Explore the Outdoors with aguidetoanaheim!

Get up and get outside with aguidetoanaheim! We have compiled a great list of the best places to experience and explore in Orange County. You'll find Beaches, Parks, Lakes, and many more indoor and outdoor activities. So...what are you waiting for? Get up and get going!

BEACH INFORMATION

Aliso Beach

949/497-0706
Hours: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Parking: $ 1/hour (pay and display box) in Aliso Beach lot. More parking is available on Pacific Coast Highway.
Aliso Beach Park features sandy beaches, rocky promontories, and scenic coastal foothills. These geological features combine to form one of the most recreationally appealing areas along the entire California coast. The park consists of two sections, the beach itself and an island area surrounded by native coastal chaparral. Aliso Creek winds its way down from the Laguna foothills and empties into the sea. A marine life refuge borders to the north and south, rocky outcroppings clearly mark the park boundary. Surf pounds against the shore, slowed only momentarily by a spectacular fishing pier. These features plus the congenial Southern California climate make Aliso Beach Park an ideal place to visit. Special note: The shoreline is steep, which results in wave run-up that's dangerous for small children. Youngsters can be swept away when the waves recede.

Bolsa Chica State Beach

714/846-3460
Hours: 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. (winter); 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. (summer)
Parking: $ 3 all day; 2,400 spaces for cars and RVs.
Bolsa Chica is very family friendly with wide sand, and 64 overnight campsites with fire rings spaced along the beach. Boogie boards can be rented seasonally.

Capistrano Beach

949/496-4251
Hours: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. year round
Parking: $ 1/hour (pay and display box) in lot at Beach Road, or park along the highway.
Enjoy volleyball, basketball and other beach activities. During the summer months, a concession building offers fishing gear rental and sales, food and beverages, and beach supplies. Public restrooms, outside showers, seven volleyball courts, a basketball court with lighting and fire rings are offered. A paved parking lot for 140 cars is provided.

Corona Del Mar Beach

949/644-3044
Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Parking: 500 spaces at $ 6 all day; very limited street parking in the surrounding neighborhood.
This wide, deep beach offers a lot of room, which attracts large crowds. A jetty keeps the waves mild to moderate (boogie boards can be rented). Volleyball nets, fire pits and a grassy picnic area make for a great all-day beach. Climb over the sandstone rock to Pirates Cove on the west to see interesting geology that attracts rock climbers.

Crystal Cove State Park

949/494-3539
Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. (summer); 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. (winter)
Parking: $ 3 all day; additional parking is available on the inland side of the highway at Los Trancos and El Moro Canyon.
The bluffs, with the rare coastal scrub on top, make this an unusual beach experience. The rather long walk and steep access paths also make it a little tough to get to for youngsters, elderly, etc. But you'll find wonderful tide pools, a couple of streams that empty out of the bluffs (including one waterfall), and some nice surf. The smooth, paved paths on top of the bluff make for good biking and skating.

Dana Point Harbor

949/496-1094
Hours: The harbor is open 24 hours; Baby Beach is open 6 a.m. to midnight.
Parking: Numerous free parking lots line Dana Point Harbor Drive. Only the Puerto Place lot charges a fee ($ 1/hour pay and display).
Panoramic views abound in the natural cove that author and seaman Richard Henry Dana called, "The only romantic spot on the coast." Dana landed here during the hide trading days of the 1830's and described the charm of the steep cliff cove in his renowned book, TWO YEARS BEFORE THE MAST. In the days of the square rigged sailing ships, the rugged cove was known as BAHIA CAPISTRANO and was the major port between San Diego and Santa Barbara. It seemed only natural that this scenic cove was destined to become one of the most beautiful recreational harbors on the west coast.

Doheny State Beach

949/496-6171
Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. (summer); 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. (winter)
Parking: $ 3 all day in parking lot; 1,100 day use spaces and 121 camp sites available. Parking on the highway is free.
A great family beach — the visitor/interpretive center even boasts aquariums and an indoor tide pool. A large grassy area offers a picnic area under a grove of Eucalyptus trees with grills, etc. Access the north beach from Del Obispo Street. The beach south of San Juan Creek is reached by parking on Pacific Coast Highway and crossing over the railroad tracks via a foot bridge.

