"Orange County’s scene is classic SoCal with a polished twist: golden beaches, surfer towns, upscale shopping, and palm-lined streets that seem built for cruising. It’s the kind of place where I can catch a wave, stroll an art festival, and toast with oceanfront cocktails—all in the same day."
I’ve got flip-flops on my feet, sunglasses perched high, and the Pacific sparkling in the distance—all wrapped in that easy-breezy Orange County glow. Who knew paradise could be this perfectly manicured?
I head to Laguna Beach for cliffside art galleries, tidepool walks, and panoramic ocean views. Over in Newport Beach, I bike the Balboa Peninsula. For family thrills, Disneyland in Anaheim never fails to dazzle, while Huntington Beach offers sandy volleyball courts, surf competitions, and classic pier vibes. And when I want a luxe retail escape, South Coast Plaza delivers world-class brands in a sunlit space.
"Sun, surf, shopping, and SoCal magic? Orange County is fantastic!"
Best Things to Do in Orange County:
1. Hike and Spot Wildlife at Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve
Rating: ★★★★★
More than 1,300 acres of coastal estuary await guests at the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve with the possibility to spot a wide variety of animals. While exploring the open water, salt marsh, coastal dunes, freshwater marsh, mudflats, seabird nesting islands, and riparian habitat, it is more than likely that guests will observe at least a few of the 200+ avian species located within the reserve.
The site, which is now under continual restoration to reverse degradation, was historically used for natural gas and oil production activities. Hiking and tours are available.
2. Ride and Play at Adventure City
Adventure City is a family-themed adventure park with a variety of attractions to keep everyone entertained.
Attractions are offered for children and adults of all heights, ages, interests, and energy levels; everything ranging from a small rollercoaster to a climbing wall, an arcade, party station, and even a petting zoo.
Adventure City is available for large groups as well as corporate events, and no matter how many or how few guests come together, parking is always free. After an adventure-filled day, guests can enjoy all their favorite theme park foods such as pizza, corn dogs, ice cream, churros, and more.
3. Catch a Game and Cheer for the Angels at Angel Stadium
Angels Stadium is a unique way to experience America’s favorite pastime. The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim have been working to perfect their sport since 1961, entertaining millions of fans over the years in Angels Stadium.
There are a variety of ways to customize the baseball experience, and Angels Stadium offers many economical options. Single, group, military and first responder, season, and discount tickets are all offered as well as special promotions and events that can be found on the Angels website. Day and evening games are available depending on the schedule, but both offer a great way to experience a day out at a ball game.
4. Ride on the Ferris Wheel at Balboa Fun Zone
Dating back to 1936, the Balboa Fun Zone Ferris wheel has been a prominent day and night landmark on the Newport Harbor scene. Whether patrons are searching for a fun date to the beach, a special night out on the town, or perhaps a picturesque ride high above the skyline, the Balboa Peninsula of Newport Beach is a wonderful destination choice.
Ferries are available to carry passengers to surrounding islands and a historic pier still stands in the sight of Glen Martin’s historic first water-to-water flight from Balboa to Catalina Island in 1912.
600 East Bay Ave #R, Newport Beach, CA 92661, Phone: 949-438-6273
5. Explore Art and Culture at Bowers Museum
The fine arts have never been more accessible in Orange County than they are now, thanks to the prestigious Bowers Museum in Santa Ana.
Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, an honor only 5% of museums nationwide receive, the Bowers Museum strives to celebrate world cultures through their respective arts, and has been doing so since 1936. All ages are welcome and there is a special “Kidseum” available for children as well as the options for special events for groups.
You won’t want to miss the opportunity to visit this world-renowned attraction.
2002 North Main Street, Santa Ana, CA 92706, Phone: 714-567-3600
6. Explore the Tide Pools at Crystal Cove State Park
Crystal Cove State Park is one of the largest remaining natural seashores in Orange County.
With almost 2,500 acres of land and over 3 miles of beach, Crystal Cove State Park is a peaceful respite from the rest of busy Southern California, with 15 miles of established trails ranging in difficulty from easy to strenuous.
Lovers of trekking, bike riding, or even equestrian sports will never be bored on Crystal Cove State Park’s expansive trails, while those who love the water will adore the beaches and the offshore underwater area. For the more historically inclined, the park contains a federally listed Historic District. You can also admire an old seaside colony of picturesque cottages from the mid-20th century.
8471 N. Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, Phone: 949-494-3539
Family-friendly Things to Do in Orange County:
7. Have Hands-On Fun at Discovery Cube
Inspire, Educate, Impact. These are the three goals of Discovery Cube in Santa Ana and they feature a huge collection of varying exhibits, tours, galleries, research stations, and engaging activities for children of all ages.
Parents are encouraged to take the back seat and allow their children to explore the many facets of their imaginations, curiosity, and senses.
The Discovery Cube is perfect for birthday parties, field trips, and simply allowing children to experience new and enthralling things; it’s a trip they’re sure to remember. More information about special events and exhibits can be found on the website or by phone.
2500 N. Main Street, Santa Ana, CA 92705, Phone: 714-542-2823
8. Dive Into the Magic at Disney California Adventure
Disney California Adventure has similar things to offer as the more famous Disneyland, except with far more opportunities to experience specifically themed rides and adventures.
Characters stretching over the course of Disney’s creative spectrum are featured, so everyone is able to find something or someone they relate to and love. There are seasonal special attractions so it is recommended by Disney to check their website or call their hotline for more detailed information, as Disney associates are more than willing to help create the perfect vacation.
1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802, Phone: 714-781-4636
9. Experience Timeless Magic and Adventure at Disneyland
Rollercoasters, cartoon characters, fine dining, and interactive play spaces will all come to life at the most magical place on earth. With old favorites and new discoveries, Disneyland is a fun-filled adventure perfect for anyone and everyone.
Disneyland offers it all, from highly rated hotel suites, exquisite dining options, and immersive tickets to budget hotel rooms, classic theme park food, and shaking hands and taking photos with a seemingly endless cast of characters.
To plan the perfect vacation, it is highly recommended to reference the website or call the Disney hotline, as speaking with a trained Disney associate can help create the perfect bundle for any family or individual.
1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802, Phone: 714-781-4636
10. Surf, Picnic, and Relax by the Ocean at Doheny State Beach
Doheny State Beach in Dana Point is a California State Park that specializes in the viewing of and public education about marine and avian creatures native to the area.
There is an interpretive center designed to help guests receive the most from their visit by offering interpretive programs, maps, and general information about the park and wildlife.
Camping, hiking, and swimming are all available at the park, and large picnic areas can be rented out for group events and outings.
There is an aquarium for more convenient viewing of marine animals, and children's programs are offered throughout the year. Dana Point offers other lovely beaches (and attractions) you can visit.
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