anza Borrego Desert State Park, this charming B&B offers a full breakfast daily. The terrace and garden create a peaceful setting, while friendly staff ensure a warm welcome. Julian Town Hall is located nearby.

"Great breakfast "
United States
Sergio
The price is ฿4,580
฿4,947 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Dec - 26 Dec
Julian Gold Rush Hotel

Apple Tree Inn

Apple Tree Inn
2.0 star property
Julian
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (994)
Escape to this welcoming motel featuring comfortable beds and attentive staff. The on-site restaurant and bar provide relaxation after exploring nearby Inaja Memorial Park and Menghini Winery. Free WiFi and parking enhance your Julian retreat.

"Clean rooms and the staff on-site was very helpful with check-in. Also location was great, only six minutes from Julian. "
United States
Joseph
The price is ฿4,125
฿4,455 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Dec - 30 Dec
Apple Tree Inn

Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge, Retreat and Spa

Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge, Retreat and Spa
4.5 star property
Julian
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (571)
This Julian retreat offers deep-tissue massages, body wraps, and aromatherapy at the full-service spa. Guests love the helpful staff and morning meals. Santa Ysabel Mission and Lake Cuyamaca are nearby, with free parking for mountain adventures.

"We always have a great time here. "
United States
Myriam
Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge, Retreat and Spa

Tucker Peak Lodge

Tucker Peak Lodge
2.5 star property
Julian
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (294)
Surrounded by outdoor adventure, this cosy lodge offers free WiFi and parking. Explore Julian Pioneer Museum and Historical Society just minutes away, making it perfect for travellers seeking a tranquil mountain escape.

"Beautiful , cozy and clean property with a perfect view ! "
United States
Erica
The price is ฿3,940
฿4,255 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Jan - 5 Jan 2026
Tucker Peak Lodge

Julian Lodge

Julian Lodge
2.0 star property
Julian
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (205)
Discover Julian's heritage at this welcoming hotel close to Julian Historical Society and Pioneer Museum. Enjoy complimentary WiFi, convenient parking, and daily housekeeping while exploring the beautiful area just 15 minutes from Anza Borrego Desert State Park.

"Very pet friendly, and the staff is very helpful. We will definitely stay here again. "
United States
Amy
The price is ฿3,359
฿3,628 total
includes taxes & fees
5 Jan - 6 Jan 2026
Julian Lodge

Stagecoach Trails RV Resort

Stagecoach Trails RV Resort
2.0 star property
Julian
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (46)
Explore Anza Borrego Desert State Park, just a short drive from this campground featuring hiking trails, an outdoor pool, and proximity to Yaqui Well. Free parking makes adventure accessible.

"Great place w a pool n showers. Not too far from the town of Julian. Love it here! "
United States
Candy
Stagecoach Trails RV Resort

Rodeway Inn Santee San Diego East

Rodeway Inn Santee San Diego East
2.0 star property
Santee
7.6 out of 10, Good, (821)
This Santee motel offers free WiFi and parking, plus an outdoor pool for relaxation after exploring nearby attractions. Hiking trails and mountain biking await outdoor enthusiasts, while Santee Town Centre Station is just a 13-minute walk away.

"great room, very quiet hotel. nice cleaning ladies and front desk staff "
United States
Delanie
The price is ฿2,706
฿3,027 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Dec - 26 Dec
Rodeway Inn Santee San Diego East

Carlton Oaks Lodge, an Ascend Collection Hotel

Carlton Oaks Lodge, an Ascend Collection Hotel
3.0 star property
Santee
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1003)
Enjoy a round of golf at this lodge-style hotel featuring the Oaks Bar and Grill for American cuisine. The outdoor pool, hot tub, and terrace create a relaxing atmosphere near Santee Lakes and SDSU, with free WiFi and parking.