Huntington City & State Beaches

714/536-1454
Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. (summer); 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. (winter)
Parking: $ 3 all day; A total of 2,500 spaces are located at lots found at Beach Blvd., Newland Street, Magnolia Street and Brookhurst Street.
Tourists flock to the city beach during summer to enjoy all that is the heart of Surf City, USA. The ratio of kids to adults probably jumps from 50/50 during the winter to 80/20 in summer. Parking is close, food is easily found, rentals of all types abound (especially near the pier), and lifeguards are on duty daily. Surfing is restricted during heavy crowds between the pier and Beach Blvd. A paved boardwalk — ideal for biking and skating — runs the length of the beach, separating the parking lot and sand. Plus, dog owners will absolutely love Dog Beach , found at the northernmost end of the city beach at Seapoint Avenue. Dogs are allowed during the same hours as the rest of the public. The state beach is also quite family friendly, with much of it a little removed from the downtown/pier scene. It's also very popular with groups. The numerous fire rings are ablaze on many nights. Rentals of all sorts are run seasonally. A paved boardwalk — ideal for biking and skating — runs the length of the beach, separating the parking lot and sand.

Laguna Beaches

949/497-0706
Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Parking: Private fee lots and street (some metered) parking in the surrounding neighborhoods. Glenneyre Street is the best bet. A pay structure is at Glenneyre and Park Street.
Main Beach: Parking difficulties aside, this may be OC's premier beach if the blend of locals and tourists from around the world is any indication. It's quaint and picturesque, yet has plenty of attractions: Basketball courts, volleyball courts, a nearby concentration of shopping in downtown, and decent waves. Sand too crowded? Head north or south to the more secluded bays and coves. North Beach: Because of the difficult parking, locals dominate these secluded coves. Teens tend to gravitate to Crescent; Santa Ana attracts more couples and families; sports enthusiasts favor Boat and Divers; and Heisler draws a lot of tourists from the local hotels. South Beach: Maybe it's the lack of tourists or the great skim and boogie boarding, but teens particularly like this stretch of beach. The difficult parking and the steep path down to the sand makes it most accessible to locals and the able bodied. Park as close to Nye Avenue as possible, walk under the bridge and veer left down to Victoria Beach.

Newport Harbor/Newport Beaches

949/644-3309
Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. year round
Parking: $ 1/hour metered throughout the area, plus $ 7 all day maximum in the lot near the Balboa Pier at Palm Street.
Newport Harbor has been acclaimed as one of the finest small boat harbors in the world. In addition, Newport Harbor and its surrounding shoreline is a place of beauty and scenic wonder...wind blown bluffs, sandy beaches, rocky coves and numerous islands form the harbor outline. Two jetties stand as sentries against the encroaching sea. Over 9,000 boats are berthed in this well protected harbor from the smallest of rowboats to large luxury yachts.. Quiet bay beaches line the length of the inside channel while endless surf pounds the oceanfront. Upper Newport Bay consists of marshlands, small sandbars, saltflats and sheer cliffs. This portion of Newport Bay has been left in its natural state to serve as a bird sanctuary and fishery habitat. An encircling pathway and a bike trail provide scenic vistas and quiet moments away from the normal hustle and bustle of Newport Harbor. Water skiing, swimming, surfing and skin diving are popular activities in the Newport area. Two piers and the back bay ecological preserve known for its diverse population of aquatic birds offer many recreational opportunities and scenic views.

Salt Creek Beach Park

949/496-4251
Hours: 6 a.m. and midnight year round
Parking: $ 1 /hour (pay and display box) in large lot off of Ritz Carlton Drive. A free secondary lot is located one mile south off of Selva Road.
Salt Creek Park Provides South County residents access to 18 acres of public beaches. The park consists of landscaped parking facility, sandy beaches, rocky promontories, and sheer cliffs. The original ravine canyon locally known as Salt Creek, makes the northerly boundary of the beach. Grading and landscaping have been completed in such a manner as to blend with the natural features, leaving the beach and cliff area basically undisturbed. Salt Creek Beach is a popular surfing location. A small, offshore reef creates some of the best left swells along the entire coastline. Swimming, body surfing, sunbathing and tidepool exploration (all tidepool inhabitants are protected) are other beach activities. Convenience structures include restroom facilities with outside showers and a paved parking area. A beach concession building, open in the spring and summer, offers quick food and beach supplies.

