Day Trips from Orange County
Orange County is perfectly located for quick getaways, with beaches, mountains, and vibrant cities all just a short drive away. Having explored the area, I’ve found that day trips from Orange County are some of the easiest and most rewarding ways to experience Southern California’s beauty and culture without going too far from home.
I discovered charming coastal towns, scenic hikes with incredible views, and lively destinations filled with food, art, and history. From family-friendly adventures to relaxing escapes by the ocean, there’s no shortage of ways to spend a perfect day. Here are the day trips I recommend, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
1. Soaking up sun and stillness in Newport Beach
I drove about 30 minutes from inland Orange County for a day trip to Newport Beach.
Newport Beach, California, always feels like the absolute best mix of coastal luxury and laid-back surf culture. Just south of Los Angeles in Orange County, it offers miles of sandy shoreline, a sparkling harbor, and that spectacular SoCal sunshine that makes every day feel like summer. I loved starting mornings with a walk along the Newport Pier, watching surfers catch waves as the ocean breeze rolled in fresh and cool.
We found that Newport Beach had something for everyone. Families enjoyed the wide stretches of sand at Balboa Peninsula, while adventurers rented kayaks or paddleboards to explore the harbor. I thought it was especially cool to take the ferry over to Balboa Island, where charming cottages, boutiques, and frozen banana stands created a joyful, small-town vibe right in the middle of the city’s bustle.
What stood out to me most was the energy of the harbor itself. Yachts, sailboats, and fishing boats all moved in and out, giving the waterway a constant buzz of activity. At the same time, I liked how easy it was to slip into quieter spots—whether biking along the boardwalk, strolling the Back Bay trails, or watching the sunset from Corona del Mar State Beach. The variety made Newport feel both exciting and restorative.
My favorite moment was catching a fiery sunset over the Pacific, the sky glowing in shades of orange and pink while the waves lapped against the shore. For me, Newport Beach is a gem—scenic, lively, and the absolute best showcase of Southern California’s coastal spirit.
2. Discovering laid-back SoCal vibes in Torrance
We drove about 30 minutes south from downtown Los Angeles to Torrance. The road led past city neighborhoods and into a quieter coastal stretch of the South Bay.
Torrance, California, tucked into the South Bay of Los Angeles County, gave me a cool mix of laid-back beaches, suburban comfort, and hidden gems that felt both local and inviting. I loved how Torrance Beach stretched wide and calm, offering a spectacular spot to relax without the heavy crowds of Santa Monica or Venice. Walking the strand, with the Pacific breeze and views of Palos Verdes, immediately put me into that SoCal state of mind.
We found that the absolute best part of Torrance was its variety. By day, we could lounge on the sand or bike along the coast, and by evening, we were exploring Torrance’s food scene, which I thought was one of the most underrated in Los Angeles. From authentic Japanese dining in Torrance’s Little Tokyo to craft breweries and cozy cafés, the city offered a joyful range of flavors that made each meal memorable.
What stood out to me most was the balance between city convenience and coastal calm. I liked that Torrance wasn’t overly touristy—it had that local, easygoing vibe while still being close to big attractions. Shopping at Del Amo Fashion Center, one of the largest malls in the U.S., made for a cool change of pace after a morning by the ocean.
My favorite moment was watching the sunset from Torrance Beach, with the lights of the Santa Monica Mountains faintly glowing in the distance. For me, Torrance is a gem—scenic, relaxed, and the absolute best South Bay option for a beach day paired with authentic local culture.
3. Spinning wheels and sweet moments on Balboa Peninsula
If you have time in Newport Beach, be sure to spend at least a half day on Balboa Peninsula.
Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach instantly struck me as one of my favorite spots along the Southern California coast. Stretching three miles between the harbor and the Pacific, it had that spectacular mix of lively energy and laid-back beach charm. I loved starting the day at the Balboa Pier, watching surfers carve the waves while fishermen cast lines into the ocean breeze—it felt like the absolute best way to ease into the morning.
We found that the peninsula offered endless ways to enjoy the water. On the harbor side, kayaks, sailboats, and paddleboards created a joyful, bustling scene, while the ocean side delivered wide sandy beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply strolling along the shoreline. I thought it was cool how easy it was to hop on the Balboa Island Ferry, turning a simple beach day into a little coastal adventure.
What stood out most to me was the playful atmosphere of Balboa Village. From the historic Fun Zone with its arcade and Ferris wheel to the old-fashioned stands selling frozen bananas, it carried a nostalgic, family-friendly vibe that felt both timeless and exciting. I liked that it blended history and fun in such an easygoing way.
My favorite moment was biking the boardwalk at sunset, when the sky turned spectacular shades of orange and pink over the Pacific. For me, Balboa Peninsula is a gem—scenic, lively, and the absolute best showcase of Newport Beach’s coastal spirit, where every visit feels like a slice of classic California summer.
4. Listening to the stillness at Bolsa Chica Wetlands
I drove about 20 minutes south from Long Beach along Pacific Coast Highway.
The Bolsa Chica Wetlands, located near Huntington Beach in Southern California, is a place that always draws me back with its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Every time I visit, I feel like I’ve stepped into an outdoor classroom where wildlife and tidal waters tell their own story.
We wandered along the trails and boardwalks that stretch across the marsh, and I loved how close we could get to so many species of birds. I spotted pelicans, herons, and egrets, and each moment felt like a joyful reminder of how important this protected area really is.
I also appreciated how unusual it felt to find such a calm and wild refuge right next to the busy coast. It’s minutes from Pacific Coast Highway, yet it feels like a world away. We paused often just to take in the views of the open water and the gentle movement of the tides.
