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Check availability on El Cajon Cheap Hotels

Tonight
25 Feb - 26 Feb
Tomorrow
26 Feb - 27 Feb
This weekend
27 Feb - 1 Mar
Next weekend
6 Mar - 8 Mar

Our top choices for El Cajon cheap hotels

Front of property

Relax Inn And Suites

Relax Inn And Suites
2.0 star property
El Cajon
5.6 out of 10, (363 reviews)
"I Apperciate this place. Roof bed bathroom water is better than the alternative "
United States
Benjamin
The price is £43
includes taxes & fees
3 Mar - 4 Mar
Relax Inn And Suites
Reception

Best Inn & Suites

Best Inn & Suites
2.0 star property
El Cajon
6.0 out of 10, (126 reviews)
"Fair prices when it came to the bill, and pretty quiet and safe."
United States
Jimmy
Best Inn & Suites
Exterior

Motel 6 El Cajon, CA - San Diego

Motel 6 El Cajon, CA - San Diego
2.0 star property
El Cajon
7.4 out of 10, Good, (1,560 reviews)
"We only stayed one night but it was comfortable and clean "
United States
Brandy
The price is £53
includes taxes & fees
1 Mar - 2 Mar
Motel 6 El Cajon, CA - San Diego
Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking | Individually furnished, desk, free WiFi, bed sheets

Rodeway Inn El Cajon - San Diego East

Rodeway Inn El Cajon - San Diego East
2.0 star property
El Cajon
7.0 out of 10, Good, (156 reviews)
"Friendly staff .. comfortable rooms"
United States
Sonia
The price is £54
includes taxes & fees
8 Mar - 9 Mar
Rodeway Inn El Cajon - San Diego East
Free daily on-the-go breakfast

Super 8 by Wyndham El Cajon/San Diego

Super 8 by Wyndham El Cajon/San Diego
2.0 star property
El Cajon
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1,009 reviews)
"vwey spacious and clean, great beds!"
United States
Caroline
The price is £59
includes taxes & fees
8 Mar - 9 Mar
Super 8 by Wyndham El Cajon/San Diego
40-inch LED TV with cable channels, TV

Rancho San Diego Inn & Suites

Rancho San Diego Inn & Suites
2.5 star property
El Cajon
6.2 out of 10, (361 reviews)
"The front desk guy is super nice and helpful"
United States
Sonia
The price is £65
includes taxes & fees
26 Feb - 27 Feb
Rancho San Diego Inn & Suites
Property grounds

Villa Serena

Villa Serena
2.0 star property
El Cajon
6.4 out of 10, (277 reviews)
"Excellent location clean comfortable and wonderful staff"
United States
Shelia
The price is £53
includes taxes & fees
19 Mar - 20 Mar
Villa Serena
3 outdoor pools, pool cabanas (surcharge), pool umbrellas

Sycuan Casino Resort

Sycuan Casino Resort
4.0 star property
El Cajon
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,767 reviews)
"Very clean resort. "
United States
Petrina
Sycuan Casino Resort
Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds | Desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

Northgate Motel

Northgate Motel
2.0 star property
El Cajon
7.8 out of 10, Good, (647 reviews)
"Wonderful, quiet, cleaned, good breakfast ,friendly, no prob with everything. "
United States
L and M
Northgate Motel
Desk, laptop workspace, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

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, (1,000 reviews)
"Great service.room was clean and included breakfast "
United States
Antonio
The price is £69
includes taxes & fees
1 Mar - 2 Mar
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.
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Discover cheap things to do in El Cajon

El Cajon, California, offers a delightful mix of affordable activities and attractions that are perfect for budget-conscious travellers. Start your adventure at the stunning Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, where families can hike through beautiful trails, enjoy picnics amidst nature, and spot wildlife, all at no cost. For a taste of local culture, the Heritage of the Americas Museum provides free entry and showcases the rich history of the region through fascinating exhibits. If you're searching for a vibrant community experience, head to the East County Performing Arts Center, which often hosts low-cost events and performances suitable for all ages. Food lovers will relish the authentic flavours at local taco stands like La Fuente Mexican Grill, where generous portions won't break the bank. Finally, the scenic parks around El Cajon, such as Wells Park, offer playgrounds and open spaces for children to play, making it a great spot for family outings. For accommodation, look towards the centrally located hotels near the downtown area, allowing easy access to these attractions while enjoying a comfortable stay at competitive rates. Your journey in El Cajon promises a blend of affordable fun and memorable experiences without compromising on quality.