Seal Beach

562/431-2527
Hours: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. year round
Parking: $ 6 all day at 1st, 8th & 10th Streets.
Classic 1970-era beach front homes, the pier and Main Street create a quaint and friendly atmosphere. A moderate influx of tourists arrive on the weekends. Rentals can be found in the city, but not on the beach. No surfing is allowed between the pier and third lifeguard tower to the north after 10 a.m.

Sunset-Huntington Harbor

949/509-6683
Hours: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. year round
Parking: Free street parking between Warner and Anderson Street.
There are five marinas within the Sunset-Huntington harbor area, and a total of approximately 3,000 boats along with over 1500 residences/condominiums that are on the water. The Orange County Sheriff's Harbor Patrol is also responsible for patrolling the Seal Beach Naval Weapons Station and off shore areas to 3 miles out. There is a vast natural area that lays between the Naval Weapons Station and Sunset-Huntington Harbor known as the ANAHEIM BAY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE. This is home to numerous types of marine life and birds that thrive in the natural habitat that has existed for years. The area is said to be one of the most important and beautiful natural wildlife areas along the Pacific Coast. Numerous safety and environmental agencies have been working closely on a plan to protect the area should there be some type of disaster that would threaten the area with hazardous products.

WATER RECREATION

Irvine Lake Fishing

4621 Santiago Canyon Rd
Orange, CA 92676
714/649-9111
Irvine Lake is 700 acres of fishing and fun for the whole family. It is located only minutes away from the main freeways of Orange County. The rustic scenery and beautiful mountains surrounding the lake make it the perfect place to go fishing.
All About Irvine Lake

No Fishing License Required
More Convenient Than Ever -- Use the 241 Toll Road, Exit Santiago Canyon
Comfortable and Affordable Camping Now Available -- 7 Days a Week
Weekly Stocking. Trout Season November through May; Catfish Season June through October
The Boat Launch is now open (except not yet for deep-keeled or ocean going boats)
Float Tubers Welcome
Trout Island Open for Shore Fishing
We Have Boat Rentals -- Rowboats, Motorboats and Pontoons
Fully Stocked On-Site Bait and Tackle Shop
Special Rates for Groups, Parties, and Special Events
Courteous and Knowledgeable Lake Staff
Five Acre Kid's Lagoon Now Open

Dana Point Youth and Group Facility

34451 Ensenada Pt
Dana Point, CA 92629
949/661-7122
The Dana Point Harbor Youth and Group Facility is a center dedicated to the promotion of boating, sailing and safety around the water. The facility offers public programs for youth and adults. The activities encompass everything from basic boating, rowing, canoeing, sailing, surfing, windsurfing, competitive sailing events, marine safety education, aqua camps, and tidepool walks. Educational and recreational programs of a broader nature are also offered. The 8,000 square feet of public buildings are also available for rental from family gatherings to business conferences. Classes are offered in the following: beginning Sabots, Lido sailing, canoeing, rowing, large boat handling, seamanship and boating safety. The beach adjacent to the site offers protected board sailing and swimming. Fitness, art, bridge and other programs, are offered in the Dana Cove Room when marine activities are not planned. The Dana Cove room host a variety of events, private parties and weddings.

Davey's Locker Sportfishing, Inc.

400 Main St
Balboa, CA 92661
949/673-1434
Open party (individual ticket sales) 1/2 day, 3/4-day, full-day and shark fishing trips year-round. Twilight (evening) fishing trips from mid-Apr.-Oct. Whale watching excursions Dec. 26 to the end of March. Harbor cruises for the Newport Harbor Christmas Parade of Light Dec. 16-23.

Gondola Cruises - Adventures at Sea Yacht Charters

3101 W. Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste. 209
Newport Beach, CA 92663
949/650-2412
Cruise Newport Harbor in luxury and style in these upscale gondolas that provide romantic cruises for two, four or six.

Catalina Passenger Service, Inc.

400 Main St
Balboa, CA 92661
949/673-5245
Sumptuous champagne buffet brunch cruises on Sunday mornings, Easter through Labor Day, with narration and entertainment. Cruise beautiful Newport Harbor, and see the sights while you dine. Book Now.

