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Our top choices for San Luis Obispo cheap hotels

La Cuesta Inn, BW Signature Collection

La Cuesta Inn, BW Signature Collection
2.5 star property
San Luis Obispo
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,044 reviews)
"We had a mountain view-very nice"
United States
TRACY
The price is £98
includes taxes & fees
30 Mar - 31 Mar
La Cuesta Inn, BW Signature Collection

Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo

Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo
3.0 star property
San Luis Obispo
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,373 reviews)
"Clean room, friendly staff, festive holiday decorations in lobby, quiet room, nice breakfast."
United States
Yong-Le
The price is £132
includes taxes & fees
29 Mar - 30 Mar
Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo

University Inn

University Inn
2.0 star property
San Luis Obispo
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1,001 reviews)
"Loved the room, i need an accessible room and this room met all my expectations. Would definitely come back everytime i travel to SLO! "
United States
Sandra
University Inn

Vagabond Inn San Luis Obispo

Vagabond Inn San Luis Obispo
2.0 star property
San Luis Obispo
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,271 reviews)
"Clean, nice staff."
United States
Veronica
The price is £68
includes taxes & fees
23 Mar - 24 Mar
Vagabond Inn San Luis Obispo

Peach Tree Inn

Peach Tree Inn
2.0 star property
San Luis Obispo
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"Nice place to stay"
United States
James
The price is £95
includes taxes & fees
22 Mar - 23 Mar
Peach Tree Inn

Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo

Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo
2.5 star property
Lower Higuera
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,196 reviews)
"Close to downtown and the staff was excellent. "
United States
Joseph
The price is £57
includes taxes & fees
23 Mar - 24 Mar
Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo

Motel 6 San Luis Obispo, CA - South

Motel 6 San Luis Obispo, CA - South
2.0 star property
San Luis Obispo
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,067 reviews)
"Clean and good place to stay for the price "
United States
Maria
The price is £69
includes taxes & fees
6 Apr - 7 Apr
Motel 6 San Luis Obispo, CA - South

San Luis Inn And Suites

San Luis Inn And Suites
2.0 star property
Foothill
7.2 out of 10, Good, (341 reviews)
"Place is old. Very clean room. "
United States
Jose
The price is £70
includes taxes & fees
22 Mar - 23 Mar
San Luis Inn And Suites

Inn at San Luis Obispo

Inn at San Luis Obispo
2.5 star property
San Luis Obispo
7.6 out of 10, Good, (1,000 reviews)
"Very comfortable, no frills hotel. Great for one night. Walking distance to a lot of great restaurants! We love staying here."
United States
Stephanie
The price is £49
includes taxes & fees
16 Apr - 17 Apr
Inn at San Luis Obispo

Best Western Plus Royal Oak Hotel

Best Western Plus Royal Oak Hotel
2.5 star property
San Luis Obispo
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"Best part was the hot tub and pool."
United States
Joanna
The price is £107
includes taxes & fees
29 Mar - 30 Mar
Best Western Plus Royal Oak Hotel
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.

Find out more about San Luis Obispo

Discover cheap things to do in San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, or SLO as the locals fondly call it, is a paradise of budget-friendly experiences perfect for travellers seeking value without compromising on enjoyment. Start your adventure at the iconic Bubblegum Alley, where the walls are coated in chewed gum—it's a quirky, free stop that promises a unique photo opportunity. Next, explore the beautiful San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market held every Thursday evening, where you can sample local produce and delicious street food at wallet-friendly prices. A short hike up Bishop Peak offers stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills, all at no cost, making it a favourite for outdoor enthusiasts. History buffs will appreciate the picturesque Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, where entrance is usually free, allowing you to step back in time without spending a dime. For a fun, affordable outing, don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby beaches like Avila Beach, where you can relax, swim, or even picnic—all for the price of a snack. When it comes to accommodation, consider staying near the downtown area, where you’ll find several cheap hotels offering comfort and convenience. This central location allows easy access to the vibrant atmosphere of the city, with its charming shops and eateries just a short stroll away, ensuring your family can enjoy the best of SLO without breaking the bank.

