Orange County is the perfect place for those looking to experience true California adventure. With a combination of vibrant cities, this county offers something for everyone. Boasting world-class dining, shopping, and outdoor adventures, Orange County has something here for all ages and interests.
SoCal is a great place to visit any time of year. But some seasons offer unique experiences that can’t be found elsewhere. The beaches are alive during the spring and summer with people enjoying the waves and sand. Fall brings perfect weather for outdoor activities like hiking and golfing. In winter, you might even get to see a snowflake or two on Saddleback Mountain. No matter when you come, there’s always something to do in OC.
Orange County Beach Activities
Doheny State Beach: This incredible beach is one of the most beautiful in Southern California and makes for a perfect day in Dana Point. It’s a great place to spend an entire day or even just a few hours soaking up some sun and enjoying the scenery. There are more than two miles of beachfront that you can explore. As well as plenty of activities you can enjoy with your friends and family, like volleyball games, fishing opportunities, and surfing lessons for beginners. The water at this beach is always clean, so it’s also perfect if you want to go swimming too! They have showers on-site, so feel free to rinse off before going out into town again afterward.
Laguna Beach: This beach town is a must-see for art lovers. There’s always something new to see with dozens of galleries and artist studios. The area’s natural beauty is also on display with crashing waves, rocky cliffs, and sandy beaches. There are plenty of amazing restaurants and shops here if you need a break from the sun. The art museum has a really nice collection of California Impressionist paintings. Shaw’s Cove is a widely known as an iconic OC beach with excellent diving opportunities right from the shore.
Crystal Cove State Park: This park is located between Laguna Beach and Newport Beach and is a great place to go for a walk, run, bike ride, or just relax by the ocean. The coves here offer tranquil beaches and tide pools. While the other side of the Pacific Coast Highway has all-natural hills to bike or hike. It’s also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Southern California, so bring your swimsuit! The park offers camping and historic beachfront cottages to rent for those looking for an extended trip. If you spend too much time in the sun or sore muscles need some relief for sore muscles after a long hike try a soothing CBD salve.
Orange County Outdoor Adventures
Fullerton Arboretum: Located on Fullerton College campus, this arboretum features over 40 acres of plants and trees spread throughout ten gardens, including the Japanese Garden and Chinese Garden. In it you will find one of the most beautiful parks in Orange County and an excellent place for some peace or quiet. It also has many social opportunities with friends or family thanks to its wide variety of activities like education lectures, yoga classes, hikes in nature preserves nearby- even dog walking! There are plenty of events happening year-round, so you can always find something new to do. It’s a wonderful spot to sip on a premium CBD tea and take in the sights.
Balboa Island: You can access this beach-side community by taking the historic ferry from Newport Beach. Visitors will find themselves surrounded by sandy beaches as well as colorful homes on this charming town not far off the Pacific Coast Highway. Balboa Islands’ most famous landmark would have to be its iconic carousel which has been operating since 1924! Balboa Island offers more than 100 restaurants, shops, and boutiques for visitors to explore or enjoy some of the best live entertainment in Orange County with their families. It should definitely not miss your list if you’re looking for beautiful California coastal communities.
Catalina Island: Just a short ferry ride from Newport Beach, Catalina is an excellent place for hiking, swimming, and just enjoying the beautiful surroundings. There’s also plenty of opportunity for fishing, golfing, hiking, ziplining, and many other recreational activities. Make sure to check out the Casino building while you’re there – it’s a lovely piece of architecture. Nature fans will enjoy the Wrigley Memorial & Botanical gardens, which hosts several endemic plants found only on Catalina Island.
Theme Parks and Sports
Angels Stadium: Take a walk through the gates of Angel Stadium and you’ll feel like an explorer stepping into uncharted territory. With towering lights, hustling crowds, tempting smells wafting over concession areas with every type of food imaginable, or souvenirs lining up at merchandising stands – there’s something for any baseball fan. For those looking for the quintessential summertime activity in Orange County, it doesn’t get any better than a game day in Anaheim.
Disneyland: The original Disney amusement park can be found right here in Anaheim. It is a must-see if you want to experience Walt’s magic firsthand. Disneyland is a destination stop that attracts guests from around the world. So, whether you’re local or visiting, one day won’t be enough! Plan an extended stay to get the whole Disneyland experience; after all, this place has been making memories since 1955.
Knott’s Berry Farm: The original Knott family farm in Buena Park has all sorts of cultures in one location. This includes Western Americana that will make you feel like you stepped back in time while still keeping up with modern times. You will find it excellent spot for families looking to have fun together without going too far from home base. Knott’s Berry Farm is sure to do the trick if thrill-seekers are looking for their fix outside of Disneyland.
Zoos & Museums
Santa Ana Zoo: The zoo is known as a hidden gem of Orange County. It offers 6 guided tours that come with their own attractions, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy! This includes the whole family no matter what age or interest level. Kids are sure to love it because they can see animals up close. At the same time, adults are treated to an immersive journey around endangered species and conservation efforts in Southern California.
Mission San Juan Capistrano: Mission San Juan Capistrano was founded in 1776 and is the home of one of California’s first vineyards which was located on the Mission grounds. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas and walking paths through some beautiful stretches of natural habitat for peace and solitude. Or stay immersed with nature while you take in your surroundings at this historic site. The museum on site serves as an information hub for those interested in learning more about OC history!
So there you have it – a little taste of what Orange County has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a classic family amusement park, some beautiful coastal scenery, or a chance to step back in time, this county has something for everyone. Come and explore for yourself!
We hope you have a chance to explore some of these family-friendly activities in Orange County and take the time to enjoy your loved ones. If you find the crowds a bit stressful after the past year, then another local Orange County business can help; visit OC Wellness Solutions for high-quality CBD products that will help ensure you have the best experience.
