The Bosque playground at the Great Park Trails in Irvine is yet another example of the complicated naming FivePoints uses for this area. They actually call this section the Upper Bee and Bosque with a "kids play area" included. I'm sure your kids will come up with more simple terminology to describe the parks and playgrounds open to the public inside the Orange County Great … [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!
San Clemente Pier for a Family Stroll
Playtime need not be limited to the playground. The day we took a leisurely family stroll on the San Clemente Pier was a perfect reminder. Location: Head towards San Clemente and exit I-5 at Avenida Palizada. Turn south onto El Camino Real (the main street that parallels the freeway). Turn right onto Avenida del Mar and follow it all the way down to just before the … [Read more...]
Family Guide to Crystal Cove Historic District via Los Trancos
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...]
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...]