#114 Reef Point
Reef Point in Crystal Cove State Park along the Orange County Coast is a great way to spend an afternoon. Beautiful bluffs drop to sandy beaches as well as rocky tidepool coves making it the perfect beach for everyone.
#102 Los Rios Historic District
The Los Rios Historic District in Orange County is the oldest neighborhood in California dating back to the late 1700's. Located across the railroad tracks of Mission San Juan Capistrano, several of the structures provided homes for the residents of the mission. The 31 structures that make up this district are located on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, a walk along the streets provide a glimpse of Southern California at the turn of the twentieth century.
#91 Balboa Island
Balboa Island is a charming community in Newport Beach. Once a natural swampland with sand on the ocean, an island was created for the construction of a village and adjacent harbor. Lots which sold for $250 one hundred years ago now cost millions. Many celebrities during the golden age of Hollywood had boats here including John Wayne, Humphrey Bogart, Mae West and Shirley Temple. Quaint shops and ice cream parlors line the streets and make for a perfect afternoon of relaxation.
#74 Mission San Juan Capistrano
Mission San Juan Capistrano in Orange County is known as the 'Jewel of the Missions'. Founded in 1775, it was the 7th of the 21 California Missions. Its main purpose was to teach and convert the Native Americans to the new Spanish way of life. At its peak in the early 19th century, the mission was home to 1,000 people.
The earthquake of 1812, lack of funding, Mexican Independence along with disease that the Spanish had brought with them proved too much and the mission system ended in 1834. Today, the beautiful grounds are a great way to enjoy a relaxing afternoon and learn the history of the missions. The famous swallows return to the Mission every March which is commemorated on St. Joseph's Day.
#63 Sherman Library and Gardens
The Sherman Library and Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden on the Orange County Coast in Corona del Mar. Orchids, roses, ferns, succulents, tropical vegetation and desert cacti are displayed among beautifully landscaped fountains, patios and grotto's. Though only 2 acres, the Sherman Collection is expansive and stunning.
#50 San Clemente Boardwalk
San Clemente Boardwalk is one of the best ocean trails in Orange County. Connecting San Clemente with Dana Point, this trail follows the railroad adding to the atmosphere. The views are panoramic and it is a great place to watch the sunset. Following the coast for several miles, this trail can be tailored to anyone's needs.
#38 Dana Point Headlands
Dana Point Headlands on the beautiful Orange County Coast is named after author Richard Henry Dana, Jr. who wrote Two Years Before The Mast in 1840. Mr. Dana considered this stretch of coastline "the only romantic spot on the coast." Dana Point became an important trading harbor for nearby Mission San Juan Capistrano. Today, the peaceful Dana Point Harbor has shops and restaurants as well as trails leading up to the headlands. The area has also been designated as a California Historical Landmark.
#27 O'Neill Regional Park
O'Neill Regional Park is a beautiful 4,500 acre park managed by Orange County Parks. The park is nestled in the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains in Trabuco and Live Oak Canyons. Coast live oaks line many of the trails allowing you to enter a wooded wonderland. There are also trails of chaparral, sagebrush and cactus. Live Oak Canyon Road is also a lovely drive as you enter the park. This is an OC must for relaxation.
#9 Victoria Beach
Victoria Beach is a hidden cove in Laguna Beach of Orange County. The Iconic Victorian Lighthouse Tower is the famous landmark. It was built in 1926 by state senator William Brown so his family could reach the beach from their bluff-top home. This beach features a sandy stretch as well as crashing waves against the rocks which makes it a photographers dream.