"It was a great place to stay for a quick trip to the town."
United States
Marcia
The price is ฿2,819
฿3,785 total
includes taxes & fees
5 Jan - 6 Jan 2026
Carlton Oaks Lodge, an Ascend Collection Hotel

Viejas Casino & Willows Hotel

Viejas Casino & Willows Hotel
4.0 star property
Alpine
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1004)
Escape to this casino resort featuring 4 restaurants serving international cuisine and 2 bars for refreshment. Relax in the outdoor pool or indulge at the spa with deep-tissue massages. Located near Viejas Outlet Centre with free parking and attentive staff.

"Clean room, friendly staff."
United States
SERGIO
The price is ฿3,836
฿4,782 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Dec - 30 Dec
Viejas Casino & Willows Hotel

Best Western Santee Lodge

Best Western Santee Lodge
2.5 star property
Santee
7.8 out of 10, Good, (593)
Located in Santee, this hotel offers both quiet accommodation and convenient access to local restaurants. Guests enjoy the outdoor pool, hot tub, and complimentary morning meal. Helpful staff and free parking make visits to nearby attractions seamless.

" Room was clean and the staff was friendly"
United States
Daniel
The price is ฿3,220
฿3,549 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Dec - 29 Dec
Best Western Santee Lodge

Hampton Inn & Suites San Diego-Poway

Hampton Inn & Suites San Diego-Poway
2.5 star property
Poway
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1000)
Located near Iron Mountain with convenient access to San Diego attractions. This hotel offers comfortable accommodation with free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and fitness centre. The friendly staff receives high marks from guests who also appreciate the delicious breakfast offerings.

"Staff great room very clean and very good breakfast "
United States
Jean
The price is ฿3,978
฿4,383 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Jan - 19 Jan 2026
Hampton Inn & Suites San Diego-Poway

Backcountry Inn Motel

Backcountry Inn Motel
2.0 star property
Boulevard
7.8 out of 10, Good, (265)
"The beds and air conditioning made for a good nights sleep."
United States
Richard
The price is ฿3,982
฿4,300 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Dec - 26 Dec
Backcountry Inn Motel

Ayres Lodge Alpine

Ayres Lodge Alpine
3.0 star property
Alpine
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1005)
Set in a tranquil environment, this hotel features relaxing outdoor spaces with a koi pond, waterfall, and fire pit where butterflies flutter by. An outdoor pool and fitness centre complement free breakfast and WiFi, all just 15 minutes from Sycuan Casino.

"Large rooms,very clean, wonderful breakfast! "
United States
Becky
The price is ฿3,391
฿3,668 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Jan - 4 Jan 2026
Ayres Lodge Alpine

Vineyard Hacienda

Vineyard Hacienda
3.5 star property
Spring Valley
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (539)
Vineyard Hacienda offers a winery experience just minutes from San Diego State University. After a massage, enjoy the hot tub or fitness centre. Located near Regal Edwards Rancho San Diego, guests love the helpful staff and convenient amenities like free WiFi and parking.

"Great room. Fun staff"
United States
Patricia
The price is ฿5,431
฿5,866 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Jan - 2 Jan 2026
Vineyard Hacienda

Holiday Inn Express La Mesa Near SDSU by IHG

Holiday Inn Express La Mesa Near SDSU by IHG
3.0 star property
La Mesa
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (456)
Experience quiet comfort near San Diego State University at this traveler-praised hotel. Swim in the outdoor pool, work out in the fitness centre, and enjoy free breakfast. Just a short drive from Balboa Park and Petco Park, with La Mesa Boulevard Station within walking distance.

"Great Stay"
United States
Jazmin
The price is ฿4,075
฿4,490 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Jan - 5 Jan 2026
Holiday Inn Express La Mesa Near SDSU by IHG

Best Western Plus La Mesa San Diego

Best Western Plus La Mesa San Diego
2.5 star property
La Mesa
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1001)
Discover easy exploration from La Mesa with a stay minutes from Balboa Park and Petco Park. Morning swims in the outdoor pool and workouts at the fitness centre start your day right. Enjoy free breakfast and parking while the helpful staff ensures a smooth trip.

