
Vacation rentals in El Cajon
Find and book unique accommodations on Airbnb
Top-rated vacation rentals in El Cajon
Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

Private 1 BR Paradise retreat
Private, yet central. It is your exclusive paradise retreat to enjoy from your spacious 1 bedroom guest house located on the lower level of our home. Hang out in the expansive and private backyard with pool, different sitting areas and covered BBQ room. Or maybe a workout in the gym. Centrally located in the Village of La mesa. Just a 1/4 mile jaunt into the quaint village with its numerous assortments of dining options, stores and trolley station. Freeway close to beaches, downtown and airport

Light and bright Studio Hiking & Biking access!
Listing on our 1 Acre family owned petting zoo farm and working horse ranch! Our animals are friendly! We have horses, a mini donkeys, goats, chickens and we sell fresh eggs just ask us! Jamul is popular hiking & mountain biking destination, with access right out our gate. We have two units with private back patios that are shaded & peaceful. Rancho San Diego is a 10 minutes drive with restaurants, coffee, target, grocery etc. 25 minutes to all San Diego attractions. There is hot water/wifi.

Modern mountain guest house. Incredible views
Neighboring San Diego, quaint country living with incredible views minutes from everything, breathtaking sunsets, 20 mins to beach, close by hiking trails, and only 3 minutes hop on the freeway. Full Kitchen, Laundry, and Living area and with beautiful furnishings, a perfect home away from home. Whether traveling for work or play we have had guests stay for a conference in San Diego or just to visit friends and hit the beach a few days, we look forward to you loving our home as much as we do.

Spacious 1 Bdrm Unit: king bed, fireplace, parking
Come relax in this bright & spacious 1 bedroom detached unit with private entrance. This room has a king bed, fireplace, full bathroom, table & chairs, mini fridge/freezer, microwave, closet ,dresser, Tv and beautiful mountain views. La Jolla Beaches, downtown San Diego, the Zoo, and Sea World are 25 minutes away. Santee Lakes is just a short drive away where you can enjoy fishing, paddle boating, splash park, biking and picnic area. Mission Gorge Trails is also located just 5 minutes away.

Mt Helix Studio Loft with Mountain Views
Mountain Views: Freshly renovated, quiet and spacious studio loft in private neighborhood. Close to coffee shops, grocery stores, and quick access to major highways. 500 sqft open concept. Laundry, Fast Internet, Cable TV and streaming services. Additionally, if you like oranges and avocados we grow them on the property (Seasonal of course). We also have a chicken coop and fresh eggs on request. Security Deposit Hold and Signed Short-term Rental Agreement Required as we live on the property.

Stylish Relaxation-Panoramic Views-Private OASIS!
~BRAND NEW DRIVEWAY~Perched high on granite hills, our comfy, stylish bungalow is perfect for a quiet getaway in San Diego. Brew your morning coffee and stroll to the pool to let the expansive views of the city fuel your daily adventures. Host a barbeque in the spacious, private backyard after your day at the beach. Cozy up in the recliner loveseat and enjoy the big screen 4k smart TV (with cable). 420 Friendly! “Enjoy the hillside pool—just coordinate with Johnny for your own private swim.”

Terra Mesa - Charming Retreat
Welcome to TerraMesa! This charming studio boasts a thoughtfully designed space, blending modern comfort with a touch of rustic elegance. With a fully equipped kitchenette, a plush queen bed, and a stylish sitting area, it’s perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway or solo travelers exploring the San Diego area. Sip a cup of coffee or glass of wine in your private little patio. Centrally located in scenic Lakeside, you’ll have easy access to downtown, beaches or our local mountain towns.

Cedar Cottage Retreat with Mountain View’s
Welcome to the Cedar Cottage nestled in the foothills of San Diego county. Where Vintage/Rustic charm meets modern sophistication. The Cottage sleeps 3 in 1 Queen bed and 1 comfortable Twin bed, 1 bathroom. Pet friendly. Just 2 miles from Sycuan resort, casino & golf . Get back to nature at this delightful cabin hideaway in the hills just 3.5 miles from the quaint town of Alpine. This very special private estate has natural beauty when looking out from the cottage in any direction.

