Ready for sunshine, beach days, and historic little towns? If you’re heading to the Golden State, there are so many things to do in Orange County, CA! For those sneaking away for a quick trip, you’ll be able to pack in a lot of action into one weekend, but if you have time for a more leisurely vacation, this is the place to do it. While Orange County is widely known for a few things, like iconic surfing and theme park resorts, there are plenty of Orange County activities that you may not have on your radar.
One of those hidden gems is Tustin, CA, set right in the center of Orange County, and it’s the perfect jumping-off point for your adventure. Old Town Tustin offers a glimpse into the city’s early history, with preserved buildings, local shops, and a walkable layout that makes it easy to explore. The area has historic character with casual dining spots, coffee shops, and community gathering spaces. It is a great option for couples looking for unique things to do in Orange County with a local twist and close to everything.
Staying in Tustin offers access to the best nearby attractions, and if you’re looking for hotels in Orange County that won’t break the bank, the Orange Grove Inn is a great choice. You’ll find a lovely, freshly updated room awaiting you, an outdoor pool for a morning swim, and free parking on-site. Our guests can enjoy a discount on breakfast next door before heading out to explore all the fun things to do in nearby Orange County. Start planning your next quick getaway and book your lodging today!
Explore the Best Things to Do in Orange County
Orange County offers coastal experiences, cultural spots, and relaxed local favorites, especially for couples staying in Tustin. With the Orange Grove Inn as your starting point, you’ll be within a short drive of many of the best things to do in Orange County. Whether you are in the mood for ocean views, great food, or something a bit more unique, everything is within reach.
- Walk the historic Orange Circle. Located just minutes from Tustin, the Orange Circle is filled with antique shops, coffee spots, and restaurants. It is one of the more unique things to do in Orange County, especially in the evening when the area feels warm and inviting.
- About 30 minutes from Tustin, Laguna Beach is one of the most iconic Orange County attractions. Couples can walk along the shoreline, explore tide pools, and settle in for a sunset. Laguna Beach is also known for its creative community, and spending time in local galleries is a great option when deciding what to do in Orange County beyond the beach.
- One of the popular activities for those on a romantic getaway is wine tasting in Costa Mesa, just a short drive away, which offers several wine bars and tasting rooms. It is one of the best things to do in Orange County if you want to enjoy local wine without the crowds of the Napa Valley.
- Take a Newport Harbor cruise. Newport Beach is less than 30 minutes from Tustin, making it easy to book a sunset harbor cruise. This is one of the most romantic Orange County activities and a great way to see the coastline from the water.
- Explore Crystal Cove State Park, located between Newport Beach and Laguna Beach. Crystal Cove offers scenic trails and quiet beaches. It is perfect for couples looking for fun things to do in Orange County that combine nature with coastal views.
- Book a couples spa experience at the Irvine Spa, just minutes from Tustin, for several upscale options for couples treatments. It is an easy way to add a relaxing, indulgent experience to your stay.
- Check out local Orange County events. From food festivals in Anaheim to live music in Irvine, Orange County events are always happening nearby.
- Plan a dinner in Dana Point. About 45 minutes from Tustin, Dana Point offers oceanfront dining with the chance of a whale or dolphin sighting! It is one of the best things to do in Orange County for couples looking for a more intimate evening.
- Explore Olde Town Tustin. The charming downtown area is lovely for afternoon strolls and getting a deeper look at the history of California. The Tustin Marketplace is a fantastic open air mall with shopping, dining, and wellness activities to add to your getaway.
- While there’s a known term called a “Disney Adult,” it’s true, there’s no reason you can enjoy the magic of Disneyland or Knott’s Berry Farms without kids! Staying at our hotel in Tustin will expand your budget to explore the nearby themeparks.
Hotels in Orange County: Stay in the Center of it All
Orange Grove Inn offers a simple, comfortable place to stay while you explore everything this area has to offer. Located in Tustin, it puts you close to many of the best things to do in Orange County, without the higher price point you often find at larger hotels in Orange County. It is an easy choice for couples who plan to spend most of their time out enjoying the area and want a convenient home base to return to at the end of the day. You can even take a swim in the outdoor pool!
The atmosphere is low-key and practical, with straightforward accommodations that give you what you need for a relaxed stay. You can head out in the morning to explore beaches, local neighborhoods, and Orange County attractions, then come back to unwind before heading out again for dinner or evening plans. For those focused on fun things to do in Orange County rather than resort-style amenities, it fits naturally into a well-planned trip. Book your lodging today!