OC South

Dana Point tide pools are protected areas. Thanks to the Ocean Institute for providing information about this amazing natural area.

Dana Point Headlands Nature Interpretive Center opened in April 2010 with an interpretive trail and breathtaking views of the Pacific.

Strands Beach and Strand Vista Park in Dana Point offer a fun outing for any activity level, but it’s especially good if you like stairs.

Go for a 2023 Candlelight Walk at Heritage Hill Historical Park in Lake Forest to see holiday lights and luminaria at this historic park.

Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary owned by Environmental Nature Center is deep inside Modjeska Canyon.  Our first visit long ago was on a foggy day which suited me well because I’m always …

Train trips for Orange County families to San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Fullerton and more + ideas on places to go and what to do!

Mandeville Park in Laguna Hills is a playful oasis surrounded by palm trees. It’s a favorite park for walks and looking at the view.

Pavion Park in Mission Viejo is a colorful universally accessible playground with flat play surfaces, spinners, and ramps for wheelchairs.

Courtney’s SandCastle Universal Playground & Sensory Garden in San Clemente provides inclusive play features in a contained setting.

Madrid Fore Park in Mission Viejo makes the playground area a gather place in the Madrid Fore neighborhood. New playground July 2024.