Find the best cheap hotels in San Luis Obispo

For budget-conscious travelers visiting San Luis Obispo, these hotels offer excellent value without compromising on comfort or amenities. Each hotel is designed to ensure a pleasant stay while keeping costs low.

Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo is an ideal choice for budget travelers seeking comfort and value, an impressive guest review rating of 9.4. This hotel features free daily breakfast and Wi-Fi, along with free parking options, making it convenient for those on the go. Guests can also enjoy the outdoor pool and hot tub, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploring the area.
  • Other amenities: Beyond the essentials, this hotel offers a terrace for unwinding in the fresh air and a garden area for a peaceful retreat. The suites include kitchen facilities, a refrigerator, and a coffee/tea maker to help guests feel at home. Additional features such as a snack bar and premium bedding ensure a comfortable stay. Guests can also take advantage of the fitness facilities, while the nearby wineries add a delightful touch to their stay.
  • Nearby attractions: Fremont Theater - 0.9 km, San Luis Obispo Superior Court - 1 km, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo - 1.1 km

San Luis Creek Lodge

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: San Luis Creek Lodge is a wonderful choice for budget-savvy travelers, receiving a stellar review rating of 9.4. Guests can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi, making their stay both enjoyable and economical. The lodge's charming atmosphere and nearby local attractions enhance the overall experience.
  • Other amenities: The lodge features a mix of comfort and convenience with amenities such as air conditioning, a fireplace, and Egyptian cotton sheets for a touch of luxury. Guests can take advantage of the nearby wineries, ensuring a delightful exploration of the region's offerings. The hotel also includes parking options and fitness facilities nearby, catering to those who want to stay active during their visit. Additionally, the lodge offers housekeeping services to maintain a tidy and welcoming environment.
  • Nearby attractions: Fremont Theater - 1.3 km, San Luis Obispo Superior Court - 1.4 km, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo - 0.9 km

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown offers budget-friendly accommodations with a superb review rating of 9.0. Guests appreciate the complimentary breakfast available daily and the free Wi-Fi, which are perfect for travellers looking to save on expenses. With an outdoor pool and hot tub, it provides excellent options for relaxation.
  • Other amenities: In addition to the inviting pool area, the hotel features a fitness centre available 24 hours, offering convenience for active guests. Self-parking options are available, making access easy for those traveling by car. The hotel is pet-friendly, welcoming furry companions, and guests can enjoy comfortable rooms equipped with microwaves and air conditioning. The hotel is also accessible for those with mobility needs, adding to its appeal for various travellers.
  • Nearby attractions: Fremont Theater - 1.2 km, San Luis Obispo Superior Court - 1.3 km, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo - 1 km

La Cuesta Inn, BW Signature Collection

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: La Cuesta Inn, BW Signature Collection is an excellent choice for budget travelers, earning an excellent review rating of 8.8. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfasts on weekends and throughout the week, alongside free Wi-Fi, which enhances their stay without stretching the budget. The inn also features a pool and hot tub, providing great leisure opportunities.
  • Other amenities: In addition to its inviting pool area, the inn includes parking options for RVs, ensuring convenience for all types of travellers. Each room is equipped with premium bedding and air conditioning, enhancing comfort during the stay. The hotel is situated near local wineries, offering guests a chance to explore the region’s renowned offerings. Additional features like housekeeping services, a balcony or patio, and nearby hiking and biking trails provide guests with numerous options to enjoy their time in San Luis Obispo.
  • Nearby attractions: Fremont Theater - 1.5 km, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo - 0.9 km, Performing Arts Center - 1.5 km

How to get cheap hotels in San Luis Obispo?

 

✅ The length of stay in San Luis Obispo 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 San Luis Obispo's notable landmarks and points of interest.

✅  If you're looking for cheap hotels in San Luis Obispo 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 San Luis Obispo, and if your plans change you can find many options of hotels with free cancelation.

