Orange County 3-Day Adventure: Magic, Marine Life, and Majestic Beaches

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by Emma

March 29, 2024 · 2 min read

Orange County 3 Days Itinerary

Embark on a thrilling 3-day journey through Orange County, where fantasy and ocean breezes intertwine. Your adventure begins at the iconic Disneyland Park, a magical realm where beloved characters and enchanting rides await to fill your entire day with wonder. Just a stone's throw away, Disney California Adventure Park offers a second day of excitement with its unique attractions and immersive playgrounds. As the sun sets on your theme park escapades, the coastal allure of Newport Beach calls. Spend your second morning spotting majestic whales and enjoying boat tours, before unwinding at the serene Little Corona Beach. Your final day is reserved for the artistic haven of Laguna Beach, a historic site where creativity meets the Pacific. Don't miss the chance to explore the hidden gem of 1,000 Steps Beach, a secluded spot perfect for reflection and capping off your Orange County exploration. With this itinerary, you're set to experience the perfect balance of exhilarating fun and peaceful relaxation.

Top 6 Hotels in Orange County
TOP 1
Residence Inn Anaheim Brea
Residence Inn Anaheim Brea
hotelStar
3/5
47 reviews
View Hotel Info
TOP 2
Fairfield Inn & Suites Anaheim Los Alamitos
Fairfield Inn & Suites Anaheim Los Alamitos
hotelStar
2/5
83 reviews
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TOP 3
Residence Inn Cypress Los Alamitos
Residence Inn Cypress Los Alamitos
hotelStar
3/5
40 reviews
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The Westin South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa
The Westin South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa
hotelStar
4/5
132 reviews
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Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo
Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo
hotelStar
2/5
112 reviews
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Irvine Marriott
Irvine Marriott
hotelStar
4/5
51 reviews
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Day 1: Magical Beginnings in the Heart of Orange County

1

Disneyland Park

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Kickstart your Orange County adventure with a visit to the iconic Disneyland Park, a magical kingdom brimming with enchanting experiences and beloved characters. Nestled at 1313 Disneyland Drive, this legendary theme park promises a full day of wonder as you explore its eight themed lands. From the moment you walk down Main Street, U.S.A., the sense of nostalgia and joy is palpable. With thrilling rides, captivating parades, and the chance to meet your favorite Disney characters, Disneyland Park is not just an attraction but a world of its own, waiting to be discovered.

Attraction Info

  • 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, CA 92802
  • Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day
  • Open from 02/01-02/03,8:00am-0:00am;Open from 02/09-02/11,8:00am-0:00am;Open from 02/16-02/25,8:00am-0:00am;Open from 03/01-03/02,8:00am-0:00am;Open from 03/07-04/11,8:00am-0:00am;Open 8:00am-11:00pm on 02/04;Open from 02/26-02/29,8:00am-11:00pm;Open 8:00am-11:00pm on 03/03;Open 8:00am-10:00pm on 02/05;Open 8:00am-10:00pm on 02/07;Open 8:00am-10:00pm on 02/13;Open 8:00am-10:00pm on 02/15;Open 8:00am-10:00pm on 03/04;Open 8:00am-10:00pm on 03/06;Open 8:00am-8:00pm on 02/06;Open 8:00am-8:00pm on 02/08;Open 8:00am-8:00pm on 02/12;Open 8:00am-8:00pm on 02/14;Open 8:00am-8:00pm on 03/05,The daily business hours are different, and the hours of each park are different. Please refer to the official website for specific times; https://disneyland.disney.go.com/calendars/day/# /disneyland/

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Morton's The Steakhouse
Morton's The Steakhouse
4.3/5 · 16 reviews
1.4 km from attraction
Napa Rose
Napa Rose
4.4/5 · 9 reviews
0.5 km from attraction
Puesto Anaheim
Puesto Anaheim
/5 · 0 reviews
1.1 km from attraction
McCormick & Schmick's Grille
McCormick & Schmick's Grille
/5 · 0 reviews
1.2 km from attraction
THE RANCH Restaurant & Saloon
THE RANCH Restaurant & Saloon
5/5 · 1 review
2.1 km from attraction
The Alexander Restaurant
The Alexander Restaurant
/5 · 0 reviews
2.3 km from attraction
10 min,0.81 km
2