Find the best cheap hotels in El Cajon

For budget-conscious travelers heading to El Cajon, California, these hotels provide comfortable stays without breaking the bank. Each option combines affordability with essential amenities to ensure a pleasant experience.

Courtyard by Marriott San Diego El Cajon

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Courtyard by Marriott San Diego El Cajon offers an excellent blend of comfort and affordability, making it a top choice for budget travelers with a remarkable guest review rating of 9.2. Guests can take advantage of complimentary Wi-Fi and free toiletries, ensuring a convenient stay. With an outdoor pool and sun loungers, guests can relax and unwind after a day of exploring the area.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include accessible van parking, electric car charging stations, and a fitness centre for those looking to maintain their routine. Daily housekeeping services ensure a clean and comfortable environment throughout your stay. Guests can enjoy a garden space, along with options for early check-in and late check-out. The hotel's nearby local museums provides added opportunities for exploration during your visit.
  • Nearby attractions: Superior Court East County Division - 0.6 km, The Magnolia - 0.5 km, Boomers El Cajon - 1.9 km

Super 8 by Wyndham El Cajon/San Diego

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Super 8 by Wyndham El Cajon/San Diego is a budget-friendly option that scores a respectable 7.8 from guests. With free Wi-Fi and breakfast included, it’s an economical choice for those looking to stretch their travel budget. The hotel also provides free self-parking, making it easy for guests to come and go as they please.
  • Other amenities: Guests will appreciate daily housekeeping services and the availability of cribs for families traveling with young children. The hotel features air conditioning and microwaves in rooms for added comfort and convenience. Its location near a shopping district also offers opportunities for local exploration, while the option for early check-in provides added flexibility.
  • Nearby attractions: Superior Court East County Division - 1.1 km, The Magnolia - 1.2 km, Boomers El Cajon - 1.3 km

Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego-East/El Cajon

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego-East/El Cajon presents a budget-friendly experience with a guest review rating of 7.6. Guests can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast daily, ensuring a hearty start to the day. With free self-parking, it's an accessible option for travelers looking to save on costs.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features an outdoor pool and a hot tub for relaxation, alongside a refrigerator and microwave in rooms for convenience. Daily housekeeping helps maintain a clean environment, while the nearby golf locations offers leisure activities. Guests can also benefit from early check-in options, making their stay even more accommodating.
  • Nearby attractions: Superior Court East County Division - 1.9 km, The Magnolia - 1.9 km, Boomers El Cajon - 1.8 km

Motel 6 El Cajon, CA - San Diego

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Motel 6 El Cajon, CA - San Diego is a great choice for budget travelers with a review rating of 7.2. Offering free Wi-Fi and self-parking, this hotel ensures guests can enjoy a straightforward stay. The hotel also features an outdoor pool, perfect for a refreshing dip on warm days.
  • Other amenities: Guests can take advantage of air conditioning for comfort, along with daily housekeeping services. The hotel provides options for early check-in and late check-out, adding flexibility to travel plans. With accessible parking and a garden area, the hotel creates a welcoming atmosphere for all guests. A snack bar is also available for those looking for a quick bite.
  • Nearby attractions: Superior Court East County Division - 1.3 km, The Magnolia - 1.3 km, Boomers El Cajon - 1.5 km

How to get cheap hotels in El Cajon?

 

✅ The length of stay in El Cajon often varies depending on the nature of the trip, but many travellers opt to stay for several days or up to a week to take in El Cajon's notable landmarks and points of interest.

✅  If you're looking for cheap hotels in El Cajon in 2026, book your hotel well in advance. Reserving your stay at least a few weeks or months ahead of time can help you take advantage of amazing rates on cheap hotels in El Cajon, and if your plans change you can find many options of hotels with free cancelation.

