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

Find hotels in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA from ฿2,856

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Our top choices for Rancho Santa Margarita hotels

1. 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, (1,321 reviews)
"It is a hotel I highly recommend and would definitely stay there again."
United States
Anthony
The price is ฿3,486
฿3,772 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Nov - 17 Nov
Ayres Hotel & Spa 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, (761 reviews)
"Room looked clean and breakfast was a plus."
United States
Paul
The price is ฿3,445
฿3,797 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Nov - 30 Nov
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, (1,001 reviews)
"Great hotel"
United States
Byung Li
The price is ฿4,386
฿4,833 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Staybridge Suites Lake Forest by IHG

4. Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo

Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo
2.5 star property
Mission Viejo
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
"Great place to stay!"
United States
Neil
The price is ฿4,278
฿4,629 total
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo

5. 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, (1,221 reviews)
"Great stay"
United States
Mattie
The price is ฿4,565
฿5,031 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Hilton Garden Inn Irvine Spectrum Lake Forest

6. 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, (996 reviews)
"Clean rooms and excellent breakfast."
Sweden
Ulrika
The price is ฿4,852
฿5,347 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Homewood Suites by Hilton Irvine Spectrum Lake Forest

7. 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, (1,091 reviews)
"The breakfast was the usual but the staff in the breakfast room were attentive and friendly. Our room was large and even had a balcony (but overlooking the parking lot). It was very nice to not have to pay extra for parking. Would stay there again."
United States
Vincent
The price is ฿3,441
฿3,792 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Nov - 10 Nov
Best Western Plus Irvine Spectrum Hotel

8. Comfort Inn & Suites Irvine Spectrum

Comfort Inn & Suites Irvine Spectrum
3.5 star property
Lake Forest
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,751 reviews)
"Enjoyed my stay"
United States
Jim
The price is ฿3,256
฿3,581 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Nov - 1 Dec
Comfort Inn & Suites Irvine Spectrum

9. 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, (1,000 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 ฿3,509
฿3,867 total
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
Sonesta Simply Suites East Irvine Spectrum

10. Laguna Hills Lodge

Laguna Hills Lodge
2.5 star property
Laguna Hills
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (3,848 reviews)
"A wonderful location, clean and cozy rooms overlooking a green courtyard, and a home-style breakfast."
United States
Evgeniya
The price is ฿3,310
฿3,641 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Laguna Hills Lodge

11. Ayres Suites Mission Viejo – Lake Forest

Ayres Suites Mission Viejo – Lake Forest
3.0 star property
Mission Viejo
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,426 reviews)
"Great stay!"
United States
Heather
The price is ฿3,417
฿3,697 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Nov - 12 Nov
Ayres Suites Mission Viejo – Lake Forest

12. Courtyard Irvine Spectrum

Courtyard Irvine Spectrum
3.0 star property
Irvine Spectrum
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,000 reviews)
"Perfect!"
United States
Julian Quiros
The price is ฿6,506
฿7,182 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Nov - 30 Nov
Courtyard Irvine Spectrum

13. DoubleTree by Hilton Irvine - Spectrum

DoubleTree by Hilton Irvine - Spectrum
4.0 star property
Irvine Spectrum
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Clean rooms and great staff"
United States
Oswaldo
The price is ฿4,335
฿4,777 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Nov - 25 Nov
DoubleTree by Hilton Irvine - Spectrum

14. 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, (1,001 reviews)
"Great place & location!"
United States
Julianna
The price is ฿4,278
฿4,714 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Hampton Inn by Hilton Irvine Spectrum/Lake Forest

15. Sonesta Select Laguna Hills Irvine Spectrum

Sonesta Select Laguna Hills Irvine Spectrum
3.0 star property
North Laguna Hills
7.8 out of 10, Good, (2,027 reviews)
"Fantastic stay"
United States
james
The price is ฿2,827
฿3,115 total
includes taxes & fees
19 Nov - 20 Nov
Sonesta Select Laguna Hills Irvine Spectrum

16. 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, (1,001 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 ฿4,958
฿5,463 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Homewood Suites by Hilton Aliso Viejo - Laguna Beach

17. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Santa Ana - Orange County by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Santa Ana - Orange County by IHG
2.5 star property
Lyon Street
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,233 reviews)
"It was great family stay"
United States
Vishal
The price is ฿3,749
฿4,244 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Nov - 30 Nov
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Santa Ana - Orange County by IHG

18. Hyatt Regency Irvine

Hyatt Regency Irvine
4.0 star property
Irvine Business Complex
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,229 reviews)
"Clean room and nice staff."
United States
William
The price is ฿7,558
฿8,328 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Nov - 14 Nov
Hyatt Regency Irvine

