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25 Fun Things to Do in Orange County, California (besides Disneyland)
If you’re planning a trip to California and you’ve heard that there are lots of things to do in Orange County, you heard right!
And, yes, this area might be best known for Disneyland. But there are many items on this Orange County things to do list beyond Disney.
From bustling beaches and gorgeous nature walks to a vibrant entertainment scene, you won’t run out of cool things to do in Orange County. We’ve included a mix of touristy things and unique things to do in the OC – – there are plenty of options.
We’re pretty sure you’re going to like this list of things to do and places to go in Orange County, so let’s start at the northern part of the OC and make our way down the coast.
Let’s get to it!
Things to Do in Orange County – Table of Contents
Anaheim
Los Alamitos
Irvine
Costa Mesa
Huntington Beach
Newport Beach
Laguna Beach
San Juan Capistrano
Dana Point
San Clemente
Getting around in Orange County
What to pack for your Orange County visit
Fun Things to Do in Anaheim
1. Stroll and nosh in the Anaheim Packing District
Image by Joppi Martin/Shutterstock
Did you know that Anaheim is a foodie mecca?
Downtown Anaheim has been recently revitalized. At its heart is the Anaheim Packing House, a former Sunkist packing facility reborn as a multi-storey food hall. The eateries inside focus on local ingredients. You can also enjoy a Cabernet Sauvignon in a rail freight wagon from the 1920s.
There are more foodie treats in the Packard Building next door and on Sundays, be sure to try Orange Clementine Bakery’s citrus-infused cake at the Farmers Park Market.
Location: 440 S Anaheim Blvd, Anaheim, CA
2. Attend a Sunday Gospel Brunch at the House of Blues
For a seriously cool and soulful way to spend a Sunday morning, book a ticket for the famous House of Blues’ Gospel Brunch.
Feast on their signature all-you-can-eat Southern-inspired breakfast buffet and feel your spirit soar with true gospel entertainment. Waffles, fried chicken, amazing singers, and foot-tapping music—what more could you ask for?
Location: In the Anaheim GardenWalk at 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, CA
3. Go on a Craft Brewery Tour
Grab your friends or travel companion and enjoy a half-day of beer tasting at award-winning breweries in North Orange County. Beer flight tastings and snacks await at every brewery stop.
The total tour is about four to five hours and is limited to 13 passengers, so you get a pretty personalised experience. Tickets cost $97 per person.
The best part about booking a tour? There’s a built-in designated driver!
There are four departure points (Anaheim, Irvine, San Juan Capistrano, Laguna Beach) or you can arrange a hotel pick-up.
Los Alamitos Things to do
4. Catch a night race at the Los Alamitos Race Track
Looking for something to do in Orange County at night that’s both fun and different? Check out a nighttime horse race at the Los Alamitos Race Track.
Grab a beer, place your bet, and have a seat at the grandstand to cheer on your lucky horse. If you end up winning big, this will definitely make it to the top of your Orange County attractions list!
Location: 4961 Karelia Ave, Los Alamitos, CA
Things to do in Irvine
5. Feel the fun at Irvine Spectrum
Image by TonelsonProductions/Shutterstock
If you’re looking for a one-stop-shop for fun things to do in the OC, then the Irvine Spectrum Centre is your spot! You’ll find plenty of good shopping and some of the best restaurants in Orange County, including the American all-time favourite Cheesecake Factory.
In the mood for a comedy improv show? Or how about putting your escape room skills to the test with a 60-minute escape game adventure? Yep, you can find it all here.
Location: 670 Spectrum Centre Drive, Irvine, CA
6. Go horseback riding
Book a trail ride and get a healthy dose of California sunshine on horseback! Soak up the natural beauty of the most stunning protected land in Orange County and catch a glimpse of the massive California Sycamores, Coast Live Oaks, and native wildlife.
Trail rides cost $60 per rider for one hour inside the Irvine Regional Park. It’s one of the only equestrian centres in the area to offer guided tours, so take advantage of the opportunity while you can.
Of course, if you want to go all Hollywood, you can also book this horseback riding tour near the Hollywood sign (with transportation from Anaheim).
Location: Country Trails & Riding School, 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, CA
7. Hike Quail Hill
If you’re looking for free things to do in Orange County, hiking is always an excellent option, especially in the perpetually warm Southern California weather!
