Orange County is filled with activities that are perfect for any type of date.
Whether you want to be adventurous, get outside, or find a little romance, there’s an option for everybody! Here are our seven picks for best Orange County date ideas that will surely impress that special someone, whether it is a first date or the fiftieth!
1.Helicopter Ride Up The Coast
If you want to impress your date with the Southern California coastline, offer them a different vantage point. Charter a helicopter for the day and fly overhead while gazing down at the beautiful landscape. Some charters offer a picnic option inclusive of wine and small bites, too providing an excellent way to celebrate an adventurous day! If you want to make it an all-day event, head up to Santa Barbara for a change of scenery and indulge in a little wine tasting.
2. Gondola Ride at Sunset
Coming in at number one on USA Today’s Top Ten Romantic Things to do in Orange County, the famous Gondola Ride in Newport Beach provides a romantic outing on the water while gazing at the beautiful sunset vistas. With real imported Venetian gondolas, you will feel as if you were in Italy with all the sparks flying to impress your special someone.
3. Pack a Picnic and Take a Hike
Orange County is known for its incredible hikes with gorgeous ocean views. Opt for getting active and pack a picnic for a reward when you are done. There’s no better way to get to know someone than hitting the trails with good conversation and working up a sweat.
4. Get Crafty at the Sawdust Festival
Set in the heart of Laguna Beach, the Sawdust Arts and Crafts Festival provides a unique look into the creative culture of this coastal beach town. Bringing your date to this whimsical place will offer many choices, whether you are into buying, viewing, or creating art. Participate in an art class, enjoy the ongoing entertainment, and gawk at the beautiful displays showcased by local artists while sipping vino and having intelligent conversations about the different abstracts.
5. Staycation at the Pelican Hill Resort
If you want to splurge on a quick getaway with that special someone, take the weekend and head to Pelican Hill for some rest, relaxation, and romance. Book a couples spa day, lay out by the pool, and order room service, or get dressed up and head to one of their many award-winning restaurants to watch the sunset. No matter what you do, it will definitely be a weekend to remember!
6. Get Out On The Water
One of the best parts of Orange County is how active the lifestyle is. On a beautiful day, there’s no better way to spend time with someone than being out on the water soaking up the rays and having a little fun. Rent some paddleboards at Back Bay or head out into the open sea for some dolphin sitings, sunshine, and a great workout.
7. Irvine Farmers Market
Orange County is notorious for its farmer’s markets, and the Irvine market is by far one of the best around. Grab a local coffee and walk the shops filled with hard to find fruits and vegetables, scratch-made baked goods, and handmade merchandise. It’s a great way to start the day, and if all goes well, maybe you can pick up some fresh produce for dinner that night!
8. Head To Catalina For The Day (Or Weekend)
If you feel like getting away without actually getting away, take a trip to Catalina Island where time seems to slow down and island time is a real thing. Enjoy sipping champagne, relaxing on the beach, dining out, and mingling with the locals in this sleepy golf cart town. You will feel so relaxed and rejuvinated and get some quality time in with your special someone!
Featured Image: http://bellanyc.com/pelican-hill-resort-perfection/