"Clean room, great breakfast, pleasant staff. It was comfortable. "
United States
Vonda
The price is ฿3,543
฿3,898 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Jan - 5 Jan 2026
Best Western Plus La Mesa San Diego

Courtyard by Marriott San Diego El Cajon

Courtyard by Marriott San Diego El Cajon
3.0 star property
El Cajon
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1001)
Explore San Diego from this El Cajon hotel with an outdoor pool and American cuisine at The Bistro. Minutes from Olaf Wieghorst Museum and The Magnolia, guests love the clean rooms and helpful staff.

"Very clean friendly staff "
United States
salwa
The price is ฿4,863
฿5,359 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Jan - 24 Jan 2026
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego El Cajon

Hampton Inn & Suites El Cajon San Diego

Hampton Inn & Suites El Cajon San Diego
2.5 star property
El Cajon
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (772)
Set in El Cajon, this business-friendly hotel offers free breakfast, WiFi, and parking. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the outdoor pool or work out at the fitness centre. Located within a 15-minute drive of San Diego State and Snapdragon Stadium.

"The front desk clerks Anah and Laura were amazing. "
United States
Jill
The price is ฿4,619
฿5,090 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Jan - 5 Jan 2026
Hampton Inn & Suites El Cajon San Diego

Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego-East/El Cajon

Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego-East/El Cajon
2.0 star property
El Cajon
7.6 out of 10, Good, (1001)
This quiet hotel offers an outdoor pool, hot tub, and comfortable beds just 15 minutes from San Diego State University. Guests enjoy complimentary WiFi, parking and breakfast, with Art World Western Heritage Gallery and The Magnolia nearby.

"Rooms were very clean and efficient "
United States
Leslie
The price is ฿2,353
฿2,593 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Dec - 29 Dec
Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego-East/El Cajon
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.
Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels when you're signed in

Stay near popular Descanso attractions

Learn more about Descanso

Nestled among pine forests and mountain wilderness, this tranquil retreat offers spectacular hiking in Cleveland National Forest and Pine Creek Wilderness. Anglers and nature lovers flock to Lake Cuyamaca, while the nearby Anza Borrego Desert State Park transforms into a wildflower paradise each spring.

The bottom waterfall of Three Sisters Falls. Starting at the Three Sisters Falls trailhead in east county San Diego, this loop is 4.0 miles with 1000 feet of elevation gain and will take you roughly 3 hours to complete, depending on how long you spend at the falls.

#SanDiego
#hiking
#lifeatexpedia
#weloveourmarkets
#AMER
Photo by David Simmington
Open Photo by David Simmington

Top Descanso Hotel Reviews

More cheap stays in Descanso

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to stay in Descanso?
Heritage Inn La Mesa, located 24.6 mi (39.6 km) from the heart of Descanso, is a top choice for your stay, based on our traveller data. Other good options for your stay in the area are Sycuan Casino Resort and Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Descanso.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Descanso, will I receive a refund?
Yes! You'll find that most room reservations are refundable provided that you cancel prior to the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before check in. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, 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 Descanso.
What are some accommodation options with pools in Descanso?
Heritage Inn La Mesa: Hotel located near San Diego State University. Features free self parking, an outdoor pool and complimentary wireless Internet access. Sycuan Casino Resort and Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU are two additional hotels with an on-site pool. View all hotels with pools in Descanso.
What is staying in Descanso like?
Visitors can enjoy all that Descanso has to offer, including the shopping and restaurants. In Descanso, there are 8 hotels and other accommodation options to choose from. Find out more about Descanso.
What is there to see in Descanso?
Natural beauty is on display at Lake Cuyamaca, Anza Borrego Desert State Park and Cuyamaca Mountain State Wilderness. A couple of additional sights to add to your itinerary are Descanso Branch San Diego County Library and Pine Creek Wilderness. Take a look at what more there is to see and do in Expedia's Descanso guide.
What's the seasonal weather in Descanso?
The hottest months are usually August and July, with an average temperature of 23°C, while the coldest months are January and February, with an average of 12°C. Average annual precipitation for Descanso is 293 mm.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia