Orange County, California, harbors world-renowned theme parks like Disneyland and miles of public beaches such as the surf mecca of Huntington Beach. Entertainment venues, shopping malls and restaurants, capped by constant sunshine, make the location a year-round vacation spot. For those who seek to avoid the highly popular tourist spots, the "O.C." can satisfy with lesser-known activities and attractions.
Drive an Exotic Car
If your Southern California fantasy involves driving Pacific Coast Highway in a cool blue BMW 645 convertible with the top down, or cruising I-5 in a red Ferrari, then rent an exotic car from Luxury Rent-A-Car, which has a location in Newport Beach. Daily rates run from the three figures for a Corvette or Cadillac to four figures for Ferraris and Rolls Royces. You need to be 21 or over, and have a safe driving record. Full insurance is also required, either provided by your own company or through higher rental fees.
See Glowing Animals
The Ocean Institute in Dana Point offers evening bioluminescene cruises in the research vessel "Sea Explorer." Scientists deploy a net into the water to capture thousands of glow-in-the-dark krill, larvae and plankton. They then pull the net onboard, so you get a close-up view of these remarkable organisms, as the scientists explain their biology. Dress warmly because temperatures on the ocean are typically cooler than on land.
Visit the Past
You can travel to the Victorian era at the Heritage Center of Orange County, located in Santa Ana. The 1898 Kellogg House is the main draw, with its antique furnishings, historic photos and activities for children. A still-to-be-restored ranch house, rose and citrus gardens, blacksmith shop and wetlands nature preserve complete this educational museum.
Paddle a Kayak
You can't get any closer to the waters of Newport Beach than by paddling a kayak through them. South Wind Kayaks offers several three-hour tours for observing birds and sea mammals, viewing expensive houses and yachts, or just communing with the family. The kayak and gear are provided, or bring your own for a lower rate. No experience is necessary, though group and private lessons are available.
Appreciate Modern Art
The Orange County Museum of Art, also in Newport Beach, can tickle your artistic palette with works set firmly in the present. Highlights of the collection include Chris Burden's "A Tale of Two Cities," a mixed-media commentary that miniaturizes two feudal states on the brink of war, and Vija Celmins's "Eraser," which is an enlarged Pink Pearl eraser. Much of the cavernous interior is devoted to changing exhibits, so each visit will bring new surprises.
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