Fletcher Hills - modern 1 BR.Easy, no step access.
** 36 hours between check-ins. Thorough cleaning and sanitizing.. Four night minimum stay. Dogs ONLY are welcomed on a case by case basis. They must be house trained and are not permitted on any furniture. If you instant book, you must contact me about your pet within 24 hours. Smoking is permitted in the outside areas - patio, gazebo, yard. Easy freeway access helps any commute to downtown and area attractions. Having your own vehicle is the best way to get around..

Vacation Paradise-Heated Pool+Hot Tub+FirePit+EV
This is the perfect Guest House with a salted & heated pool & hot tub. We are located in a super quiet & very safe neighborhood in beautiful San Diego, 15 minutes drive to Downtown, La Jolla, Beaches, Zoo, Sea World & Convention Center. Hike next door at Mission Trails & Lake Murray. Smart TV, wifi, two zone AC, full kitchen, W/D combo and top quality finishes await you inside. Everything you need for memorable vacation! No smoking or vaping on the property.

La Cabana
Perfect getaway for the wandering individual, couple, or young family. This rustic casita is surrounded by beautiful mountain and ocean views! Enjoy swimming in the pool, stargazing, lounging, or casual day trips around San Diego (All the amenities are shared with the main house) . The casita has one queen bed and a sofa bed, small kitchenette. Plenty of parking in driveway. Please read entire listing for details.

Suite Charles Way: A Cozy Fletcher Hills Studio
This newly remodeled spacious studio retreat features a private courtyard with barbecue, kitchenette, a brand-new California King bed, and a reclining love seat with charging ports. Enjoy a relaxed cabana vibe, a charming neighborhood and treetop views with easy access to all your favorite San Diego destinations. Within minutes from Grossmont Sharp Hospital, Grossmont Center, the trolley and Grossmont College.
Popular amenities for El Cajon places to stay
Other great vacation rentals in El Cajon

Farmstay Gem near San Diego

Shadow House Mt. Helix

Cozy 1BR Home with Lovely Front Yard

Jamul Hacienda | Couples Retreat | Pool & Views!

