Best Orange County Summer Vacation Destinations of 2025
Summer of 2025 is already half over, and California residents and out-of-state visitors alike are looking to end their vacation season on a high note. Though Southern California as a whole boasts some of the most popular and stunning destinations in the world, Orange County in particular has something for everyone to enjoy. Trust us, while we love Disneyland as much as anyone, there’s even more to love about the O.C. Visit any of these amazing locations in Orange County this summer!
Why Visit Orange County?
Orange County has some of the most diverse amenities and attractions in the country. Whether you’re traveling alone or with friends, with children or your parents, there’s so much to explore in O.C. Beaches, shopping, restaurants, and nature are all within an hour’s drive of each other – not to mention, accessibility to other popular destinations like Los Angeles. It’s no wonder Orange County is one of the most exciting vacation spots in California.
Dana Point
If you’re an ocean lover, Dana Point is a must-see location. As the whale watching capital of the world, Dana Point is famous for its gorgeous ocean scenery and breathtaking pods of whales and dolphins which are the main attraction for tours around the area. In addition to whale and dolphin watching, Dana Point offers hiking and surfing options. Beaches in the area range from fun tide pools to family-friendly sands and water sport hubs. This spot is great for those looking for an idyllic beach vacation.
Orange County Fair in Costa Mesa
Interested in a lively evening or several? The Orange County Fair runs in Costa Mesa, California, from July 18, 2025, to August 17, 2025 on Wednesdays thru Sundays. With attractions like fair food, exciting rides, and live entertainment, there’s something for everyone to love at the fair. The Orange County Fair is an excellent family-friendly activity sure to leave you buzzing.
Brea Fest
Brea Fest is the annual exhibition of all that Orange County has to offer. Taking place in Brea, California, this one-day festival offers delicious foods from local restaurants, live music and entertainment, art and science exhibits, and shopping galore! Great for visitors of all ages, Brea Fest is a fantastic event to experience for those who want a taste of local life in O.C.
Crystal Cove State Park
Want to experience nature in the heart of Southern California? Look no further than Crystal Cove State Park. Spanning Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, and Laguna Beach, Crystal Cove provides loads of opportunities for outdoor recreation that’s hard to find anywhere else in California. From protected wilderness for hiking, camping, and mountain biking to underwater reefs for snorkeling and diving, nature is the attraction. You can even rent restored 1930s beach cottages along the over 3 miles of beach in the park. Crystal Cove is is one for the bucket list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to ride fair rides?
It depends. There are no federal safety regulations for traveling fair or carnival rides. However, all rides are subject to safety and maintenance oversight. While larger rides, like those at the Orange County fair, likely experience more oversight, smaller fairs and carnivals may not have as much focus on safety. If you ride a fair or carnival ride and are injured, you certainly have legal options as fairs have a duty of care to their guests. Contact an Orange County personal injury lawyer if you’re hurt at the fair.
What do I do if I get hurt on vacation in Orange County?
If you’re injured on vacation, seek medical help immediately, even if you’re out-of-network. Many accidents can happen on vacations and it’s important to understand the legality and rights associated with the accident. If you’re hurt in Orange County due to a property owner’s negligence or someone else’s recklessness, you deserve compensation for your medical care. Contact an Orange County personal injury lawyer today.
Is it expensive to visit Orange County?
Like most places in Southern California, Orange County boasts a higher than average cost of living. Similarly, with so many excellent amenities within the O.C., vacation costs may be slightly higher than in other U.S. destinations. However, the cost is well worth the experience.
What do I do if I’m hurt at a state or national park?
California state parks are managed, staffed, and overseen by the California State Parks Department. National parks are overseen by the National Parks Service. If you are injured by a preventable and foreseeable hazard in the park that these departments should have been aware of, you could have a personal injury claim for compensation. However, because these cases involve government agencies, the California statute of limitations on any personal injury claim brought against them is reduced to just six months. If you are hurt and believe you have a claim, contact an Orange County personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to begin the process of filing.
I’m vacationing from outside of the country. Can I still bring a personal injury lawsuit if I’m hurt in Orange County?
Yes! U.S. law allows anyone within the country’s borders to bring lawsuits. Whether you’re an international student or just visiting the U.S. for vacation, you have legal rights while your feet are on U.S. soil.
Where can I find out what’s happening in Orange County this summer?
Orange County’s parks and recreation website provides a comprehensive schedule of all of the most exciting events this summer in the O.C. Check out what’s coming up here.
How to Stay Safe on Vacation in Orange County
Vacations may be times to relax, but they are also rife with risky adventures and behavior. Enjoy your time, but make sure you and your loved ones stay safe as well by following these simple tips:
- Have a communication plan. If you’re venturing around Orange County with a group or your family, it’s important to have a communication or meetup plan in case you get lost, separate, or are stranded. Keep your phone charged and let each other know where you’ll be and when you’ll be back if you separate.
- Limit your drinking. Vacation in summer means margaritas and pina coladas for many. But too much indulgence can leave you confused and lost or in a dangerous situation. Make sure you have a safe plan to get yourself to your hotel if you choose to drink.
- Never leave beverages or food unattended. Unfortunately, bad actors can try to take advantage of unattended food or drink. Stick with friends or family when out on the town and make sure a trustworthy person is watching your meal if you go to the restroom or need to step away.
- Notify staff right away if a restaurant, parking garage, shop, or even state park has a major safety hazard. Obvious hazards may include poor lighting, unpainted stairs, cracked or uneven floors, fallen or falling trees or branches, and more. These should be handled right away by staff. If they aren’t and someone is injured because of it, they could have a personal injury claim.
Hurt in Orange County? Call an Orange County personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to understand your rights.
Defending the Rights of California Residents and Visitors for Decades
California has so much to offer visitors during the summer months, but vacations can often lead to unintended injuries. BD&J has been California’s trusted firm for clients injured due to the negligence of others for more than 20 years. Our Orange County personal injury lawyers have recovered over $2 billion* for our clients and will help you claim what you deserve. Hurt in a business, venue, park, or beach? Contact us 24/7 to schedule a free consultation and learn your rights.
