Descanso is a small unincorporated community in the Cuyamaca Mountains, within the Mountain Empire area of southeastern San Diego County, California. The community's name is a Spanish word meaning "rest from labor". The population was 1,423 at the 2010 census. For statistical purposes, the United States Census Bureau categorizes Descanso as a census-designated place. It is in California's 50th congressional district. Descanso is located east of Alpine and west of Pine Valley.