Orange County, California
Some of the finest beaches and biggest attractions are in Orange County, California. By attractions, of course, it is hard to top Disneyland. The House of Mouse, however, is not the only draw that has guests clamoring to get coast-side. A rich Native and Spanish history spans from the coasts through the palm tree speckled streets. You can drop into a lush, local culture as you explore the natural wonders Southern California has to offer. Whether you are laying on the beach or pulling up a seat at some of the best breweries in town, Orange County has been a destination for vacation for decades and has no intention of slowing down any time soon.
The Popularity of Orange County
While the Disneyland resort is one of the second biggest attraction draws in the U.S., Knotts Berry Farm alone pulls in 7 million visitors annually. Not bad when your neighbor is the iconic Mickey Mouse! Orange County continues to see a stirring and energy economic growth every year, and that is paid back to the local area in full.
An emphasis on public health, strong education, and natural preservation can be felt in Orange County. Not to mention there is so much to do! The food scene is the stuff of James Beard and Food Network pedigree, and with plenty of shopping, hiking, golfing, biking, and beach bumming to be had, it is easy to see why travelers keep coming back to Orange County year after year. And why some do not plan to leave any time soon!
Orange County's Location
Orange County faces the Pacific Ocean on the southwest with Los Angeles county bordering it to the north. On the northeast are San Bernardino County, Riverside County to the east, and San Diego County to the southeast. Its northwest part is on the coastal plain of the Los Angeles Basin, while the southeast rolls into the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains.
Orange County enjoys a warm and temperate climate. The summers are short, warm, and clear. The winters are longer and run cool with partly cloudy days. The best time to visit Orange for warm-weather activities is from late May to early October.
Orange County Attractions
Start your day right at Basilur Tea and Coffee. Whether you are stopping in for a cup of coffee or to try those famous souffle Japanese pancakes, you will be fueled up and ready to start your day right. The Crystal Cove State Park is a coastal, protected natural area known for its array of outdoor activities, such as thrilling hiking and bike trails, or hitting the waves for scuba diving, surfing, and kayaking. Or, just laying on the warm sand and taking the occasional dip in the cool waters.
Treat your curious side to the Shipley Nature Center for bird watching and butterfly gardens, or visit the Mission San Juan Capistrano, a centuries-old mission of impressive architecture and historical artworks that stands against an emerald green backdrop of California nature and clear blue skies. Duck into the Laguna Beach art galleries or take a brewery tour for some splendid sips from Lost Winds, American Brew Works, Beachwood Brewing, and more. Just make sure you do not miss out on the tacos at Cha Cha's Kitchen before taking in a sunset view.
Municipal Golf Course
Rosecrans Hills
Island Freeman
California African American Museum
Terminal Island
Victoria Beach
Big Dalton Canyon
Veterans Memorial Stadium
Lyon Air Museum
Tenaja Canyon
Cañada Gobernadora
Emerald Canyon
Bowers Museum Of Cultural Art
Sea Hawk Stadium
Riverview Golf Course
Sherman Indian Museum
Flying Mane Trail
Holy Jim Trail
Lost Trough Canyon
Island Grissom
Main Divide Truck Trail
George Canyon
Arroyo Seco Golf Course
Long Beach Light
Bay Island
The Broad
Cabrillo Marine Aquarium
Hicks Canyon
Mayhew Canyon
Wire Springs Canyon
Los Verdes Golf Course
Discovery Museum Of Orange County
Monrovia Canyon
Coney Island
Bluebird Canyon
Webb Canyon
Citizens Bank Arena
David X Marks Tennis Stadium
Vassar Canyon
Santiago Truck Trail
West Fork Ladd Canyon
Little Santa Anita Canyon
English Canyon
Japanese American National Museum
Hotels in Santa Ana
Schools in Santa Ana
Restaurants in Santa Ana