A town nestled in a valley with mountains in the background.

Find hotels in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA from CA $120

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Our top choices for Rancho Santa Margarita hotels

1. Hilton Anaheim

Hilton Anaheim
4.0 star property
Anaheim Resort
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,910 reviews)
"Great stay!"
United States
Ruth
The price is CA $218
CA $257 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 31 - Nov 1
Hilton Anaheim

2. Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel

Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel
3.5 star property
Anaheim Resort
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (6,013 reviews)
"Love staying here! Stayed there multiple times!!!"
United States
Kimberly
The price is CA $237
CA $278 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel

3. Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Anaheim Theme Park / Convention Area

Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Anaheim Theme Park / Convention Area
3.5 star property
Anaheim Resort
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (4,933 reviews)
"We had an amazing stay, the staff is very accommodating."
United States
Cheryl
The price is CA $220
CA $258 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 3 - Nov 4
Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Anaheim Theme Park / Convention Area

4. Laguna Hills Lodge

Laguna Hills Lodge
2.5 star property
Laguna Hills
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (3,839 reviews)
"A wonderful location, clean and cozy rooms overlooking a green courtyard, and a home-style breakfast."
United States
Evgeniya
The price is CA $124
CA $136 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Laguna Hills Lodge

5. 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, (1,318 reviews)
"Clean rooms, staff was very nice and helpful, breakfast was great, will stay at Ayres hotel again!"
United States
Alessandra
The price is CA $160
CA $173 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Ayres Hotel & Spa Mission Viejo – Lake Forest

6. Hyatt Regency Orange County

Hyatt Regency Orange County
4.0 star property
Anaheim Resort
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (6,061 reviews)
"Great hotel and lot of good amenities nd food spots"
United States
Gustavo
The price is CA $180
CA $244 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 28 - Oct 29
Hyatt Regency Orange County

7. Ayres Suites Mission Viejo – Lake Forest

Ayres Suites Mission Viejo – Lake Forest
3.0 star property
Mission Viejo
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,419 reviews)
"Great stay!"
United States
Heather
The price is CA $150
CA $162 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 11 - Nov 12
Ayres Suites Mission Viejo – Lake Forest

8. Hotel Lulu, BW Premier Collection

Hotel Lulu, BW Premier Collection
3.5 star property
Anaheim Resort
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (5,496 reviews)
"Nice and convenient hotel for Disney visit"
United States
Jackelinee
The price is CA $171
CA $201 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Hotel Lulu, BW Premier Collection

9. Grand Legacy At the Park

Grand Legacy At the Park
4.0 star property
Anaheim Resort
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (4,830 reviews)
"Staff is very friendly and hotel super clean"
United States
Mayra
The price is CA $297
CA $347 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Grand Legacy At the Park

10. voco Laguna Hills by IHG

voco Laguna Hills by IHG
3.0 star property
Laguna Hills
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1,003 reviews)
"Loved the stay!"
United States
Jordan
The price is CA $154
CA $170 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 18 - Nov 19
voco Laguna Hills by IHG

11. Motel 6 Anaheim Maingate

Motel 6 Anaheim Maingate
2.0 star property
Anaheim Resort
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (6,976 reviews)
"Great location"
United States
Sarah
The price is CA $125
CA $147 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 3 - Nov 4
Motel 6 Anaheim Maingate

12. Surf & Sand Laguna Beach

Surf & Sand Laguna Beach
5.0 star property
Pearl District
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,003 reviews)
"great staff great hotel"
United States
Joseph
The price is CA $1,148
CA $1,416 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 18 - Nov 19
Surf & Sand Laguna Beach

13. Fairfield Inn by Marriott Mission Viejo / Orange County

Fairfield Inn by Marriott Mission Viejo / Orange County
3.0 star property
Mission Viejo
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,004 reviews)
"Great stay"
United States
Grace E
The price is CA $175
CA $190 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 4 - Nov 5
Fairfield Inn by Marriott Mission Viejo / Orange County

14. Ayres Hotel Laguna Woods - Aliso Viejo

Ayres Hotel Laguna Woods - Aliso Viejo
3.0 star property
Laguna Woods
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,733 reviews)
"Room is very clean, breakfast is great, ample parking."
United States
Xiao Rong
The price is CA $194
CA $214 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Ayres Hotel Laguna Woods - Aliso Viejo

15. Montage Laguna Beach

Montage Laguna Beach
5.0 star property
South Laguna
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (773 reviews)
"Beautiful hotel and friendly staff. We will be back soon!"
United States
Alyssa
The price is CA $1,170
CA $1,457 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 23 - Nov 24
Montage Laguna Beach

16. Hotel Fera Anaheim, a DoubleTree by Hilton

Hotel Fera Anaheim, a DoubleTree by Hilton
4.0 star property
Anaheim Resort
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (4,850 reviews)
"Great place to stay"
United States
Ahmad
The price is CA $161
CA $177 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 3 - Nov 4
Hotel Fera Anaheim, a DoubleTree by Hilton

