Hotels in Santa Ana

Santa Ana: Where Coastal Charm Meets Thrilling Adventures

Discover Santa Ana, California, a vibrant city nestled just inland from the sparkling beaches of Orange County. Rich in culture and history, its downtown area boasts charming boutiques, eclectic art galleries, and museums like the Bowers Museum, showcasing the region's diverse heritage. Enjoy the nearby thrills of Disneyland and Knott's Berry Farm, or relax at the stunning coastline of nearby beaches. Santa Ana's unique blend of urban and coastal charm makes it an ideal destination for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts alike, promising unforgettable experiences at every turn. For the best hotel rates in Santa Ana and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Santa Ana

Some of the best places to stay in Santa Ana are Downtown Los Angeles, Anaheim Resort and Balboa Peninsula. Downtown Los Angeles offers vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions, making it ideal for urban explorers. Anaheim Resort is perfect for families, with proximity to Disneyland and various entertainment options. Balboa Peninsula boasts stunning beaches and a relaxed atmosphere, great for those seeking sun and surf. Hotel accommodations range from affordable motels to luxurious stays in each area. For first-time visitors, Anaheim Resort is the best choice, providing a mix of fun and convenience. Here are some of the best hotels in Santa Ana that our travelers love:

1. Downtown Los AngelesOpens in a new window: A vibrant hub of entertainment and business, Downtown Los Angeles is home to iconic attractions like Universal Studios Hollywood and the Crypto.com Arena. With a mix of family-friendly activities and professional venues, this area caters to a diverse range of travelers. For a luxurious stay, consider SLS Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Beverly HillsOpens in a new window, which offers business amenities like a 24-hour business center and conference space, making it ideal for business travelers. Alternatively, Conrad Los AngelesOpens in a new window is perfect for families and pet owners, featuring a pool with safety measures for children and a pet-friendly policy. If you're looking for a romantic getaway, The Ritz-Carlton, Los AngelesOpens in a new window provides unique decor, spa services, and romantic packages for an unforgettable experience.
2. Anaheim ResortOpens in a new window: Known for its family-friendly attractions like Disneyland® Resort and Disney California Adventure® Park, Anaheim Resort is a magical destination for visitors of all ages. The area also hosts the Anaheim Convention Center for business events. For a luxurious stay, The Westin Anaheim ResortOpens in a new window offers a city-centered location with extensive business amenities, while Disney's Grand Californian Hotel and SpaOpens in a new window provides a similar upscale experience with accessible business services. If you're seeking adventure, JW Marriott Anaheim ResortOpens in a new window features direct beach access and offers various recreational activities, making it ideal for thrill-seekers.
3. Balboa PeninsulaOpens in a new window: Balboa Peninsula is a picturesque destination known for its stunning beaches and outdoor activities. With attractions like Disneyland® Resort and Fashion Island nearby, it’s perfect for family getaways. For a luxurious experience, Lido House, Autograph CollectionOpens in a new window features a full spa and pool service, ensuring relaxation after your beach adventures. If you prefer direct beach access, Paséa Hotel & SpaOpens in a new window offers a variety of adventure sports options, while Balboa Bay ResortOpens in a new window provides business amenities alongside recreational activities, blending work and play seamlessly.

Things to do in Santa Ana for first time

Three days in Santa Ana offer an exciting blend of sun-soaked beaches, lush parks, and scenic mountains. Enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking and boating, immerse yourself in vibrant art scenes, shop at eclectic boutiques, and soak up live music, making this destination a must-visit for any traveler. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Santa Ana:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the iconic Huntington Beach Pier, where you can enjoy stunning ocean views and watch surfers ride the waves. After soaking in the ambiance, head over to Huntington Beach Beaches for some sunbathing or beach volleyball. Don't forget to grab a bite at one of the nearby eateries along the beachfront. As the day winds down, make your way to Huntington State Beach, perfect for a peaceful evening stroll along the shore as the sun sets, painting the sky in vibrant hues.
• Day 2: Start your day at the magnificent Crystal Cathedral, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Take some time to explore the spiritual and artistic aspects of this landmark. Next, visit the Bren Events Center, where you might catch a local event or sports game, adding an element of excitement to your day. Wrap it up with a visit to the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can observe a variety of local wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of nature trails that wind through this serene environment.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Newport Pier, where you can enjoy breakfast at a nearby café with ocean views. Afterward, make your way to the enchanting Crystal Cove State Park, where you can hike along scenic trails or relax on the beach. The day culminates with a visit to the Christ Cathedral Campus, where you can admire the beautiful grounds and reflect on your journey. This combination of scenic beauty and tranquility provides a perfect end to your Santa Ana adventure.

5 tips to find a great Santa Ana hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Santa Ana is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. Domestic travelers should aim to book their flights at least 2 months in advance for the best deals, while international travelers should plan to secure their tickets at least 8 months ahead to enjoy budget-friendly prices. To truly experience the area, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended, allowing you to explore attractions like the beautiful beaches and exciting theme parks. Santa Ana offers great value for money, making it an ideal destination for those on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Santa Ana, Hotels.com offers a great selection of options. To explore these opportunities, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section of the site, where you could find discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of snagging a great deal, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, keeping you informed about flash sales and special promotions that can help you save on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you could save on hotel expenses in Santa Ana.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Santa Ana usually tends to be more expensive. If you opt for accommodations that are farther from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like driving, taking the bus, biking, or walking to explore the area while saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Santa Ana. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

What to eat in Santa Ana

Here are some must-try dishes in Santa Ana, California, United States of America:

• Tacos: Santa Ana is renowned for its vibrant taco scene, featuring an array of choices from classic carne asada to unique offerings like fish and vegan tacos. Often served with fresh cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime, these handheld delights are perfect for spontaneous dining.
• Pho: Experience the rich flavors of pho, a beloved Vietnamese noodle soup that warms the soul. Local spots serve up steaming bowls filled with fragrant broth, rice noodles, and your choice of protein, garnished with fresh herbs and lime, making it a comforting meal any time of day.
• Korean BBQ: Dive into the interactive dining experience of Korean BBQ, where you grill marinated meats right at your table. This communal style of eating encourages sharing and conversation, making it a perfect choice for groups looking to enjoy delicious flavors together.

Best time to go to Santa Ana

Santa Ana experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 56.8°F (13.8°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 75.9°F (24.4°C). December is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Santa Ana, March, April, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by dry rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by dry to light rainfall and sunny conditions.