Hornblower Cruises & Events

2431 West Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste. 101
Newport Beach, CA 92663
949/646-0155
Hornblower Cruises and Events features Weekend Dinner Dance Cruises and Sunday Champagne Brunch Cruises aboard elegant yachts cruising Newport or Marina del Rey harbors. Dinner Dance Cruises include a gourmet three-course meal, live entertainment and 2-1/2 hours of cruising. Hornblower's Sunday Champagne Brunch Cruises include 2 hours cruising, live entertainment, lavish brunch buffet and free-flowing champagne and orange juice service. Aboard a Hornblower cruise, guests will be pampered and treated to fabulous cuisine while cruising a picturesque waterway. Fri. Dinner Cruises, 8 - 10:30 p.m.; Sat. Dinner Cruises, 7:30 - 10 p.m.; Sun. Brunch Cruise, 12 - 2 p.m. Book Now.

Catalina Passenger Service/Balboa Pavilion

400 Main St
Balboa, CA 92661
800/830-7744
Visit beautiful Catalina Island and ride the luxurious catamaran, Catalina Flyer, the fastest, most comfortable ride departing from Orange County. The Catalina Flyer departs from the Balboa Pavilion in Newport Beach daily at 9 a.m.; departs Catalina 4:30 p.m. Crossing time only 75 minutes. Adults: $ 36 round trip; Children: 3-12, $ 20 round trip; Seniors: 60+, $ 33 round trip. Book Now.

PARKS & RECREATION

Carbon Canyon Regional Park

4442 Carbon Canyon Rd
Brea, CA 92821
714/996-5252
Carbon Canyon Regional Park consists of 124 acres and offers many recreational opportunities. Those interested in active sports will enjoy the eight tennis courts which are lighted for night use. Three sand volleyball courts and a multipurpose field provide for active group sports; two backstops are available on a first come first serve basis for softball games. Five fully equipped tot lots offer adventure and enjoyment for the younger visitors. A one and a half mile bike trail is also available. Picnic areas are located throughout the park including nine covered ramadas with braziers. A beautiful 4 acre lake rounds out the opportunities. Two fishing piers are provided. A fishing license is required of any person 16 years of age or older.

Caspers Wilderness Park

33401 Ortega Hwy
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
949/728-0235
Caspers Wilderness Park is a 7,600 acre protected wilderness preserve nestled among the river terraces and sandstone canyons of the western coastal Santa Ana Mountains. The park's many fertile valleys are overtly complimented by specimen groves of native Coastal Live Oak and magnificent stands of California Sycamore. These areas are further accentuated by seasonal wildflower displays and running streams. Wildlife is abundant and can be readily viewed from any of the park's numerous trails. Caspers Wilderness Park affords the visitor numerous forms of recreation, camping, picnicking, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, photography, nature study and even astronomy. The park has campgrounds, restrooms and showers, picnic areas, equestrian trails and an equestrian campground, hiking, and the visitor center offers the park user an insight into the parks history, wildlife and plant life.

Clark Regional Park

8800 Rosecrans Ave
Buena Park, CA 90620
714/670-8045
A variety of recreational activities are available at Ralph B. Clark Park. These include picnicking in large shaded picnic areas, hiking and bicycle trails, and children's playground areas. Team sports enthusiasts can enjoy spacious play areas including two sand volleyball courts, three softball fields and a baseball diamond. Children of all ages can enjoy fishing in the stocked three acre lake. Four tennis courts are located within the park and an amphitheater which overlooks the lake, is ideal for outdoor plays and recreation programs. The Interpretive Center, opened in September of 1988, provides an educational view of prehistoric Orange County through displays, programs and guided tours. Also the opportunity is provided to watch scientists and volunteers excavate and prepare fossil specimens for study and display.

Craig Regional Park

3300 N. State College Blvd
Fullerton, CA 92835
714/990-0271
Craig Regional Park is characterized by rolling hills, baseball and softball diamonds, open space, and a formal rose garden. This unique landscape contributes to an overall sense of serenity and beauty. A variety of trees are interspersed throughout the park's 124 acres providing abundant shade. A host of recreational opportunities exist at Craig Regional Park. Traditional turf play and picnic areas, bicycle and hiking trails are offered for visitor enjoyment. A 3-acre lake is open for fishing and the launching of model radio- controlled sailboats. Eight ramadas provide shade with tables and barbecues. The park's interpretive center provides visitors displays on the park's natural area where animals can be viewed in their natural habitat. The park offers a variety of recreational activities including three softball fields, two baseball fields, a jogging trail, equestrian trail, and a sports complex with basketball, volleyball, racquetball/handball courts and two horseshoe pits. Three tot lots are available for children.