✅  To find affordable hotels in El Cajon on Expedia, start by entering your travel dates and the number of individuals in your group. Once you've provided this information, you can refine your search results by filtering for budget hotels in El Cajon.

✅  Use the filtering tools offered by Expedia to refine your search results by location, price limits, amenities such as breakfast included, and other factors that matter to you. This will help you quickly locate the ideal budget-friendly hotel that fits your specific requirements.

✅  If you're looking to save money on a cheap hotel in El Cajon, the ideal time to go is usually during the off-season in El Cajon. On Expedia, you can find hotels from £43*.

✅  El Cajon offers numerous budget-friendly attractions and activities for travellers, such as art and exhibits at free museums and galleries or exploring El Cajon on foot.

✅  One of the best ways to find cheap hotels in El Cajon is to search Expedia for properties that provide family-friendly accommodations and features such as activities and complimentary meals, and then sort these by price.

*Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Top El Cajon Hotel Reviews

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown

10/10 Excellent
"Rooms were clean and spacious. Nearly instant hot water in the shower. :) Definitely use the restaurant/gift shop credit to offset the destination fee. Breakfast and restaurant were great. Evening reception a bit less so food-wise but people enjoyed the free drinks."
Shellie 4-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in El Cajon as a budget traveler?
For budget-conscious travellers seeking comfortable and convenient stays in El Cajon, top choices include the 3-star Courtyard by Marriott San Diego El Cajon, Hampton Inn & Suites El Cajon San Diego, and Super 8 by Wyndham El Cajon/San Diego.

The 3-star Courtyard by Marriott San Diego El Cajon, with an impressive 9.2 rating, offers clean and nice rooms and beds, ensuring a comfortable stay. Guests consistently praise its fantastic service and exceptional staff. Free toiletries and cribs are available, adding to the value.

Hampton Inn & Suites El Cajon San Diego, rated 8.6, provides excellent value with a range of complimentary amenities. Guests rave about the excellent and great breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking. The staff are frequently described as helpful and amazing, and the rooms are noted for being clean and great.

The Super 8 by Wyndham El Cajon/San Diego, with a 7.8 rating, is another solid budget option. It offers free self-parking, free internet, and a complimentary breakfast, including a to-go option, which guests appreciate.
How much does a budget hotel in El Cajon cost?
Budget hotel prices in El Cajon vary, but you can find a great deal from £43 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Which area of El Cajon is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For solo travellers seeking cheap hotels in El Cajon, the areas around Main Street and those closer to Interstate 8 often present the best value. These locations offer accessibility and a higher concentration of budget-friendly lodging options.

Main Street in El Cajon provides a central base with a variety of no-frills hotels and motels. Solo travellers will find it convenient for exploring the local shops and eateries, and it offers straightforward access to public transport for venturing further afield.

Another excellent option for solo travellers looking for affordability is the vicinity of Interstate 8. This area typically hosts numerous chain hotels that frequently offer competitive rates.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in El Cajon?
For families seeking top-rated, affordable accommodation in El Cajon, excellent choices include the Courtyard by Marriott San Diego El Cajon, Clarion Pointe El Cajon San Diego East, and Super 8 by Wyndham El Cajon/San Diego.

The 3-star Courtyard by Marriott San Diego El Cajon, with an impressive 9.2 rating, is highly praised for its nice, clean rooms and beds. Families will appreciate the availability of free cribs and toiletries. Reviewers consistently highlight the fantastic and wonderful service from the exceptional staff.

Another great option is the 3-star Clarion Pointe El Cajon San Diego East. This hotel offers a wealth of family-friendly amenities, including free continental breakfast every day, free cribs, and free self-parking. Free Wi-Fi and wired internet are also available, ensuring everyone stays connected.

The Super 8 by Wyndham El Cajon/San Diego, rated 7.8, is another strong contender for families. Guests frequently comment on the clean and good rooms, as well as the super-friendly staff.
What cheap hotels in El Cajon offer complimentary breakfast?
Several excellent budget-friendly hotels in El Cajon offer complimentary breakfast, ensuring a great start to your day without extra cost.

The Hampton Inn & Suites El Cajon San Diego, with an 8.6 rating, consistently receives excellent reviews for its breakfast. Guests also frequently praise the helpful staff, clean rooms, and the hotel's nice location.

