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

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Top Soka University of America Hotel Reviews

Laguna Beach House

10/10 Excellent

"Everything about this property makes it special. If you want a cool vintage-feel beach hotel with a surfer vibe, this is it. The staff were available and helpful with all our requests. Our room - spacious, comfortable and quiet, with an ocean view. Pool, hot tub and fire table area were all well maintained. We really enjoyed this special find and will be back. LOVED IT!!!"

Capri Laguna on the Beach

10/10 Excellent

"This boutique hotel was everything we wanted! Ocean view was stunning. Pool was beautiful and the cleanest I’ve seen in a hotel pool. Staff was extremely friendly. Nick, Bachir, Morgan and Esmt went above and beyond to make our stay fabulous. Rooms were very clean. Thank you for helping to make our mother/daughter trip memorable!"

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 savor its charming coffeehouses.

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Orange County Natural History Museum

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Orange County Natural History Museum during your trip to 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 cozy coffeehouses and surfing. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, check out the 7 hotels and other accommodations you'll find within a mile.

What's the best hotel 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 traveler 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 will I find close to Soka University of America?

Expedia has 7 hotels and other accommodations 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 bookings are fully refundable if cancelled before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which in most cases is within 24 or 48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If you have a reservation that's non-refundable, you might be able to still cancel and get a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Plug in your dates, click on "Search", then use the "fully refundable" filter to view the best options available near Soka University of America.

Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip in the area near Soka University of America?

For more information about updating your stay near Soka University of America or cancelling it, go to https://www.expedia.com/service/.

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

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Compare 3,264 hotels close to Soka University of America with room rates, reviews, and availability. Most hotels are fully refundable.

Renaissance ClubSport Aliso Viejo Laguna Beach Hotel

Homewood Suites by Hilton Aliso Viejo - Laguna Beach

Ayres Hotel Laguna Woods - Aliso Viejo

Capri Laguna on the Beach

Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo

Laguna Hills Lodge

Laguna Beach House

La Casa del Camino

Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa

The Tides Laguna Beach

Le Petit Pali Laguna Beach

14 West Hotel

Laguna Cove Hotel

Hilton Garden Inn Irvine Spectrum Lake Forest

Laguna Surf Lodge by SCP Hotels

SCP Seven4One

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

Hampton Inn by Hilton Irvine Spectrum/Lake Forest

Tiller House, Laguna Hills, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Fairfield Inn by Marriott Mission Viejo / Orange County

Top Soka University of America Hotel Reviews

Laguna Beach House

Hotels near other Soka University of America attractions

Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park

Orange County Natural History Museum

Frequently asked questions

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