Find hotels in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA from £48

  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation
  • Treat yourself

    Save instantly and earn perks with One Key
  • 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

Quality Inn Lake Elsinore I-15

Quality Inn Lake Elsinore I-15
2.5 star property
Lake Elsinore
7.2 out of 10, Good, (1,003 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Serene lakeside retreat with outdoor pool in the entertainment district.
"Love the waffles Friendly staffs"
United States
Estela
The price is £61
includes taxes & fees
12 Feb - 13 Feb
Quality Inn Lake Elsinore I-15

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, (1,000 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Enjoy the outdoor pool and free amenities in this Lake Elsinore retreat.
"Spotless room. Polite staff. Ease in getting in. Nice location."
United States
Roger
The price is £74
includes taxes & fees
16 Feb - 17 Feb
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, (968 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Experience modern comfort in Foothill Ranch, steps from Orange County attractions.
"The best hotel in the areas "
United States
Bing
The price is £104
includes taxes & fees
27 Feb - 28 Feb
Staybridge Suites Lake Forest by IHG

Fairfield Inn & Suites Riverside Corona/Norco

Fairfield Inn & Suites Riverside Corona/Norco
3.0 star property
Norco
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,005 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Spacious accommodation with outdoor pool near Ontario Mills Shopping Mall.
"The room was clean, the bed was comfortable and the breakfast was pretty good. "
United States
Cynthia
The price is £89
includes taxes & fees
16 Feb - 17 Feb
Fairfield Inn & Suites Riverside Corona/Norco

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, (1,019 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Relax at this Lake Forest spa hotel with complimentary amenities and pool.
"Great customer service, the hotel was very clean and breakfast was really good. "
United States
Laura
The price is £94
includes taxes & fees
16 Feb - 17 Feb
Ayres Hotel & Spa Mission Viejo – Lake Forest

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, (1,059 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Enjoy quiet luxury in Costa Mesa, steps from premier shopping and dining options.
"Friendly staffs and the room is exceptionally clean and comfortable for the price! "
United States
Narumol
The price is £100
includes taxes & fees
16 Feb - 17 Feb
Crowne Plaza Costa Mesa Orange County by IHG

Lemon Heights Inn

Lemon Heights Inn
2.0 star property
Tustin
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (39 reviews)
"Check in was super quick and easy, the room was very clean, it was quiet. Great stay!"
United States
Megan
The price is £65
includes taxes & fees
3 Mar - 4 Mar
Lemon Heights Inn

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, (2,131 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Walk to South Coast Plaza shops from this beach-close hotel with outdoor pool.
"Perfect location, clean, great breakfast, courteous staff. I'd stay here again."
United States
Martha
The price is £87
includes taxes & fees
16 Feb - 17 Feb
Ramada by Wyndham Costa Mesa/Newport Beach

Tru by Hilton Norco Eastvale

Tru by Hilton Norco Eastvale
3.0 star property
Norco
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (457 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Experience Norco's contemporary comfort near Ontario Mills and California Baptist University.
"Great place!"
United States
Zlatko
The price is £80
includes taxes & fees
16 Feb - 17 Feb
Tru by Hilton Norco Eastvale

Costa Mesa Inn

Costa Mesa Inn
3.0 star property
Mesa Verde
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1,379 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Convenient beach getaway with free perks, just minutes from Huntington Pier.
"Great place to stay , very clean"
United States
Rafaela
Costa Mesa Inn

Renaissance Newport Beach Hotel

Renaissance Newport Beach Hotel
4.0 star property
Airport Area
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,009 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Elevating your coastal escape with upscale comfort near shopping and beaches.
"Great stay"
United States
George
The price is £138
includes taxes & fees
15 Feb - 16 Feb
Renaissance Newport Beach Hotel

Best Western Plus Newport Mesa Inn

Best Western Plus Newport Mesa Inn
3.0 star property
Costa Mesa
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,028 reviews)
"Clean room, good breakfast and great dinner recommendation from the front desk."
United States
Julie
The price is £97
includes taxes & fees
15 Feb - 16 Feb
Best Western Plus Newport Mesa Inn

Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo

Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo
2.5 star property
Mission Viejo
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Modern comfort in Mission Viejo with outdoor pool and hot tub for relaxation.
"The hotel was very clean, quiet, and the breakfast was great"
United States
Joe
The price is £89
includes taxes & fees
1 Mar - 2 Mar
Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo

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)
  • cleanliness
    Seaside retreat near Huntington Pier offers rooftop terrace and complimentary parking.
"Clean rooms, great location."
United States
Kevin
The price is £96
includes taxes & fees
17 Feb - 18 Feb
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, (1,192 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Relax in Mission Viejo with a refreshing pool and complimentary breakfast.
"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 £78
includes taxes & fees
1 Mar - 2 Mar
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, (1,004 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Stay by Orange County Fairgrounds and South Coast Plaza with a complimentary breakfast.
"Very happy with our stay we will be back"
United States
Renee
The price is £117
includes taxes & fees
16 Feb - 17 Feb
Hampton Inn by Hilton Costa Mesa Newport Beach

