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

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Hotels close to Soka University of America with free breakfast

Breakfast included

HK$1,116 total

includes taxes & fees

9 Nov - 10 Nov

Breakfast included

HK$1,607 total

includes taxes & fees

24 Nov - 25 Nov

Breakfast included

HK$1,318 total

includes taxes & fees

9 Nov - 10 Nov

Breakfast included

HK$1,003 total

includes taxes & fees

1 Dec - 2 Dec

Breakfast included

HK$1,051 total

includes taxes & fees

24 Nov - 25 Nov

Outdoor pool, open 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM, pool umbrellas, pool loungers

Breakfast included

HK$1,087 total

includes taxes & fees

24 Nov - 25 Nov

Breakfast included

HK$1,106 total

includes taxes & fees

16 Nov - 17 Nov

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Hotels close to Soka University of America with a pool

Pool

Pool

HK$976 total

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24 Nov - 25 Nov

Pool

HK$2,949 total

includes taxes & fees

2 Nov - 3 Nov

Desk, laptop workspace, blackout curtains, soundproofing

Pool

HK$976 total

includes taxes & fees

24 Nov - 25 Nov

Pool

HK$1,059 total

includes taxes & fees

16 Nov - 17 Nov

Pool

HK$838 total

includes taxes & fees

9 Nov - 10 Nov

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Top guest rated hotels close to Soka University of America

HK$1,281 total

includes taxes & fees

30 Nov - 1 Dec

HK$689 total

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19 Nov - 20 Nov

HK$873 total

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4 Nov - 5 Nov

HK$1,084 total

includes taxes & fees

24 Nov - 25 Nov

HK$976 total

includes taxes & fees

2 Nov - 3 Nov

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Top Soka University of America Hotel Reviews

La Casa del Camino

10/10 Excellent

"Nothing fancy but a perfect location. "

Laguna Cove Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"Though this is not a new hotel, our room was updated, clean and comfortable. The property is kept up nicely. Parking is free and there is complimentary coffee in the lobby area. The staff was friendly and accommodating. It's a nice hotel with good value for the area. One negative is that there is traffic noise from the main road out front, but that would be the case with most any hotel on the main road in Laguna Beach. "

Renaissance ClubSport Aliso Viejo Laguna Beach Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"Loved the gym, our room, restaurant, and close proximity to Ohana Fest for our anniversary weekend. Clean, modern facility with comfortable bed, spacious room, friendly staff, and gorgeous gym. We dined outside by the huge pool/ spa and enjoyed the weather and some sports playing on the outdoor TV. Love Renaissance ClubSport! We’ll book again soon. "

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

10/10 Excellent

"This little gem had everything I could have hoped for. From the moment I entered the lobby, I felt transported to the tranquility I so needed. The beach, the room, the staff, and the other guests did not disappoint. Congratulations on an exquisite remodel. 5 stars all the way!"

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 beautiful beaches or simply savour its cosy cafes.

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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 Surf & Sand Laguna Beach.

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, Cinepolis Luxury Cinemas and Soka Performing Arts Center. Spend some time exploring the the natural beauty of Main Beach Park, Heisler Park and Crescent Bay Point Park.

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Hotels close to Soka University of America with free breakfast

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