El Cajon California Hotels & Motels

Find hotels in El Cajon using the list and search tools below. Find cheap and discounted hotel/motel rates in or nearby El Cajon, CA for your upcoming individual or group travel. We show the best El Cajon, California hotel and motel rooms. Browse the El Cajon area hotels to find the perfect lodging! Please use the provided map of the El Cajon hotels. Booking 5+ Rooms? Find El Cajon Group Hotel Rates

The El Cajon center is about the area of Winter Gardens and 1 mile east of Bath Gallery.

Situated in a valley less than 20 miles from the San Diego International Airport, El Cajon is a great destination that provides easy access to major attractions. Whether you're hoping to stay in an upscale accommodation with all the amenities or a budget-friendly hotel close to major roadways, El Cajon offers a variety of hotels to meet your needs. More from this guide...

El Cajon Hotels/Motels & Accommodations

Best Western Santee Lodge - Santee 10726 Woodside Ave., Santee, CA 92071 Call ~1.42 miles west of El Cajon
  • 3-star Resort property
  • Free breakfast
From$85
Very Good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego-East/El Cajon - El Cajon 683 North Mollison, El Cajon, CA 92020 Call
  • Economy Suburban hotel
  • 15 suites in hotel
From$45
Average 3.5 /5 Hotel Reviews Call BookMore Details
Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego East / El Cajon 683 North Mollison Ave., El Cajon, CA 92021 Call
  • 2 star hotel
From$60
Average 3.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Clarion Pointe El Cajon San Diego East in El Cajon 855 Sandalwood, El Cajon, CA 92021 Call
  • 3-star Suburban property
  • 47 rooms in hotel
From$53
Average 3.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Hampton Inn Andamp Suites by Hilto in El Cajon 1025 North Magnolia Ave., El Cajon, CA 92020 Call
  • 3-star property
  • Fitness / Gym is on-site
From$90
Very Good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Quality Inn & Suites El Cajon San Diego East in El Cajon 650 North Mollison Ave. Building A, El Cajon, CA 92021 Website Call
  • Midscale Suburban property
  • 12 suites in property
From$80
Average 3.0 /5 Hotel Reviews Call BookMore Details
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites El Cajon San Diego East : 588 North Mollison Ave. 588 North Mollison Ave., El Cajon, CA 92021 Call
  • Cheap Highway hotel
  • Check-in time: 11:00
Americas Best Value Inn El Cajon San Diego : 1274 Oakdale Ave. 1274 Oakdale Ave., El Cajon, CA 92021 Call
  • Cheap property
  • Check-in: 15:00
From$49
Not Good 1.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Rodeway Inn Santee San Diego East 10135 Mission Gorge Rd., Santee, CA 92071 Call ~1.96 miles west of El Cajon
  • Low Cost Downtown hotel
  • Check-in: 11:00
From$60
Very Good 4.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Motel 6 El Cajon, CA - San Diego in El Cajon 550 Montrose Court, El Cajon, CA 92020 Call
  • 2 star property
  • 2 floors in property
From$32
Average 3.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Super 8 by Wyndham El Cajon/San Diego : 471 Magnolia Ave. 471 Magnolia Ave., El Cajon, CA 92020 Call
  • Low Cost Suburban property
  • Complimentary breakfast is offered
From$60
Average 3.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Rodeway of El Cajon 471 North Magnolia Ave., El Cajon, CA 92020 Call
  • Low Cost Suburban property
  • Hotel has 3 floors
From$60
Average 3.5 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
El Cajon Hotel 1355 East Main St., El Cajon, CA 92021 Call
  • Economy Suburban hotel
  • Check in time: 03:00
From$60
Average 3.5 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Courtyard by Marriott in El Cajon 141 Magnolia Ave., El Cajon, CA 92020 Call
  • Three Star Downtown property
  • Check in: 3pm
From$80
Average 3.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego El Cajon - El Cajon 141 North Magnolia Ave., El Cajon, CA 92020 Call
  • 3-star Mountain hotel
  • Hotel has 120 rooms
From$119
Very Good 4.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Om Park Inn and Suites El Cajon near San Diego in El Cajon 425 West Main St., El Cajon, CA 92020 Call
