Curator’s statement
Orange County will always be a part of me. Growing up here, catching the amazing sun rays, coastal breeze and luxurious atmosphere always sounded like a perfect vacation destination. Lucky for me, I got to live here. I want you to be able to experience Orange County on a visit and go back home relaxed and rejuvinated.
The Fora Difference
Book with Tyler to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Orange County
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club
Perched on 175 acres atop a 150-foot seaside bluff and featuring a private beach club, this property offers a perfect blend of Southern California’s legendary laid-back luxury and the iconic culture of True Waldorf Service.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Montage Laguna Beach
Montage Laguna Beach welcomes guests into the heart of Southern California’s preeminent artist colony and features two outdoor pool decks, two spas and three signature restaurants with spectacular views.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 resort / hotel credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The Resort at Pelican Hill
Admire the Pacific Ocean views and Italianate architecture at this golfer’s favorite near Newport Beach.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Unlock perks by contacting Tyler to book your trip.
Things to do in Orange County
South Coast Plaza - The largest shopping mall in the West Coast of the United States, this luxury shopping mall is the perfect place to find a new outfit or spend an afternoon window shopping.
Fashion Island - Care to shop but need the California sun? Come here for some outdoor open-air shopping and take in the ocean breeze.
Disneyland and California Adventure - Come see where the magic began. Disneyland opened in 1955 and was the first theme park by the Walt Disney Company. And if you want some different rides, grab a Park Hopper ticket and head over to California Adventure for extra fun.
Beach, Beach and More Beaches- With 42 miles of coastline and picture-perfect beach cities, there are plenty of beaches to fall for here. My personal favorite is Laguna Beach.
Nature Hikes- Want some nature after all that shopping? With 3.2 miles of beach, and 2,400 acres of backcountry wilderness my personal favorite is Crystal Cove State Park.
Laguna Beach - such a cute beach town! It has seven miles of coves and beaches where visitors can explore sea caves, tide pools, ocean-side bluffs, natural tide pools, and of course, sandy beaches. The downtown also features unique stores with an array of specialty boutiques, eclectic shops, and fine art galleries.
Orange Circle/Old Towne Orange - If you want to feel like you've transported back in time, give this a visit. Take a stroll through the numerous antique shops, boutiques, and specialty stores.
Water Sports in Newport Harbor- Rent a paddleboard and tour the harbor, or get a Duffy boat to explore. And while you're there, go visit Balboa Island, which is perfect for bike rides or laying out on the sand.
DAY TRIPS
You can add a day trip to San Diego, Santa Barbara or parts of Los Angeles!
Place to eat & drink in Orange County
1. Knife Pleat - Located in the Penthouse section of South Coast Plaza, have a luxurious dining experience at this contemporary French restaurant that has 1 Michelin Star.
2. Hamamori - Upscale Japanese fare. My personal favorite is the lunch set menus.
3. Chaak Kitchen - Specializing in modern Mexican cuisine, this hip restaurant features a retractable roof. My personal rec is to order the octopus as it is very good!
4. Orange Hill - Take in some crazy views from this hilltop restaurant offering Prime Steaks. On a clear day you'll be able to see views of Catalina Island, Los Angeles, the coastline and Disneyland fireworks.
5. AnQi - A nice and hip Asian fusion restaurant. I especially love the desserts and the lively atmosphere.
6. Din Tai Fung - My favorite restaurant ever! The internationally famous restaurant originating from Taiwan, specializes in Chinese cuisine like dumplings and noodle dishes. Make reservations in advance or show up early as there are long wait times. But, you can shop at South Coast while you wait!
7. Farmhouse at Rogers Gardens - Upscale American fare is served at this rustic garden-style restaurant. It is such a cute place to have a meal in a nursery/garden!
8. Bourbon Steak - If you're craving steak, head over to Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina. This luxury steakhouse is located inside the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach.
9. RISE Rooftop - Located on the roof of the Westin Anaheim Resort, grab a meal or drinks here to see the Disneyland fireworks at night.
Travel Advisor
Tyler Chow
Get in touch with Tyler
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Tyler within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, An Insider's Guide to Honolulu.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Orange County.