First settled by Native Americans, Lake Elsinore still bears signs of this ancient civilization, seen in pictographs carved on rocks through the valleys and hills of the area. Following this settlement, Spanish explorers found the area perfect for raising animals, thanks to the abundance of water from the lake. In the early 20th century, visitors began to flock to the area to relax at the lake, while the natural mineral springs brought spas and resorts to the city. Ranked as the 12th-fastest-growing city in California, the city has exploded in population from 3,000 residents in 1976 to over 50,000 today. Surrounded by rolling hills and mountains and located right on the largest freshwater lake in Southern California, Lake Elsinore is in a class all its own.
Whether you're in Lake Elsinore for business or leisure, you'll find a range of hotels to suit your needs, from luxurious to budget accommodations. Regardless of which you pick, you'll find amenities you want and need to have a relaxing holiday or a fruitful business trip.
What are the best times to visit Lake Elsinore, CA?
Visitors come to Lake Elsinore for the beautiful blue skies, sunshine, and perfect climate nearly year-round. If you're looking to beat the crowds, head to Lake Elsinore between November and February. Temperatures generally range from 75 degrees during the day to only about 45 degrees at night, providing excellent weather to explore the area on foot or enjoy outdoor sports. Demand for hotels drops extensively during this time, so you should be able to find a good deal on the hotel of your choice.
When you want to get out on the lake, head to the city during summer. From June through September, the highs top out in the 90s, yet the temperatures vary widely, dropping as low as the upper 50s at night. This provides some excellent refreshment from the scorching temperatures during the day. However, a trip onto the lake is the best way to beat the heat, and the city can get crowded during this time. Book your hotel early to get a better rate on the room you want.
During fall, the big crowds of tourists finally leave, enabling you to explore and enjoy the lake and downtown with less congestion. Thermal winds pick up during this time, offering unbeatable conditions for aerial sports. Temperatures range from the mid-80s during the day to the low 50s at night, so make sure to pack for both warm and cold weather. Supply for hotels goes up, giving you an opportunity to find a nice deal if you book just a week or a few days before you travel.
Spring is one of the most breathtaking times of the year in Lake Elsinore, as wildflowers such as California poppies bloom, providing a brilliant backdrop of vibrant colors. With temperatures from the 50s to the high 70s, spring is the ideal time to enjoy outdoor sports such as mountain biking, hiking, and more. Hotels can book up if the weather's cooperating, so you may want to look at the weather before you plan your trip or book a hotel room.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Lake Elsinore, CA:
Lake Elsinore by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean rate trends by star rating class in Lake Elsinore, CA. You can use these charts to determine the most cost effective months to stay in Lake Elsinore throughout the year.
What are the luxury hotel options in Lake Elsinore, CA?
4 Star Average Prices: $159.00
When you want a weekend getaway or a vacation with all the extras, head to the luxurious South Coast Winery Resort & Spa. This award-winning winery hotel has some of the most sumptuous amenities in the area, featuring 38 lush acres of rolling vineyards, winery tours, the Grapeseed Spa, the Vineyard Rose Restaurant, and a heated outdoor pool complete with underwater music. If you have a large group or you're planning a business deal or conference, inquire about the 30,000 square feet of meeting space and outdoor venues.
Choose from several room arrangements, including a luxury king suite, a deluxe villa, or a room in the hotel tower. Relax in your room thanks to a pillow-top mattress with soft cotton sheets, enjoy the splendor of a marble bathroom, or entertain yourself with an LCD HD television with cable or free wireless internet access. The choice of how to spend your luxury time is all yours.
What are the budget hotel options in Lake Elsinore, CA?
3 Star Average Prices: $132.19
If you're searching for low-cost accommodations for your next vacation or family outing, check out the Econo Lodge Casino Hotel in Lake Elsinore. With a stay here, you're close to some of the top attractions in town, including Canyon Lake Country Club and Tenaja Falls. Each room comes with great amenities including a refrigerator, flat-screen television, a pillow-top bed, free wireless internet access, complimentary toiletries, and a hair dryer. Guests also have access to a hot tub, outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, a bar and lounge, 24-hour express check-in and check-out, and more. If you're feeling lucky, make sure to hop over to the casino for a game of poker or blackjack or to try your luck with the slot machines.