Disney California Adventure Park

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Continue the fun right next door at Disney California Adventure Park, where the wonders of California blend with the magic of Disney. This park offers a diverse playground of excitement, from the high-speed thrills of Radiator Springs Racers to the immersive storytelling of Pixar Pier. As you roam through the various districts, each with its own unique theme and attractions, the park's vibrant atmosphere and innovative experiences will keep you entertained well into the evening. Located just steps away from Disneyland Park, this is the perfect way to double the delight on your first day in Orange County.

Attraction Info

  • 1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802, USA
  • Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day
  • Open from 02/02-02/04,8:00am-10:00pm;Open from 02/09-02/11,8:00am-10:00pm;Open from 02/16-02/25,8:00am-10:00pm;Open from 03/01-03/03,8:00am-10:00pm;Open from 03/08-04/11,8:00am-10:00pm;Open 8:00am-9:00pm on 02/01;Open from 02/05-02/08,8:00am-9:00pm;Open from 02/12-02/15,8:00am-9:00pm;Open from 02/26-02/29,8:00am-9:00pm;Open from 03/04-03/07,8:00am-9:00pm
4.2/5109 Reviews
4.2/5Very Good109 Reviews
Anaheim City Center
Anaheim
|0.26km from Disney California Adventure Park
4.3/5100 Reviews
4.3/5Excellent100 Reviews
Anaheim City Center
Anaheim
|0.33km from Disney California Adventure Park
4.4/5122 Reviews
4.4/5Excellent122 Reviews
Anaheim City Center
Anaheim
|0.43km from Disney California Adventure Park
4.2/5102 Reviews
4.2/5Very Good102 Reviews
Anaheim City Center
Anaheim
|0.48km from Disney California Adventure Park

Day 2: Ocean Adventures and Serene Shores in Orange County

1

Newport Beach

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Kickstart your second day with the salty breeze and the soothing sounds of the waves at Newport Beach. As a premier destination for marine life enthusiasts, allocate a good 2 hours to immerse yourself in the wonders of whale watching or embark on a scenic boat tour. This iconic stretch of coastline in California is the perfect spot to connect with nature and indulge in some aquatic adventure.

Attraction Info

  • California, USA
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
  • Open 24 hours

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Gracias Madre - Newport
Gracias Madre - Newport
/5 · 0 reviews
2.6 km from attraction
Palenque - Orange County
Palenque - Orange County
/5 · 0 reviews
3.7 km from attraction
The Dock
The Dock
/5 · 0 reviews
1.2 km from attraction
Louie's by the Bay
Louie's by the Bay
/5 · 0 reviews
1.7 km from attraction
Tavern House Kitchen + Bar
Tavern House Kitchen + Bar
/5 · 0 reviews
2.1 km from attraction
21 Oceanfront
21 Oceanfront
/5 · 0 reviews
0.9 km from attraction
4 min,2.06 km
2

Davey's Locker Whale Watching & Sportfishing

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Continue your sea escapade at Davey's Locker Whale Watching & Sportfishing, just a stone's throw away from Newport Beach. Here, you'll spend another 2 hours up close with the majestic creatures of the deep. The expert crew and state-of-the-art vessels ensure an unforgettable experience as you glide across the Pacific, witnessing the grandeur of whales in their natural habitat.

Attraction Info

  • 400 Main St, Newport Beach, CA 92661, United States
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
  • Open from 7:00am-6:00pm,Different cruise ships have different sailing times, and the specific business status is subject to the opening conditions on that day.
20 min,11.86 km
3

Little Corona Beach

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Conclude your day's journey with a visit to Little Corona Beach, a picturesque haven away from the crowds. Spend a couple of hours exploring this less frequented gem, where you can relax on the beach, enjoy the playground, or simply take in the stunning views. It's the perfect setting to unwind after an exhilarating day of marine exploration.