19. Embassy Suites by Hilton Irvine Orange County Airport

Embassy Suites by Hilton Irvine Orange County Airport
3.5 star property
Irvine Business Complex
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,855 reviews)
"Nice clean hotel in a quite area."
United States
Cynthia
The price is ฿4,881
฿5,379 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Nov - 23 Nov
Embassy Suites by Hilton Irvine Orange County Airport

20. SpringHill Suites Irvine John Wayne Airport/Orange County

SpringHill Suites Irvine John Wayne Airport/Orange County
3.0 star property
Irvine Business Complex
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,001 reviews)
"Amazing stay, really friendly staff."
United States
cesar
The price is ฿4,721
฿5,203 total
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
SpringHill Suites Irvine John Wayne Airport/Orange County
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

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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

Find out more about Rancho Santa Margarita

Top reasons to visit Rancho Santa Margarita

  • Family-Friendly Activities: Rancho Santa Margarita offers a variety of attractions perfect for families, from urban parks to engaging excursions.
  • Scenic Landscapes: Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the area, including the picturesque Rancho Santa Margarita Lake and charming neighbourhoods.
  • Vibrant Shopping Centres: Explore lively shopping venues that cater to diverse tastes and interests.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Engage in exciting recreational activities, including golf and hiking, amidst stunning natural surroundings.
  • Convenient Location: Use Rancho Santa Margarita as a base to easily access attractions in nearby San Diego and Orange County.

Find great hotels near Rancho Santa Margarita

Discover a range of delightful hotel accommodations in Rancho Santa Margarita, California, ideal for families and adventure seekers alike. From charming resorts to modern hotels, you'll find options that cater to your needs, including proximity to beautiful beaches and exciting outdoor activities. Explore popular services and facilities that enhance your stay, ensuring a memorable vacation experience in this picturesque locale.

  • Laguna Hills Lodge: Nestled in the serene surroundings of Laguna Hills, this budget-friendly lodge boasts a commendable guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. Located approximately 8km from Rancho Santa Margarita, the Laguna Hills Lodge is ideal for travellers seeking a business-friendly experience. The property offers a comfortable atmosphere with essential amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool, and a fitness centre, ensuring a relaxing stay for those on work or leisure trips.
  • Comfort Inn & Suites Irvine Spectrum: Situated about 10km from Rancho Santa Margarita, the Comfort Inn & Suites Irvine Spectrum is also rated 9.0 out of 10 by guests. This family-friendly hotel welcomes both families and pets with open arms. Amenities designed for children, such as cribs and window guards, enhance the safety and comfort of younger guests. Additionally, the property features pet-friendly policies, allowing dogs with certain restrictions, making it a great choice for those travelling with furry companions.
  • Sonesta Simply Suites Irvine East Foothill: Offering a welcoming atmosphere for both budget-conscious and pet-friendly travellers, the Sonesta Simply Suites Irvine East Foothill has a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. Located 10km from Rancho Santa Margarita, this property permits pets with specific fees and restrictions in place. Guests can enjoy the convenience of in-suite kitchens and laundry facilities, making it a suitable choice for longer stays or those wanting the comforts of home.

Where to stay in and around Rancho Santa Margarita

Rancho Santa Margarita, nestled in the heart of Southern California, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and scenic landscapes. Explore the charming neighbourhoods, partake in exciting excursions, or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere that defines this lovely city. Just a short drive away, you can discover the attractions of San Diego and the picturesque beauty of Orange County, making it an ideal base for your Californian adventure.

  • Laguna Beach: Situated 16km from Rancho Santa Margarita, Laguna Beach is a picturesque coastal city renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant arts scene. The city experiences a moderate seasonal influx of visitors, with peak times in April and the summer months of June to July. Travellers flock to this charming destination for family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and idyllic beach experiences. Notable attractions include the scenic boardwalk and various shopping centres, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and exploration.
  • Las Flores: Nestled within the vicinity of Rancho Santa Margarita, Las Flores is a quaint village that welcomes visitors year-round. While it sees a slight uptick in tourism during April, September, and December, the overall flow remains relatively steady. Guests are drawn to Las Flores for its remarkable outdoor activities, family-oriented experiences, and close proximity to the beach. The village boasts a range of recreational areas and educational opportunities, with nearby attractions such as the national state park, making it a delightful spot for nature enthusiasts.
  • Wagon Wheel: Located a mere mile from Rancho Santa Margarita, Wagon Wheel is a welcoming neighbourhood that appeals to families and outdoor lovers alike. Visitor numbers peak in the summer months of July and August, as well as in October. This area offers a blend of city-themed experiences alongside outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy top-notch golf courses, shopping centres, and access to local landmarks like urban parks and family-friendly beaches, ensuring a fulfilling and varied travel experience.

