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When planning a trip to California, I highly recommend visiting  the Orange County Beaches.  You will get a true taste of Southern California. There’s 42 miles worth of beaches with pristine sand.  These beaches include tide pools with marine life, secluded coves, beautiful harbors and the maybe the best surf in the country.

There ‘s so many things to do while staying in Orange County.  While going to the amusement parks are the more popular destinations when staying in Orange County , the beaches are what make Orange County special.  Make sure you include a full day to visit the Orange County Beaches.

If you choose to stay at the beach, which I highly suggest you do, then you will find a great selection of hotels, restaurants and shopping.  Some are quite special.  There are fun things to do, other than the typical day of sunbathing, which is always a great thing to do!

Things To Do

Huntington Beach Bicycle Trail – Rent a bike and enjoy a day of riding next to the scenic Pacific Ocean.  You can do a 20 mile roundtrip ride.  Start from Sunset Beach/Bolsa Chica Preserve and go south to Newport Beach.  Stop along the way for lunch or for some sunbathing.  Its a beautiful, easy bike ride for the whole family to enjoy.

Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve – We brought our daughter here often, when she was small, to learn about the birds.  You wouldn’t initially think this spot is inviting, with oil derricks in the backdrop, but birds of all kinds literally flock here.  This tidal saltwater marsh is home to loons, ducks, terns, sandpipers and sometimes the rare species, like the white pelican. You won’t be disappointed.

Balboa Island – Located in Newport Beach, a small island with great restaurants, quaint shops, easy walking/bikeriding and a fun Balboa Fun Zone for kids of all ages.  There’s even a ferry that takes people and cars from the Balboa Peninsula to the island and vice versa.

Balboa Peninsuala – Three miles long and less than half mile wide with harbor on one side and a broad, sandy beach on the other side, is called Balboa Peninsula.   Surfers and sunbathers congregate here to enjoy the view of the shoreline.  The orginal Ruby’s Diner resides here, as well.

Laguna Beach Artwalk – If you love art, than there’s nothing more enjoyable than to enjoy art in a beautiful beachtown.  On the first Thursday of every month, you can walk or take a free trolley to all of the different galleries.  You’ll enjoy free drinks and appetizers, inlcuding wine, fruit, cheese and crackers on that Thursday. Of course, you can enjoy these art galleries on another day, if you can’t make the first Thursday.  There are many cafes and shops to enjoy, as well.  Definitely try to fit this in your itenerary, if art is your thing.  You’ll enjoy a memorable day.

Festival of Arts – Staying with Laguna Beach and art, if you’re in Southern California from July to Aurgust, then you’ll want to experience the Festival of Arts.  Original artwork by 140 local artists will be displayed.  You’ll enjoy food and drinks from local restaurants.  All kinds of music concerts will be going.  You can even enjoy art workshops and hands-on demonstrations.  Cooking shows are offered  and there’s activities for children too.  Something for everyone.  You should experience this festival, at least once.  Even if art isn’t your thing, you will find something interesting at this festival