Huntington Beach Pier has been a California Icon since 1904 and is one of the largest along the West Coast at 1,850 feet. Huntington Beach or 'Surf City USA' has a consistent year-round surf. Hawaii's George Freeth surfed here in 1914 to help promote the sport along with Legendary Hawaiian Olympic gold medalist Duke Kahanamoku in the 1920's. Many famous surf shops followed in the 1950's to solidify the role of HB as the 'Surf Capital of the World' during the first United States surfing championship in 1959. Enjoy a sunset stroll along this historic pier and beautiful beach.
#328 Caspers Wilderness Park
Caspers Wilderness Park is the largest and most beautiful park in Orange County with 8,000 acres of wilderness. Sandstone canyons, coast live oak trees, river valleys and wildflowers on the edge of the Santa Ana Mountains come together to create a stunning landscape. Juaneño Native Americans lived in Villages here for thousands of years and lived off the land.
#313 Disneyland
Disneyland opened its doors on July 17, 1955 under the vision of Walt Disney. He dedicated the park with these famous words:
To all who come to this happy place: Welcome. Disneyland is your land. Here age relives fond memories of the past, and here youth may savor the challenge and promise of the future. Disneyland is dedicated to the ideals, the dreams, and the hard facts that have created America, with the hope that it will be a source of joy and inspiration to all the world.
— Walter E. Disney
It has been the most popular theme park in history with more than 650 million visitors since opening. Eight enchanted lands, Main Street, U.S.A., Adventureland, Frontierland, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, New Orleands Square, Critter Country and Mickey's Toontown, each convey a universe to celebrate the human spirit.
With more than 50 rides, attractions and exhibitions, there is always something exiting to see and do. Disneyland has earned the nickname, 'The Happiest Place on Earth' and most would agree. Here's to another 61 years.
#303 Crystal Cove Beach Cottages
The Crystal Cove Beach Cottages are a nationally recognized historic district in Crystal Cove State Park of Newport Beach. Built in the 20's through 40's, these cottages provided visitors with a unique oceanfront experience. The state park has preserved this untouched stretch of coast offering a glimpse into California's travel past. They have been featured in many films from the silent days through 1988's 'Beaches' with Bette Midler. You can stay overnight in one of the restored cottages or just enjoy the beautiful beach.
#292 San Clemente Pier
San Clemente Pier is a classic California wooden pier at 1,296 feet long. It is the third pier to be constructed at this site with the first one opening in 1928. A leisurely sunset stroll or moonlit walk are a perfect way to spend time on the Orange County Coast.
#282 Treasure Island
Treasure Island in Laguna Beach is the perfect place to experience the California coast. With its white sandy beaches, rocky tidepools, hidden coves and perfectly landscaped bluff-top gardens, it is certainly a treasure. Bring your camera and stay for the sunsets.
#265 San Onofre State Beach
San Onofre State Beach is one of the most visited state parks in California. Established in 1971 by Governor Ronald Reagan, it is currently leased to the state from the United States Marine Corps. Perfect sandy beaches lie below dramatic sculpted cliffs creating a stunning landscape. The park is also home to a sacred Juaneño Native American village called 'Panhe' that is over 8,000 years old.
#262 Corona del Mar
Corona del Mar State Beach is one of the hidden treasures of Orange County. Meaning 'Crown of the Sea' in Spanish, this stretch of coast certainly lives up to its name. The beach is separated by dramatic cliffs into 'Big Corona' and 'Little Corona'. Big Corona offers white sandy beach perfect for sunbathing while Little Corona offers stunning rocky coves, tidepools and arches.
#258 Limestone Canyon Wilderness Area
Limestone Canyon is a nature preserve part of Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. In 2006, it was designated a National Natural Landmark by the Secretary of the Interior for its outstanding biological and geological features. Coastal sage scrub and chaparral plant communities cover colorful hills and canyons along with rare and endangered animal species. A geological feature known as 'The Sinks' is the most impressive part of the canyon. *Access is limited to programs with the Irvine Ranch Conservancy
#238 Casa Romantica
Casa Romantica was the former home of Ole Hanson built in 1927. Born in Wisconsin in 1874, Ole became a politician and moved to Seattle, Washington where he served as mayor from 1918-19. He bid for presidency in 1920 but lost so moved to California to begin a more peaceful life. Ole founded the city of San Clemente in 1925 to create a 'Spanish Village by the Sea'. Casa Romantica was his dream 'White House' and is a cultural center today that celebrates the history, culture and architecture of Orange County.
