Top Ten Lists

Orange County

 
Orange County is a beach lover’s paradise. Home to Newport, Laguna, and Huntington Beach, you are surrounded by beauty everywhere you turn. Most notably, Huntington Beach is the Surf Capital of the World and Laguna Beach is one of the country's most vibrant art cities.

Throughout the OC, there are endless opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration. If you are looking for a happy, laid-back, beautiful place, then Orange County is the place to be. Check out my list of my fun things to do in the area. Enjoy!
 
 
  • 1. Ride the Huntington Beach bike path
    Ride the Huntington Beach bike path
    Pacific Coast Hwy and Warner Ave, , 92649
    This 8.5 mile bike path is shared by cyclists, rollerbladers, and joggers. It is scenic and always entertaining due to the regularity of events taking place on the beach. It can be windy sometimes, so be prepared for a good workout! This beach also offers fire pits for campfires, beach volleyball, and many free concerts and events over the summer months.
  • 2. Go hiking at Crystal Cove State Park
    Go hiking at Crystal Cove State Park
    8471 N Coast Hwy, , 92651
    What an amazing place to hike! I am so glad that I found out about this gem. There are 3 different hiking trails and also crystal clear beaches for swimming. Lots of steep hills so you will definitely get in a good workout! Crystal Cove is very quiet and not crowded. Here you can enjoy hiking in company of natural views with no highways or houses in view, just pure wilderness. On a side note, be aware of mountain lions, as numerous sightings have been reported in recent years.
  • 3. Spend the day relaxing at Laguna Beach
    Spend the day relaxing at Laguna Beach
    Coast Hwy and Broadway, , 92652
    Laguna is one of the most beautiful beaches in Orange County, if not in all of Southern California. I love jogging along the coastline in the sand. Another plus is that this beach is usually less crowded than many of the others. The combination of pristine water, caves, and dramatic cliffs really leads to some outstanding sightseeing opportunities.
  • 4. Visit Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve
    Visit Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve
    18000 Pacific Coast Hwy, , 92648
    This bird watching nature viewing area in Huntington Beach is a great place to take a quiet stroll through nature in the morning before starting your day. Because of the serene atmosphere, a visit to this preserve is a great alternative to a hectic beach day. Admission is free and free parking can be found nearby.
  • 5. Plan a day trip to Newport Beach
    Plan a day trip to Newport Beach
    Visitor's Center - 1600 Newport Center Dr, , 92660
    Newport Beach is another great OC County Beach. The waves here are crazy. The Wedge is a popular surfing spot where the waves go up to 30 feet! After the beach, head over to Fashion Island for a day of shopping.
  • 6. Visit Fashion Island
    Visit Fashion Island
    401 Newport Center Dr, , 92660
    Fashion Island, and upscale outdoor mall, is a fantastic place to stroll around during the warm summer months. There are plenty of upscale restaurants and shops to choose amongst. The landscaping is beautiful with lots of palm trees, giving it a nice tropical feeling.
  • 7. Take in the views from the pier at Huntington Beach
    Take in the views from the pier at Huntington Beach
    Main & PCH, , 92648
    The Huntington Beach pier is a great place for watching the surfers, taking in the gorgeous views, and just relaxing. As a bonus, it's also a fabulous birdwatching destination!
  • 8. Be a spectator at the US Open of Surfing in Huntington Beach
    Be a spectator at the US Open of Surfing in Huntington Beach
    Main Street and Pacific Coast Hwy, , 92648
    This famous surfing event is held each July/August. Enjoy a nice mild summer day at the beach while catching a glimpse of professional surfers in action. In addition, the pier is a great place for watching surfers practice their moves anytime of the year!
  • 9. Enjoy a leisurely ride along the Newport Balboa Bike Path
    Enjoy a leisurely ride along the Newport Balboa Bike Path
    Balboa Blvd. and 21st Street, , 92660
    This path is short (just under 3 miles or so), yet very scenic. Along the way, you will get to take in prime views of the historic Newport and Balboa Piers, along with nice views of waterfront homes and the ocean. The trail tends to get pretty crowded, so take it more as a sightseeing journey than a cycling workout!
  • 10. Be a kid again at Disneyland
    Be a kid again at Disneyland
    1313 Disneyland Drive, , 92802
    Many are surprised to know that California is actually home to Walt Disney's first theme park. Although many of the same rides found in Orlando can also be found here, there are a few unique attractions to explore including Matterhorn Bobsleds and Mickey's Fun Wheel. In terms of competing with the Magic Kingdom in Florida, The Pirates of Caribbean and It's a Small World are definitely a notch above at Disneyland!

    The best time to visit? During the seasonal Halloween party featuring a special Halloween themed parade and fireworks show, festive treats, special themed rides, and trick or treat stations for all!