  • Economical Downtown property
  • 2 floors in property
From$30
Very Good 4.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Relax Inn And Suites : 1220 West Main St. 1220 West Main St., El Cajon, CA 92020 Call
  • Inexpensive hotel
  • Check-in time: 3:00PM
From$69
Average 3.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Carlton Oaks Lodge, an Ascend Collection Hotel : 9200 Inwood Dr. 9200 Inwood Dr., Santee, CA 92071 Call ~3.85 miles west of El Cajon
  • Affordable property
  • Check-in time: 15:00
From$75
Very Good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Rodeway Inn & Suites El Cajon San Diego East 1250 El Cajon Blvd., El Cajon, CA 92020 Call
  • Low priced Highway property
  • Hotel has a green policy Learn more
From$65
Average 3.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Best Western Plus La Mesa San Diego - La Mesa 9550 Murray Dr., La Mesa, CA 91942 Call ~4.39 miles southwest of El Cajon
  • 3 star property
  • 78 rooms in property
From$99
Average 3.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Singing Hills Golf Resort in El Cajon 3007 Dehesa Rd., El Cajon, CA 92019 Call
  • 3 star Resort hotel
  • 2 floors in hotel
From$99
Very Good 4.0 /5 Hotel Reviews Call BookMore Details
Holiday Inn La Mesa 8000 Parkway. Dr., La Mesa, CA 91942 Call ~6.05 miles southwest of El Cajon
  • 3 star Suburban hotel
  • 3 floors in property
From$89
Very Good 4.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Holiday Inn Express La Mesa Near Sdsu - La Mesa 8000 Pkwy. Dr., La Mesa, CA 91942 Call ~6.05 miles southwest of El Cajon
  • 3-star Suburban hotel
  • 25 suites in hotel
From$80
Average 3.0 /5 Hotel Reviews Call BookMore Details
Heritage Inn La Mesa in La Mesa 7851 Fletcher Pkwy., La Mesa, CA 91942 Call ~6.21 miles southwest of El Cajon
  • Two star Suburban hotel
  • Hotel has 4 floors
From$60
Average 3.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Motel 6 La Mesa, CA - San Diego - La Mesa 7621 Alvarado Rd., La Mesa, CA 91942 Call ~6.44 miles southwest of El Cajon
  • Low Cost hotel
  • Hotel has 51 rooms
From$60
Average 3.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Lodge of La Mesa - Adults Only : 7911 University Ave. 7911 University Ave., La Mesa, CA 91942 Call ~6.63 miles southwest of El Cajon
  • Economical hotel
  • Hotel has 2 floors
From$60
Average 3.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Diego Sdsu 7475 El Cajon Blvd., La Mesa, CA 91941 Call ~6.82 miles southwest of El Cajon
  • Low Cost Suburban hotel
  • Has environment-friendly policy See policy
From$59
Average 3.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Sycuan Casino Resort 5469 Casino Way, San Diego, CA 92019 Call ~7.30 miles east of El Cajon
  • High-end Resort property
  • 12 floors in property
From$125
Average 3.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Motel 6 La Mesa, CA 6952 University Ave., La Mesa, CA 91942 Call ~7.92 miles southwest of El Cajon
  • Economy property
  • Check-in time: 3
From$60
Average 3.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU : 6474 El Cajon Blvd. 6474 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego, CA 92115 Call ~7.99 miles southwest of El Cajon
  • Two-star Suburban hotel
  • Check in: 3:00pm
From$90
Very Good 4.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Rodeway Inn Lemon Grove San Diego East 7458 Broadway, Lemon Grove, CA 91945 Call ~8.04 miles southwest of El Cajon
  • Low priced Suburban property
  • Check in: 2:00pm
Howard Johnson by Wyndham San Diego State University Area 6440 El Cajon Boulvard, San Diego, CA 92115 Call ~8.04 miles southwest of El Cajon
  • Two-star Suburban property
  • 2 floors in hotel
From$89
Average 3.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Rodeway Inn San Diego Near SDSU : 5399 Adobe Falls Rd. 5399 Adobe Falls Rd., San Diego, CA 92120 Call ~8.70 miles west of El Cajon
  • 2 star Downtown hotel
  • Complimentary breakfast is offered
From$65
Average 3.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Days Inn by Wyndham Mission Valley/SDSU - San Diego 5343 Adobe Falls Rd., San Diego, CA 92120 Call ~8.76 miles west of El Cajon