✅  To find affordable hotels in San Luis Obispo 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 San Luis Obispo.

✅  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 San Luis Obispo, the ideal time to go is usually during the off-season in San Luis Obispo. On Expedia, you can find hotels from £49*.

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

✅  One of the best ways to find cheap hotels in San Luis Obispo 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 San Luis Obispo Hotel Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in San Luis Obispo as a budget traveler?
For budget-conscious travellers visiting San Luis Obispo, excellent options include Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo, San Luis Creek Lodge, and La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown.

The 3-star Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo, with a superb 9.4 rating, offers spacious and clean rooms, as noted by many guests. Its complimentary buffet breakfast and free parking provide great value. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff, as well as its convenient location.

Another highly-rated choice is the 3-star San Luis Creek Lodge, also boasting a 9.4 rating. Guests frequently comment on its beautiful and clean rooms, along with the friendly and great staff. The free continental breakfast and complimentary WiFi add to its appeal.

The 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown, rated 9.0, is celebrated for its spacious and clean rooms with comfortable beds.
How much does a budget hotel in San Luis Obispo cost?
Budget hotel prices in San Luis Obispo vary, but you can find a great deal from £49 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 San Luis Obispo is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For budget-conscious solo travellers visiting San Luis Obispo, staying near the downtown core or along Monterey Street offers the best opportunities for cheap hotels. These areas provide excellent value, combining affordability with convenient access to the city's main attractions and public transport.

Downtown San Luis Obispo features a selection of motels and smaller hotels that often have more competitive pricing than those further afield. From here, solo travellers can easily walk to attractions like Bubblegum Alley, Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, and the various shops and eateries. The proximity to the city's main bus terminal also makes exploring further afield without a car very straightforward.

Alternatively, the hotels and motels lining Monterey Street, particularly those closer to the historic centre, often present good deals. This area maintains a pleasant atmosphere and provides direct access to Highway 101, which is handy for day trips but also well-served by local buses.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in San Luis Obispo?
For families seeking top-rated and affordable hotels in San Luis Obispo, excellent choices include TownePlace Suites San Luis Obispo, Hampton Inn & Suites San Luis Obispo, and Courtyard by Marriott San Luis Obispo.

The 3-star TownePlace Suites San Luis Obispo, with a superb 9.0 rating, is highly praised for its comfortable and clean rooms, along with an amazing free breakfast. Families will appreciate the free WiFi, free self-parking, and complimentary cribs, making for a convenient stay.

Hampton Inn & Suites San Luis Obispo, rated 8.8, offers clean and quiet rooms with comfy beds. Guests consistently highlight the great free breakfast, which includes continental and buffet options, and the friendly and helpful staff. Free self-parking and free WiFi add to its appeal for families.

Another solid option is the 3-star Courtyard by Marriott San Luis Obispo, which holds an 8.6 rating. This hotel is known for its nice, clean rooms and excellent customer service from friendly staff. Families can take advantage of free toiletries, free cribs, and free WiFi, with mountain biking and winery tours available nearby.

Other good options include Sands Inn & Suites (rated 8.0) which offers comfortable, clean rooms, a delicious free breakfast, and free parking.
What cheap hotels in San Luis Obispo offer complimentary breakfast?
Several excellent and affordable hotels in San Luis Obispo offer complimentary breakfast, including Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo, San Luis Creek Lodge, and La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown.

The 3-star Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo, boasting an impressive 9.4 rating, provides a free buffet breakfast that guests frequently describe as great. Reviewers often highlight the spacious and clean rooms, as well as the friendly and helpful staff. Free self-parking and complimentary WiFi are also valuable additions.

Another fantastic option is the 3-star San Luis Creek Lodge, also rated 9.4. This hotel offers a free continental breakfast. Guests consistently praise the beautiful and clean rooms, along with the friendly staff. Free WiFi is also available.

