The Local’s Guide: 14 Tips for Authentic Orange County Adventures

The Huntington Beach Pier

The balmy breezes of Orange County are calling. Is it time to finally answer? You decide! Today we bring you a local’s guide, letting you experience this golden county with expert advice.

So explore this west coast haven to your heart’s content, with these 14 tips for authentic adventures.

1. Lines Through US Customs Are Long

Image Credit: AnnHaritonenko/Depositphotos.com.

According to one frequent traveler, the lines through U.S. customs at LAX are so long that they’re longer than the line at the DMV on a Monday morning. So, give yourself plenty of time.

2. Make the Most of the Location

Image Credit: bennymarty/Depositphotos.com.

Orange County’s central location is ideal for day trips. You’ve got San Diego to the south – only a 1.5-hour drive. Likewise, you could reach L.A. in around an hour.

Not a fan of big cities? Not to worry. Nature lovers are also spoiled with the likes of Joshua Tree, Death Valley, Sequoia and Yosemite. However, for longer drives, it’s worth considering an overnight stay.

3. Try Something New

Woman traveler eating in L.A. restaurant

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Embrace your spontaneous side with a new activity, such as kayaking at Newport Beach or surfing the waves at Bolsa Chica State Beach.

Alternatively, try your hand at archery, soar the skies by hot air balloon or catch a game at Angel Stadium. Remember, it’s not about what you do but the attitude you bring with you.

4. A Visit to Disneyland Is a Must

Image Credit: dmvasilenko/Depositphotos.com.

Another user said if you’re going to Disneyland, get there early to beat the crowds.

Also, if you can swing it, consider getting a Fast Pass to skip the lines on popular rides. And remember to try the churros. They’re the real star of the park!

5. Beware of Blind Spots While Driving

Image Credit: AllaSerebrina/Depositphotos.com.

A third local warned about driving in Orange County. Cars have flat driver’s mirrors, so you’ll see the lane on the left or your door handle, but not both. So, the blind spots are massive.

Also, don’t forget that cars can turn right at red lights.

It’s like playing a game of Frogger but with a rental car.

6. Expect a Scorching Temperature

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Be prepared for scorching temperatures, especially in the summer. Northern California can reach over 100°F in September, and it doesn’t cool until late evening.

A local also advised planning activities in the morning to beat the heat.

7. Carry Cash with You

Image Credit: ArturVerkhovetskiy/Depositphotos.com.

One person cautioned about credit/debit card usage advising travelers to carry cash as some places may not accept cards. They also said that sometimes your card might not work at all. “Better safe than sorry” was their parting advice.

8. Mexican Food Is Outstanding

street tacos

Image Credit: quadxeon/Depositphotos.com.

Another commenter shared that if planning to dine out in Orange County, you’ll find that the Mexican food is outstanding and anything with “BBQ” in the name.

This local further advised you to be prepared for a different payment experience – as some restaurants may take your credit or debit card away from you for payment. It’s just how things are done.

9. Fresh Produce and Seafood

Image Credit: 06photo/Depositphotos.com.

One user shared their food experience in Orange County, noting that fresh bread takes time. As a result, they ended up avoiding sandwiches altogether. However, the user did mention that the food, in general, is excellent, with fresh produce and reasonably priced seafood as standout options.

10. Look Left When Crossing the Street

Happy Travelers

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Somebody pointed out that it’s important to remember to look left when crossing the street, as traffic in the U.S. flows on the right-hand side.

This may seem obvious, but it’s a helpful reminder for those used to traffic flowing in the opposite direction.

Additionally, the person advised that it’s essential to be mindful of oncoming traffic when opening car doors, as this can be a hazard for drivers and pedestrians.

11. Don’t Expect to See Celebrities

Image Credit: photoquest7/Depositphotos.com.

Don’t expect to see celebrities! It’s a common misconception that one person cautioned against. However, they noted that it is common to run into celebrities unexpectedly. So just keep your expectations in check.

12. The Beaches

Laguna Beach, California

Image Credit: photoquest7/Depositphotos.com

One resident recommended Strands or Salt Creek for the best beaches in South Orange County. They suggested sunglasses and elaborated that you should “expect to wear a hoodie and jeans as your warmest outfit.”

Finally, be sure to check the weather forecast before heading to the beach.

13. Knott’s Berry Farm

Traveler excited

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Many people will mention Disneyland as a top OC activity. Still, one resident recommended visiting Knott’s Berry Farm, alleging “It has a stronger ‘Southern California’ feel than Disneyland, as Disney is a global corporation.” Furthermore, “The food is better and cheaper!”

“They have Boysenberry everything.” The commenter noted that Knott’s Berry Farm is commercial but less so than Disneyland.

14. There Are a Lot of Multilane Roads

Image Credit: orelphoto2/Depositphotos.com.

Finally, a local warned that the roads in Orange County could be overwhelming with the multiple lanes. So, if you find yourself lost, don’t worry. Instead, enjoy the ride and take comfort that you’ll eventually end up somewhere interesting, even if it’s different from where you initially planned to go.

Keep these travel tips in mind during your next visit to Orange County. It is nice to get advice from the locals!

Source: Reddit

Once Is More Than Enough: 12 Travel Destinations You Won’t Want To Return To

Selfie girl in Paris, France. Young tourist woman taking self portrait with Eiffel Tower in Paris.

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

The “Most Popular Tropical Travel Locations” lists are so played out. Let’s flip the script. So how about travel destinations frequently serving as a visitor’s “Final Destination?” These are the one-hitter quitters of tourist spots, leaving a sour enough taste in enough travelers’ mouths to discourage any return trips.

Once Is More Than Enough: 12 Travel Destinations You Won’t Want To Return To

The Ultimate Hawaii Bucket List: 14 Epic Things To Do in Hawaii From a Local

Snorkeling paradise Hanauma Bay, Oahu, Hawaii

Image Credit: eddygaleotti/Depositphotos.com.

There are so many incredible spots in Hawaii that it can be hard to narrow things down to the best of the best. But luckily for you, as a Hawaii local, I’ve weeded out the tourist traps and highlighted the gems. So, without further ado, here are 14 epic things to do in Hawaii.

The Ultimate Hawaii Bucket List: 14 Epic Things To Do in Hawaii From a Local

Get High on Life: 15 Exhilarating Things To Do in Colorado

Best things to do in Colorado

Colorado is a nature lover’s dream. From hiking to skiing to whitewater rafting, there are so many exciting things to do in Colorado. You can’t go wrong in the beautiful “Centennial State,” as long as you’re spending your time outdoors! We’re sharing things you can’t miss.

Get High on Life: 15 Exhilarating Things To Do in Colorado

12 Countries You Should AVOID as a Solo Woman Traveling According to Travelers

Woman saying no

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Traveling the world is one of life’s biggest joys, but for women embarking on solo journeys, trips to new countries can be stressful and sometimes dangerous. Recently, women met in an online discussion to reveal the countries any solo female traveler should avoid due to a higher likelihood of encountering dangerous situations.

12 Countries You Should AVOID as a Solo Woman Traveling According to Travelers

10 Best Museums Travelers Are Advocating for You To Visit

tourist in museum

Image Credit: aetb/depositphotos.com.

Museums teach and inspire travelers around the world. From historical artifacts in Scotland and fine art in France to modern pieces in New York, these ten museums are raved about in an online travel forum and are worth visiting.

10 Best Museums Travelers Are Advocating for You To Visit

Where indicated, some images courtesy of Depositphotos.com.

Posted in

Zobia Shazi

Leave a Comment