Soka University is probably the best-kept secret in all of Orange County, and probably all of California itself. You mention it to the locals and they just give you blank stares.

But it is the kind of place that will stick in your memory for the rest of your life. The grounds of the campus are situated at the ridge between Aliso and Wood Canyons, and command a view of the area that can only be described as staggeringly beautiful.

To say those canyons have competition from the scenery inside the grounds is to make the understatement of this young century.

Established just fifteen short years ago, the university seems to have spared no expense to build a campus worthy of its purpose. Here, you will find a delicate balance of architectural styles - heavily influenced by the very early European Renaissance, but containing elements of post-modernism, classical Greek, medieval Italian and even a hint of Empiric Spain.

But it isn't just a pretty face. The school has been consistently voted best in its treatment of its freshman class. It requires one semester study abroad, and has partnered with universities all over the world to make that a reality.

I'm afraid I didn't do too much looking into the academic side of the house. I was really too overwhelmed by its beauty.

And its calm. Come here on a weekend day and you'll spend most of the time in solitude. This was a welcome change from the parking lot called Highway 1, which took up the bulk of my late afternoon a day earlier.

I could breathe in this place, move from one astounding sight to another and just feel the calm descend over me.

That no-one in Southern California seems to know it exists is almost a comfort, really. It might mean that my second visit, whenever that may happen, will be as blissfully free of the tourist trappings as the first.

Either way, though, I just can't wait to go back.

I've posted a large gallery of shots on my blog, some of which will appear here on Trover. If you're looking for the full set, just follow this link: http://www.shootthesun.com/weblog/?p=2223

Top Hotels Near Soka University of America in Aliso Viejo from AU$169

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Top Soka University of America Hotel Reviews

La Casa del Camino

10/10 Excellent

"Had a great stay here over thanksgiving, the room was very clean and the front desk staff were very friendly! "

Laguna Beach House

10/10 Excellent

"Everything about this property makes it special. If you want a cool vintage-feel beach hotel with a surfer vibe, this is it. The staff were available and helpful with all our requests. Our room - spacious, comfortable and quiet, with an ocean view. Pool, hot tub and fire table area were all well maintained. We really enjoyed this special find and will be back. LOVED IT!!!"

Hotels near other Soka University of America attractions

Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park

4.6/5 (17 reviews)

After visiting Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Aliso Viejo. Stroll along the area's seaside or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.

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Orange County Natural History Museum

You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in Orange County Natural History Museum in Laguna Niguel. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.

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Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around Soka University of America?

Soka University of America is located in a welcoming area of Aliso Viejo known for its cosy cafes and surfing. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, take a look at the 7 hotels and other accommodation options you'll find within a mile.

Where is the best place to stay close to Soka University of America?

Homewood Suites by Hilton Aliso Viejo - Laguna Beach is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveller data, and this hotel offers free breakfast and an outdoor pool. It's located 1.8 mi (2.9 km) from Soka University of America. Other good choices within a few miles include Renaissance ClubSport Aliso Viejo Laguna Beach Hotel and La Casa del Camino.

How many hotels are there close to Soka University of America?

Expedia has 7 hotels and other accommodation options within a mile from Soka University of America.

If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Soka University of America, will I receive a refund?

Yes! Most hotel reservations are refundable if you cancel prior to the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which often is within 24-48 hours of your arrival date. If you have a reservation that's non-refundable, you may still be able to cancel and receive a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Add dates, click "Search", then you can use the "fully refundable" filter to review the best deals available near Soka University of America.

What can I see and do near Soka University of America?

You'll want to browse the exhibits at Orange County Natural History Museum and Laguna Art Museum. You can check out the local talent at Festival of Arts, Laguna Playhouse and Rivian South Coast Theater. Spend some time exploring the the natural beauty of Main Beach Park, Heisler Park and Crescent Bay Point Park.

Top Hotels Near Soka University of America in Aliso Viejo from AU$169

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Accommodation near Soka University of America

Homewood Suites by Hilton Aliso Viejo - Laguna Beach

Renaissance ClubSport Aliso Viejo Laguna Beach Hotel

Ayres Hotel Laguna Woods - Aliso Viejo

Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo

Laguna Hills Lodge

Laguna Beach House

La Casa del Camino

Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa

Capri Laguna on the Beach

Le Petit Pali Laguna Beach

The Tides Laguna Beach

Laguna Cove Hotel

SCP Seven4One

Casa Loma Beach Hotel (formerly The Inn at Laguna Beach)

Hilton Garden Inn Irvine Spectrum Lake Forest

Laguna Surf Lodge by SCP Hotels

14 West Hotel

Hampton Inn by Hilton Irvine Spectrum/Lake Forest

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Irvine Lake Forest

Montage Laguna Beach

Top Soka University of America Hotel Reviews

La Casa del Camino

Hotels near other Soka University of America attractions

Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park

Orange County Natural History Museum

Frequently asked questions