Orange County, located in southern California, is an area known for nature and outdoor fitness. People bike, hike and jog throughout the many beach cities that lie along the Pacific Coasts. In general, Orange County, especially the Newport Beach and Laguna Beach areas, are famous for being quite expensive. But some of the most ideal health and fitness activities come entirely free of charge.
Jog at Dana Point Harbor
Dana Point Harbor is considered one of the nicer harbors to take a run or walk your dog. The harbor itself shelters the beach area from a lot of off shore winds that make some of the other beaches in Orange County less pleasant. During May, the beginning of the whale migration season starts and usually lasts through October. On a calm, clear day, you can catch a large blue whale flapping around in the ocean.
Healthy Walking and Free Art
Walking is simply one of the best forms of exercise and a gentle way to bring fitness and health to your body. Walking with original artwork makes for an ideal combination, especially if the art is entirely free. The third Saturday of each month, the Santiago Art District and Lofts in Santa Ana present a free art walk. The local artists living and working in the area, along with the various galleries, offer an eclectic display of art and live music.
Swim the Pacific Ocean
Not many places on earth have an ocean that can be used year-round. The Pacific Ocean along the Orange County coastline, running from Seal Beach down to San Clemente, is relatively warm most of the year and picture perfect for a lovely swim. Swimming is one of the gentlest ways to fitness. The waves are calmest up the northern section of Seal Beach, where it's a long stretch of ocean without harbors or wharfs. During the winter months, a wetsuit might be needed, as the water drops in temperature.
Breathe in the Fresh Air
Most people forget to do the simplest things in life like take deep breaths. When stress from daily life overwhelm you, it's always a great idea to breathe in deeply from your nostrils and relax. Take yourself to a soothing and clean environment, like the Orange County Great Park, and take a free ride in the helium balloon, 400 feet off the ground. Being up in the sky, while looking down at the surrounding landscape, makes you feel like all your problems have been left behind.
Hike the Trails of a Wildlife Habitat
There is actually a 102.5-acre wildlife habitat right by the ocean where the family can spend the day hiking through the trails. The El Dorado Nature Center is located in Long Beach, one city up from Seal Beach. There is a two-mile nature trail that is on a paved road, making it very safe for anyone with kids or walking a dog. You can also take a picnic or join in on the various sports activities, from kickball to baseball, hosted on the grounds.
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