Featherly Canyon RV Park

24001 Santa Ana Canyon Rd
Anaheim, CA 92808
714/637-0210
A stately grove of mature Cottonwood and Sycamore trees and the Santa Ana River create the setting for the beautiful Featherly Regional Park. Among the park's other assets is a natural riparian wilderness area, wide open spaces, planted turf areas and a wide variety of ornamental trees. The Santa Ana River flows through the park, encouraging a variety of plant and animal life. Featherly Park offers a variety of recreational opportunities. An amphitheater is the focal point for summer evening campfire programs. Guided nature walks are available through the wilderness area. Open turf areas provide space for recreational activities. For younger visitors, one fully equipped playground exists for their enjoyment. Featherly Park also serves as a rest stop for bicyclists using the Santa Ana River Bicycle Trail. The trail runs from the Orange/Riverside County line to the Pacific Ocean in Huntington Beach.

Irvine Regional Park

1 Irvine Park Rd
Orange, CA 92862
714/633-8074
Irvine Regional Park is nestled among a grove of heritage Oak and Sycamore trees. The rolling foothills surrounding the park are filled with a variety of wildlife. Many trees and shaded turf areas provide a serene setting for leisure activities. Santiago Creek bisects the park and a pond with stone-work waterfall and foot bridge is located in the center of the park. The variety of landscape greatly enhances the park's beauty. Picnic tables and barbecues are located throughout the 477 acre park with convenient parking and restroom facilities nearby. A paved bicycle/walking trail meanders through the central park providing easy access to six playgrounds, four softball fields, two horse shoe pits, volleyball courts and lagoon. A four mile equestrian trail skirts the perimeter of the central park providing scenic views of the park and it's natural scenery. Horse trailers can be parked on the north perimeter of the train station parking lot. A lookout trail is on the north slope of the natural area where a covered shelter, watering trough and water fountain are available.

Bonus: The Orange County Zoo is located inside beautiful Irvine Park. The zoo specializes in the animals and plants from the southwestern United States. This emphasis on native species is very important for the understanding and education of the public.

Laguna Coast Wilderness Park

20101 Laguna Canyon Rd
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
949/494-9352
Entry to park by reservation; Laguna Coast Wilderness Park lies within some of the last remaining coastal canyons in Southern California. The park ecosystem is primarily Coastal Sage Scrub, with Maritime Chaparral, Oak Woodlands, Riparian habitats, and the ONLY natural lakes in Orange County. The park is also enrolled in the Natural Community Conservation Planning program designed to protect various endangered species (California Gnatcatcher, Cactus Wren, Orange-Throated Whiptail) by preserving large tracts of the rapidly diminishing coastal sage ecosystem. Volunteer naturalists provide guided hikes, mountain bike, and equestrian rides (bring your own hiking shoes, bicycle, or horse). While access is being expanded, always call ahead to save yourself a long drive that ends in frustration.

Laguna Niguel Regional Park

28241 La Paz Rd
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
949/831-2791
Laguna Niguel Regional Park's 80 acres of turf surround a 44 acre lake, which is regularly stocked with catfish, bass, blue gill and trout during the winter months. A large assortment of trees dot the park's 236 acreage providing beauty and shade. Laguna Niguel Regional Park is dedicated to a wide variety of recreational uses. Two pedestrian bridges provide access to remote picnic shelters and hiking trails. Lake fishing for trout, (winter only) and bass, bluegill and catfish, (year round) is available for all park visitors. Bait and row boat rentals are available at the concession boathouse. Picnic areas are equipped with shelters, sinks, picnic tables, barbecue stoves and electrical outlets. An amphitheater is provided for youth and community organization activities. These facilities may be reserved through the park office. Turf areas, horseshoe pits, a par course along the parks two mile jogging trail, two sand volleyball courts and four lighted tennis courts are available for public enjoyment. Kite hill offers excellent conditions for remote control glider operations. Bicycle and equestrian trails meander throughout the park.

