A charming region in Southern California, Orange County entices visitors because of its beauty and numerous attractions. It has a huge complex of amusement rides, world-class shops, restaurants offering Californian cuisines, and breathtaking beaches that will surely give you a great experience and awesome surfing spots. You can also enjoy their festivals and events, like California Surfing Day that is celebrated every 20th of September, where you can go shop for new beach gear or catch a wave. Each town has its unique vibe, and every sunset is worth watching. If you’re traveling with your special someone, you can check out our list of great date night ideas in Orange County, California. Stay in one of the top vacation rentals or beachfront hotels for a more memorable trip!
1. Go on a sunset walk at Laguna Beach
When it comes to date night ideas, Orange County never fails to surprise. And if you want to keep it simple, yet intimate, taking a late afternoon walk to the stunning coastlines of Laguna Beach is always an excellent choice. Known as the home to many adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts, Laguna Beach is one of the hot spots in the city that promises you a great experience the whole duration of your visit. You can never go and visit Orange County without experiencing what this lovely beach has to offer. You may even book a teardrop camper rental and stay close to this iconic place. From water thrills to romance, Laguna Beach is always the right choice.
Laguna Beach
Address: Laguna Beach, California, USA
Website: Laguna Beach
2. Have fun at Downtown Disneyland
Bring out the kid in you as you visit the famous Downtown Disneyland in Orange County. Promising you a day filled with outdoor thrills, shopping, and food, Disneyland is one of the places that never gets old. And if you’re thinking of bringing your special someone with you in Orange County, Disneyland is always a lovely place that anyone will want to experience for herself. There’s a little for everyone to indulge no matter the age. From exciting rides to shooting games and meeting your favorite Disney characters to trying out candy floss again- Disneyland will surely bring you back down memory lane.
Downtown Disneyland
Address: 1580 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802, United States
Website: Downtown Disneyland
Opening hours:Mon - Thu: 10am - 8pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 9pm; Sun: 10am - 8pm
3. Arrange a dinner date at Orange Hill Restaurant
Sitting with your special someone while gazing lovingly at each other on a candle-lit dinner never goes out of style. Located on the hills of Orange County, Orange Hills is one of the must-try restaurants in the city. It’s also a hot spot for romantic dates, especially with its warm and intimate ambience. If you choose to dine in Orange Hills, you’ll have two options. One, you can opt for indoor dining where you can enjoy its classic and elegant interior, or two, choose to dine on its patio where sweeping views of the city will welcome you. Make sure to try out their steaks and pair it with a glass of wine for the best experience.
Orange Hill Restaurant
Address: 6410 E Chapman Ave, Orange, CA 92869, United States
Website: Orange Hill Restaurant
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 4:30pm - 9pm; Sun: 10am - 2pm, 4:30pm -9pm
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4. Explore OC Night Market
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If you’re one of those couples who enjoy food trips and shopping, you might love trying out Orange County’s famous OC Night Market. It’s a great place to take your special someone, especially with all the things you can indulge in during your visit. Whether you choose to make a quick stop or truly explore everything the market has to offer, you won’t be going home without a smile on your face. Trying out varieties of Asian food and purchasing quality products at affordable prices has that kind of effect. If you plan on finding what the rave is all about, make sure to visit between the months of May to July.
OC Night Market
Address: 88 Fair Dr, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, United States
Website: OC Night Market
5. Watch theater shows at Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Another great date idea is to watch the performance of theater artists at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Known for its exceptional architecture and outstanding performances showcased, it’s no wonder a lot of tourists make it a priority to watch at least one show whenever they are in the city. And if you’re someone who once dreamt of performing on a stage or a big fan of performing arts, Segerstrom Center for the Arts welcomes you with open arms. Enter a world full of music, dancing, and pure talent as you watch one of the most exciting shows in Segerstrom.
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Address:600 Town Center Dr, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, United States
Website: Segerstrom Center for the Arts
6. Indulge more at The Fifth Rooftop Restaurant and Bar
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If you’re after a romantic night filled with tasty food and refreshing drinks, The Fifth Rooftop Restaurant and Bar is always a great choice. Situated on the fifth floor of The Grand Legacy at The Park Hotel, The Fifth is a perfect place for great music and excellent dining experience. It’s the place to go if you’re someone who appreciates a diverse mix of tasty cuisines, well-crafted cocktails along with a live band while watching the sweeping city views. One tip- if you plan on visiting, make sure to make a reservation since they don’t accept walk-ins.
The Fifth Rooftop Restaurant and Bar
Address: 1650 S Harbor Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92802, United States
Website: The Fifth Rooftop Restaurant and Bar
Opening hours: Wed - Thu: 5pm -10pm; Fri - Sat: 5pm - 11pm; Sun: 11am - 3pm
7. Prepare a bonfire at Huntington Beach
What’s a cozier thing to do with your loved one than a bonfire night by the beach? Orange County is one of the cities in Southern California famous for its stunning coastlines and surfing destinations. Your trip to the city will not be complete without visiting the charming coast of Huntington Beach. After a long day of exploring everything the city has to offer, a retreat on the beach is a great idea. Directly across from the beach is a 500 fire ring arrangement waiting to keep you warm. Make sure to bring blankets, chairs, and of course, smores for a bonfire experience you won’t forget. Enjoy listening to the soothing sound of the waves and watching the moonlit sky.
Huntington Beach
Address: Huntington BeachCalifornia, USA
Website: Huntington Beach
8. Join a Ferris Wheel ride at Balboa Fun Zone
One of the oldest and most famous amusement parks among tourists in Newport Beach is Balboa Fun Zone. It’s both a popular attraction for families and couples alike. There are a lot of fun activities you can indulge in if you plan on spending the rest of your day here. You can start with whale watching, harbor cruising, or renting bikes and exploring everything the park has to offer. To complete your visit, a ride on the Ferris wheel is a must. The ideal time to join a Ferris ride will be when the sun’s about to descend the horizon, especially if you want to enjoy breathtaking views.
Balboa Fun Zone
Address: 600 E Bay Ave, Newport Beach, CA 92661, United States
Website: Balboa Fun Zone
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 5pm; Fri - Sun: 11am - 6pm
9. Enjoy a gondola ride at Gondola Adventures, Inc. - Newport Beach
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If you’re planning a romantic date with your special someone you might love taking a gondola ride with Gondola Adventures, Inc. in Newport Beach. Dubbed as the most stunning gondolas in The States, nothing beats a ride on one of these. It’s a perfect date for anniversaries and proposals. Imagine being rowed around the beautiful scenic harbor while sipping on a glass of wine and enjoying dessert. It’s an experience you won’t regret.
Gondola Adventures, Inc. - Newport Beach
Address: 200 N Bayside Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660, United States
Website: Gondola Adventures, Inc. - Newport Beach
Opening hours: 12am - 12pm (daily)
10. Take in breathtaking views on a luxurious cruise tour (from USD 59.0)
To fully experience Orange County, a cruise tour is a must. And if you’re celebrating a special occasion or planning on popping the big question, you might love joining a luxurious sunset cruise tour from Dana Point. It’s the perfect trip to take a break away from the bustling big city. Not only that, but you’ll also get to enjoy organic wines while taking in the breathtaking ocean views.
Luxury Catamaran Sunset and Wine Cruise from Dana Point
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Fall in love with life as you explore Orange County
There’s nothing more special than being with your special someone while exploring the beauty around you. What better place than to start with this stunning coastal city that is Orange County? To make your travel more extraordinary, feel free to check out our list above of the best date night ideas.
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