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Our top choices for Rancho Santa Margarita hotels

1. Ayres Suites Mission Viejo – Lake Forest

Ayres Suites Mission Viejo – Lake Forest
3.0 star property
Mission Viejo
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,435 reviews)
"Great stay!"
United States
Heather
The price is AU$144
includes taxes & fees
9 Dec - 10 Dec
Ayres Suites Mission Viejo – Lake Forest

2. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lake Forest by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lake Forest by IHG
2.5 star property
Lake Forest
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (766 reviews)
"Room looked clean and breakfast was a plus."
United States
Paul
The price is AU$164
includes taxes & fees
13 Dec - 14 Dec
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lake Forest by IHG

3. Staybridge Suites Lake Forest by IHG

Staybridge Suites Lake Forest by IHG
3.0 star property
Foothill Ranch
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,000 reviews)
"Great hotel"
United States
Byung Li
The price is AU$204
includes taxes & fees
22 Nov - 23 Nov
Staybridge Suites Lake Forest by IHG

4. Comfort Inn & Suites Irvine Spectrum

Comfort Inn & Suites Irvine Spectrum
3.5 star property
Lake Forest
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,777 reviews)
"Enjoyed my stay"
United States
Jim
The price is AU$149
includes taxes & fees
6 Dec - 7 Dec
Comfort Inn & Suites Irvine Spectrum

5. Hampton Inn by Hilton Irvine Spectrum/Lake Forest

Hampton Inn by Hilton Irvine Spectrum/Lake Forest
3.0 star property
Lake Forest
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"Enjoyed the stay! Rooms were super clean! And breakfast was good!"
United States
Blanca Andrea
The price is AU$189
includes taxes & fees
16 Nov - 17 Nov
Hampton Inn by Hilton Irvine Spectrum/Lake Forest

6. Laguna Hills Lodge

Laguna Hills Lodge
2.5 star property
Laguna Hills
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (3,892 reviews)
"Best place to stay"
United States
Joseph
The price is AU$148
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
Laguna Hills Lodge

7. Hilton Garden Inn Irvine Spectrum Lake Forest

Hilton Garden Inn Irvine Spectrum Lake Forest
3.5 star property
Lake Forest
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,225 reviews)
"Great stay"
United States
Mattie
The price is AU$190
includes taxes & fees
22 Nov - 23 Nov
Hilton Garden Inn Irvine Spectrum Lake Forest

8. Best Western Plus Irvine Spectrum Hotel

Best Western Plus Irvine Spectrum Hotel
2.5 star property
Lake Forest
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,089 reviews)
"Breakfast was great. Staff was pleasant."
United States
Denise
The price is AU$164
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
Best Western Plus Irvine Spectrum Hotel

9. Homewood Suites by Hilton Irvine Spectrum Lake Forest

Homewood Suites by Hilton Irvine Spectrum Lake Forest
3.0 star property
Lake Forest
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Clean rooms and excellent breakfast."
Sweden
Ulrika
The price is AU$204
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
Homewood Suites by Hilton Irvine Spectrum Lake Forest

10. voco Laguna Hills by IHG

voco Laguna Hills by IHG
3.0 star property
Laguna Hills
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1,000 reviews)
"Loved the stay!"
United States
Jordan
The price is AU$176
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
voco Laguna Hills by IHG

11. Ayres Hotel & Spa Mission Viejo – Lake Forest

Ayres Hotel & Spa Mission Viejo – Lake Forest
3.5 star property
Mission Viejo
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,328 reviews)
"It was great stay"
United States
Shingo
The price is AU$163
includes taxes & fees
2 Dec - 3 Dec
Ayres Hotel & Spa Mission Viejo – Lake Forest

12. Sonesta Simply Suites East Irvine Spectrum

Sonesta Simply Suites East Irvine Spectrum
2.0 star property
Irvine Industrial Complex-East
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,003 reviews)
"This hotel was a great in every aspect definitely recommend if you’re planning a trip around this area"
United States
Hillary
The price is AU$167
includes taxes & fees
18 Nov - 19 Nov
Sonesta Simply Suites East Irvine Spectrum

13. Sonesta Select Laguna Hills Irvine Spectrum

Sonesta Select Laguna Hills Irvine Spectrum
3.0 star property
North Laguna Hills
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (2,044 reviews)
"Fantastic stay"
United States
james
The price is AU$135
includes taxes & fees
6 Dec - 7 Dec
Sonesta Select Laguna Hills Irvine Spectrum

