Orange County blends sun‑kissed beaches, world‑class attractions and historic charm, making it a laid‑back yet lively Southern California getaway. It’s famed for Disneyland, surf‑culture towns like Huntington Beach, and artsy enclaves such as Laguna Beach. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Top Things to Do in Orange County
Tap an attraction to look it up on TripAdvisor.
Getting Around Orange County
From the Airport
Train. Metrolink’s Orange County Line stops at John Wayne Airport Station; a 15‑minute ride to downtown Santa Ana costs about $5. Bus. OCTA Route 76 runs from the airport to Disneyland and Huntington Beach, with a fare of $2.50 and a 30‑minute travel time. Rideshare. Uber and Lyft operate at the airport; rides to Anaheim average 20‑25 minutes and cost $25‑$35.
Once You're There
Car Rental. Major agencies (Alamo, Hertz, Enterprise) have counters in the arrivals hall; a compact car is ideal for coastal drives. Rideshare. Uber and Lyft are widely used throughout Orange County for quick trips between attractions. OCTA Bus. The Orange County Transportation Authority provides extensive bus routes (e.g., 73, 76, 81) connecting beaches, malls and historic sites. Walking. Neighborhoods like Downtown Santa Ana, Balboa Island and Laguna Beach are pedestrian‑friendly with shaded sidewalks and beach promenades.
Where to Stay in Orange County
Hotel picks for Orange County are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Orange County
A&J Restaurant★★★★★14805 Jeffrey Rd, Irvine, CA 92618, United StatesA casual family‑run spot serving classic American comfort food, known for hearty breakfasts and homestyle meals.
Nick's Laguna Beach★ 4.7 (2,630)Renowned for its dry‑aged ribeye and the signature “Nick’s Burger” that draws locals and tourists alike.
In‑N‑Out Burger★ 4.6 (1,056)The iconic Southern California chain beloved for its simple “Animal‑Style” burger and fresh‑cut fries.
The Deck on Laguna Beach★ 4.5 (2,081)Ocean‑front dining known for its seared scallops and sunset‑view patio.
The Ranch Restaurant & Saloon★ 4.5 (1,291)Anaheim’s farm‑to‑table steakhouse praised for its grass‑fed ribeye and a robust whiskey selection.
Marugame Monzo★ 4.5 (267)Irvine’s udon specialist famous for hand‑pulled noodles served in a rich, broth‑rich “Monzo” bowl.
Orange Hill Restaurant★ 4.4 (4,269)Perched above Orange, it offers panoramic county views and a celebrated prime rib with a rosemary‑garlic crust.
Phở 79★ 4.4 (3,065)Irvine’s Vietnamese spot praised for a steaming bowl of beef pho with perfectly caramelized brisket.
The Crab Cooker★ 4.4 (2,378)A Newport Beach institution famous for its buttery crab cakes and fresh Dungeness crab served right on the pier.
Sushi Noguchi★ 4.4 (325)An upscale Irvine sushi bar celebrated for an omakase menu that highlights seasonal, locally sourced fish.
3 Days in Orange County
Disneyland & Anaheim
Morning. Start at Disneyland Park, riding classics like Space Mountain and exploring Fantasyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.
Afternoon. Cross to Disney California Adventure for the Pixar Pier carousel and the thrilling Guardians of the Galaxy ride.
Evening. Stroll through Downtown Disney for live music and boutique shopping before dinner.
Coastal Classics
Morning. Walk the iconic Huntington Beach Pier, watch surfers at the “Surf City” break and grab a fresh juice from Pacific City.
Afternoon. Take the ferry to Balboa Island, wander its charming boutiques, and ride the historic Balboa Fun Zone Ferris wheel.
Evening. Catch a sunset hike along the tide pools at Crystal Cove State Park and explore the historic cottages.
Arts & History
Morning. Tour Mission San Juan Capistrano, admiring the Great Stone Church ruins and the historic bells.
Afternoon. Visit the Laguna Beach Art Museum, then relax on Laguna’s Main Beach with its colorful lifeguard towers.
Evening. Shop luxury brands at South Coast Plaza and enjoy a dinner with a view at Orange Hill Restaurant.