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The Best Summer Activities In Orange County

Ah, summer in Orange County! There’s no place I’d rather be when the sun is shining, the ocean is calling, and there’s a kaleidoscope of activities to dive into. Whether you’re love beautiful beaches, amusement parks, shopping at the Irvine Spectrum Center, or visiting historic landmarks, there’s plenty to do in Southern California for some summer fun!

Table of Contents

Outdoor Concerts

Nothing says summer in south Orange County quite like enjoying live music under the stars. Orange County’s outdoor concert scene is vibrant and varied, offering something for everyone. From the lively Concerts on the Green in Newport Beach to Pacific Symphony’s alfresco performances at Irvine’s FivePoint Amphitheatre, you can groove to everything from rock classics to symphonic masterpieces. Don’t forget to pack a picnic blanket, some snacks, and your dancing shoes! Truly one of the special events of summer in Orange County!

Outdoor Movies

For a bit of cinematic nostalgia, outdoor movies are a must. Grab your popcorn and head to the OC Parks Sunset Cinema series, where you can catch classic films in picturesque settings like Craig Regional Park and Irvine Regional Park. For a beachy vibe, check out Newport Dunes’ Movies on the Beach, where you can watch your favorite flicks with your toes in the sand. Remember to bring a low-back chair or blanket and enjoy a starry night at the movies!

Hiking and Biking Trails

OC is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of trails just waiting to be explored. Crystal Cove State Park offers stunning coastal hikes with ocean views that are hard to beat, while the Santiago Oaks Regional Park trails are perfect for those looking for a bit more rugged terrain. If biking is more your speed, the San Juan Trail or San Deigo Creek trail provides a scenic ride from the mountains to the beach. So, lace up your hiking boots or hop on your bike and enjoy the natural beauty of Orange County!

Museums

When you need a break from the sun, Orange County’s museums offer a cool respite with a side of culture. The Bowers Museum in Santa Ana features fascinating exhibits from around the world, while Laguna Art Museum showcases California’s rich artistic heritage. For science buffs, Discovery Cube Orange County in Santa Ana provides interactive fun for all ages.

Each museum offers a unique glimpse into art, history, or science—perfect for a day of exploring indoors. Another great place to visit is the Mission San Juan Capistrano. It’s a beautiful historic landmark and its great for families! And once your finished with your self guided tour. You can walk around the area and enjoy delicious food and drinks. The restaurants are amazing!!

Beaches

Let’s be honest, you can’t talk about summer in Orange County without mentioning the beaches. From the iconic Huntington Beach pier with its surf culture to the pristine shores of Crystal Cove, there’s a beach for every mood. Laguna Beach boasts stunning coves and tide pools, while Newport Beach is ideal for boating and paddleboarding. These are a few places in Southern California that you spend great beach days! Make sure to plan ahead. The beaches can get crowded and there’s free parking and trolley rides that will take you down to the beach from cities like Laguna Niguel or San Clemente.

Fishing Spots

For those who love to cast a line, OC offers plenty of fantastic fishing spots for some good family fun. The Balboa Pier in Newport Beach is a favorite for catching mackerel and halibut, while Dana Point Harbor provides opportunities for deep-sea fishing excursions. You can also see blue whales from the harbor during certain times of the year!

If you prefer freshwater fishing, head to Irvine Lake or Laguna Niguel Lake for a relaxing day on the water. Its a great place to take young kids or the whole family! Whether you’re an experienced angler or a novice, you’re bound to reel in some fun.

Restaurants

No summer adventure is complete without sampling some of the local flavors. For a beachside bite, The Deck on Laguna Beach offers fresh seafood with a view. For a more upscale experience, try The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar in Tustin for delicious dishes paired with fine wines. And for those lazy weekend brunches, Bosscat Kitchen & Libations in Newport Beach serves up decadent comfort food. Whatever your taste, Orange County’s diverse culinary scene has something to satisfy every craving!

Farmers' Markets

Embrace the farm-to-table trend by visiting one of OC’s many farmers’ markets. The Irvine Farmers Market at Mariner’s Church is a weekend favorite with a wide variety of fresh produce, artisan goods, and food trucks. The Orange Home Grown Farmers & Artisans Market offers local delights and crafts, making it a perfect Saturday morning stop. Strolling through the stalls, tasting fresh fruits, and picking up unique finds make for a delightful day out.

Orange County is bursting with summer activities that cater to every interest. Whether you’re dancing at a concert, hiking a scenic trail, lounging on the beach, or savoring a local dish, having a family fun day ar Knott’s Berry Farm, there’s no shortage of ways to soak up the season. Especially with all the fun activities for young kids! There’s tons of family friendly events, and of course you can’t forget a trip to an amusement park or the Carbon Canyon Regional Park too!

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Howard Chung

Hey Orange County, I’m Howard Chung! I'm here to share weekly information about the best events, restaurants, shopping and activities in and around Orange County, California. Plus, the best hiking, biking, health and wellness options, new hot spots, and more! Click below to follow us.

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