OC Hotel Costa Mesa

OC Hotel Costa Mesa
2.5 star property
East Side Costa Mesa
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,467 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Enjoy coastal luxury with easy access to shopping, beaches, and OC hotspots.
"Excellent stay as always "
United States
Jully
OC Hotel Costa Mesa

Star Inn Motel

Star Inn Motel
2.0 star property
East Side Costa Mesa
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (830 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Convenient Costa Mesa motel provides easy access to Orange County attractions.
"Great place, great price, close to venues, restaurants and airport. "
United States
MARCO
Star Inn Motel

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, (1,097 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Relax in comfort near Fashion Island with a refreshing pool and hot tub experience.
"Great hotel for the price and excellent location."
United States
kristin
The price is £145
includes taxes & fees
22 Feb - 23 Feb
Holiday Inn Express Newport Beach by IHG

San Clemente Inn

San Clemente Inn
3.0 star property
San Clemente
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,432 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Coastal getaway with poolside comfort just moments from San Clemente Pier.
"Great location "
United States
Samuel
The price is £70
includes taxes & fees
19 Feb - 20 Feb
San Clemente Inn
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 Holiday Sale

Members save up to 40% on hotels and holiday 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

Find out more about Rancho Santa Margarita

Top reasons to visit Rancho Santa Margarita

  • Scenic Golfing: Enjoy a round at Tijeras Creek Golf Club, renowned for its breathtaking views and challenging course.
  • Beautiful Lake: Explore the picturesque Rancho Santa Margarita Lake, perfect for leisurely walks and picnics.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Experience a variety of family-oriented attractions and adventures suitable for all ages.
  • Urban Parks: Relax in the charming urban parks, offering green spaces for unwinding and outdoor fun.
  • Convenient Location: Benefit from easy access to nearby beaches and attractions, enhancing your holiday experience.

Find great hotels near Rancho Santa Margarita

Discover a delightful range of hotel accommodations in Rancho Santa Margarita, California, perfect for every type of traveller. From family-friendly resorts to adventure-focused hotels, the area offers a variety of options to ensure a memorable stay. Whether you're seeking beachfront relaxation or thrilling outdoor activities, you'll find the ideal lodging to suit your needs in and around Rancho Santa Margarita.

  • Laguna Hills Lodge: Nestled 3.1km from Rancho Santa Margarita, Laguna Hills Lodge offers a sophisticated business-themed retreat perfect for corporate travellers. The hotel features a well-equipped Business Centre and accessible meeting rooms, making it ideal for those needing to conduct meetings or work remotely. With its serene gardens and outdoor pool, guests can unwind after a busy day. The property’s close proximity to major business districts ensures convenience for professionals on the go.
  • La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Irvine Spectrum: Located 6.2km from Rancho Santa Margarita, La Quinta Inn & Suites is a welcoming choice for families and business travellers alike. This pet-friendly hotel provides a range of family-friendly amenities, including complimentary cribs for younger guests. Business travellers will appreciate the dedicated Business Centre and meeting rooms. The hotel’s pet policy allows dogs and cats, ensuring your furry companions can join the adventure. A variety of nearby dining options make it a great base for exploring.
  • Extended Stay America Suites Orange County Irvine Spectrum: Situated 5.0km from Rancho Santa Margarita, Extended Stay America caters to both business and pet-friendly travellers. With spacious suites featuring kitchen facilities, it’s perfect for extended stays or those who prefer self-catering options. The hotel is equipped with a Business Centre and offers a flexible pet policy, allowing pets with a variable fee. Guests can enjoy the comfort of home while being close to the vibrant attractions of Orange County.

Where to stay in and around Rancho Santa Margarita

Rancho Santa Margarita, California, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and stunning scenery, making it an ideal summer getaway. Visitors can explore the picturesque Rancho Santa Margarita Lake, enjoy convenient access to the freeway, and uncover the charm of nearby cities. Whether you seek outdoor adventures, romantic strolls, or a vibrant atmosphere, this city provides an excellent base for memorable excursions and experiences.