The 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown, with a 9.0 rating, provides a complimentary buffet breakfast that guests often praise as great. The rooms are noted for being spacious and clean, and the staff is frequently described as friendly and great.
When is the most affordable time to visit San Luis Obispo?
The most affordable time to visit San Luis Obispo is typically during the off-peak seasons, specifically late autumn (November) and winter (December to February), excluding holiday periods like Christmas and New Year's. During these months, the demand for accommodation and flights tends to decrease, leading to lower prices.

For solo travellers, visiting in these quieter months means you can often find better deals on guesthouses and smaller hotels, and there are fewer crowds at popular attractions. While the weather might be cooler and there's a higher chance of rain, San Luis Obispo still offers plenty of charm, with many indoor activities and cosy cafes to explore. You might also find cheaper rates on car rentals, which are often essential for exploring the wider region.

Couples looking for a romantic getaway on a budget will appreciate the reduced prices on boutique stays and dining experiences during the off-season. Many local vineyards and restaurants offer special promotions or less expensive tasting menus without the summer rush.
What are the best cheap hotels in San Luis Obispo with a pool?
For budget-friendly hotels in San Luis Obispo that offer a refreshing pool, consider the Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown, and La Cuesta Inn, BW Signature Collection.

The 3-star Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo, with an impressive 9.4 rating, provides an outdoor pool for guests to enjoy. Travellers frequently mention the spacious and clean rooms, along with the friendly and helpful staff. A great value addition is the complimentary buffet breakfast, and free parking is also available.

Another excellent choice is the 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown, rated 9.0. This hotel features a pool and offers a free breakfast, including on weekends. Guests consistently highlight the spacious and clean rooms, as well as the great and friendly staff.

La Cuesta Inn, BW Signature Collection, with an 8.8 rating, also offers a pool, which guests describe as clean and great. This hotel provides a complimentary continental breakfast and free self-parking.
Are there any cheap San Luis Obispo hotels near Downtown SLO Farmers' Market?
Yes, there are several excellent and affordable hotels in San Luis Obispo located conveniently close to Downtown SLO Farmers' Market, including San Luis Creek Lodge, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown, and Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo.

The 3-star San Luis Creek Lodge, with an impressive 9.4 rating, offers complimentary continental and full breakfasts, ensuring a great start to your day of exploring. Guests frequently highlight the beautiful and clean rooms, along with the friendly and helpful staff.

Another fantastic option is the 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown, boasting a 9.0 rating. This hotel provides free WiFi and a complimentary buffet breakfast, available on weekends too. Reviewers often praise the spacious and clean rooms, friendly staff, and the convenient location. Free cribs are also available for those travelling with little ones.

Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo, rated 9.0, is another great choice. It provides free WiFi, complimentary toiletries, and free self-parking, including accessible and van parking, and even an electric car charging station.
Is San Luis Obispo a budget-friendly destination?
While San Luis Obispo is generally considered more expensive than some other US destinations, travellers can absolutely experience its charm on a budget with some smart planning.

For accommodation, consider hotels or guesthouses a little further from the immediate downtown area, or explore options in neighbouring towns like Morro Bay or Pismo Beach, which are a short drive away and often offer better value. Solo travellers might find hostels or budget motels along the main thoroughfares.

Couples can enjoy many free activities, such as exploring the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, strolling through the vibrant downtown streets, or hiking on one of the numerous trails in the surrounding hills, offering stunning views of the city and coastline. Pack your own picnics from local grocery stores to enjoy in one of the many parks, like Laguna Lake Park, to save on dining costs.

For transport, walking and cycling are excellent ways to get around the compact city centre, and the local bus system provides affordable connections to wider areas. Dining at local delis, cafes, and farmer's markets (especially the famous Thursday night Farmer's Market) can provide delicious and inexpensive meal options.
What cheap hotels in San Luis Obispo offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?
For budget-friendly hotels in San Luis Obispo with cooking facilities, Sands Inn & Suites is a great option.