Mile Square Regional Park

16801 Euclid
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
714/962-5549
Mile Square Regional Park is an urban park located in the City of Fountain Valley and totals 640 acres of land. Within the park's boundaries are three regulation golf courses, two regulation soccer fields, baseball & softball diamonds, an archery range and a wilderness area. Also, there are two fishing lakes, concession operated bike and paddle boat operations, a wide expanse of picnic areas as well as numerous picnic shelters. Night lighting is provided on much of the outdoor facilities to extend playing hours.

O'Neill Regional Park

30892 Trabuco Canyon Rd
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92678
949/858-9365
O'Neill Regional Park is situated in beautiful Trabuco and Live Oak Canyons. The park is heavily wooded with coastal Live Oak and Sycamore trees. The hillsides surrounding the park are filled with cactus, wild buckwheat, sagebrush and chaparral of scrub oak, buckthorn and mountain mahogany. Trabuco and Hicky Creeks also meander through the park, flowing in winter and early spring, dry in summer and fall. The park serves both as an overnight camping facility and has day/picnic use. The picnic area provides for single and group uses and contains picnic tables, barbecues, a large turf area, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. Three and a half acres are available for RV groups on a reservations only basis. Camping is on a first-come-first- serve basis. Reservations can be made for organized groups of 17 or more. The park facilities offer recreational opportunities including an equestrian campground, an arena and 18 miles of riding trails.

Peters Canyon Regional Park

8548 E. Canyon View Ave
Orange, CA 92869
714/538-4400
Peters Canyon Regional Park offers a unique blend of native habitat and man's influence on the land. The park encompasses 354 acres of coastal sage scrub, riparian, freshwater marsh and grassland habitats. The 55-acre Upper Peters Canyon Reservoir is home to many resident and migrating waterfowl. Willows, sycamores and black cottonwoods line the lake and Peters Canyon Creek which meanders through the canyon. The wildlife population includes mule deer, bobcats, coyotes, opossums, raccoons and an occasional mountain lion. Cactus wrens, gnatcatchers and rufous-crowned sparrows may be found in the park's coastal sage scrub and grassland communities, while the eucalyptus groves are home to Cooper's, red-tail and red-shouldered hawks that can be seen patrolling the skies for unwary prey. Peter's Canyon offers a variety of trails providing opportunities for hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians.

Santiago Oaks Regional Park

2145 N. Windes Dr
Orange, CA 92869
714/538-4400
Situated in east Orange astride Santiago Creek. The creek itself offers typical riparian growth including Sycamores and Willows flanked by Oak Woodlands. Santiago Oaks Regional Park provides the visitor with a sense of removal from the urbanized environment. The native plant life coupled with the specimen forest provide an atmosphere of relaxation and serenity. The park has a series of interconnecting trails suitable for equestrians, hikers and mountain bikes. The park trails also provide access to the Anaheim Hills Trail System and offer spectacular views of northern Orange County. The Nature Center offers exhibits and programs on various natural history topics. Park Rangers provide a variety of interpretive activities including nature walks, slide programs and films. Group programs are provided for a nominal fee and must be scheduled at least two weeks in advance. Nature programs for the general public are conducted on weekends. Contact the park office for more information.

Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park

Lake Forest Dr. and Portola Pkwy
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92678
949/589-4729
Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park encompasses approximately 1,600 acres of Riparian and Oak Woodland canyons, rolling grassland hills, and steep slopes of Coastal Sage Scrub and Chaparral. The park is highlighted by scenic rock formations, including the beautiful Red Rock Canyon. There are three intermittent streams: Borrego, Serrano and Aliso Creek meandering through the park, each hosting an abundance of wildlife. Remnants of the former cattle ranching days can been seen throughout the park. The park is crisscrossed by 15 miles of graded roads and single-track trails, providing excellent opportunities for hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians. The McFadden Ranch House, park office and interpretive center, features a trail rest stop for the Aliso Creek Regional Trail, cultural and natural history exhibits, and park information.

William R. Mason Regional Park

18712 University Dr
Irvine, CA 92612
949/854-2490
William R. Mason Regional Park was the fourth park to open under the County's Master Plan of Regional Parks. The park encompasses 345 acres of open spaces, grassy knolls and natural areas. Generous plantings of trees offer shade and beauty throughout the park. The park offers picnic areas, softball back stop, large turf areas, hiking and bicycling trails, three sand volleyball courts, a physical fitness vita course, three tot lot playgrounds, amphitheater and nine acre lake. A Shelter for large groups may also be reserved. Mason Park also offers a 123 acre wilderness area and Strawberry Farms golf course.

