Find hotels in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA from CA $97

  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation
  • Treat yourself

    Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check prices for these dates

Filter by

Guest rating
Guest rating
Star rating

Our top choices for Rancho Santa Margarita hotels

Best Western Plus Lake Elsinore Inn & Suites

Best Western Plus Lake Elsinore Inn & Suites
2.5 star property
Lake Elsinore
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,001 reviews)
"Spotless room. Polite staff. Ease in getting in. Nice location."
United States
Roger
The price is CA $124
CA $137 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Best Western Plus Lake Elsinore Inn & Suites

Staybridge Suites Lake Forest by IHG

Staybridge Suites Lake Forest by IHG
3.0 star property
Foothill Ranch
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (970 reviews)
"The best hotel in the areas "
United States
Bing
The price is CA $176
CA $194 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 28 - Mar 1
Staybridge Suites Lake Forest by IHG

Ayres Hotel & Spa Mission Viejo – Lake Forest

Ayres Hotel & Spa Mission Viejo – Lake Forest
3.5 star property
Mission Viejo
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,021 reviews)
"Great customer service, the hotel was very clean and breakfast was really good. "
United States
Laura
The price is CA $146
CA $158 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Ayres Hotel & Spa Mission Viejo – Lake Forest

Fairfield Inn & Suites Riverside Corona/Norco

Fairfield Inn & Suites Riverside Corona/Norco
3.0 star property
Norco
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"The room was clean, the bed was comfortable and the breakfast was pretty good. "
United States
Cynthia
The price is CA $149
CA $166 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Fairfield Inn & Suites Riverside Corona/Norco

Crowne Plaza Costa Mesa Orange County by IHG

Crowne Plaza Costa Mesa Orange County by IHG
3.5 star property
Sobeca District
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,064 reviews)
"Friendly staffs and the room is exceptionally clean and comfortable for the price! "
United States
Narumol
The price is CA $173
CA $192 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 23 - Feb 24
Crowne Plaza Costa Mesa Orange County by IHG

Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo

Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo
2.5 star property
Mission Viejo
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,006 reviews)
"The hotel was very clean, quiet, and the breakfast was great"
United States
Joe
The price is CA $153
CA $166 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 1 - Mar 2
Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo

Ramada by Wyndham Costa Mesa/Newport Beach

Ramada by Wyndham Costa Mesa/Newport Beach
3.0 star property
Downtown Costa Mesa
7.8 out of 10, Good, (2,143 reviews)
"Perfect location, clean, great breakfast, courteous staff. I'd stay here again."
United States
Martha
The price is CA $145
CA $161 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 19 - Feb 20
Ramada by Wyndham Costa Mesa/Newport Beach

Renaissance Newport Beach Hotel

Renaissance Newport Beach Hotel
4.0 star property
Airport Area
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,008 reviews)
"Great stay"
United States
George
The price is CA $233
CA $268 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 8 - Mar 9
Renaissance Newport Beach Hotel

Costa Mesa Inn

Costa Mesa Inn
3.0 star property
Mesa Verde
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1,389 reviews)
"Great place to stay , very clean"
United States
Rafaela
The price is CA $124
CA $134 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 17 - Feb 18
Costa Mesa Inn

Tru by Hilton Norco Eastvale

Tru by Hilton Norco Eastvale
3.0 star property
Norco
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (462 reviews)
"Great place!"
United States
Zlatko
The price is CA $140
CA $155 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 24 - Feb 25
Tru by Hilton Norco Eastvale

Best Western Plus Newport Mesa Inn

Best Western Plus Newport Mesa Inn
3.0 star property
Costa Mesa
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,031 reviews)
"Clean room, good breakfast and great dinner recommendation from the front desk."
United States
Julie
The price is CA $184
CA $204 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Best Western Plus Newport Mesa Inn

Newport Channel Inn - Near Huntington State Beach

Newport Channel Inn - Near Huntington State Beach
2.0 star property
Balboa Peninsula
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"Clean rooms, great location."
United States
Kevin
The price is CA $162
CA $179 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Newport Channel Inn - Near Huntington State Beach

Ayres Suites Mission Viejo – Lake Forest

Ayres Suites Mission Viejo – Lake Forest
3.0 star property
Mission Viejo
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,186 reviews)
"The hotel is very clean, and the pool was lovely...so glad they had it clean and heated at this time of year. "
Canada
Janet
The price is CA $134
CA $145 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Ayres Suites Mission Viejo – Lake Forest

Hampton Inn by Hilton Costa Mesa Newport Beach

Hampton Inn by Hilton Costa Mesa Newport Beach
2.5 star property
East Side Costa Mesa
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,001 reviews)
"Very happy with our stay we will be back"
United States
Renee
The price is CA $196
CA $218 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Hampton Inn by Hilton Costa Mesa Newport Beach

Costa Mesa Marriott

Costa Mesa Marriott
4.0 star property
Costa Mesa
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,514 reviews)
"Very clean room and great staff. "
United States
Ryan
The price is CA $195
CA $217 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 27 - Feb 28
Costa Mesa Marriott

OC Hotel Costa Mesa

OC Hotel Costa Mesa
2.5 star property
East Side Costa Mesa
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,473 reviews)
"Great stay! Clean rooms, friendly staff, and a convenient location. Would definitely recommend."
United States
Jemeirah
The price is CA $192
CA $213 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 8 - Mar 9
OC Hotel Costa Mesa

Holiday Inn Express Newport Beach by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Newport Beach by IHG
3.0 star property
Newport Heights
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,090 reviews)
"Great hotel for the price and excellent location."
United States
kristin
The price is CA $245
CA $270 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Holiday Inn Express Newport Beach by IHG

Lemon Heights Inn

Lemon Heights Inn
2.0 star property
Tustin
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (52 reviews)
"Check in was super quick and easy, the room was very clean, it was quiet. Great stay!"
United States
Megan
The price is CA $109
CA $124 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 18 - Feb 19
Lemon Heights Inn

San Clemente Inn

San Clemente Inn
3.0 star property
San Clemente
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,438 reviews)
"Great location "
United States
Samuel
The price is CA $138
CA $152 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 24 - Feb 25
San Clemente Inn

The Volare, an Ascend Collection Hotel

The Volare, an Ascend Collection Hotel
3.0 star property
San Clemente
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,005 reviews)
"Great hotel and good location. "
United States
THOMAS
The price is CA $155
CA $170 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 19 - Feb 20
The Volare, an Ascend Collection Hotel
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.

The Annual Vacation Sale

Members save up to 40% on hotels and homes. Plan this year’s big trip and save.
Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels when you're signed in

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.

Aerial view of Rancho Santa Margarita showcasing suburban homes and Saddleback Mountains in Southern California

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 can I save on a Rancho Santa Margarita hotel booking with Expedia?
Members always get our best prices. Find our best Rancho Santa Margarita hotel deals by joining Expedia's free travel rewards program today. As a member, you can unlock instant savings and member perks when you're logged in to your account. Another tip is to book your hotel and flights together on Expedia, where bundling can result in significant savings.
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 $97 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.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia