Looking for some places to visit in Orange County? You’re in luck because in this week’s blog post, we’re giving you a list of the best places to visit here. If you like a little bit of nature, history, and outdoor activities, we’ve got you covered! Excited to know which places you should go to? Read ahead!

Huntington City Beach

Huntington Beach, known as Surf City USA, is one of the best spots to visit in Orange County. It is situated along the Pacific Coast Highway and offers lots of amenities for its visitors. It is also home to the iconic Huntington Beach Pier which measures 1,850 feet in length, one of the longest piers on the West Coast.

Volleyball, surfboard and bicycle rentals, and RV camping are available along the beach. If you just want to relax along the coast, you can simply watch professional surfers play tricks in the water. You can also bring a book to read or just bathe in the sun all afternoon.

If you want to stay for sunset, there are 100 beach bonfires available on a first-come, first-served basis. Make sure to come early if you want to secure a spot especially in peak seasons. Locals say the best time to visit is when the sun is just about to go down so you can witness the amazing California sunset that will always stick with you.

Balboa Island

Balboa Island is a little haven located in Newport Beach. It has been a prominent day and night landmark ever since the 1930s where people usually go on dates on the beach, a fun ride on the Ferris wheel, or a special night out of town. There are plenty of fun, little activities to do in the area.

Many small shops and stalls can be seen along the island. You can snack on some frozen bananas, buy jewelry, and purchase souvenirs. The Fun Zone is most known for the rides and arcade games that your kids will surely enjoy. You can also rent bikes and go around the area to see the small things it has to offer. 

Of course, there are water activities such as parasailing, kayaking, jet-skiing, and other water sports. Visitors also rent boats and yachts to have a more relaxed time on the water. Whale watching is also available here.

Crystal Cove State Park

Crystal Cove State Park is one of Orange County’s remaining largest natural seashores. This spot combines the wonders of both the sea and the surrounding terrain. You can swim in the ocean or hike across acres of land. There are tons of activities to enjoy in this place.

Water recreation may be enjoyed near the shore like swimming and surfing. If you want to go to deeper waters, you may take out your surfboards or kayak and enjoy the offshore underwater area. You can also go for a scuba dive to see the living creatures under the sea.

The Moro Canyon and Moro Ridge are located along the beach. This area consists of 2,400 undeveloped acres of land and over 15 total miles of trails. These trails can be used for hiking, biking, and equestrian activities with difficulties varying from quick and easy to long and strenuous. The trails are a perfect way to feel secluded and disconnected despite being in one of the greatest population centers in the country.

Bowers Museum

Only 5% of museums nationwide receive the American Alliance of Museums accreditation, and Bowers Museum in Orange County is proudly part of that small list. This prestigious museum made fine arts more accessible to locals and visitors alike so you have to make sure to include this place in your list if you’re ever in the area.

The museum offers deep reverence to local and foreign cultures through art. The exhibits highlight what makes each culture unique and beautiful. There are artworks that represent stories from the Pacific Islands, Ancient China, and Native American cultures.

If you’re traveling with kids, there’s also a special Kidseum designed for children to immerse themselves in different cultures at a young age. The museum can also be rented for events that you want to put up may it be a wedding, bar/bat mitzvah, or any other event setting. It would be an amazing way to contribute your story to the museum’s history.

Salt Creek Beach Park

Another beach located along the famous and scenic Pacific Coast Highway is Salt Creek Beach Park. Surfing is an integral part of California culture and this beach is one of the top spots to catch waves. The waves here might be bigger than anything you’ll ever see in the entire Orange County. Salt Creek tends to be quieter and less crowded compared to other beaches. 

Expert surfers go here to ride amazing waves and to “hang ten” as they maneuver their boards. If you’re not into surfing yourself, you can just sit by the ocean and be amazed by the surfers who are practicing their skills. Of course, you can still enjoy other water sports and activities.

If you don’t feel like getting in the water, you can just lay on the sand, sunbathe, or read a book. The coast is long so you don’t have to worry about safely distancing yourself from other beachgoers. There are also plenty of grassy areas where you can enjoy a picnic with your family or friends.

That’s it for the list of must-visit places here in Orange County. Please take note that each attraction is practicing safety protocols due to the ongoing global pandemic. Make sure to check out their websites to check out their guideline before visiting and remember to keep yourself safe.