14. DoubleTree by Hilton Irvine - Spectrum

DoubleTree by Hilton Irvine - Spectrum
4.0 star property
Irvine Spectrum
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
"Great stay, clean nice staff and nice amenities"
United States
Laura
The price is AU$207
includes taxes & fees
23 Nov - 24 Nov
DoubleTree by Hilton Irvine - Spectrum

15. Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo

Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo
2.5 star property
Mission Viejo
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Great place to stay!"
United States
Neil
The price is AU$186
includes taxes & fees
13 Dec - 14 Dec
Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo

16. Laguna Inn & Suites

Laguna Inn & Suites
2.0 star property
San Juan Capistrano
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (672 reviews)
"Great place to stay!"
United States
Baris
The price is AU$99
includes taxes & fees
18 Nov - 19 Nov
Laguna Inn & Suites

17. Courtyard Irvine Spectrum

Courtyard Irvine Spectrum
3.0 star property
Irvine Spectrum
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,002 reviews)
"Great Staff !!!!"
United States
jeffery
The price is AU$296
includes taxes & fees
22 Nov - 23 Nov
Courtyard Irvine Spectrum

18. Hampton Inn & Suites Corona, Ca

Hampton Inn & Suites Corona, Ca
2.5 star property
Corona
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (488 reviews)
"Perfect place to stay. Everything was clean, the young gentleman in the front desk was super nice and helpful, breakfast was a nice extra too"
United States
Iris
The price is AU$157
includes taxes & fees
24 Nov - 25 Nov
Hampton Inn & Suites Corona, Ca

19. Homewood Suites by Hilton Aliso Viejo - Laguna Beach

Homewood Suites by Hilton Aliso Viejo - Laguna Beach
3.0 star property
Aliso Viejo
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"Very clean and well maintained hotel. The staff are very kind and friendly. The hotel also offers hot breakfast, which is great! Very enjoy the stay, will come to visit again!"
Canada
Lin
The price is AU$223
includes taxes & fees
20 Nov - 21 Nov
Homewood Suites by Hilton Aliso Viejo - Laguna Beach

20. Best Western Corona Hotel & Suites

Best Western Corona Hotel & Suites
3.5 star property
Corona
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,441 reviews)
"Great stay!"
United States
Alicia
The price is AU$127
includes taxes & fees
13 Dec - 14 Dec
Best Western Corona Hotel & Suites
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.

Hotels recommended for families in Rancho Santa Margarita

Stay near popular Rancho Santa Margarita attractions

Learn more about Rancho Santa Margarita

Nestled against the Santa Ana Mountains, this planned community offers serene hiking trails around O'Neill Regional Park and Trabuco Canyon. Families gather at the lakeside beach club while mountain bikers tackle the Patriot Trail for spectacular views of Saddleback Mountain.

A residential area with a large body of water, surrounded by houses and palm trees, with mountains in the background.

Top Rancho Santa Margarita Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Rancho Santa Margarita

Top reasons to visit Rancho Santa Margarita

  • Family-Friendly Activities: Rancho Santa Margarita is perfect for families, offering various attractions and outdoor adventures.
  • Picturesque Rancho Santa Margarita Lake: Enjoy a relaxing day outdoors at this scenic lake, ideal for picnics and leisure activities.
  • Shopping and Dining: Explore nearby Foothill Ranch for a vibrant shopping and dining experience.
  • Charming Atmosphere: The friendly locals and inviting vibe make it a delightful destination for all visitors.
  • Diverse Accommodation Options: Choose from luxurious resorts to family-friendly hotels for a comfortable stay.

Find great hotels near Rancho Santa Margarita

Discover a variety of accommodation options in Rancho Santa Margarita, California, catering to all types of travellers. From luxurious resorts to family-friendly hotels, this picturesque area offers the perfect base for a beach, family, or adventure holiday. Whether you’re searching for the best hotels or convenient lodging near Rancho Santa Margarita, you’ll find a range of choices that ensure a memorable stay in this charming Californian destination.

