#24 Huntington Beach Surfer (Danielle)

Click on Picture to Enlarge

I would have to say that that for me I grew up in Huntington Beach and learned to surf at the state beach. The statue of the surfer on the corner of PCH and Huntington St is a must, right in front of the Hilton. It was fun trying to put clothes on him as a kid.  MAP

#23 Mission San Juan Capistrano (Randi)

Click on Picture to Enlarge

Mission San Juan Capistrano was founded in 1776 and is a shining example of the history of our county. It is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved missions in California. It's a living piece of history and has grown to be the heartbeat of San Juan Capistrano.

Visiting the Mission is a truly relaxing and enjoyable day. They've recently added an audio tour so you have the option of all the information you ever wanted or a quiet walk in the garden amidst the ruins of the great stone church. You can find painters and photographers on the Mission grounds constantly and it is a favorite location to have wedding pictures taken. The second Saturday of each month is living history day and the Mission grounds are full of reinactors

When we first moved to San Juan Capistrano seven years ago, I found it quite strange that the community center seemed to be the Mission. Especially being an atheist. But I have come to love the Mission as much as anyone else in our little town. Its director is one of the most dynamic people I have ever met. The mission staff goes out of their way to try and help and support the community. There is something going on at the Mission for everyone and as soon as you step through that gate, you are in a world of wonder.  MAP

#22 Orange County Center for Contemporary Art (Julie)

Click on Picture to Enlarge

I'm originally from Los Angeles and, like many Angelenos, while growing up I had the stereotype planted in my head that O.C. was lacking in the arts and progressive thinking. Then I discovered the Orange County Center for Contemporary Art (OCCCA) in Santa Ana's Artist's Village. Since it's inception in 1980, OCCCA provides emerging and established member and guest artists a forum to explore and develop ideas in contemporary art. This takes place in an atmosphere that promotes experimentation and risk-taking without the specter of censorship. I highly recommend the first Saturday of the month art openings throughout Santa Ana's Artists' Village. MAP

#21 Lido Theater (Pamela)

Click on Picture to Enlarge

My famous place is the Lido Theater. I have been driving onto Lido Isle since 1960 and every time I pass the Theater and then cross over the Bridge I know I am home. Lido Isle was originally just a sand bank that was where they dumped the sand after they drudged the bay to create a harbor. My Dad had a boat down here since the 1950's. In the early 30's/40's (I think - could be wrong on dates - it is posted in our clubhouse on the island) a local car dealer would give you a lot on Lido if you bought a car. Now we all joke that the land is sold by the spoonful. MAP

#20 Silverado Canyon (Jill)

Click on Picture to Enlarge

Silverado Canyon, because we think of Orange County as almost being like LA, but life is so close to home but so different there. MAP

#19 Smile Zone (Megan)

Click on Picture to Enlarge

To me Laguna Beach is a magical place. I love the feel of being down there, from the board walk and the beach, to all the great hiking in the canyons behind. One of my favorite places down there is south of the boardwalk a way down the beach. On a concrete wall someone has painted on a mural with the words "smile zone".  You can't help but be happy on the beach in the smile zone. MAP

#18 1000 Steps Beach (Elle)

Click on Picture to Enlarge

You should consider "the stairs" at 1000 steps beach in Laguna Beach. The OC is very fitness (vanity!!) oriented. Tons of people use these stairs for exercise every day. They are "locally" famous! MAP