Crystal Cove state park is both a beach and a wilderness area with many hiking trails.

Orange County is a sprawling metropolitan area and part of the much larger Southen California urban jungle.

This expanse of 50 cities and unincorporated communities is full of Attractions, Theme Parks, restaurants, and unique dining experiences. This article explores the unique dining experiences and exceptional finds in the OC.

Just before you reach the city of San Diego, there is a large area set aside to preserve the natural beauty of coastal pines and sheer cliffs. It is a 2000-acre State Park in La Jolla Village – but close the city of Del Mar.

The park is home to a large variety of animal and plant species like bobcats, foxes, coyotes, rabbits, cacti, coastal chaparral - but most prominent inhabitant is the rare Torrey pine.

With 8-miles of trails running through this park, it is a major attraction to hikers. Both casual and serious hikers come to enjoy the challenges of the hike and the stunning views overlooking the ocean.

Home to Legoland, the flower fields, a waterpark, an Aquarium and beautiful beaches, this sleepy little beach town is becoming a major tourist attraction in Southern California.

Carlsbad sits between Oceanside and San Diego with a long stretch of beaches, several creeks and lagoons, making it a perfect spot for a weekend getaway or a rest stop on a long journey.  

During my teen years I visited Venice, Italy and loved the canals and narrow alleyways between majestic historic buildings. 

I was surprised to find out that California had its own Venice with canals and alleyways, but with a totally different vibe