This is a family guide to the Crystal Cove Historic District via Los Trancos - the closest large parking lot to this location. The Crystal Cove Historic District & Cottages at Newport Coast are what most people associate with this state park. It's popular for its cottages which are available for rental through ReserveCalifornia.com, the Beachcomber Cafe, interpretive … [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!
Newport Beach Civic Center and Park (also known as White Bunny Park)
Everyone thinks of the Newport Beach Civic Center Park as the place with the white bunny sculptures. But when I think of Newport Beach, I think of sailing and the ocean. Even their city seal sports sails, fish, and the ocean. So that's why it makes sense that the architecture of the Newport Beach Civic Center and Park (NBCC) should match that vision. The roofline looks … [Read more...]
2019 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...]
Places to Go in OC with Green Hills
I wanted to put together a little list of places to go in OC with green hills for family hikes. Having lived in places where the winter season is marked by the color brown, I just love California's green winters. But pretty soon the rain will be gone and the weather will be heating up for spring. We'll be losing our green hills to the brown of summer. The … [Read more...]
Seaview Park and Aliso Summit Trail in Laguna Niguel
Seaview Park in Laguna Niguel and the nearby Aliso Summit Trail saved us from one of those days when we were feeling the need to get into the great wide open outdoors. This trail was quiet and beautiful. We found it full of rocks to climb and views to take in. I would love to see a sunset from up here. Aliso Summit Trail was the original home of a Fairy Trail which … [Read more...]