Sprawling Heaven

Sunset house

Cozy Hillside Retreat with View

Quiet Country Home
Quick stats about vacation rentals in El Cajon
Total rentals
400 properties
Nightly prices starting at
€ 17 before taxes and fees
Total number of reviews
17K reviews
Family-friendly rentals
190 properties are a good fit for families
Pet-friendly rentals
150 properties allow pets
Rentals with a pool
140 properties have a pool
Your guide to El Cajon
All About El Cajon
A pocket of urban activity with El Monte County Park to the east and Cowles Mountain to the west, the city of El Cajon (The Box) is located in a fertile box-shaped valley known for its robust yields of grapes, citrus, and tomatoes. Succulents dot the mountainous landscape, which coexists with the growing city less than a half-hour east of San Diego. A great way to experience the area’s rugged terrain is to hike or bike the popular El Cajon Mountain Trail, whose 11 miles of dips and climbs are blanketed by wildflowers in spring. The city is home to several museums, including a natural history museum and an aerospace museum that showcases reproductions of famous planes such as the 1901 Wright Glider. Take the downtown trolley to explore El Cajon attractions like the local brewery, sprawling golf course, and community theater.
The best time to stay in a vacation rental in El Cajon
The best time to book El Cajon vacation rentals is April through May and October through December, to make the most of mild temperatures and drier weather reminiscent of the Mediterranean. The summer months tend to be marked by searing heat — pack a hat, and bring water for hikes in the sun — while January through March can be wet, so you’ll need a waterproof jacket.
Some big events to watch out for during these times include America on Main Street, held in May, which features rides, food, and arts and crafts. The all-ages Mother Goose Parade, held the Sunday before Thanksgiving, includes floats, marching bands, and giant helium balloons.
Top things to do in El Cajon
San Diego Air & Space Museum & Annex
In the southwestern corner of San Diego’s Balboa Park, you’ll find artifacts of aerospace history, like a replica of the Montgolfier brothers’ hot-air balloon of 1783, the first manned air vehicle, and famous military planes such as the Spitfire, Hellcat, and Skyhawk. The museum also hosts a rich space section, focusing on humanity’s continuing quest for the stars. El Cajon is home to the museum’s Gillespie Field Annex, where you can see historic aircraft being restored to their former glory and precise replicas being crafted.
The Water Conservation Garden
Water conservation is an important topic in Southern California. You can take self-guided or docent-led tours of this five-acre garden to learn about native vegetation and sustainable home gardening practices, including encouraging pollinators and harvesting rainwater. Explore a variety of vegetation across the garden, including succulents and cacti.
Mt. Helix Park
Dotted with California sagebrush and desert mallow, Mt. Helix Park is just 10 minutes south of El Cajon by car. At more than 1,300 feet above sea level, the views of the surrounding area are spectacular, especially at sunrise and sunset. Local events are held at the site’s open-air amphitheater, and the quarter-mile Yawkey Trail features signs listing the mountains and hills you can see from this commanding vantage point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I stay in El Cajon?
Make yourself at home in El Cajon by choosing from our most frequently booked neighborhoods. We have over 280 vacation rentals in Bostonia, over 1,260 vacation rentals in El Cajon, and over 280 vacation rentals in Granite Hills.
Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in El Cajon?
Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 230 vacation rentals in El Cajon featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.
Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in El Cajon?
Four-legged friends are welcome in El Cajon. Choose from more than 150 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.
Are there El Cajon vacation rentals on Airbnb with pools?
Yes! Dive into the perfect getaway at one of over 140 vacation homes with pools in El Cajon, available on Airbnb. Make a splash and soak up the sun in style!
Do apartment rentals in El Cajon have air conditioning?
Absolutely! We offer over 40 apartment rentals with air conditioning in El Cajon. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.
Do house rentals in El Cajon have a gym?
Absolutely! We offer over 20 house rentals with a gym in El Cajon. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.
Do villa rentals in El Cajon have wifi?
Absolutely! We offer over 10 villa rentals with wifi in El Cajon. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.
How much does it cost to stay in private suite rentals in El Cajon?
Experience the best of El Cajon with our private suite rentals, starting at about $70 per day, before taxes and fees. Embrace comfort and style while staying within your budget in your home away from home.
Do house rentals in El Cajon have a bbq area?
Absolutely! We offer over 40 house rentals with a bbq area in El Cajon. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.
Are there family-friendly house rentals in El Cajon?
El Cajon has more than 140 family-friendly house rentals. Amenities on the property may include high chairs, travel cribs, or strollers.
Destinations to explore
- Southern California Vacation rentals
- Los Angeles Vacation rentals
- Stanton Vacation rentals
- Las Vegas Vacation rentals
- San Diego Vacation rentals
- Channel Islands of California Vacation rentals
- La Joya Vacation rentals
- Phoenix Vacation rentals
- Palm Springs Vacation rentals
- Scottsdale Vacation rentals
- San Fernando Valley Vacation rentals
- Las Vegas Strip Vacation rentals
- Pet-friendly rentals El Cajon
- Rentals with outdoor seating El Cajon
- Rentals with a hot tub El Cajon
- House rentals El Cajon
- Rentals with a washer and dryer El Cajon
- Apartment rentals El Cajon
- Rentals with a beach view El Cajon
- Rentals with an EV charger El Cajon
- Smoking-friendly rentals El Cajon
- Fitness-friendly rentals El Cajon
- Guesthouse rentals El Cajon
- Villa rentals El Cajon
- Private suite rentals El Cajon
- Family-friendly rentals El Cajon
- Beach house rentals El Cajon
- Rentals with a patio El Cajon
- Rentals with pools El Cajon
- Rentals with a fireplace El Cajon
- Rentals with a fire pit El Cajon
- Rosarito Beach
- Oceanside City Beach
- Torrey Pines State Beach
- Tijuana Beach
- Pacific Beach
- SeaWorld San Diego
- University of California San Diego
- LEGOLAND California
- Coronado Beach
- San Diego Zoo Safari Park
- Balboa Park
- La Misión Beach
- Pechanga Resort Casino
- Oceanside Harbor
- Coronado Shores Beach
- Belmont Park
- Liberty Station
- Black's Beach
- Moonlight Beach
- Sesame Place San Diego
- Law Street Beach
- Torrey Pines Golf Course
- Mission Beach
- Santa Monica Beach