Attraction Info

  • Little Corona Beach, California 92625, USA
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
  • Open 24 hours

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Pelican Grill
Pelican Grill
/5 · 0 reviews
2.6 km from attraction
Great Maple
Great Maple
/5 · 1 review
2.8 km from attraction
Tavern House Kitchen + Bar
Tavern House Kitchen + Bar
/5 · 0 reviews
4.0 km from attraction
Five Crowns
Five Crowns
/5 · 0 reviews
0.4 km from attraction
The Quiet Woman
The Quiet Woman
/5 · 0 reviews
0.7 km from attraction
Rothschild's Restaurant
Rothschild's Restaurant
/5 · 0 reviews
1.6 km from attraction
4.6/5102 Reviews
4.6/5Outstanding102 Reviews
Crystal Cove
Newport Beach
|2.43km from Little Corona Beach
4.3/590 Reviews
4.3/5Excellent90 Reviews
Crystal Cove
Newport Beach
|2.69km from Little Corona Beach
2.8/55 Reviews
2.8/55 Reviews
Newport Beach
|2.74km from Little Corona Beach
4.3/578 Reviews
4.3/5Excellent78 Reviews
Newport Beach
|2.98km from Little Corona Beach

Day 3: Coastal Charms and Hidden Gems of Orange County

1

Laguna Beach

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Begin your final day with the sun-kissed sands of Laguna Beach, a historic site nestled along the California coast. As the dawn's hues fade, immerse yourself in the artistic ambiance and seaside splendor that have long drawn creatives and beachgoers alike. Spend your day exploring the quaint galleries, savoring local cuisine, or simply lounging by the azure waters. Laguna Beach promises a full day of leisure and discovery, encapsulating the laid-back luxury of Orange County living.

Attraction Info

  • California, USA
  • Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Nick's Laguna Beach
Nick's Laguna Beach
4/5 · 2 reviews
0.3 km from attraction
Brussels Bistro
Brussels Bistro
/5 · 0 reviews
0.2 km from attraction
Nirvana Grille
Nirvana Grille
/5 · 0 reviews
0.3 km from attraction
GG's Bistro
GG's Bistro
/5 · 0 reviews
0.4 km from attraction
Lumberyard
Lumberyard
/5 · 0 reviews
0.4 km from attraction
Splashes Restaurant
Splashes Restaurant
/5 · 1 review
1.7 km from attraction
9 min,6.55 km
2

1,000 Steps Beach

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After soaking up the artistic atmosphere of Laguna Beach, venture to the hidden coastal staircase leading to 1,000 Steps Beach. While the name suggests a daunting climb, the journey is well worth the effort. Here, you can spend a couple of hours indulging in the thrill of whale watching or embarking on a scenic boat tour. The beach's secluded nature offers a tranquil escape, allowing you to connect with the ocean's wonders and wrap up your Orange County adventure with a serene, memorable experience.

Attraction Info

  • 31972 Pacific Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
  • Open 24 hours

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Stella's
Stella's
/5 · 0 reviews
2.1 km from attraction
Starfish Laguna Beach
Starfish Laguna Beach
/5 · 0 reviews
2.5 km from attraction
Dizz's As Is
Dizz's As Is
/5 · 0 reviews
3.3 km from attraction
Hendrix Restaurant and Bar
Hendrix Restaurant and Bar
/5 · 0 reviews
3.9 km from attraction
Lost Pier Cafe
Lost Pier Cafe
/5 · 0 reviews
1.6 km from attraction
Harvest Restaurant
Harvest Restaurant
/5 · 0 reviews
1.8 km from attraction
4.5/579 Reviews
4.5/5Excellent79 Reviews
Laguna Beach
|1.84km from 1,000 Steps Beach
4.7/572 Reviews
4.7/5Outstanding72 Reviews
Laguna Beach
|2.45km from 1,000 Steps Beach
4/550 Reviews
4/5Very Good50 Reviews
Laguna Beach
|2.57km from 1,000 Steps Beach
4.4/585 Reviews
4.4/5Excellent85 Reviews
Dana Point
|2.85km from 1,000 Steps Beach

Top Things to Do in Orange County-2024

TOP 1
Disneyland Park
Disneyland Park
4.7/5 · 1,293 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 28,062 review
Highlights:

