Did you know you can help OC non-profits as you “shop local” for gifts? I wanted to talk about my favorite places to actually GO and get gifts where you can give to a local non-profit while finding something really special for your friend or loved one. The other bonus for you – or the kids if you bring them – is that each of these places make a great outing and serves as an excuse to slow down during the busy season.
OC Non-Profits to Find Gifts and Shop Local
Environmental Nature Center – Nature’s Gifts (Newport Beach)
- ENCs Nature’s Gifts has a great website where you can preview their extensive collection of gift possibilities.
- Play: Walk the grounds and feel very immersed in nature at the ENC.
- Hours: Sat & Sun (10am-3pm)
- Benefits: Environmental Nature Center
Mission Store at Mission San Juan Capistrano (San Juan Capistrano)
- Mission Store carries some faith inspired gifts and books — but also a good selection of California-themed items.
- Play: Consider getting a membership to the Mission which will gain you entrance for their summer kids crafts during the summer and to their annual Christmas at the Mission. The “clubhouse” room and koi are special treats for the kids.
- Hours: Tues-Sun from 10am-5pm.
- Benefits: Mission San Juan Capistrano
Ocean Institute Chambers Gallery & Gift Store (Dana Point)
- Ocean Institute Chambers Gallery & Gift Store is the place for nautical goodies ranging from home decor to jewelry. Items for kids including coloring books and stuffed animals.
- Play: Full Ocean Institute is only open to the public on weekends, but you can still visit the Headlands & Beyond exhibit area. Or walk the harbor and check out the view behind the Institute.
- Hours: Updated hours each day at the top of the Ocean Institute website – typically 9:30am-1pm.
- Benefits: Ocean Institute
Muth Interpretive Center Gift Shop (Newport Beach)
- Quite small, but packed with interesting books and cards by local photographers.
- Play: It’s a short trail walk down to the center from the parking lot. Lots to see outside in the Back Bay and inside the Interpretive Center – don’t miss the classroom.
- Hours: Tues-Sun (10am-4pm)
- Benefits: Newport Bay Conservancy
Crystal Cove Park Interpretive Store and Gallery (Newport Beach)
- Inside the Crystal Cove Historic District. Art, clothing, and other “unexpected treasures.” Sea glass.
- It costs $15-$20 to park at Crystal Cove State Park for the day. But use the Yodel app and it’s only $5/hour.
- Play: At the beach which is only steps away!
- Hours: Daily from 9am-5pm. Visit the store website here.
- Benefits: Crystal Cove Conservancy
Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park Gift Shop (Santa Ana)
- Gift shop near the entrance to the zoo, plus options to “Adopt an Animal.”
- Zoo admission is $13 for adults and $10 for seniors & children
- Play: Visit the zoo!
- Hours: Daily from 10-4pm or shop featured items online.
- Benefits: Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park
Friends of the Library (various public library locations)
- My mother-in-law used to go through books super fast and she loved getting a stack of 20 hardcovers from us. And it only cost me $20.
- Yes, the books are used but kids and serious readers don’t care! They just want to read some books!
- Play: Kids love to browse the books. Or find a nearby park to pair with the library.
- Hours: Vary.
- Benefits: The Friends of the Library – I now have a post with all the library info you need – including a list of which public libraries have Friends of the Library bookstores!
Wherever you decide to shop this season, hope you go with a playful attitude and have fun with the kids!
