Orange County offers a variety of fun and exciting outdoor activities such as hiking and biking through one of the regions many wilderness parks or nature preserves. The area is also home to some of Southern California's best golf courses. And you can cool off by catching some waves along Orange County's 42 miles of beach. After a full day of exploration, sit down to a delicious meal at one of Orange County's many health-conscious eateries.
Golfing
Orange County is home to a variety of golf courses that include courses along the beach as well as courses surrounded by mountains. Green River Golf Club in Corona is a 36-hole facility nestled among the imposing oak, sycamore and cottonwood trees.
Strawberry Farms Golf Club in Irvine is a championship course situated in the rural region of Orange County. The 6,700-yard, par-71 course is spread out among the area's wetlands and canyons. Native wildlife, natural vegetation and a rocky landscape sets this course apart.
Hiking
The Talbert Nature Preserve near Costa Mesa consists of restored natural wetlands. The Santa Ana River and Costa Mesa Bluffs flank the preserve. A number of hiking trails lead you past salt marshes, freshwater wetlands, woodlands and grasslands. The reserve also has picnic areas.
The Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve in Huntington Beach is a 1,700-acre sanctuary for more than 200 species of birds. Various trails and a footbridge over wetlands provide great views of the region and chances to observe the wildlife.
Biking
If you are in Coto de Caza, check out the Thomas F. Riley Wilderness Park. The park is a wildlife sanctuary filled with native animals and plants. Two seasonal creeks are protected by the many Western sycamores and coastal live oaks. There are five miles of biking trails that feature rolling hills, canyons and grasslands along its route.
Laguna Beach's Laguna Coast Wilderness Park is one of the few natural coastal canyons in Southern California. It offers 6,500 acres wilderness to explore on mountain bike. Bring your camera for great views of the Pacific Ocean from the park's high ridges.
Surfing
Orange County is home to 42 miles of coastline and some of the best surfing beaches in the country. Huntington Beach, also known as Surf City USA, has some of California's widest beaches. The swells at Huntington Beach are consistent, making this spot one of the most popular for surfers.
Sunset Beach in northwestern Orange County is a 45-acre beach that has a designated surfer zone on the northern end with lifeguards on duty. You'll have no trouble finding your own wave at this isolated beach.
Healthy Eating
Orange County has a number of health-conscious restaurants that serve filling, yet nutritious meals. Greens Cafe in Irvine features an all-you-can-eat buffet every Sunday consisting of only organic vegan food such as sushi wraps, chowder soup and field singer salad. Other specialties include egg rolls, lasagna and bamboo protein strip.
Native Foods Cafe in Costa Mesa prepares healthy, homemade vegan food. Menu highlights include the BL Tease sandwich with avocado, tempeh bacon, lettuce, tomato, carrot, onion and mayo on organic whole wheat toast. There is also the Native Margherita with sliced tomato, pumpkin seed pesto and melted vegan mozzarella.
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