Ask An Expert: Spring Break Staycation Activities For Kids In OC

The owner of EVENTS By Robin shares some of her ideas for family fun right here in the OC. Without hopping on a plane, children are fortunate enough to explore the ocean, visit one of the world's most renowned amusement parks and familiarize with a variety of careers for their future.

Robin Ballard is one of Orange County's rising event planners and has coordinated a variety of themed parties for all ages. In recent years, her focus has been planning weddings in the artistic and breathtaking coastal town of Laguna Beach. Robin and her team are versatile whether it comes to creating a non-traditional modern wedding at the unique eco-chic boutique hotel SEVEN4ONE in Laguna Beach, or a grand affair at the exclusive and private Jonathan Club in Los Angeles.

As a little girl, Robin played dress-up in white gowns and grew up in a world of fabulous weddings, flowers and special events. Following in her mother's footsteps as a Laguna Beach wedding coordinator, Robin's personal passion has blossomed into her own business. From venue research, theme creation, budget management and hospitality, Robin finds no detail too small. She is diligent in her quest for the best and continues to stay at the forefront of event trends. Her creativity and bubbly disposition instantly connects her with clients of all ages and helps make her events seamless, fun and memorable.

Visit Balboa Fun Zone

"The Balboa Fun Zone is a family destination located on the Balboa Peninsula in the city of Newport Beach. You can take the Balboa Island Ferry over to the Fun Zone for a day of entertainment, whale watching, parasailing, boat rides, good eats and shopping. Whether riding the ferris wheel, hopping on the electronic shark or wining tickets at the arcade, the name is pretty straight forward — it's a Fun Zone! Also, make sure to check out ExplorOcean and Newport Harbor's Nautical Museum while you're in the area. You and your kiddos can learn more about the ocean and even touch several sea creatures such as sea stars, crabs, urchins and bat stars."

Take A Trip To Disneyland

Regardless if it's the first time taking children to visit Disneyland or the fifth time, the happiest place on earth usually puts a smile on adults' and kids' faces alike. It's hard to beat a day with your favorite Disney characters, roller coasters, water rides, games and shopping!"

Go Tide Pooling

"Take your children tide pooling in Laguna Beach to explore fascinating ocean creatures. Heisler Park Reserve and Treasure Island are some of my favorite spots in Laguna. You can also bring your swim suits and snorkeling gear if you want to take a dip in the water."

Related: A Guide To SoCal's Major Theme Parks

Rent A Duffy Boat

"Grab the children, pack a picnic and throw on your boat shoes for a day on the ocean in a Duffy boat. There several places that rent out easy-to-navigate, electric Duffy boats to cruise on the Newport Beach Harbor. For extra family fun, play the 'Duffy Boat Scavenger Hunt' game and find historical landmarks around the Newport Bay. The kids will love it, and adults will enjoy the scenic views, beautiful landscape, yachts and homes along the waterfront."

Check Out Pretend City Children's Museum

"This kids' museum is located in Irvine and will keep children captivated for hours with interactive learning areas focused on several careers in the arts, finance, construction, food, health, agriculture and government. There's even a special hands-on exhibit that highlights the importance of keeping the ocean clean."

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