South Orange County’s image is usually tied to freeways, shopping malls, and suburban living. But this suburban Southern California sprawl has so much more to offer.
The communities in O.C. are rich in history, nature, leisure activities, and pop culture relevance. Expand your concept of what South Orange County is and plan a visit to the destinations below.
Crystal Cove State Park
8471 North1 Coast Highway, Laguna Beach
If in search of open space and fresh air, head out to Crystal Cove Park. With more than 2,400 acres of nature along South OC’s coast, you can go off-grid and reemerge in the span of an afternoon.
Hike 18 miles of trails to reach magnificent vistas of the surrounding hills and the Pacific Ocean or to set up camp at the Lower Moro, Upper Moro, and Deer Canyon grounds for a weekend foray into nature.
Head down to the coastline and visit the park’s Historic District to appreciate the well-preserved seaside cottages built in the ‘30s and ‘40s. Or walk along Moro Beach and enjoy the sea breeze, or head down to the tidepools at Pelican Point and observe the abundant marine life, from abalones and anemones to limpets and starfish.
Mission San Juan Capistrano
26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano
This Spanish mission constructed in the Baroque style is an integral part of Orange County’s culture and history. Take a small, private group tour through the mission, from the Sacristy of the Ruins—which contains sacred vessels and the ceremonial clothes of priests—to the Mission bells, which have been tolling since 1776.
Mission San Juan Capitrano boasts religious artifact exhibits, Native American art, and paintings from the 1700s up to the 1900s.
Pretend City Children’s Museum
29 Hubble, Irvine
If in search of interactive things to do with kids in Orange County, make a reservation at Pretend City Children’s Museum. The museum is home to a mini city where kids can learn how things work in the real world through costumes, props, and role play.
Kids can easily spend hours exploring areas like the marina, hospital, grocery stores, and banks—all while developing abilities like reading and problem-solving.
The museum is best-suited for toddlers, but older kids under the age of 10 can still find activities to occupy themselves with. Babies can get a headstart on their development at the 0-2 play area.
The Wedge
Balboa, Newport Beach
Many Orange County beaches make for great surf spots, but the Wedge in Newport Beach is high on the list for experienced and adventurous bodysurfers and bodyboarders. Waves can reach up to 30 feet, giving even onlookers on the shore a great adrenaline rush.
Sugar ‘N Spice
310 Marine Avenue, Balboa Island
Have you ever watched Arrested Development? Then you’re probably familiar with the Balboa Island boardwalk stand that sells frozen bananas.
Sugar ‘N Spice is the real-life frozen banana stand on Balboa Island. It’s a familiar sight for those living in Orange County and has been in business since the 1940’s, selling their trademark frozen fruit treats. Locals and tourists alike often stop by this historic attraction to cool off with frozen treats sprinkled with their toppings of choice.
Left Coast Brewing Company
1245 Puerta Del Sol, San Clemente
San Diego and LA may dwarf Orange County’s reputation for craft brewery, but the county is an up-and-comer in the scene. Left Coast in San Clemente is the county’s largest craft brewery, brewing at a 14,000-barrel capacity.
Known for their signature beers with colorful names like Hop Juice, Una Mas, and Asylum, the brewery is a reflection of the laidback vibe of a town steeped in surf history. When you’re in Orange County, schedule a trip to the San Clemente tasting room. They offer curbside pickup of their brews as well as other fun things to do such as yoga and trivia nights.
Pelican Hill Golf Club
22800 South Pelican Hill Road, Newport Beach
Pelican Hill Golf Club is famous for its scenic views of the Pacific. Marvel at the sheer beauty of the scenery at each hole of its two 18-hole championship courses. At the more challenging North Course, the ocean is a constant lovely backdrop. At the same time, the course’s varying landscape of canyons and plateaus ensures that your golf brain is constantly engaged.
Closer to the ocean, the South Course has three holes right on the edge of the cliffs, offering unforgettable up-close views of the Pacific. Deep bunkers and chasms throughout the course offer a unique challenge to new and experienced golfers alike.
Are these destinations nudging you to think about moving to Orange County? Work with us, one of the most trusted realtors in the area: Cordova Real Estate Group. We can answer all your questions, from which neighborhood to choose to the cost of living in Orange County, CA.
Give us a call at 949.207.4040 or send an email to mc(at)southorangecountyliving(dotted)com.