This is a great place to go with the family - magic and fun for all!
This place is mainly for the surfers in the group, but man is this place full of good waves. If you are not a surfer, the beach is still a nice place to sit and watch the waves and the surfers out in the water. Just park your car and the beach is a short walk away.
Newport Beach is where Sarah always went to the beach as a kid. A straight shot down the 55 freeway, this is a beach filled with families and and fun. Just bring your towel, sunscreen, and maybe a shovel and let the excitement begin. If you want to go for a little walk, on the pier is a Ruby's Diner where you can get shakes, fries, and burgers for takeout!
If you want to add a bit of history into your trip, visit one of the California Missions, Mission San Juan Capistrano. This is located close to the wedding venue and will only be a short drive from a nearby hotel.
The Sawdust Arts Festival is located in Laguna Beach just north of Dana Point. Inside, is like a fair for art, with live music, delicious food, and lots of art. Make ceramics inside or just check out the art booths. You can get a toe ring or leave the kids for 30 minutes at a kids craft spot. If you have a passion for art, you may want to look into the Pageant of the Masters, an event that brings old paintings to life. In my opinion it is a must see show! Laguna Beach is also a beautiful city so whether you are into art or not, just take a stroll downtown or enjoy the beaches and lookout points along the coast. You will not be disappointed.
Massive, urban food court. If you love food, you will love this spot. Great for pictures and a variety of dishes. Be prepared to have a hard time making a decision.
The Discovery Cube, previously known as the Discovery Science Centre, was one of Sarah's favorite places to go as a child. With fun, interactive science this place is the jam. If you are coming to California with a family this is a must go to place!
Baseball! Trust me on this, if you've never gone, GO! Just wear your red and be ready to cheer! Also, pro-tip. If you choose to go to a night game and sit in seats on the side closest to Disneyland, you can watch the fireworks from the nosebleed backside of the stands!
Don't want to go to Disneyland? That's okay, there's lots of family fun at Downtown Disney! Live music and some beignets will make your trip. You can also watch the fireworks from between the park entrances facing Disneyland.
Go for a nice walk on Balboa Island. Check out the cute shopes and grab a balboa bar while you are there! yum!
Easy (2 miles) - Quail Hill Trail Easy (4.5 miles) - Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve Hike Moderate (9 miles) - Crystal Cove Hike Hard (2.4 miles) - Top of the World Hike (Laguna Beach)