Another good option is the Super 8 by Wyndham El Cajon/San Diego, rated 7.8. This hotel provides a free to-go breakfast, and its rooms are generally found to be clean, with staff often described as super friendly.

The Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego-East/El Cajon, rated 7.6, offers a complimentary continental breakfast. Reviewers often highlight the comfortable and clean rooms at this hotel.

For a 3-star option, the Clarion Pointe El Cajon San Diego East provides a free continental breakfast, available on weekends. It's a reliable choice with guests often commenting on the nice rooms.
When is the most affordable time to visit El Cajon?
The most affordable time to visit El Cajon is generally during the shoulder seasons, specifically late autumn (October to November) and late winter/early spring (February to April). During these periods, the peak tourist crowds of summer have subsided, and the weather remains pleasant without the intense heat of mid-summer.

For solo travellers, this means lower prices on accommodation and potentially better deals on rental cars, allowing for more flexibility to explore the region's attractions. You'll find fewer people at popular spots like Grossmont Centre or the local parks, offering a more relaxed experience. The milder temperatures are also ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking in the nearby mountains or visiting local farmers' markets without the summer rush.

Couples looking for a budget-friendly getaway will appreciate the reduced costs. Many local eateries and shops might offer specials during these quieter months, and there's a good chance of finding more intimate experiences without the crowds.
What are the best cheap hotels in El Cajon with a pool?
When looking for a great value hotel with a pool in El Cajon, the Courtyard by Marriott San Diego El Cajon and the Hampton Inn & Suites El Cajon San Diego are excellent choices.

The 3-star Courtyard by Marriott San Diego El Cajon, with a superb 9.2 rating, offers a wonderful outdoor pool for guests to enjoy. Reviewers consistently praise the nice, clean rooms and beds, as well as the fantastic service and exceptional staff. Free cribs and toiletries add to the value.

Another strong contender is the Hampton Inn & Suites El Cajon San Diego, boasting an 8.6 rating. This hotel features a refreshing outdoor pool and provides excellent value with complimentary breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking. Guests frequently highlight the excellent breakfast, amazing staff, and clean, great rooms.
Are there any cheap El Cajon hotels near Wells Dog Park?
Yes, there are several budget-friendly hotels in El Cajon that are conveniently located near Wells Dog Park, with options offering excellent value and practical amenities.

The Hampton Inn & Suites El Cajon San Diego, with an 8.6 rating, is highly praised by guests. This hotel stands out for its complimentary breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking, offering fantastic value for travellers. Reviewers consistently highlight the excellent breakfast, helpful staff, and clean rooms.

Another solid choice is the Super 8 by Wyndham El Cajon/San Diego, rated 7.8. It provides free self-parking, free internet, and a complimentary breakfast, including a convenient To-Go option. Guests frequently praise the clean rooms, friendly staff, and the good coffee available.

The Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego-East/El Cajon, with a 7.6 rating, also offers great value with free continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking. Reviewers often mention its comfortable and clean rooms and good location.

For those travelling with pets, Motel 6 El Cajon, CA - San Diego, rated 7.2, is a good option as pets stay free. It also provides free WiFi and free self-parking. Guests appreciate the friendly staff, quiet and spacious rooms, and convenient location.
Is El Cajon a budget-friendly destination?
Yes, El Cajon, California, offers a refreshingly budget-friendly experience, particularly when compared to its more famous Californian neighbours. It provides excellent value, especially for families and couples looking to explore Southern California without breaking the bank.

For accommodation, El Cajon boasts numerous affordable hotels and motels, often at lower prices than those found closer to the coast in San Diego. Families can find comfortable and spacious rooms, often with amenities like a swimming pool, making it a great base for exploring the wider region.

The city itself offers several free or low-cost activities. Families can enjoy the many local parks, such as Kennedy Park, which often feature playgrounds and open spaces for children to run around. The Downtown El Cajon area also hosts various community events throughout the year, many of which are free to attend and offer a glimpse into local life. For couples, a stroll through the historic downtown can reveal charming antique shops and local eateries where dining out is considerably more affordable than in larger cities.

