Top 10 Destinations of Orange County

Mar 14, 2013
Marisa Machak

Orange County, California is home to some of the most beautiful coastlines and beaches in the world. But it’s so much more than that! The LadyLUX team has rounded up their favorite local spots, shops, restaurants and attractions that are must-see places for locals and tourists alike. Welcome to The OC!

Montage Laguna Beach

Nestled on a coastal bluff within the picturesque arts community of Laguna Beach, the Montage Laguna Beach is a hotel haven in the heart of Orange County. This ultra-luxury beachfront resort overlooking the ocean blends lavish comfort with an artsy, rustic charm. Soak in the view of the Pacific with cocktail in hand while lounging by the artistic pool complete with a gorgeous sunburst design.

South Coast Plaza

Home to an exclusive collection of 250 boutiques and luxury retailers, 30 restaurants and the Segerstrom Center of the Arts, South Coast Plaza is known for its world-class shopping, dining and entertainment. South Coast continues to define the luxury shopping experience with fabulous designers, personal service and upscale amenities.

Downtown Disney

Located just outside the Disneyland and California Adventure theme parks and resorts, Downtown Disney is a vivacious promenade featuring the Disney environment with unique shopping, dining and exciting nighttime entertainment. Dining at the Rainforest Café, going to a concert at the House of Blues and finding cute goodies at the Disney Vault makes for a romantic night out with a date or a fun night out with the girls.

Crow Bar and Kitchen

A long day at the beach calls for a good hamburger. Located in the quaint city of Corona del Mar, the Crow Bar and Kitchen is the perfect gastropub in Orange County for good burgers and brews. Featuring a menu highlighting local food, seasonal touches and a neighborhood ambiance, this restaurant is home to the must-try Crow burger and Crow-hito. Don't forget the duck fat fries on the side!

Bowers Museum

The Bowers Museum is the largest museum in Orange County and a treasure to the city of Santa Ana. Since 1993, the Bowers Museum has enriched lives through the world’s finest arts and culture. Producing over 50 special exhibitions, the museum currently features the exhibits of “Lucy’s Legacy: The Hidden Treasures of Ethiopia” and “Maurice Sendak: 50 Years, 50 Works, 50 Reasons.”

Huntington Beach Pier

Stretching over sandy beaches and waves made for surfing, the Huntington Beach Pier is one of the most iconic Orange County attractions located right in the midst of Southern California beach culture. Set in “Surf City, USA,” locals and tourists can walk down Main Street and then go to the Huntington pier to fish, shop and eat at the Ruby’s Diner located at the very end, all while enjoying aerial views of surfers and sunsets. Tourists cannot miss out on the US Open of Surfing held in late summer and the International Surfing Museum located right behind Main Street.

Balboa Peninsula

Newport Beach offers a wide variety of attractions but there’s nothing like visitng this beach city for some water sports. Whether paddle boarding or kayaking, the Balboa Peninsula is the perfect place to relax while experiencing some fun in the sun. Afterwards, hit up some of the local pubs and eateries like Mama D's and 21 Oceanfront.

Balboa Island

For the perfect weekend day trip, take the Island ferry over to Balboa Island. Lovely and picture perfect as can be, Balboa Island may be small but is filled with cute shops, yummy restaurants, friendly folks and beautiful harbor waters. An afternoon can be spent walking through the town, enjoying Sunday brunch, watching the seals and ending the day by gazing at the sunset. If visitors don’t want to leave, they can rent a house for the summer.

The Rooftop Lounge

A perfect spot for afternoon cocktails is the Rooftop Lounge in Laguna Beach. Located on the roof of La Casa del Camino Hotel, good food, good drinks and a spectacular sunset view await you. Visitors should claim their table by the railing to get a prime view of the ocean while enjoying one the signature mojitos in hand during Happy Hour.

Thousand Steps Beach

Located in Laguna Beach is the hidden gem of Thousand Steps Beach. Sounding a bit like a workout, tourists should keep their walking shoes on and keep in mind that this beach is a fairly long trek. Beginning with a long staircase leading down to the beach, each step is worth it once you get to the bottom and discover the pristine sand, crashing waves, tide pools and even a cave.