17. Howard Johnson by Wyndham Anaheim Hotel and Water Playground

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Anaheim Hotel and Water Playground
3.0 star property
Anaheim Resort
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,921 reviews)
"Would stay again for Disney!"
United States
Brandy
The price is CA $284
CA $333 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 2 - Nov 3
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Anaheim Hotel and Water Playground

18. Desert Palms Hotel & Suites

Desert Palms Hotel & Suites
3.0 star property
Anaheim Resort
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (3,794 reviews)
"Great stay."
United States
Kodie
The price is CA $213
CA $249 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 29 - Oct 30
Desert Palms Hotel & Suites

19. Capistrano Coast House

Capistrano Coast House
4.0 star property
Capistrano Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (544 reviews)
"Great hotel"
United States
Neiufi
The price is CA $219
CA $244 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 26 - Nov 27
Capistrano Coast House

20. 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, (1,224 reviews)
"Great stay"
United States
Mattie
The price is CA $177
CA $196 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 30 - Oct 31
Hilton Garden Inn Irvine Spectrum Lake Forest
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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

More cheap stays in Rancho Santa Margarita

Hotels in Rancho Santa Margarita with star rating

Find out more about Rancho Santa Margarita

Top reasons to visit Rancho Santa Margarita

  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy scenic hikes in nearby parks and explore beautiful beaches along the stunning California coast.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Rancho Santa Margarita is perfect for families, offering a variety of fun and engaging experiences for all ages.
  • Golf Courses: The area features excellent golf courses catering to players of all skill levels, making it a golfer's paradise.
  • Vibrant Neighbourhoods: Explore friendly local neighbourhoods filled with unique shops and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Choose from family-friendly resorts to charming ranch houses for a memorable stay.

Find great hotels near Rancho Santa Margarita

Rancho Santa Margarita offers a diverse selection of accommodations, perfect for any traveller seeking a memorable getaway. From family-friendly resorts to adventure-centric hotels, you’ll discover popular options, including renowned Marriott properties and charming ranch houses. Whether you crave beach access or a serene retreat, the area boasts excellent lodging choices to enhance your vacation experience in sunny California.

  • Laguna Hills Lodge: Nestled 8.0km from Rancho Santa Margarita, Laguna Hills Lodge is the ideal retreat for business travellers seeking a blend of comfort and convenience. This hotel features a well-equipped business centre, accommodating meeting rooms, and accessible facilities, ensuring that your professional needs are met during your stay. The lodge's serene environment complements its business-centric amenities, providing you with a peaceful space to unwind after a busy day.
  • La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Irvine Spectrum: Located 16.1km from Rancho Santa Margarita, La Quinta Inn & Suites is a welcoming haven for families and LGBTQIA travellers. This hotel prides itself on providing a friendly atmosphere, with specific amenities catering to children, including free cribs. Business guests will appreciate the accessible business centre and meeting rooms available. Its commitment to inclusivity makes it a standout choice for those seeking a supportive environment.
  • Extended Stay America Suites Orange County Irvine Spectrum: Situated 12.9km from Rancho Santa Margarita, Extended Stay America Suites is perfect for pet-friendly and business-oriented travellers. This hotel allows pets on-site, complete with a flexible pet policy and waived fees for service animals, making it a great option for those travelling with furry companions. The property also features essential business amenities, ensuring a comfortable and productive stay for all guests.

Where to stay in and around Rancho Santa Margarita

Discover the charm of Rancho Santa Margarita, a delightful small city perfect for family-friendly adventures and outdoor fun. Enjoy scenic hikes in nearby parks, or take a short drive to the stunning California coast for breathtaking views. Explore vibrant neighbourhoods filled with friendly locals, and immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere that this charming region offers. With convenient access to nearby attractions, Rancho Santa Margarita is an ideal base for your Californian getaway.

  • Laguna Beach: Located 16.1km from Rancho Santa Margarita, Laguna Beach is a picturesque coastal city renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant arts scene. The travel experience here is enriched by the seasonal influx of visitors, particularly from April to July. Families and outdoor enthusiasts flock to the area to enjoy beach activities, boardwalk strolls, and shopping at local centres. Notable attractions include the beautiful family-friendly beaches, art galleries, and the tourist precinct, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and exploration.
  • Las Flores: Nestled within the Rancho Santa Margarita area, Las Flores is a charming village that boasts a steady stream of visitors throughout the year. With peak seasons in April, September, and December, it's an excellent destination for families seeking an outdoor and city-themed experience. The village features convenient access to shopping centres, campgrounds, and nearby beaches, ensuring a variety of activities for everyone. Families can also enjoy a fun day at the local theme park, providing a perfect blend of recreation and leisure.
  • Wagon Wheel: Just 1.6km from Rancho Santa Margarita, Wagon Wheel is a delightful neighbourhood perfect for outdoor and sports enthusiasts. With visitor numbers peaking in the summer months, this area offers a range of activities, including golfing at local courses. The community is also close to a marina and harbour, making it ideal for water sports lovers. Whether you're looking to hit the greens or explore the local film studio, Wagon Wheel provides a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty to keep everyone entertained.

