Hi! I lived in Orange County for a decade before moving to Arizona. These are some of the places in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego I went to and loved.
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Places to visit
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Beaches
Places to visit
Feels like you’ve sailed to the Mediterranean — great snorkeling and golf carts mandatory.
Catalina Island
A nice walk in a quiet, hidden pocket of LA.
Venice Canals
Colorful cottages, little boutiques, and a breezy ferry ride across the bay. Don’t skip the frozen bananas (a local legend) or strolling the boardwalk at sunset.
Balboa Island Restaurants, Shopping, & Hotels
Great Meals $$$
If you are looking to splurge, these are worth every penny!
This is a truly unforgettable dining experience. The salt-roasted Santa Barbara spot prawns are a signature for a reason—they are absolutely divine. The recent elevation to three stars is so well-deserved.
Providence
The setting is absolutely stunning, and the tasting menu is a work of art. It’s the kind of place you book for a special celebration you'll talk about for years.
Addison
The dishes are a beautiful fusion of French technique and Californian ingredients. Everything, from the presentation to the service, is flawless. This is a place for a quiet, romantic evening with someone you love.
Mélisse Restaurant
Taiwanese flavors presented through an innovative lens.
Kato Restaurant
I love coming here for brunch or a dinner with friends. The service is always warm and welcoming.
Jeune et Jolie
Great Meals $$
The food is always incredible, whether you're there for their famous pastries, a beautiful brunch, or a sophisticated dinner.
République Café Bakery & Restaurant
Tucked away in a food court, Holbox is a perfect example of a hidden gem getting the recognition it deserves. The focus here is on incredible, fresh Yucatecan-style seafood. The cocteles are amazing, but you absolutely have to try the uni tostada. I
HOLBOX
Unreal BBQ that rivals anywhere else in the country!
Heritage Barbecue
Their pizzas are phenomenal and shareable.
Jon & Vinny's Fairfax
Great Meals $
I always get the Sando with a side of fries. It's a messy, glorious, and incredibly satisfying experience.
Howlin' Ray's Hot Chicken
The "caramelo" with carne asada is my personal favorite—it's a gooey, cheesy, and smoky masterpiece.
Sonoratown
Beaches
Our family's go-to beach. It's a bit of a hike down, so don't wear yourself out for the hike back up!
Salt Creek Beach Park
Generally calm beach perfect for a lazy day.
Corona del Mar State Beach
Popular surfing spot. Be careful if you're not a strong swimmer!