The Quail Hill Loop Trail is a manageable two-mile trail that is always open to the public daily, from dawn to dusk. All you need is a cell phone and you can dial in to get a free self-guided audio tour! No minutes on your mobile phone? Just download the audio file for free on a listening device of your choice and you’re set.
Location: 34 Shady Canyon Drive, Irvine, CA
Where to stay in Irvine: For a more inland location Irvine is perfect and very accessible to Orange County attractions.
-The AC Marriott is upscale and is the best-rated in the area.
–The Courtyard by Marriott Irvine Spectrum with indoor and outdoor pools is another good option.
Things to see in Costa Mesa
8. Catch an event at the Segerstrom Centre for the Arts
Get a dose of the local culture at the SCFTA, one of the best places to go in Orange County for the performing arts. Depending on the schedule, you can catch a Broadway show, dance show or a classical music concert.
To enjoy the open-air cinema on a warm evening, bring your own lawn chair, blanket, and snacks. Sit back, relax and enjoy a variety of films that they offer on Movie Nights—from contemporary films, like the live-action version of Aladdin to classics like Roman Holiday with Audrey Hepburn.
Location: 600 Town Centre Drive, Costa Mesa, CA
Fun Things in Huntington Beach
9. Hit up Main Street in Huntington Beach
Soaking up Surf City, USA is by far one of the best activities in Orange County. Lined with surf shops, restaurants, bars, smoothie shops, and (of course) the beach, there’s no better way to spend a sunny California day!
Start at the top of Main Street and stroll, shop or bar hop your way down to the pier. Stay long enough to catch a killer sunset over the beach. Then make your way back up and experience some authentic beach-style nightlife!
Location: Main Street, Huntington Beach, CA
10. Enjoy an ocean view meal at Duke’s
Speaking of awesome things to do in Huntington Beach, getting an ocean-view table at Duke’s is a real treat.
Named after the legendary Hawaiian surfer, Duke Kahanamoku, who introduced surfing here in 1925, Duke’s has become a treasured California staple.
You’ll love their amazing Hawaiian-style lunch, brunch, or dinner menus. Whatever you do, don’t leave without having their signature mai-tai and Hula pie!
Location: On the Huntington Beach Pier at 317 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA
Where to stay in Huntington Beach: This is a great option to stay because of its central location.
-For a luxurious stay, the boutique-style Kimpton Shorebreak Resort is a top choice.
-If you need a more budget-friendly option, there are less expensive beach city options, like the Surf City Inn which is just a 7-minute walk from the beach.
-If you’re looking for a vacation rental, check out this studio apartment, just blocks from the beach.
Best things to do in Newport Beach
11. Newport Beach Whale Watching Cruise
Who doesn’t love the idea of whale watching? With the massive Pacific Ocean mere steps away, it’s a must-do on the cool things to do in Orange County list.
This year-round whale watching cruise boasts a 96% rate of seeing one, so have that camera ready for your best Instagram moment ever! (You an also take a whale watching tour from Anaheim!)
Location: Newport Beach Whale Watching, 400 Main Street, Newport Beach, CA
12. Shop ‘til you drop at Fashion Island
To round out your ultimate things to do in Newport Beach list—that aren’t beach-related—Fashion Island is where it’s at! It’s the area’s best outdoor mall for designer boutique and luxury shopping.
You’ll find no shortage of stores, restaurants, coffee shops, and gelato spots. If you feel like catching a movie, you’ll get so much more than that with an in-cinema dining menu from the Lot. We’re talking options such as prosciutto and truffle flatbread, shrimp and seafood croquettes, plus dulce de leche chocolate lava cake—how’s that for a fancy twist on movie theatre food?
Location: 401 Newport Centre Drive, Newport Beach, CA
13. Sail away on a sunset cruise
Picture yourself on the deck of a boat on the vast Pacific Ocean, cocktail in hand, sailing off into the sunset…not a bad vision, right? Why not enjoy some food and live music while you’re at it?
If you’re looking for things to do at night in Orange County and enjoy on-the-water experiences, a sunset cruise is a perfect choice. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, check out a Fiesta Cruise!
