Curator’s statement
Tucked just south of Laguna Beach, beyond the well-trodden cities, this stretch of South Orange County feels like one of SoCal’s best-kept secrets. The coastal triangle I call home (Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, and San Clemente) sits perfectly between San Diego and Los Angeles, yet feels worlds away. You’ll find charming local shops and restaurants who have built a space that invites you to slow down. It’s often overlooked, but this little pocket offers a variety of things to do and truly feels like a slice of heaven.
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Things to do in Orange County
1. Take a surf lesson: Doheny State Beach and San Onofre Surf Beach (or Doho and Old Mans as we call them) are the two most beginner-friendly waves. Get there early in the morning before the rest of the world wakes up. In the summer, it can get extremely packed.
2. Visit Mission San Juan Capistrano: A beautifully preserved piece of California’s past where history, blooming gardens, and the legend of the returning swallows live. Keep an eye out for special programming around the holidays
3. Stroll around Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens: Set on a bluff overlooking the sea, Casa Romantica is a perfect balance of Spanish Colonial history, creative expression, and lovely gardens; an inspiring haven where culture and coastline meet.
4. Take a hike: Explore one of the many beautiful trails this area has to offer, from Dana Point Preserve to Patriots Hill there will be something for everyone. The best views are in spring, when the wild flora is blooming.
5. Visit the historic Los Rios Street and River Street Marketplace: Be sure not to miss this area of downtown San Juan Capistrano. Charming local shops line Los Rios and family friendly spaces are available at River Street Marketplace alongside some amazing eateries.
6. Take a walk on the beach: There are beaches aplenty in this area, and all are so special in their own way. For the path well-traveled, visit the San Clemente Pier trail, and for the off-the-beaten-path experience, give San Onofre State Beach a chance.
7. Watch a WSL surf competition: Held yearly at Trestles Beach, the World Surf League holds a surf competition—there are a ton of people, but it’s a fun experience. Go early and plan extra time to look for parking. It’s a hike to get there and not ADA-friendly. Make sure to bring sunscreen and lunch if you want something more substantial.
8. Go shopping: Located in San Clemente is one of the best outlet malls with a range of stores, including one of the few lululemon outlets. If this doesn’t scratch the itch, there are plenty of local boutiques in downtown San Clemente.
9. Have a picnic: Beach and park picnics are common here. If you need help executing something a little more luxe than a blanket and takeout, reach out to me at Gypsy Flora Collective to create a photo-worthy tablescape for you to enjoy.
10. Head to Disneyland: If all else fails, drive 30 minutes to Disneyland for a day of fun at California Adventure and Disneyland Park.
Places to eat & drink in Orange County
1. Heritage BBQ (SJC): This Texas-style barbeque is uber-popular and finger-licking good. Brisket is a must and don’t miss the potato salad!
2. Trevor at the Tracks (SJC): Fun, lively environment, often with live music situated next to Los Rios Street. Make a reservation here on the weekend to skip a long wait. Delightful cocktail menu.
3. West Toast Cafe (SC): My favorite breakfast spot—the only restaurant sitting on the sand serving delicious lattes, breakfast burritos, and views.
4. Ramos House Cafe (SJC): Another incredibly popular local business whose southern brunch is incredible. The menu changes frequently here.
5. JD Flannel Donuts & Coffee (SJC): The best donut you will ever taste. They have incredible gluten-free options as well. Do not miss this one!
6. Lucky Dog Gelato (SC): The best gelato anywhere around with many flavors to choose from, the owner studied gelato making in Italy.
7. Ellie’s Table (SJC): A more relaxed order and sit-down style option serving breakfast and lunch. Diverse menu and some fun coffee options.
8. Capo Leisure House (SJC): A great spot to stop by for a refreshing drink after a long day.
9. Vine Restaurant & Bar (SC): Fine dining at its finest! Everything we ate was mind-blowing. The oatmeal raisin cookie crumble is out of this world, if you’re into that kind of thing.
10. Apizza Doho (DP): The best pizza I’ve eaten outside Naples and the iced green tea is delicious. Go in before 4 pm to score the “Lunchbox Special” for a great deal.
Need to know
Top Coffee Spots:
1. Hidden House Coffee (SJC): Not so hidden anymore, get here early. It’s a great place to hang out with friends or family, mostly with outdoor seating.
2. Bear Coast Coffee (DP, SC, LB): A SoCo favorite with locations in Laguna Beach, Dana Point, and San Clemente. Good coffee with seasonal flavor offerings, don’t miss the coolest merch.
3. West Coast Cafe (SC): Previously mentioned above for their ocean views and food, they serve some decently good coffee to go along with the rest. Outdoor seating only.
4. True Love Coffee Co (SJC): They are small but mighty, the new kid in town, and the best coffee I’ve had in San Juan Capistrano. Outdoor seating only.
5. Rapport Coffee & Roasters (SC, LB): You won’t easily find this place, but it’s a local favorite. Closed Sundays and have a Laguna Beach location.
6. Kuli Coffee (SC): The newbie in San Clemente, praised for its generous amount of seating and evening hours.
7. Sur Coffee (SC): Another local favorite, usually busy.
8. Better Buzz Coffee (SC): Not the best coffee but incredible convenience when you are in a hurry. You will be in/out of the drive through in less than two minutes on a morning trip.
For more information and insider recommendations, visit our Orange County page.
Travel Advisor
Marisha Bailey
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