Yorba Regional Park

7600 E. La Palma
Anaheim, CA 92807
714/970-1460
A day use park over one mile long situated in the mouth of Santa Ana Canyon in the city of Anaheim. The linear environment of the park site recaptures the river setting of the adjacent Santa Ana River. Yorba Park has been developed to provide an abundance of family and group picnicking facilities. Over 400 picnic tables are situated in the park, many with permanent shade structures. A series of four lakes with connecting streams offer a pleasing aquatic environment and provide opportunities for fishing and model boat sailing. Bicycle and equestrian trails meander through the park, and connect to the Santa Ana River bicycle and equestrian trails system leading some twenty (20) miles to the Pacific Ocean. Several installations of children's play equipment and modern comfort stations can be found throughout the park. The park also offers three group shelters (available by reservation), volleyball courts, a horseshoe pit, two baseball diamonds, a physical fitness course, and some 200 barbecue stoves. A booklet, complete with historic photos covering the history of the Santa Ana Canyon region is available at the park office for a nominal fee.

HEALTH & FITNESS

Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa

25000 Glen Ivy Rd
Corona, CA 91719
888/CLUB-MUD
Just beyond the bustle of the city lies a hideaway nestled in a hidden canyon, Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa. The spa offers natural mineral waters, massage and salon services, and Club Mud group rates (available October - March). Corporate programs and hotel packages are also available. Come experience the promise of paradise or enjoy the spa at home with Glen Ivy's Spa Treatments skincare product line. Affordable luxury is only minutes away.

Hilton Sports and Fitness Center

Hilton Anaheim
777 Convention Way
Anaheim, CA 92802
714/740-4431
The Hilton Sports and Fitness Center offers the ultimate private health club experience. Use the finest resistive exercise machines available. Ride a Lifecycle, take a group exercise class or just relax in the spa, sauna or steam room. The facility features a basketball gym and an indoor exercise pool. Sports massages, tanning, fitness training and fitness testing are also available. A pro-shop offers the latest sports wear and fitness accessories. Book Now.

Nina Montée Spa

120 W. 20th St
Santa Ana, CA 92706
714/918-8888
Nina Montée Spa is the first resort-like spa in Orange County for the well being of body, mind and spirit. Massage, facials, tranquil Japanese gardens and full spa services are available.

The SPA and Fitness Club

695 Town Center, Ste. 180
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
714/850-0050
The SPA and Fitness Club is a destination day spa specializing in massages, facials, body treatments, Microdermabrasion and nails. Offering customized spa packages for individuals and groups, including all amenities: pool, whirlpool, peppermint sauna, eucalyptus steam room and our luxurious locker rooms. The Spa and Fitness Club is also a premier health club offering state-of-the-art equipment and the latest trends in exercise classes at a five-star property.

MISCELLANEOUS RECREATION

Air Combat USA, Inc.

230 N. Dale Pl
Fullerton, CA 92837
714/522-7590
Now you can be a “fighter pilot for a day.” This is not a simulator. You'll fly the SIAI Marchetti aircraft, no license or experience needed. After a briefing on fighter tactics, team up with your instructor to out-maneuver, out-gun, and out-smart your opponent thru G-pulling dogfights. Flight video included. Twenty-nine locations nationwide. Call for brochure.

Fullerton Arboretum

1900 Associated Rd
Fullerton, CA 92831
714/278-3579
Located at Associated Rd. and Yorba Linda Blvd., one block west of the 57 freeway. The Fullerton Arboretum is a twenty-six acre botanical garden with plants from around the world. California natives display, Sonoran Desert area, rare fruit orchard, drought-tolerant slope plantings and the children's garden are a few of the highlights. Self-guided tour brochures highlight a leisurely stroll through the grounds with ponds, streams, and wildlife. Heritage House, an 1894 Victorian cottage which serves as a museum of turn-of-the-century family life and medical practice, is open Sundays from 2-4 p.m. The grounds are open daily 8 a.m.-4:45 p.m. Call for information on events, classes, or group tours.


View Anaheim Hotels near Disneyland and the Anaheim Convention Center