  • Laguna Hills Lodge: Nestled 8.0km from Rancho Santa Margarita, Laguna Hills Lodge offers a serene retreat ideal for business travellers. With a classic lodge theme, the property is equipped with essential business amenities, including an accessible business centre and meeting rooms, making it an optimal choice for those on work trips. The tranquil setting complements the professional atmosphere, ensuring that guests can focus on their tasks while enjoying comfortable accommodations.
  • La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Irvine Spectrum: Located 16.1km from Rancho Santa Margarita, La Quinta Inn & Suites is a vibrant, inclusive hotel that welcomes LGBTQIA travellers, ensuring everyone feels at home. This pet-friendly accommodation features accessible business facilities such as a business centre and meeting rooms, perfect for corporate guests. The hotel’s commitment to inclusivity and comfort, along with its pet policy, makes it a versatile choice for those travelling with furry companions.
  • Extended Stay America Suites Orange County Irvine Spectrum: Situated 12.9km from Rancho Santa Margarita, Extended Stay America offers a practical and welcoming environment for both business travellers and pet owners. With a focus on extended stays, the hotel provides a range of amenities tailored for long-term comfort, including a business centre and flexible pet policies. Guests appreciate the ability to bring their pets along while enjoying a conducive space for work and relaxation.

Where to stay in and around Rancho Santa Margarita

Rancho Santa Margarita offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and stunning outdoor scenery, making it perfect for a diverse vacation experience. Explore the picturesque Rancho Santa Margarita Lake for a relaxing day outdoors, or venture into nearby Foothill Ranch for shopping and dining. With its charming atmosphere and friendly locals, you'll find a welcoming vibe that's ideal for families, romantic getaways, or simply enjoying the beauty of Southern California.

  • Laguna Beach: Just 16.1km from Rancho Santa Margarita, Laguna Beach is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning beaches and artsy vibe. The travel experience here is a mix of relaxation and adventure, with peak visitor numbers in April and the summer months from June to July. Families flock to enjoy the outdoor activities available, from splashing in the waves to exploring the shopping centres and boardwalks. Notable landmarks include the picturesque beaches and a bustling tourist precinct, making it an ideal spot for sun-seekers and art enthusiasts alike.
  • Las Flores: Nestled within Rancho Santa Margarita, Las Flores is a charming village that captures the essence of community. With visitors year-round, peaking in April, September, and December, it’s a fantastic place for families seeking both outdoor fun and urban experiences. Explore local shopping centres and enjoy a round of golf amidst beautiful scenery. The nearby beaches and family-friendly attractions provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration, ensuring a delightful stay for all.
  • Wagon Wheel: Located just 1.6km away from Rancho Santa Margarita, Wagon Wheel is a quaint neighbourhood that offers a blend of outdoor and family-friendly activities. With visitor numbers peaking in the summer and autumn, it’s an excellent spot for sports enthusiasts, particularly golf lovers. The area boasts a golf course and easy access to local attractions such as a marina and a theme park. Whether you're hitting the greens or enjoying a day out with the family, Wagon Wheel promises a rewarding travel experience.

Things to do near Rancho Santa Margarita

Rancho Santa Margarita offers a fantastic mix of family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures, making it perfect for a city-themed getaway. Visitors can enjoy shopping at local centres and malls, or indulge in a round of golf at picturesque courses. With its inviting atmosphere and various attractions, this charming Californian destination caters to all interests, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

Shopping

In Rancho Santa Margarita, explore the Foothill Ranch Towne Centre, just 11.3km away, offering a vibrant mix of shops and eateries. If you're up for a drive, the Irvine Spectrum Center, 12.9km away, boasts a lively atmosphere with entertainment options. Fashion Island is 22.5km away for a more upscale experience.

Recreation

Experience a round of golf at Coto de Caza Golf and Racquet Club, where you can enjoy the outdoor sports atmosphere. For entertainment, catch a live show at The Coach House, which offers a vibrant music scene. Additionally, Monarch Beach Golf Links provides another fantastic golfing opportunity amidst beautiful surroundings.

Adventure

Enjoy a game at Felipe Tennis Center, located 3.2km from Rancho Santa Margarita, where the vibrant atmosphere fuels your competitive spirit. For a thrilling water experience, head to Laguna Beach for paddle boarding, 16.1km away, surrounded by stunning coastal scenery and outdoor adventure vibes.

Venture along the Holy Jim Trailhead, situated 14.5km from Rancho Santa Margarita, where you’ll be immersed in nature with breathtaking views and a true sense of adventure. This trail is perfect for hiking enthusiasts looking to explore the beautiful landscapes of California.