Things to do near Rancho Santa Margarita

Rancho Santa Margarita is a fantastic destination for family and outdoor-themed vacations, offering a variety of activities to enjoy. Visitors can explore local shopping centres and malls, perfect for finding unique items and gifts. For those who enjoy golf, the area boasts excellent courses that cater to all skill levels. With its blend of leisure and recreation, Rancho Santa Margarita promises an enjoyable experience for all types of travellers.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in Rancho Santa Margarita, visit Costume Castle, just 8.0km away. If you're up for a drive, the Irvine Spectrum Center, located 12.9km away, offers entertainment and a vibrant atmosphere. The Market Place, at 20.9km, provides a fantastic selection of shops and dining options.

Recreation

The Marguerite Aquatic Complex offers a vibrant atmosphere for swimming and fitness, perfect for staying active. The Coto de Caza Golf and Racquet Club provides a scenic outdoor setting for golfing and tennis enthusiasts. For live music and entertainment, visit The Coach House and enjoy a lively concert experience.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Laguna Beach Paddle Boarding, located 16.1km from Rancho Santa Margarita, where you can enjoy the beautiful waters and vibrant outdoor atmosphere. For a rush of adrenaline, head to K1 Speed Irvine, 22.5km away, for exhilarating indoor go-kart racing.

For a scenic hike, explore Holy Jim Trailhead, situated 14.5km from Rancho Santa Margarita, offering stunning views and a chance to connect with nature in a peaceful setting.

Nightlife

In Rancho Santa Margarita, you can enjoy a romantic movie night at Regal Edwards Kaleidoscope, just 4.8km away. Experience culture and family-friendly performances at Soka Performing Arts Center, located 11.3km away. For a thrilling ride, head to the Great Park Balloon, 14.5km from your stay.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rancho Santa Margarita

To save money on your trip to Rancho Santa Margarita, consider visiting during the off-peak months of January, February, or November when prices are lower. Avoid staying on Saturdays, as Monday is the least expensive day. Use Expedia to compare prices and find great deals by filtering for your budget and combining hotel stays with flights and activities for additional savings. For transportation, walking is a cost-effective way to explore the area, and take advantage of free activities to enhance your experience 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: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To find the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay in Rancho Santa Margarita with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Rancho Santa Margarita

Rancho Santa Margarita offers a delightful mix of family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and urban experiences. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches, explore vibrant urban parks, and visit serene churches. This charming city is perfect for those seeking a laid-back vacation filled with sun, nature, and local culture, making it an ideal destination for travellers looking to unwind and explore the Southern California lifestyle.

  • Mission San Juan Capistrano: Experience the rich cultural history at this historic church, renowned for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. As the birthplace of California's mission system, it offers a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection and exploration.
  • Orange County Great Park: Enjoy a vibrant urban park that caters to families with its spacious playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. The park's captivating balloon ride provides breathtaking views of the surrounding area, making it a delightful outdoor experience.
  • Dana Point Harbor: Embrace the scenic beauty of this picturesque harbor, where you can stroll along the waterfront, enjoy fresh seafood, or partake in water activities. The stunning coastal views and gentle ocean breeze create a perfect beachside getaway.

Best time to go to Rancho Santa Margarita

The best time to visit Rancho Santa Margarita can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Rancho Santa Margarita falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Rancho Santa Margarita falls in December and February. February has average visitor numbers and sunny weather.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
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 RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April61.0°F (16.1°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
May63.1°F (17.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June67.6°F (19.8°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July72.1°F (22.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August73.8°F (23.2°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September73.0°F (22.8°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October68.5°F (20.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
November62.4°F (16.9°C)No RainSunnySlightly 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 several major airport options. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is located 82.1km away, with nearby hotels like The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey (6.4km) and Casa Del Mar (11.3km). Orange County John Wayne Airport (SNA) is much closer at 24.1km, with excellent accommodations such as The Resort at Pelican Hill (9.7km) and The Viv Hotel, Anaheim (14.5km). Lastly, Ontario International Airport (ONT) is 53.1km away, offering options like DoubleTree by Hilton Ontario Airport (1.6km) and Ontario Airport Hotel & Conference Center (1.6km). All airports provide convenient transportation to these hotels.

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 canceled 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 much is the nightly rate at a Rancho Santa Margarita hotel?
Prices for hotels in Rancho Santa Margarita often vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $120 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 the cheapest rate.

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