Best Long-Weekend Staycation Ideas In OC
Sometimes Southern California residents become so spoiled by day-to-day life, that we forget Orange County is one of the most beautiful places in the country. So who could think of a better place to staycation? Sure OC is big, but it's not huge, so no matter where you decide to venture off to, you can experience some pretty terrific places in the course of say a long weekend. Orange County is the place in So Cal to eat, play, stay, and shop. With the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop, and palm trees providing just the right amount of shade from the sunshine -- why would you want to visit anywhere else?
The Ocean Institute
24200 Dana Point Harbor
Drive Dana Point, CA 92629
(949) 496-2274
www.ocean-institute.org
The Ocean Institute in Dana Point "offers immersion style programs to teach oceanography and marine science." Known for it's marina-science program, visitors can also arrange for special whale-watching and dolphin cruises which will put you up close and personal with some of wildlife's most beautiful animals. Come observe ocean animals in their natural habitats from 10am-3pm most Saturdays and Sundays and also get a chance to visit the natural tide pools located behind the Ocean Institute which are open to the public.
Where To Stay
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
One Ritz Carlton Drive
Dana Point, CA 92629
(949) 240-5020
www.ritzcarlton.com
While visiting Dana Point, you simply cannot pass up the chance to stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. The perfect mixture of fun and opulence, it is a Southern California getaway you will never want to leave and can't wait to get back to. One of Southern California's great beach resorts, the hotel is serene, sophisticated and offers a myriad of amenities for their guests. From ocean front golf, surf experiences, and spas to fine dining, the resort is something you don't want to miss.
Fashion Island
401 Newport Center Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92660
www.shopfashionisland.com
Fashion Island is a must-see for serious shoppers and fashionistas. A mini-outside version of South Coast Plaza, Fashion Island is home to first-class dining experiences and high-end retailers like Neiman Marcus. Overlooking the beautiful Pacific Ocean, Fashion Island is perfect for updating your wardrobe with a professional stylist, or walking around and catching a bite to eat with your family. The complex has hundreds of stores ranging from Bloomingdales, Forever 21 and Anthropologie to The Apple Store and The Cheesecake Factory.
Where to Stay
Island Hotel & Spa
690 Newport Center Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92660
(949) 759-0808
www.islandhotel.com
Inside Fashion Island and Newport Center, Island Hotel and Spa is the perfect location for your next Newport Beach getaway. Located right where all the Newport Beach action is at, you are seconds away from the best restaurants, fabulous shopping, and world-renown beaches. Offering luxury and spacious accommodations, the hotel also offers exquisite dining options as well as plush beds for your pets. And, if you decide you'd like a spa day or a day out on the golf course, the hotel will accommodate that as well.
Sawdust Festival
935 Laguna Canyon Road
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 494-3030
www.sawdustartfestival.org
Art, art, and more art. Exploding with culture every place you look, Laguna Beach is "Southern California's premier seaside destination" for art lovers, nature enthusiasts and beach goers. Around every corner you can't hide from the breathtaking views, fabulous restaurants, boutiques and one-of-a-kind-art galleries that line Pacific Coast Highway. Make sure to check out the seasonal Sawdust Festival with arts and crafts, classes, demonstrations and entertainment.
Where to Stay
Surf and Sand
1555 South Coast Highway
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 497-4477
www.surfandsandresort.com
Surf and Sand is Orange County's best kept secret making it our pick for favorite hotel while visiting Laguna Beach. With rooms steps from the ocean, this property is home to Splashes, a fantastic restaurant you simply must try at while visiting. Surf and Sand embraces the California boho-chic style with a touch of seaside glam perfectly. The resort offers a full spa, pool as well as other great amenities.
Disneyland
1313 Disneyland Drive
Anaheim, CA 92802
(714) 520-5060
www.disneyland.com
Rumor has it that the happiest place on earth just got happier. Disneyland Magic Kingdom and California Adventure open year-round is fun for all ages and is much more than just rides and attractions. Did you know Disney's Grand Californian resort has a Mandara Spa? These are the little things that are typically overlooked. Imagine that, you can find peaceful bliss just steps away from where all the magic is at. Needless to say, Disneyland is the perfect destination to bring kids of any age. From the rides to the entertainment throughout the park, Disneyland is not to be missed when visiting Anaheim.
Where to Stay
Grand Californian Resort & Spa
1600 Disneyland Drive
Anaheim, CA 92803
(714) 630-2300
www.disneyland.com/grand-californian-hotel/
Smack dab in the heart of Downtown Disney and in the middle of both the Magic Kingdom and California Adventure, is the Disney Grand Californian Resort & Spa and villas. Yes, villas. Did you know that the property also has villas with multiple bedrooms and full size kitchens? Oh, and make sure to request a view of the park! Your kids will love it and so will you.
Huntington Beach Pier
Pacific Coast Hwy South
Huntington Beach, CA 92646
(714) 536-5281
Welcome to Surf City USA! Huntington Beach is synonymous with the California lifestyle. The Huntington Beach official website even boasts the unofficial dress code has become "a mix of wetsuits, bikinis and sandals." Sounds about right! Home of world class surf competitions, Huntington Beach is a must visit for those looking for the ultimate outdoor weekend. From surfing, to paddle boarding, kite flying, and bicycling, Huntington Beach is the spot for you on your staycation.
Where to Stay
Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort And Spa
21500 Pacific Coast Highway
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
(714) 698-1234
www.huntingtonbeach.hyatt.com
No visit would be complete to Huntington Beach without checking-in to Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa on PCH. The Spanish style architecture sets the mood for those looking to enjoy an upscale modern getaway in a classic surf town. Enjoy sparkling views of the Pacific and world-class amenities at this oceanfront hotel while also enjoying spa treatments, great restaurants and more.
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Nicole Standley a.k.a. JetSet Mom, is a social influencer + lifestylist covering luxury travel, fine-dining, fashion & pop culture for The JetSet Family. Follow her latest travels and escapades on Instagram, Google+ and Twitter.
