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

Aliso Viejo Soka University of America Hotels

Change your mind
Book hotels with free cancellation
Treat yourself
Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
Sign in
Be picky
Search almost a million properties worldwide

Top Soka University of America Hotel Reviews

Homewood Suites by Hilton Aliso Viejo - Laguna Beach

10/10 Excellent

"Beautiful acomodations "

Laguna Surf Lodge by SCP Hotels

10/10 Excellent

"We visit Laguna at least 3 times a year, and have never stayed at Laguna Surf Lodge so we weren’t sure what to expect. But we had the most amazing experience, the services was 5 star and so was the room. The views absolutely took our breath away. We had dinner reservations at the Montage but decided to cancel and enjoy the balcony of our room instead. The hotel also was in a great area, not too far from the downtown shops and restaurants. "

Located above the Village . Ocean Views from every level, amazing bird sanctuary

10/10 Excellent

"The overall experience was wonderful. We loved the garden/deck privacy in a great location near the town of Laguna and Main Beach. Colorful artwork and family friendly floor plan made our stay very unique and comfortable, Karen was a terrific host and easy to communicate with. Highly recommend!"

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.

See properties

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.

See properties

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.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Things to do in Laguna Beach

Aliso Viejo Soka University of America Hotels

Change your mind

Treat yourself

Be picky

Check prices for these dates

Filter by

Our top choices for Soka University of America hotels

Homewood Suites by Hilton Aliso Viejo - Laguna Beach

Renaissance ClubSport Aliso Viejo Laguna Beach Hotel

Ayres Hotel Laguna Woods - Aliso Viejo

Laguna Hills Lodge

Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo

The Tides Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach House

Laguna Surf

La Casa del Camino

14 West Hotel

Laguna Cove Hotel

Laguna Surf Lodge by SCP Hotels

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

Le Petit Pali Laguna Beach

Capri Laguna on the Beach

Hampton Inn by Hilton Irvine Spectrum/Lake Forest

Laguna Inn & Suites

Crescent Bay Inn

Comfort Inn & Suites Irvine Spectrum

Fairfield Inn by Marriott Mission Viejo / Orange County

Top Soka University of America Hotel Reviews

Homewood Suites by Hilton Aliso Viejo - Laguna Beach

Hotels near other Soka University of America attractions

Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park

Orange County Natural History Museum

Frequently asked questions

Explore a world of travel with Expedia