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

14 West Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"Nice Room, very convenient for beach access, and lovely atmosphere "

Montage Laguna Beach

10/10 Excellent

"First class from check-in to check-out. I didn’t expect this level of hospitality here. Matt at the front desk and everyone else made us feel very at home. The property is very nice to walk am the facials at the spa (Brittany) were top notch. I forgot the name of the bartender/barista that makes the coffee in the mornings but he is going to put the local coffee shops out of business. Thank you for a great time. "

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 savor its top-notch restaurants.

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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 seaside 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 La Casa del Camino.

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 Rivian South Coast Theater. Spend some time exploring the natural beauty of Main Beach Park, Heisler Park, and Crescent Bay Point Park.

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Our top choices for Soka University of America hotels

Renaissance ClubSport Aliso Viejo Laguna Beach Hotel

Homewood Suites by Hilton Aliso Viejo - Laguna Beach

Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo

Laguna Hills Lodge

Ayres Hotel Laguna Woods - Aliso Viejo

The Tides Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach House

Laguna Surf

Capri Laguna on the Beach

Le Petit Pali Laguna Beach

Hilton Garden Inn Irvine Spectrum Lake Forest

Laguna Cove Hotel

Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa

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

La Casa del Camino

Hampton Inn by Hilton Irvine Spectrum/Lake Forest

Comfort Inn & Suites Irvine Spectrum

Laguna Surf Lodge by SCP Hotels

Crescent Bay Inn

Fairfield Inn by Marriott Mission Viejo / Orange County