From adventure-filled amusement parks to serene beach vistas, Orange County, aka 'The O.C.', beckons families seeking an unforgettable holiday experience. With its vibrant cities, captivating coastline, and a myriad of attractions that cater to both kids and adults, The O.C. promises a balance of fun, relaxation, and exploration.
Whether you’re scouting out affordable accommodation close to the attractions or seeking a luxurious seaside retreat, you've come to the right place. We're here to point you towards the best family-friendly hotels in Orange County, and shine a light on the must-see attractions for your family's trip of a lifetime.
Things to do
Orange County is a delightful blend of sun-dappled beaches, exhilarating amusement parks, engaging museums, and open-air green spaces. Here are a few family-friendly attractions in The O.C. to ignite your spirit of adventure.
Spend an unforgettable day at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, where fantasy worlds come alive. Or ride thrilling roller coasters and meet Snoopy at Knott's Berry Farm. For smaller ones, Adventure City is a hidden gem with rides, petting zoo and a rock climbing wall — all for one affordable price.
Encourage imaginative play at Pretend City Children's Museum — an interactive child-sized city designed for curious young minds. For those looking for fresh air and nature exploration, there's Irvine Regional Park, with train rides, bike trails, the OC Zoo, and plenty of picnic areas.
Finally, take advantage of Orange County’s beautiful coastline. Take a family surfing lesson in Huntington Beach or build sandcastles on Newport Beach. And after a day playing in the warm Californian surf, enjoy a beachfront barbecue while watching the sunset. Truly, memories are waiting to be made in Orange County!
When to visit
There's no hard and fast rule for when to visit sparkling Southern California and Orange County. Blessed with a sunny Mediterranean climate, it's a fabulous holiday location throughout the year. But let's break it down and see how weather and visitor numbers vary throughout the year.
Visit Orange County in the January - March period for cooler temperatures, off-peak travel rates, and fewer tourists. Choose the April - May timeframe to tuck into spring fever, with hiking trails opening up, and the national parks bursting into life. But if your family is all about the beach, park attractions, and sun-soaked fun, then the hot and sunny months of June - August are perfect. Just remember, summer holidays can coincide with higher prices and bigger crowds. Planning and booking in advance will secure great deals for your memorable family trip.
Things you'll love...
- Discover the magic at world-renowned theme parks like Disneyland and Knott's Berry Farm
- Experience the thrill of Adventure City's 17 rides and attractions, ideal for the whole family
- Unleash your creativity at the pretend City Children’s Museum, an electronic-free fun zone
- Explore Irvine Regional Park's hiking trails and make friends with animals at the OC Zoo
- Enjoy the sun, sand and surf at Orange County's stunning 40-mile coastline, featuring family-friendly beaches like Huntington Beach and Newport Beach
Main airports
- John Wayne Airport-Orange County,
- Long Beach Airport,
- Ontario International Airport,
- Los Angeles International Airport,
- Bob Hope Airport