·Check in to Sleeping Beauty Castle which is the symbol of the entire park

·Play a few rounds of roller coaster through Space Mountain and experience the thrill of speed

·Explore the modern retro-looking ice cream parlor and various small shops, bring back a piece of Disney magic

In 1955, Walt, the father of Disney, built California Disneyland in Los Angeles, which is the world's first original Disney theme park. The park is located within the California Disney Resort. There are two main parks: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. The two parks are adjacent to each other. Visitors can visit both parks at one time and experience the joyful magic of Disney World. Come and enter the land of fairy tales and meet classic characters such as Mickey, Minnie, Disney princesses, Avengers, and Star Wars heroes.


△ Step into fairy-tale worlds filled with Character sightings, attractions and more!


△ Enjoy a leisurely stroll through small-town America—you’ll love the turn-of-the-century charm!


△ Explore this out-of-this-world land, where you can live your adventure in a galaxy far, far away!

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TOP 2
Disney California Adventure Park
Disney California Adventure Park
4.7/5 · 213 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 15,750 review
Highlights:
This is a California-themed adventure park owned by Disney. The park scales well-known iconic attractions in California, such as the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and Santa Monica Beach, vividly showing the fascinating culture and long history of California. The essence of what Paradise wants to express. 1. Experience the thrilling feeling This is one of the more thrilling parks in the world's Disneyland. The launch-type California Screaming Roller Coaster is several kilometers long, and the track runs through the entire park. The unique rail-type Ferris wheel swaying, and visitors can experience the palpitations of rushing out of the rails while enjoying the scenery. The frightening ancient tower that combines the haunted house and the jumping machine will take you down rapidly and experience the zero gravity of the universe. 2. Feel the romance and warmth. Of course, there are also some elements that Disney should have. The undersea journey of the Little Mermaid Ariel is heartwarming, and flying over California makes you feel like you are at a height of 100 meters and travel through thousands of California scenery. On the lake at night, the fantastic Disney water light show makes people end a dreamy day in intoxication.
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TOP 3
Rte 66
Rte 66
4.8/5 · 108 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 1,254 review
Highlights:
U.S. Route 66 or U.S. National Route 66 (Route 66), also known as the "Will Rogers Highway" (named after the American comedian Will Rogers), or "America Street", is the main road in American history. One of the main traffic roads, construction started on November 11, 1926 and completed in 1927. Due to the development of interstate highways, it was abandoned by the American highway system on June 27, 1985. It is currently included in the National Scenic Route and is named "Historic Route 66" (HistoricRoute66). The highway traverses the east and west of the United States, passing through eight states, starting in Illinois, passing through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and then to California. Along Route 66, you can drive all the way from Chicago to Los Angeles, and it ends in beautiful Santa Monica Beach. Riding on this 2,500-mile-long highway, the scenery along the way is its greater charm. Looking back on the past and experiencing the western style, this is a legendary road belonging to dreams. Many people run to the west of the United States with their dreams of life. , heading toward sunny California. Americans' deep feelings for Route 66 have long been transformed into various forms. Fans have formed a Route 66 Club, and they drive together on Route 66 from time to time. Some people have designed various road signs, and some people have decided to Be sure to cross Route 66 once in your life. And Hollywood will not forget to pay tribute to it. The American movie "Cars" is based on the road.
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TOP 4
Downtown Disney District
Downtown Disney District
4.5/5 · 111 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 8,828 review
Highlights:
There are shops and restaurants in Disney City, making it a great place to meet friends. You can also take a walk here in the evening and watch the fireworks show.
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TOP 5
Los Angeles Chrystal Cathedral
Los Angeles Chrystal Cathedral
4.4/5 · 57 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 60 review
Highlights:
The Crystal Cathedral is known as an architectural wonder of the world. The huge and bright space created by tens of thousands of soft silver glass windows is beyond the reach of all churches. The sanctuary that can accommodate nearly 3,000 people is a veritable Garden of Eden on earth, even if you are a passer-by. , it will surely bring you an unforgettable shock.
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* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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Orange County 3 Days Itinerary