Location: Cruise Newport Beach, 400 Main Street, Newport Beach, CA
14. Cruise around Newport in a gondola
Who says you need to be in Italy to go on a gondola ride? Splurge a little and book a gondola cruise to get the most romantic view of Newport Beach harbour. The most popular is the Amore cruise that starts at $145 per hour for 2 passengers.
Take it up a notch by turning your private gondola tour into dinner, lunch or dessert cruise. Or why not share a pizza and cheesecake with your partner on a casual pizza cruise? That’s amore!
Location: Gondola Adventures, 200 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach, CA
15. Hop on a ferry to Balboa Island
While in Newport Beach, taking a short ferry ride to Balboa Island is a must. This quaint little man-made island is like being transported to a magical little place—there’s even a place called the Fun Zone!
Explore boutique shopping and charming eateries on foot, and be sure to treat yourself to one of their famous frozen bananas—with extra sprinkles!
You can also take this sunset brewery tour that starts in Newport Beach and ends in Balboa Island. Or enjoy a best bites of Balboa Island food tour that includes the ferry ride.
16. Grab a bite on the beach at the Beachcomber Cafe
You don’t want to miss the iconic, vintage cottage-style Beachcomber Cafe in Crystal Cove. Dig your toes in the sand while you enjoy a tasty California cuisine dish or a “Big Bad Bloody Mary” from the Bootlegger Bar, voted the “Best in OC”.
This place gets pretty crowded, so call ahead and make a reservation if you can!
Location: 15 Crystal Cove, Newport Beach, CA
Where to stay in Newport Beach: Newport Beach is a prime place to stay in Orange County for its central location, beach activities and entertainment.
-On the upscale end of the spectrum, the Lido House is the place to be (it’s part of the Autograph Collection if that helps!).
-The Hyatt Regency that has a great location and is reasonably priced.
Laguna Beach Activities
17. Go on a Scenic Hike in Crystal Cove State Park
You’ll want to carve out some time to visit one of the most beautiful Orange County attractions – Crystal Cove State Park. For hikers, the protected wildlife backcountry offers 18 miles of hiking trail options. Book a spot at one of the three campgrounds for a more in-depth nature experience.
We highly recommend going down to visit the tide pools. There are plenty of cute critters to discover there! Just remember that you’re in a protected wildlife area, so take heed of the rules in place to preserve marine life.
Location: Off Pacific Coast Highway between Corona del Mar & Laguna Beach
18. Enjoy Art at the Laguna Beach Art Walk
You’ll love Laguna Beach. Artsy, cultural, upscale, scenic—this coastal OC town has lots to offer! Their First Thursdays Art Walk is one of those unique things to do in Orange County that will be a highlight of your trip.
Every first Thursday of the month, 40 galleries participate in a night of art showings, receptions, and live music. It’s a truly magical evening!
Location: 891 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA
19. Go Wine Tasting at the Laguna Canyon Winery
Enjoy some breathtaking views and crafted California wine by booking a wine tasting at the beautiful Laguna Canyon Winery. Sip on some California-sourced red and white wine and bubbly as you take in the gorgeous Laguna Canyon scenery.
The charming tasting room showcases 62 working oak barrels, a wine bottling line, a wine press, and an up-close look at the winery. Prep your palate by purchasing the optional cheese, salami, and gourmet crackers plate.
You can also take a wine tour to four wineries in the Wine Valley and visit Old Town Temecula, with pickups arranged throughout the Orange Valley.
Location: 2133 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA
20. Enjoy brunch and mimosas at Las Brisas
You won’t get a more beautiful ocean view while sipping on some mimosas than at Las Brisas, one of the best restaurants in Orange County.
Their Mexican-infused California cuisine is to die for, and their weekend brunch with the bottomless mimosas or Bloody Mary offering is especially popular. Be sure to reserve a table!
Location: 361 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, CA
Where to stay in Laguna Beach: If you’re ready to splurge, you can’t do much better than Laguna Beach.
-The Montage Laguna Beach resort is stunning. Complete with ocean views, poolside cabanas, spa services, and an on-site boutique and galleries, the Montage makes it so that you’ll never want to leave!
-Also, check out this list of vacation rentals in Laguna Beach.