  • Low-priced Suburban hotel
  • Fitness center on property
From$60
Average 3.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Hampton Inn & Suites San Diego-Poway 14068 Stowe Dr., Poway, CA 92064 Call ~8.96 miles northwest of El Cajon
  • Three Star Suburban property
  • 3 floors in hotel
From$80
Average 3.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Motel 6 Misson Valley : 4380 Alvarado Canyon Rd. 4380 Alvarado Canyon Rd., San Diego, CA 92120 Call ~9.63 miles west of El Cajon
  • Cheap Suburban hotel
  • 3 floors in property
From$48
Poor 2.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Ayres Lodge Alpine - Alpine 1251 Tavern Rd., Alpine, CA 91901 Call ~9.70 miles east of El Cajon
  • Midscale Rural hotel
  • Hotel has 2 meeting rooms
From$97
Very Good 4.5 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Oakwood Mission Valley 6554 Ambrosia, San Diego, CA 92124 Call ~9.72 miles west of El Cajon
  • Mid-scale property
  • Fitness center on property
From$90
Average 3.0 /5 Hotel Reviews Call BookMore Details
Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Mission Valley Stadium - San Diego 3805 Murphy Canyon Rd., San Diego, CA 92123 Call ~10.01 miles west of El Cajon
  • Midscale Suburban hotel
  • Hotel has 178 rooms
From$80
Average 3.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Extended Stay America Suites San Diego Mission Valley Stadium 3860 Murphy Canyon Rd., San Diego, CA 92123 Call ~10.06 miles west of El Cajon
  • Two star Highway hotel
  • 3 floors in hotel
From$78
Average 3.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Best Western Poway/San Diego Hotel 13845 Poway Rd., Poway, CA 92064 Call ~10.06 miles northwest of El Cajon
  • Affordable Suburban hotel
  • Check-in time: 03:00
From$87
Average 3.5 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Ramada by Wyndham San Diego Poway Miramar 12448 Poway Rd., Poway, CA 92064 Call ~10.83 miles northwest of El Cajon
  • Low-priced Suburban hotel
  • 2 floors in hotel
From$85
Average 3.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Miramar 9335 Kearny Mesa Rd., San Diego, CA 92126 Call ~10.94 miles west of El Cajon
  • Midscale Suburban property
  • Shuttle from airport available
From$159
Average 3.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Best Western San Diego/Miramar Hotel in San Diego 9310 Kearny Mesa Rd., San Diego, CA 92126 Call ~10.99 miles west of El Cajon
  • Mid-scale Suburban hotel
  • Free comp. breakfast
From$81
Very Good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Comfort Inn San Diego Miramar - San Diego 9350 Kearny Mesa Rd., San Diego, CA 92126 Website Call ~11.02 miles west of El Cajon
  • Low Cost Suburban property
  • Hotel has 3 floors
From$64
Average 3.0 /5 Hotel Reviews Call BookMore Details
Towneplace Suites by Marriott San Diego Central 8650 Tech Way, San Diego, CA 92123 Call ~11.28 miles west of El Cajon
  • Mid-scale Suburban hotel
  • Access to gym on-site
From$80
Average 3.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Ramada by Wyndham San Diego North Hotel & Conference Center - San Diego 5550 Kearny Mesa Rd., San Diego, CA 92111 Call ~11.47 miles west of El Cajon
  • Three Star Highway hotel
  • Access to gym on-site
From$99
Average 3.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Central - San Diego 8651 Spectrum Center Blvd., San Diego, CA 92123 Call ~11.47 miles west of El Cajon
  • 3-star Suburban property
  • 8 suites in hotel
From$81
Very Good 4.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Holiday Inn Express Mira Mesa-San Diego by IHG in San Diego 9888 Mira Mesa Blvd., San Diego, CA 92131 Call ~11.50 miles northwest of El Cajon
  • 3-star Suburban hotel
  • Hotel has an eco-friendly policy See more
From$90
Average 3.0 /5 Hotel Reviews Call BookMore Details
Hampton Inn San Diego Kearny Mesa 5434 Kearny Mesa Rd., San Diego, CA 92111 Call ~11.53 miles west of El Cajon
  • Low Cost Suburban property
  • 147 rooms in property
From$80
Very Good 4.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details