Things to do near Rancho Santa Margarita

Shopping

In Rancho Santa Margarita, visit the local shops at the Plaza Santa Margarita for a variety of gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, the nearby Irvine Spectrum Centre, around 19km away, features a mix of retail stores, dining, and entertainment options in a vibrant setting.

Recreation

The Wellness Spa at Rancho Santa Margarita offers rejuvenating treatments and tranquil surroundings, inviting guests to unwind and relax. Participate in yoga classes amid nature or explore nearby Lake Santa Margarita for leisurely walks, picnic spots, and scenic views, creating an ideal backdrop for relaxation and reflection.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of soaring through the air at Skull Canyon Zipline, located 26km from Rancho Santa Margarita, where adventure and outdoor vibes await. For motor racing enthusiasts, Perris Auto Speedway, situated 48km away, offers an exhilarating atmosphere filled with sports and adrenaline-fuelled excitement.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant atmosphere at the Crown Valley Brewery for unique craft beers and local brews. For a lively evening, visit the Rooftop Lounge for stunning views and cocktails, or enjoy live music at the local pub, where you can mingle with friendly locals and soak in the community vibe.

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

Find the best attractions near Rancho Santa Margarita

Rancho Santa Margarita is an ideal destination for family, city, and business-themed vacations, offering a variety of attractions such as stunning beaches, urban parks, and charming churches. Visitors can enjoy outdoor adventures and a vibrant city atmosphere, with notable points of interest including Rancho Santa Margarita Lake and various local attractions. Whether you're seeking relaxation or exploration, this area provides a delightful experience for all types of travellers.

  • Etnies Skate Park of Lake Forest: Located approximately 10km from Rancho Santa Margarita, this urban park offers a vibrant atmosphere for skateboarding enthusiasts of all ages. It features a variety of ramps and bowls, making it an exceptional venue for both casual skaters and serious athletes looking to hone their skills amidst a family-friendly environment.
  • The Ecology Center: Situated around 13km away, this environmental centre focuses on sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Visitors can engage in workshops and learn about local agriculture, making it an enlightening stop for anyone interested in green living and environmental stewardship.
  • Mission San Juan Capistrano: Located about 11km from your base, this historic church embodies California's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore its beautiful gardens and fascinating architecture, delving into the region's history and the mission’s role in shaping the community.

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.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
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

Reaching Rancho SANta Margarita is convenient via three major airports. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is situated 82km away, with luxurious hotel options such as the Fairmont Miramar Hotel and The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey located nearby. San Diego International Airport (SAN) lies 103km from the destination, offering elegant stays at Pendry San Diego and The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel. The closest option is John Wayne Airport (SNA), only 24km away, with notable resorts like The Resort at Pelican Hill and Balboa Bay Resort in proximity. Each airport provides accessible transport options to these hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place for a stay in Rancho Santa Margarita?
Hotel Fera Anaheim, a DoubleTree by Hilton, located 19.9 mi (32 km) from the heart of Rancho Santa Margarita, is a top choice for your stay, based on our traveller data. Two other options for your trip to the area are Sonesta Irvine John Wayne Airport and Sonesta Anaheim Resort Area. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Rancho Santa Margarita.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Rancho Santa Margarita, will I receive a refund?
Yes, you'll find most hotel bookings are fully refundable provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline, which often is within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable reservation, you might still have the option to cancel and be given a refund within 24 hours of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Rancho Santa Margarita.
What are some hotels with pools in Rancho Santa Margarita?
Hotel Fera Anaheim, a DoubleTree by Hilton: Hotel, 2-minute walk from UC Irvine Medical Center. Features a 24-hour fitness centre, an outdoor pool and flat-screen televisions. Sonesta Irvine John Wayne Airport and Sonesta Anaheim Resort Area are two additional hotels that feature an on-site pool. View all hotels with pools in Rancho Santa Margarita.
How is it staying in Rancho Santa Margarita?
Visitors can enjoy all that Rancho Santa Margarita has to offer, including the spas, riverfront and golf courses. Tourists to the city can also enjoy its scenic landscape. A top sight in the area is Irvine Spectrum Center. In Rancho Santa Margarita, there are 7 hotels and other accommodation options to choose from. Find out more about Rancho Santa Margarita.
What is there to see in Rancho Santa Margarita?
Favourite places to visit include Tijeras Creek Golf Club, Spa Gregorie's Day Spa & Salon and OGP Ladera. Additionally, you'll find Irvine Spectrum Center in the area. Take a look at what more there is to see and do in Expedia's Rancho Santa Margarita guide.
What's the weather like in Rancho Santa Margarita?
The hottest months are usually August and September, with an average temperature of 22°C, while the coldest months are February and January, with an average of 14°C. Average annual precipitation for Rancho Santa Margarita is 289 mm.