  • Laguna Beach: Nestled approximately 6.2km from Rancho Santa Margarita, Laguna Beach is a picturesque coastal city known for its stunning beaches and vibrant arts scene. The area experiences a moderately seasonal influx of visitors, with peak times occurring from April through July. Travellers flock here for family outings and outdoor adventures, enjoying activities such as beach strolls, shopping at local boutiques, and exploring the scenic boardwalk. The local attractions, including family-friendly beaches and charming tourist precincts, make it a delightful destination for those seeking a quintessential Californian beach experience.
  • Las Flores: Situated within Rancho Santa Margarita, the quaint village of Las Flores offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and urban charm. With a steady stream of visitors year-round, peaks occur in April, September, and December. Families and outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy here, including access to shopping centres, golf courses, and parks. The nearby beaches and family-friendly attractions make it an ideal spot for those looking to unwind while still being close to urban amenities. Las Flores is a hidden gem that promises a city-themed experience with a relaxed vibe.
  • Coto de Caza: Located merely 1.2km from Rancho Santa Margarita, Coto de Caza is a charming village famed for its outdoor recreation and family-friendly atmosphere. The area sees a consistent flow of visitors, especially during peak months in April, August, and December. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the top-notch golf courses and beautiful lakes, while families can enjoy nearby beaches and theme parks. With its serene environment and access to various sports activities, Coto de Caza is perfect for those seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure.

Things to do near Rancho Santa Margarita

Rancho Santa Margarita offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and outdoor pursuits, ideal for a city-themed holiday. Visitors can enjoy shopping at local centres and malls, while golf enthusiasts will appreciate the Tijeras Creek Golf Club, known for its scenic views and challenging course. This charming destination promises a memorable experience for all types of travellers.

Shopping

For shopping in Rancho Santa Margarita, visit Costume Castle, just 3.1km away, for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, head to Irvine Spectrum Center, 5.0km away, featuring diverse shops and entertainment, or The Market Place, 8.1km away, offering a vibrant city atmosphere.

Recreation

Experience invigorating activities at the Coto de Caza Golf and Racquet Club, where you can enjoy outdoor sports amidst beautiful surroundings. For relaxation, indulge in soothing treatments at Massage Envy Spa, offering a serene atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of paddling at Laguna Beach, located 6.2km from Rancho Santa Margarita, where the waters are perfect for adventure seekers. Enjoy a game at Felipe Tennis Center, only 1.2km away, or hike the scenic Holy Jim Trailhead, situated 5.6km from the town, for breathtaking views.

Nightlife

Experience a vibrant nightlife in Rancho Santa Margarita with a film at Regal Edwards Kaleidoscope, or enjoy a cultural performance at Soka Performing Arts Center. For a thrill, the Giant Wheel at Irvine Spectrum Centre offers rides and entertainment, creating a perfect evening out.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rancho Santa Margarita

To save money on your trip to Rancho Santa Margarita, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January to February or November, and aim for a Monday stay, as Saturday will be pricier. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to filter for budget-friendly accommodations, including eco-certified options. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal for additional savings. Explore free activities in the area and use public transport where possible to further cut costs. Always keep an eye out for hotel deals and loyalty programme offers to maximise your budget.

  • 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: Utilise Expedia's search tool to tailor your options according to your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservation 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 blend of family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and urban exploration. Visitors can enjoy the nearby beaches, unwind in urban parks, and appreciate the local churches. This vibrant area caters to those seeking a mix of beach relaxation, outdoor experiences, and city charm, making it an ideal destination for a memorable holiday.

  • Dana Point Harbor: Experience the stunning coastal scenery and vibrant beach vibes at Dana Point Harbor, a picturesque spot perfect for leisurely strolls, dining, and water activities. Enjoy the views of boats bobbing in the harbour while soaking up the sun.
  • Saddleback Church: Immerse yourself in the rich culture and community spirit at Saddleback Church. This renowned church offers a welcoming atmosphere and engaging services that reflect its commitment to fostering connections and spiritual growth.
  • Victoria Beach: Discover the enchanting atmosphere of Victoria Beach, where golden sands meet the sparkling ocean. Relax in this serene spot, known for its stunning tide pools and iconic beach tower, making it a perfect retreat for sunbathers and nature lovers alike.

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 (dry). 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 RainSunnyAverageAverage
March57.9°F (14.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
April61.0°F (16.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
May63.1°F (17.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June67.6°F (19.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July72.1°F (22.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August73.8°F (23.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
September73.0°F (22.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October68.5°F (20.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
November62.4°F (16.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December56.5°F (13.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Rancho Santa Margarita

When visiting Rancho Santa Margarita, you can fly into several major airports. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is 31.7km away, with nearby hotels like The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey, and Fairmont Miramar Hotel, both around 5.0km from LAX. John Wayne Airport (SNA) is a more convenient option at 9.3km, with luxurious stays such as The Resort at Pelican Hill just 3.7km away. Long Beach Municipal Airport (LGB), located 21.1km from Rancho Santa Margarita, offers hotels like Hyatt Regency Long Beach and Hyatt Centric The Pike, both 3.1km from the airport. Each airport provides accessible transport options 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 £48 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