Furthermore, El Cajon's location makes it a strategic point for budget-conscious travellers. It's a short drive to San Diego's major attractions, meaning you can enjoy the city's highlights without paying city centre prices for accommodation. Public transport, while not as extensive as in major metropolises, connects El Cajon to parts of San Diego, offering another cost-effective way to travel.
What cheap hotels in El Cajon offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?
For budget-friendly hotels in El Cajon that offer cooking facilities, consider the Clarion Pointe El Cajon San Diego East and the Rodeway Inn El Cajon - San Diego East.

The 3-star Clarion Pointe El Cajon San Diego East provides kitchenettes in its rooms, offering convenience for self-catering. Guests can also enjoy free breakfast daily, including continental options, and complimentary WiFi. Parking is also free, including space for RVs, buses, and trucks.

Another good option is the Rodeway Inn El Cajon - San Diego East, which also features kitchenettes in its rooms, with some even offering full kitchens. This hotel provides free WiFi and free self-parking.
Which cheap hotels in El Cajon have good reviews for customer service?
For affordable hotels in El Cajon with great customer service, travellers often praise Courtyard by Marriott San Diego El Cajon, Hampton Inn & Suites El Cajon San Diego, and Super 8 by Wyndham El Cajon/San Diego.

The 3-star Courtyard by Marriott San Diego El Cajon, with a 9.2 rating, receives fantastic reviews for its wonderful service. Guests frequently mention the exceptional staff. The hotel also provides free toiletries and free cribs, adding extra value for families.

Another excellent choice is Hampton Inn & Suites El Cajon San Diego, rated 8.6. Customers consistently highlight the amazing and helpful staff, especially the friendly front desk. This hotel offers several complimentary amenities, including free breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking.

Super 8 by Wyndham El Cajon/San Diego, with a 7.8 rating, is also noted for its friendly and super friendly staff. Guests appreciate the free self-parking, free internet, and free breakfast, which includes a convenient to-go option.
Are there any cheap hotels in El Cajon that allow for late check-out or early check-in?
Yes, several hotels in El Cajon offer flexibility with early check-in or late check-out, which can be very convenient for travellers.

The 3-star Clarion Pointe El Cajon San Diego East provides free breakfast on weekends, free toiletries, and free continental breakfast, along with free RV, bus, and truck parking. They also offer free WiFi. Guests often describe the rooms as nice.

Another good option is the Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego-East/El Cajon, which has a 7.6 rating. This hotel offers free continental breakfast, including on weekends, and free WiFi. Reviewers frequently mention the comfortable and clean rooms, good location, and good room service.

The Super 8 by Wyndham El Cajon/San Diego, with a 7.8 rating, is also flexible with check-in and check-out times. It provides free self-parking, free internet, free breakfast, and free grab-and-go breakfast options. Guests consistently praise the clean rooms, friendly staff, and great value.

The Travelodge by Wyndham El Cajon offers free internet, free self-parking, and free WiFi. Many guests highlight the great staff in their reviews.
How can I save on a budget hotel in El Cajon with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in El Cajon. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on hotel bookings. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
What free activities should we do in El Cajon?
El Cajon offers a surprising array of free activities, superb for budget-conscious solo travellers looking to explore without spending a penny.

Start your exploration with a visit to the Olaf Wieghorst Museum and Western Heritage Centre, where you can delve into the art and history of the American West. Although there is a suggested donation, entry is technically free, allowing you to appreciate the exhibits at your own pace. For those who enjoy the outdoors, a stroll through the tranquil gardens of the Water Conservation Garden provides a lovely respite, showcasing drought-tolerant landscaping and offering educational insights into sustainable gardening.

Another excellent free option is to wander through the charming historic downtown area. You can admire the architecture, browse the storefronts, and soak in the local atmosphere. Keep an eye out for public art installations and murals that add character to the streets. For a bit of fresh air and exercise, head to one of El Cajon's many public parks, such as Kennedy Park or Hillside Park, where you can enjoy walking trails, open green spaces, and perhaps even catch a local event or performance if you're lucky.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in El Cajon as a package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.
Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in El Cajon for you.

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