Things to do in San Juan Capistrano
21. Take a Tour of the Mission San Juan Capistrano
Get a dose of fascinating California history with a visit to the Mission San Juan Capistrano. As the seventh of the nine missions established in 1776 by Saint Sierra, the mission has become a treasured landmark and iconic Orange County attraction.
You don’t want to miss the most charming part of the San Juan Capistrano Mission—its legendary story of the miracle of the swallows. Every year in March on St. Joseph’s Day, the town hosts visitors from all over who go to the mission to see the return of the swallows. They migrate from 6,000 miles away from Argentina. It’s been a tradition since the 1930s!
Location: 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, CA
Fun Things in Dana Point
22. Hiking & Kayaking Tour in Dana Point
For an amazing full-package deal in gorgeous Dana Point, this Hiking & Kayaking Tour is a super cool thing to do in OC.
You’ll cruise around the harbor and learn about the interesting history and folklore of Dana Point. Then, you’re off on a scenic hike over at the Dana Point Headlands.
If kayaking is your thing, there’s also a popular tour from Laguna Beach to a marine preserve where you’re likely to see sea lions.
Location: 24292 Del Prado Ave, Dana Point, CA
23. Rent a bike to cruise the Beach Strand
If you ask us, there’s no such thing as getting in too much beach time. And cruising along the beachside strand to soak in the sunshine and enjoy the view is one of the best activities in Orange County!
For a touch of extra fun, rent a beach cruiser bike, a quad bike or one of those cool Surrey bikes for multiple riders. Let the good times roll!
You can also take an e-bike tour from Huntington Beach north to Sunset Beach, with several stops for a few snaps at Bolsa Chica State Beach.
Multiple locations: including Dana Point, Huntington Beach & Fountain Valley
San Clemente Things to do
24. Take a Surf Lesson
Image by Felipe Sanchez/Shutterstock
For the ultimate OC experience, you’ve gotta hit the waves! If you’ve never tried ocean surfing before, book a surf lesson and make a memory that will last you a lifetime.
Most of the major beaches in Orange County have surf schools that offer lessons, so be sure to check out your options for Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, San Clemente, or another one of the Orange County beaches you plan on visiting.
If you want to book a private surfing lesson at Newport Beach or at Huntington Beach, you can arrange in advance online. You can also book a 2-hour surf lesson in a small group at Laguna Beach.
Multiple locations: including Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and San Clemente
25. Watch some epic surfing at Trestles
Image by Brian A. Witkin/Shutterstock
If you’re looking for a spot where serious surfers flock like birds, Trestles Beach in San Clemente hits the jackpot. This is where you want to be if you want to watch riders get barrelled and catch some gnarly waves like the pros.
You should also stick around a while. San Clemente is a cool Spanish-style beach town that offers tons of charm—and good Mexican food!
Location: San Clemente is south of Dana Point, on the border of San Diego County
Getting around in Orange County
Everything you’ve heard about Southern California traffic is true—it’s horrendous. So be sure to plan your sightseeing route accordingly and avoid rush hour driving times as much as possible. Try to stay off the highways between 7-9am and 3-7pm unless sitting in bumper-to-bumper traffic is your idea of a good time!
Renting a car is the best option for getting around Orange County. But ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are very popular and efficient. Plus, there’s the bonus of not having to find parking or being in charge of navigation!
If you prefer public transportation, there’s an Orange County Metrolink line that makes stops at all the major Orange County destinations.
What to pack for your Orange county visit
You can look forward to great weather in Orange County.
The OC’s average temperature is about 23℃ and sees an average of 328 sunshiny days. So pack beachwear and leave your snow boots at home! We recommend packing layering options because the coastal weather can get nippy at night and in the early morning.
Typical daytime beachwear is perfectly acceptable for the chill SoCal vibe but remember that Orange County has some very upscale areas too. To experience the nightlife, be sure to pack some dressier clothing options—especially for dinners at high-end restaurants and nights out in places like Newport Beach and Laguna Beach.
More Information:
Tourism Info: Discover Orange County
Where to stay in Orange County: If you want to review more accommodation options, see Booking.com for Irvine, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach and Laguna Beach, our top recommendations for places to stay in Orange County.
Car Rental: Compare prices at Auto Europe (not just for Europe!)
Recommended reading: A Comprehensive Hiking Guide to Orange County, Fodor’s Los Angeles and Orange County.
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