With Spring Break coming up and Orange County heading into the Orange Tier (as of the writing of this post), many residents are looking for Orange County staycation ideas. Luckily, Orange County is dotted with stunning beach towns, perfect for local jaunts that feel like a five-star vacation.
A Newport Beach Staycation
Newport Beach is Orange County’s ultimate staycation destination, where laid-back luxury meets pristine beaches, upscale and boutique shopping, fine dining, and watersports. Restore mind and body surrounded by coastal views while fresh sea air and the expansive natural landscape make every day uniquely peaceful here. Balboa Peninsula features two piers, plus the Balboa Fun Zone, an old-school amusement park with a Ferris wheel and ocean views. Local beaches include the Wedge, known for its big waves, and Corona del Mar State Beach.
Where to Stay in Newport Beach
The Resort at Pelican Hill is perched upon the coastline, just south of Newport Beach. Ranging from 2,200 to 3,581 square feet and two to four bedrooms, the exceptionally spacious fully-furnished Villas offer gourmet kitchens, dining areas, and ultra-luxury living quarters for the perfect long-term accommodation. Each villa’s elegant outdoor private terrace overlooks 3.5 miles of coastline for an indoor/outdoor oasis that’s all your own.
Currently, the resort is offering a 3rd Night Complimentary offer with a $100 dining credit.
Where to Eat in Newport Beach
Flemings Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar is an outstanding choice to enjoy an exceptional Prime steak, glass of wine, or handcrafted cocktails.
Laguna Beach Staycation Ideas
Known for its many art galleries, coves, and beaches, spending the weekend in Laguna Beach feels like a five-star vacation. Main Beach features tide pools and a boardwalk leading to the paths and gardens of nearby Heisler Park and for those into surfing, Aliso Beach Park is a popular spot.
Where to Stay in Laguna Beach
The Ranch in Laguna Beach is situated between lush rolling hills, cliffs, and canyons, with the beach directly across the street. Originally a watermelon farm in 1871 and then turned into a hotel afterward, a local resident decided to preserve this special piece of Laguna history by renovating the lodge but keeping the architecture intact. Today, this unique lodge looks like something out of a destination magazine. Featuring a waterfront spa and wellness center, as well as an indoor-outdoor restaurant, The Harvest, which features a menu of locally sourced fresh ingredients. You can experience live music daily, and s’mores at night under the stars.
Where to Eat in Laguna Beach
Pull up a chair at Oak Restaurant, a delightful, locally-owned eatery that serves farm-to-table modern American cuisine and hand-crafted cocktails. Serving lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, dine inside or alfresco with views of the Pacific.
Visit San Juan Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano is the perfect Orange County staycation destination, filled with charm and a variety of activities for a one-of-a-kind getaway. Spend the day at Mission San Juan Capistrano, which dates back to 1776 in colonial Las Californias by Spanish Catholic missionaries of the Franciscan Order. Known as the birthplace of Orange County, today, it is a monument to California’s multi-cultural history, embracing its Native American, Spanish, Mexican and European heritage. The Mission welcomes over 300,000 visitors each year, where you can look at artifacts, treasures, and paintings and walk the ruins of the Great Stone Church.
For younger visitors, San Juan Capistrano also has Zoomar’s Petting Zoo, and little boutique shops and eateries dotting through the historic village.
Where to Stay in San Juan Capistrano
Inn at the Mission – Stay in a romantic, hacienda-style guest room or a luxury suite, with lustrous bathrooms and superior amenities. Take in the view on the outdoor patio overlooking the ruins of the Great Stone Church or soak up the rich history of California with a tour of the nearby Mission San Juan Capistrano.
Where to Eat in San Juan Capistrano
L’Hirondelle offers a quaint, old-world atmosphere serving delicious cuisine with strong French and Belgian influences. This family-owned restaurant features a beautiful outdoor patio that allows you to hear the bells ring at the Mission, right across the street.
Destination, Orange County
There are plenty of things to do in Orange County, even day-trips that include open-air shopping experiences and dining at world-class restaurants. If your travel plans have been scrapped over the past year due to Covid, there are plenty of things to do, right outside your door!