Sands Inn & Suites, a 3-star hotel with an 8.0 rating, offers convenient kitchenettes in its rooms, great for preparing your own meals and saving on dining costs. Guests frequently describe the rooms as comfortable and clean. The hotel also provides a free continental breakfast, which many reviewers praise as delicious, and complimentary WiFi. Additionally, there's free parking available, including space for RVs, buses, and trucks.
Which cheap hotels in San Luis Obispo have good reviews for customer service?
For affordable hotels in San Luis Obispo with great customer service, travellers often praise Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo, San Luis Creek Lodge, and La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown.

The 3-star Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo, with a 9.4 rating, consistently receives excellent reviews for its exceptional service and friendly, helpful staff. Guests particularly appreciate the complimentary breakfast buffet and free parking options.

Another excellent choice is the 3-star San Luis Creek Lodge, also rated 9.4, where the staff are frequently described as friendly and great. This hotel offers a free continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi, adding to its value.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown, a 3-star hotel with a 9.0 rating, is known for its great staff and service, including particularly good breakfast service. Guests can enjoy free breakfast and free Wi-Fi.

Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo, rated 9.0, also stands out for its great customer service, with friendly front desk staff. It offers free Wi-Fi and free self-parking, with accessible van parking and an electric car charging station available.

Finally, La Cuesta Inn, BW Signature Collection, with an 8.8 rating, is highly regarded for its excellent customer service, with friendly and helpful front desk staff.
Are there any cheap hotels in San Luis Obispo that allow for late check-out or early check-in?
Yes, a number of budget-friendly hotels in San Luis Obispo offer flexibility for early check-in or late check-out, though specific policies may vary.

The Vagabond Inn San Luis Obispo, with an 8.4 rating, offers early check-in. Guests frequently praise its excellent and clean rooms, great location, and excellent customer service. Free WiFi and complimentary parking are also available, including for RVs, buses, and trucks.

Budget Inn is another option that allows for both early check-in and late check-out. Reviewers often highlight the friendly staff. This hotel provides free WiFi and complimentary self-parking.

The Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo, rated 9.0, offers late check-out. Guests consistently mention the comfortable and clean rooms, friendly staff, and great location. They also appreciate the plentiful and easily accessible parking, as well as the electric car charging station. Free WiFi and complimentary toiletries are also provided.

San Luis Inn And Suites, with a 7.0 rating, also accommodates both early check-in and late check-out. Reviewers often comment on the clean and big rooms, friendly staff, and clean pool. Free WiFi and complimentary self-parking are available.

Finally, Los Padres Inn, rated 7.2, offers early check-in and late check-out. Guests frequently describe the rooms as nice and clean, and the staff as nice and great. Free WiFi and complimentary self-parking are among the amenities.
How can I save on a budget hotel in San Luis Obispo with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in San Luis Obispo. 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 San Luis Obispo?
San Luis Obispo offers a wealth of free activities, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers looking to experience the area without spending a fortune.

For families, exploring the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa is a must. This beautifully preserved mission, established in 1772, offers a glimpse into California's past, with its tranquil gardens and serene chapel, all free to enter. Just a short stroll away, Bubblegum Alley provides a quirky and colourful photo opportunity that children often find amusing. Afterwards, a visit to the San Luis Obispo Children's Museum is inexpensive, but you can always enjoy the adjacent Mission Plaza, which frequently hosts free community events and offers lovely spaces for picnics.

Solo travellers and couples will appreciate the numerous hiking and cycling trails surrounding the city. The Lemon Grove Loop Trail, for instance, offers scenic views and a refreshing outdoor experience without any cost. Another wonderful free activity is a leisurely walk or cycle along the Bob Jones Trail, often called the "City to the Sea" trail, which winds its way through picturesque landscapes all the way to Avila Beach. Along the way, you can enjoy views of vineyards and the calming sounds of nature.

Finally, don't miss the lively San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market, held every Thursday evening downtown.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in San Luis Obispo 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 San Luis Obispo for you.

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