Next: See My El Cajon Hotels with Pricing

Best Time to Visit El Cajon, CA

The best time to visit any community in San Diego County is in the spring or fall. From March through May, you're more likely to avoid crowds of local families on vacations as they rush to San Diego's attractions. The weather is also quite nice, with highs hovering in the 60s. You'll even enjoy some great hotel rates during the spring, which is ideal for travelers on a budget.

Fall is a little warmer but still offers the same benefits of spring. School is back in session so you won't be competing with locals at the San Diego Zoo or other site, plus you'll enjoy high temps in the 70s, which is ideal for hiking.

Winter brings the best hotel rates, but keep in mind that while San Diego County doesn't experience snow or blustery weather, it is the region's rainy season. When visiting El Cajon from late November through February, be sure to pack some rain gear.

Summer is unsurprisingly El Cajon's peak tourist season. Travelers from all over the world come to San Diego for the surfing, swimming, attractions, and culinary delights, and you can expect hotel rates even in El Cajon to spike. To save a few bucks off your hotel rate during the summer, be sure to book as early as late winter or early spring to take advantage of seasonal discounts.

Best Discounts in El Cajon, CA

If you plan your trip carefully, you can save even more money on your trip to El Cajon by taking advantage of discounts. Seniors, AARP members, AAA/CAA members, government workers, military families, and rewards members can save as much as 20 percent at most area hotels, including Rodeway Inn & Suites El Cajon San Diego East. Simply book your room at the appropriate rate and present proof of eligibility at check-in.

Certain hotels, including Relax Inn & Suites, provide quotes for prospective guests looking to score the best deal. It never hurts to ask for a discount when posted rates reflect a price higher than you'd prefer to pay.

Properties like Heritage Inn La Mesa will occasionally offer their own specials and packages. These can include romance packages that provide flowers, a box of chocolates, and a bottle of champagne. Package offers tend to come with a minimum stay requirement, but they're a great way to get a good deal with some extra perks.

Best Value Options in El Cajon, CA

El Cajon offers many mid-range hotels that give travelers plenty of value for their dime. Super 8 El Cajon CA is located 15 miles from Downtown San Diego and features an outdoor pool, a business center, free parking, and a free continental breakfast served in the dining area. Kids 17 and under also stay free. Guest rooms include cable TV, free Wi-Fi, in-room safes, microwaves, and mini-fridges, while upgraded quarters add private Jacuzzis.

Best Western Plus La Mesa San Diego is a contemporary property 12 miles from Balboa Park. Guest rooms are modern and nicely appointed, offering cable TV, coffee makers, mini-fridges, microwaves, high-pressure shower heads, and free Wi-Fi. Suites add separate living areas with pull-out sofa beds, and kids 19 and under stay free with an adult. Additional amenities include an outdoor pool and whirlpool, a free hot breakfast, a fitness center, a business center, and free parking.

Top Attractions in El Cajon, CA

While most visitors are looking for a convenient location near San Diego, El Cajon itself offers some great attractions that are worth visiting. The Water Conservation Garden is the city's most popular spot. Whether you're looking for landscaping ideas, hope to learn how to make your own garden flourish, need a great backdrop for some family photos, or you'd like to take a class or docent-led tour of the facility, The Water Conservation Garden is a must-see.