Learning about the history of the wetlands added even more meaning to the visit. I found it exciting to discover how this ecosystem was saved and restored through community efforts, making it a unique example of conservation success in California.
What stood out most for me was the sense of connection—between land and sea, wildlife and people. The Bolsa Chica Wetlands may not always be on everyone’s radar, but to me, it’s one of the most spectacular outdoor experiences near Huntington Beach, and a place I know I’ll keep returning to again and again.
5. Stepping off the map in Bommer Canyon
We drove about 20 minutes inland from Newport Beach to Bommer Canyon. The road curved past neighborhoods before opening into preserved open space in the Irvine Ranch foothills.
Bommer Canyon, tucked into Irvine and near the coast of Newport Beach, is a place I always find myself returning to when I need a peaceful escape into nature. As soon as we set foot on the trails, the rolling hills and wide-open spaces made me feel like I had stepped far away from the city.
I loved how unusual the landscape felt, with its mix of coastal sage scrub, shady oak groves, and grassy meadows. We hiked for hours, and each bend in the trail seemed to reveal a new view that kept us moving forward with excitement.
What I appreciate most is that Bommer Canyon has such a unique history—it was once part of Irvine’s cattle camp, and now it’s a carefully preserved natural area where wildlife thrives. On our walk, we spotted rabbits darting through the brush and hawks circling above, which made the experience even more joyful.
Some trails are open daily, while others can only be explored on special guided hikes, which adds to its sense of being a hidden corner of Orange County. I like that sense of exclusivity because it makes every visit feel like we’re part of something special.
For me, Bommer Canyon is one of the coolest outdoor getaways in Irvine—whether I’m hiking, biking, or just pausing to enjoy the quiet. It offers a balance of history, scenery, and serenity that always leaves me looking forward to my next visit.
6. Coastal calm and culture in Chula Vista
We drove about 20 minutes south from downtown San Diego to Chula Vista. The road passed palm-lined streets and opened to views of San Diego Bay and the coastal foothills.
Chula Vista, set just south of San Diego and close to the U.S.–Mexico border, always surprises me with how much there is to experience. Every time I visit, I find a new side of the city that makes me appreciate it even more.
We wandered through the Chula Vista Bayfront, and I loved the mix of waterfront parks, marinas, and open views of San Diego Bay. It felt so joyful to simply sit by the water and watch the sailboats drifting by, with the mountains rising in the distance.
I also thought it was unusual to find so many natural escapes right here. The Living Coast Discovery Center on the Sweetwater Marsh gave us a closer look at sea turtles, stingrays, and coastal wildlife, and the trails around the marshlands made me feel instantly connected to nature.
At the same time, the city has a vibrant cultural heartbeat. We explored the local eateries, sampled some incredible Mexican food, and strolled along Third Avenue, where the breweries and cafés had such a cool neighborhood vibe. It felt like we had stumbled upon a hidden gem just minutes away from downtown San Diego.
For me, Chula Vista is one of the most exciting places in Southern California because it blends coastal beauty, cultural richness, and everyday charm. Whether I’m here for a day trip or a longer stay, it always feels like a destination with endless discoveries waiting around the corner.
7. Flavors, Color and Creative Spark in Santa Ana
I drove about 40 minutes southeast from Los Angeles to Santa Ana. The road slid into the heart of Orange County’s urban core.
Santa Ana, right in the heart of Orange County and not far from the coast, always feels like a city full of energy and history. Every time I come here, I’m struck by how many layers it has—from its cultural landmarks to its vibrant food scene.
We wandered through the historic downtown, and I loved the way the old architecture blends with colorful murals and modern coffee shops. It gave the area such a cool, creative vibe that made simply walking the streets an experience in itself.
One of my favorite stops is the Bowers Museum. I could spend hours exploring its exhibits, which range from global art to California history. It always feels like a joyful journey around the world without leaving the city.
I also thought it was unusual to find so many hidden gems in the dining scene. From authentic Mexican street food to innovative gastropubs, we sampled dishes that felt both comforting and exciting, and every bite told a story of Santa Ana’s rich cultural mix.
For me, Santa Ana is one of the most underrated cities in Southern California. It’s not just about attractions—it’s about the atmosphere, the people, and the sense of discovery. Each visit leaves me with a deeper appreciation for its unique character and a strong desire to come back again soon.
My personal highlights:
Some of my favorite Orange County day trips include Laguna Beach for its art galleries and coves, Temecula for its unique wine country charm, and the underrated mountain town of Idyllwild for hiking and peaceful forest views. Each one delivers the best mix of scenery, culture, and relaxation.
Conclusion: Let the Day Be Enough
After visiting all these places I realized how much variety this region truly offers. Each destination carried its own personality. I loved how every spot gave me a different side of Southern California, yet all shared that same golden light, ocean breeze, and easygoing spirit that make the area so special.
We found that the absolute best part of these places was their balance. Beaches like Newport and Balboa brought energy, families, and sunsets over the Pacific, while Bolsa Chica Wetlands and Bommer Canyon offered underrated escapes into nature where wildlife and open space stole the show. Torrance added that cool, relaxed local beach-town feel, and Santa Ana gave the trip a joyful cultural pulse with art, food, and history. Together, they created a spectacular mix of experiences in a compact area.
What stood out to me most was how accessible everything felt. In one day, I could hike among rolling hills, kayak in a harbor, spot herons in the wetlands, and finish with dinner and live music in Santa Ana. My favorite moments were often simple—watching surfers from the pier, hearing birds overhead in Bolsa Chica, or sitting in a plaza downtown at sunset. For me, these six places are gems—diverse, scenic, and the absolute best reminder that Orange County is far more than beaches; it’s a blend of nature, culture, and coastal magic.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
