Orange County

San Clemente Beach Trail runs parallel to the train tracks along San Clemente’s beaches. Maybe start at the North Beach Playground with kids?

Mendocino Park in Laguna Hills features a teeter-totter for a crowd and play equipment for climbing, along with a classic concrete turtle.

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.

Bryant Ranch Park in Yorba Linda is a beautiful spot for spinning and climbing nestled up hills along the 91 Freeway.

Yorba Regional Park in Anaheim is a forested paradise with fishing lakes. Feels like Yorba Linda, but actually in Anaheim. 6 playgrounds!

Grand Park in Aliso Viejo sits above Aliso Viejo Town Center with a fenced playground and views of Saddleback Valley.

Irvine Regional Park is an OC Parks regional park with playgrounds, the OC Zoo, Irvine Park Railroad, a lake, stable, surrey carts, & ponies.

California Scenario (Noguchi Garden) in Costa Mesa is a public garden art installation by Isamu Noguchi whose work is playful and inviting.

Heritage Hill Historical Park in Lake Forest is a local treasure. Serrano and Whiting are familiar names for those traveling in Lake Forest.

Serrano Creek Park in Lake Forest is a natural looking OC playground tucked away by horse stables near a tree-covered trail for exploring.