San Onofre Beach Trail 4 is one of six trails leading down to the beach from the bluffs at San Onofre State Beach. Dogs are allowed on Trail 1 and Trail 6 (but not in between). This isn't the first time I've written about this California State Park. You can find my post on San Onofre State Beach Family Hikes at Trails which gives more general information about the park and … [Read more...]
Nature Hikes
Find the best nature hikes to take with families in Orange County. Many are more like nature walks and designed more for connecting your family to the outdoors. Families can relax together!
Dana Point Bluff Top Trail
The Dana Point Bluff Top Trail above Dana Point Harbor is less of a hike and more of a place to stroll. It takes less than 10 minutes to leisurely make it from one end to the other along the bluff between the streets of Violet Lantern and Amber Lantern in Dana Point. Location of Dana Point Bluff Top Trail: Going south to north above Dana Point Harbor, Santa Clara … [Read more...]
Fullerton Arboretum: Nature Walks through the Trees
The Fullerton Arboretum was on my list of places to visit with the kids ever since I heard about it from a blogger friend. She said, "Oh, you'll love it!" and "Get on their email list!" We made it a family trip on the weekend and it was perfect! It wasn't crowded at all and the place has such a nice feel to it. Directions to Fullerton Arboretum: It's right off the … [Read more...]
2020 Wildflowers and Kid-Friendly Spots to See Them
In Orange County, wildflowers tend to bloom starting in March. My husband and I accidentally stumbled upon a whole bunch when we took an impromptu wildflower hike in Aliso and Woods Canyons in March of 2016. In general, expect to see wildflower blooms from March-May. Not all spots are kid-friendly because some require long car rides, super steep or remote trails, or desert … [Read more...]
Santiago Oaks Regional Park in Orange
Santiago Oaks Regional Park in Orange feels very accessible to those who might be hesitant to explore the greater wilds of Orange County with kids. I would feel comfortable taking a toddler here, because the hikes are short and the pay-offs are big. [NOTE: There are still trail closures due to the October 2017 Canyon Fire 2 which heavily impacted this park. So … [Read more...]