Nightlife

Experience a vibrant nightlife in Rancho Santa Margarita! Catch a film at Regal Edwards Kaleidoscope, just 4.8km away, or enjoy live performances at Soka Performing Arts Center, 11.3km away. For thrill-seekers, the Giant Wheel at Irvine Spectrum Center, 12.9km away, offers spectacular views and fun rides.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rancho Santa Margarita

To save money on your trip to Rancho Santa Margarita, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January to February or November, and aim for a Monday stay, as Saturday is the priciest. Use Expedia's search tool to filter results by budget and hotel type, including eco-friendly options. You can also save by booking a package deal that combines flights, hotels, and activities. For public transport, utilise local buses for affordable travel. Additionally, explore free activities like local parks and hiking trails to make the most of your vacation without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Rancho Santa Margarita are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Rancho Santa Margarita is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Rancho Santa Margarita is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and much more. You can sort the results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels right off the bat. Additionally, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel type—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll be shown sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodation options available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay in Rancho Santa Margarita with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Rancho Santa Margarita

Rancho Santa Margarita offers a fantastic vacation spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts, featuring attractions like beautiful beaches, urban parks, and charming churches. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying the city's vibrant atmosphere and scenic landscapes. For a memorable stay, consider accommodation options within Rancho Santa Margarita to fully explore its delightful points of interest and make the most of your Californian adventure.

  • Dana Point Harbor: Experience the stunning coastal scenery and vibrant beach vibes at Dana Point Harbor. With its picturesque views, it's perfect for leisurely strolls, dining by the water, or engaging in water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.
  • Orange County Great Park: This expansive urban park offers a fantastic family-friendly atmosphere with various outdoor activities. Enjoy sports fields, walking trails, and the iconic Great Park Balloon, which provides breathtaking aerial views of the area.
  • Doheny State Beach: Renowned for its beautiful sandy shores, Doheny State Beach is a haven for beach lovers. Relax, swim, or enjoy beach volleyball while soaking up the sun at this tranquil coastal escape.

Best time to go to Rancho Santa Margarita

The best time to visit Rancho Santa Margarita is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). December and February are its coolest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny.

Calendar MonthTemperaturePrecipitationCloudinessOccupancyPricing
January56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
February56.5°F (13.6°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
March57.9°F (14.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
April61.0°F (16.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
May63.1°F (17.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June67.6°F (19.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July72.1°F (22.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August73.8°F (23.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
September73.0°F (22.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October68.5°F (20.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
November62.4°F (16.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December56.5°F (13.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Rancho Santa Margarita

When visiting Rancho Santa Margarita, California, you have a few major airports to choose from. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is 82.1km away, with nearby hotels such as The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey, and Fairmont Miramar Hotel, both accessible from the airport. John Wayne Airport (SNA) is much closer at 24.1km, offering accommodations like The Resort at Pelican Hill, providing convenient access. Lastly, Ontario International Airport (ONT) is located 53.1km away, with options like DoubleTree by Hilton Ontario Airport and Ontario Airport Hotel & Conference Center nearby. Each airport has reliable transport options to help you reach your destination with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best area to stay in Rancho Santa Margarita?

The best area to stay in Rancho Santa Margarita is around the Central Park and Lake Santa Margarita area.


This neighbourhood is the hub of activity in Rancho Santa Margarita, offering beautiful views of the lake and mountains. It's designed for convenience, with walking paths connecting directly to local shops and eateries. The area around Avenida de las Flores and Santa Margarita Parkway is particularly central.


Couples looking for a relaxing getaway will appreciate this area. You can enjoy strolls along the lake, dine at lakeside restaurants, and easily access nearby hiking and biking trails in the surrounding hills. It's a peaceful setting that provides a good balance of outdoor activities and local amenities.


Families will also find this area very suitable. Central Park often hosts community events, and there are numerous playgrounds and open spaces for children.

When is the best time to go to Rancho Santa Margarita?

The best time to go to Rancho Santa Margarita is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) months.


During these periods, you'll find the weather to be pleasantly mild, with fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season. Temperatures typically range from the low 20s to high 20s Celsius, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking or exploring the local parks.

Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?

You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Rancho Santa Margarita.

How can I save on a hotel booking in Rancho Santa Margarita with Expedia?

One Key™—Expedia’s free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Rancho Santa Margarita hotels. Plus, you’ll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Rancho Santa Margarita?

Prices for hotels in Rancho Santa Margarita often vary, but you can find a great deal from AU$98 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.

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