Summer break is a time for ambitious social plans and tons of fun, especially if you’re vacationing in Orange County. Here at the Clog, we’ve gathered our OC experts to help you decide exactly what to do in Orange County this summer. Hint: it’s a lot of beaches.

Surf the waves and have a bonfire at Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach is hands-down the nicest beach in Orange County. Its waves are perfect for surfing during the day, and its bonfire pits are perfect for a nice kickback at night. The top-notch nearby restaurants and shopping don’t hurt either.

Hike Crystal Cove State Park

Escape civilization and enjoy the beauty of nature by doing an easy three mile hike or a difficult nine mile hike. Either way, you’ll be hiking next to the Pacific Ocean and getting a workout in while you’re at it.

Shop at Fashion Island

Make sure to trek to the best shopping center in Orange County. It’s home to major retailers like Nordstrom,  Anthropologie and Victoria’s Secret. Since Fashion Island is also home to PF Chang’s, California Pizza Kitchen,  Cheesecake Factory and Haagen-Dazs, you can be sure that you won’t go hungry.

Go to In-N-Out, then to Farrell’s

In-N-Out is legendary on the west coast and a necessity to visit at least once while in SoCal. The legend continues with Farrell’s, whose only three locations reside in the OC. Get some animal style fries from the In-N-Out in Yorba Linda, and top it off with a banana split from the Farrell’s in Buena Park.

Attempt to surf the Wedge

The Wedge is a popular surfing spot at the east end of Newport Beach. The barrier protecting Newport Harbor causes large, unpredictable swells which make the Wedge simultaneously dangerous and thrilling. For pro surfers and onlookers, it’s definitely worth seeing.

Shop for antiques at Old Towne Orange

Olde Towne is plaza of a single square mile, home to some of the oldest buildings in Orange, California. There’s a ton of cool art, thrift stores and antique shops, so be sure to check out this gem.

Go to Disneyland or Downtown Disney

If Disney’s too expensive, spend an afternoon shopping and exploring Downtown Disney. Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen has live jazz entertainment, while ESPN Zone can entertain sports-lovers for hours on end.

Rent a kayak at Dana Point Harbor

Dana Point is a great place to day trip and rent a kayak with friends. The water’s not choppy, which makes it ideal for  activities like kayaking and stand-up paddling alike.

Visit Bower’s museum

Pay $10 to see world-class art exhibits, including Frida Kahlo’s photography, Temple Murals by Shashi Dhoj Tulachan, and more.

Go to the Huntington Beach farmers market

Huntington’s farmers market is extensive and inexpensive. Buy all of the weirdest organic shit you’ve ever seen – for a bargain price.
The amount of things to do and fun to have in the OC can never be overstated. Great surf, smooth kayaking, scenic hiking, and lots of shopping are in store if you’re headed here over break. We at the Clog hope you take advantage of all Orange County has to offer.