Sycuan Casino is a great local casino offering slots, table games, concerts, and delicious dining options. In fact, Sycuan Casino is home to five top-notch restaurants offering everything from a sports bar and typical buffet fare to deli favorites and eclectic Asian specialties.

If you prefer nature to gaming, head to Summers Past Farms. This beautiful farm not only provides workshops and classes, but it's also home to a coffee bar, soap shop, nursery, gardens, and gift shop. It's such a wonderful place that Summers Past Farms has been featured in Country Living Gardener magazine.

Exploring everything this beautiful valley has to offer is a tall order, but it's well worth the effort. Whether you're looking for luxury accommodations near San Diego or budget-friendly lodgings close to the interstate, you can find the perfect hotel in El Cajon to meet your needs and budget.

Verified reviews of the city of El Cajon

Below are reviews of the city of El Cajon, CA from an actual visitor's perspective.

"I love El Cajon the country settings "
Score 5.0 / 5

Pamela L., from 16-Mar-2026
"Lots of local eateries and stores"
Score 5.0 / 5

Joi G., from 31-Dec-2025
"I think it is a great place"
Score 4.0 / 5

I think it is a great place ! I live in Spring Valley and visit El Cajon often ! The surrounding country side is what I like the best about it. Your Casino location is great !!!

Herold H., from 10-Oct-2025
"The greenery and the trees are everywhere and it was beautiful as far as that goes. "
Score 5.0 / 5

Cari P., from 10-Sep-2025
"Very Clean "
Score 5.0 / 5

Very clean

Jimmy W., from 24-Jun-2025
"Tourist attractions and restaurants are easy to find!"
Score 5.0 / 5

Tourist attractions and restaurants are easy to find!

Marguerite H., from 13-Feb-2025
"Nice Place"
Score 4.0 / 5

Very clean and orderly hotel.

Peter W., from 18-Jan-2025
"Great location"
Score 5.0 / 5

El cajon is a great city lots of stores and shops . Lots of fast food places.

Paul L., from 14-Jan-2025
"Good location"
Score 5.0 / 5

The location is great. It's walking distant to many restaurants, the mall and banks.

Joseph P., from 30-Dec-2024
"Great location"
Score 5.0 / 5

The location is great. It's walking distant to many restaurants, the mall and banks.

Joseph P., from 24-Dec-2024
"Quiet & Peaceful"
Score 5.0 / 5

Quiet and peaceful.

Michael K., from 15-Oct-2024
"Great Stay!"
Score 4.0 / 5

My stay was great!

Gladys W., from 09-Oct-2023
"Good Location Near Dining"
Score 4.0 / 5

Appreciated that an eating establishment was close.

Rene P., from 30-Jun-2023
"Convenient to Highway"
Score 4.0 / 5

The hotel is really close to the highway.

William H., from 24-Jun-2023
"Casinos!"
Score 4.0 / 5

I visited the local casinos!

Joseph M., from 25-Feb-2023
"Located near I-8 and restaurants."
Score 4.0 / 5

It was close to Interstate 8 and restaurants.

Kendall G., from 23-Nov-2022
"Near Casino"
Score 5.0 / 5

It's about 15 minutes from the casino that my daughter was having her 10 year cancer free party at.

Jeannette T., from 23-Aug-2022
"Quiet, easy check in, great breakfast, friendly staff."
Score 4.0 / 5

Quiet, easy check in, great breakfast, friendly staff.

Chaundice E., from 04-Aug-2022
"nice stay at hotel"
Score 5.0 / 5

We did not explore city of El Cajon. Only stayed at hotel as part of room block

Ellen L., from 19-Jun-2022
"Fine Dining Not Immediately Visible, Attractions within Close Proximity to One Another"
Score 4.0 / 5

There was a large mall nearby, with a movie theater in it and a number of nice stores. A lot of fast food places all over the place, and even a couple of Starbucks, but not much for finer food. The drive to tourist areas in San Diego was actually rather short and convenient.

Carl S., from 10-Apr-2014
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