2 Star Average Prices: $115.69
What are the best hotel discounts in Lake Elsinore, CA?
When you want excellent accommodations at an excellent price, consider a comfortable, inviting stay at the Rodeway Inn & Suites. This hotel offers discounts of up to 10 percent for AAA and AARP members with valid membership cards. It also has in-room features such as complimentary wireless internet access, a work desk, a refrigerator, a microwave, and cable television. Before you head out for the day, make sure to grab a satisfying breakfast at the hotel restaurant or grab a coffee and read the free newspapers in the lobby.
What are the mid-range hotel options in Lake Elsinore, CA?
Looking for all the extras without the a bill that will break the bank? Book a stay at the Red Lion Inn & Suites. Choose from room arrangements such as a king bed or two beds, or upgrade to a suite for a soothing Jacuzzi tub. This hotel is within close proximity to many top-rated destinations such as the March Field Air Museum and the Canyon Lake Country Club. Fuel up in the morning with the complimentary buffet breakfast, or wind down your day at the outdoor pool and hot tub. You'll also enjoy in-room features like free Wi-Fi, cable programming, and a work desk.
What are the top attractions and destinations in Lake Elsinore, CA?
With over 3,300 acres of sparkling blue water, Lake Elsinore is the jewel of this Southern California city. From spring to fall, it's perfect for water sports enthusiasts, offering opportunities for water skiing, wakeboarding, windsurfing, swimming, boating, fishing, or hanging out at the beach. Plenty of companies have boat and water equipment rentals if you don't own the proper gear. If you aren't into water sports, relax on the beach, sunbathe, or have a picnic. No matter what you do, you'll love the picturesque Ortega Mountains draped behind this lovely lake.
If you travel to Lake Elsinore between April and September, don't miss out on your chance to attend a Lake Elsinore Storm game. A Single-A affiliate of the San Diego Padres, the Storm play their games at Lake Elsinore Diamond, which holds nearly 8,000 fans. Nearly all their home games have fan appreciation deals, offering giveaways, fireworks nights, pet nights, or discounts on beer and food. For a truly American experience, there's no better choice.
Up for some shopping? Head to either downtown Lake Elsinore or the Lake Elsinore Outlets. Downtown is a 100-year-old area that has historic shopping options like thrift stores, antique shops, and tasty, trendy restaurants. For some modern threads, trek over to the Lake Elsinore Outlets. Featuring 100 name-brand stores, this outlet mall gives you a chance to get the latest fashions at exorbitant discounts.
When the lake is too crowded and you still want to experience the outdoors, Lake Elsinore has numerous choices. Covering over 460,000 acres, Cleveland National Forest is an avid outdoorsman's playground. It has plenty of trails for you to hike and amazing scenery. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, don't miss the hike to either Ortega Falls or Tenaja Falls. You can also rent a mountain bike and challenge yourself on some of the toughest trails in Southern California.
For ultimate relaxation, visit the Glen Ivy Hot Springs just west of Lake Elsinore. For a nominal fee, you can soak to your heart's content in the warm mineral waters, or you can opt for the total wellness package. With this option, you can hop into the water, get a 50-minute massage, and more. If you have a large group, rent a cabana for phenomenal fun and relaxation.
Whatever your reason for visiting Lake Elsinore, you're sure to find the right accommodation, whether it's a budget-friendly hotel on the outskirts of town or a mid-range option in the heart of the city. Book your room today on Hotelplanner to find the best things to do and the top hotel deals available.
FAQs about hotels in Lake Elsinore
How much does a cheap hotel in Lake Elsinore cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Lake Elsinore can be as cheap as $115.69 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Lake Elsinore cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Lake Elsinore has been $132.19 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a higher-end hotel in Lake Elsinore cost?
In the last year, the average 4 star hotel in Lake Elsinore has been $159.00 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)