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Santa Ana in Orange County (The OC) is one of those iconic Southern California locations that has picture-perfect weather year-round. The beaches are always open, the waters welcoming, and the activities blossoming like spring flowers. The Pacific Ocean provides a natural breeze for Santa Ana, which means even when the temperatures rise, the breeze will keep you nice and cool. Ideally, the best time to head over to Santa Ana is when school is in session for the locals, but also when the ocean waters are favorable. Try to visit at the end of August and into November. On average, Santa Ana stays at about 70 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, so it really does not get uncomfortably hot at any time of the year.

Orange County Transportation Authority

The best way to get around is by utilizing the OCTA. Fares are expensive if you pay by cash; therefore, purchase a Local Day Pass at $5 USD per person or an Express One-Day Pass at $14 USD per person for express routes.

Metrolink

The Metrolink is part of the OCTA and if you use the day passes, you get free transfers. Also, you can purchase an EZ transit pass, which gives you free all-day travel in Los Angeles and Orange County areas. A $10 USD Weekend Day Pass is good for unlimited travel on the Metrolink system through either Saturday or Sunday. Similar to the OCTA passes, a 7-Day Pass is priced for 7 one-way trips.

Walk

Once you use public transportation to get to the city in Orange County that you want to visit, you will find that most of it can be covered on foot. You will find that most cities in Orange County have designated walking paths and many of them take you through scenic areas you would otherwise not know existed.

Bike Rentals

Santa Ana is a very bike-friendly community. In fact, you will find the local police force out on two wheels patrolling the cities. With over 1,000 miles of bike paths, you can easily rent a bike for the day in the city you are visiting, and get around with ease. Plus, you can avoid the traffic, travel along the coast, and stop whenever you like. You can rent bikes from companies like Wheel Fun Rentals (Irvine), ARB Cyclery, The Path Bike Shop, and more. The fare depends on how long you want to ride, where you are, and the number of bikes you rent.

Things to do and places of interest in Orange County

If you’re not only visiting Santa Ana, Orange County consists of several cities, and each one has its own varied list of attractions. From Anaheim and the famous Disneyland, to Irvine and the amazing Asian-American heritage sites, almost every nook and cranny of Orange County has something interesting to offer tourists.

• Anaheim is home to Disneyland, the Los Angeles Angels, and the National Hockey League’s Anaheim Ducks. Catch a game or go have some fun with Mickey and his pals at Disneyland for the day.
• Huntington Beach is where you find the surfers, and it is known as Surf City for the amazing beaches, perfect sand, and refreshing water.
• Newport Beach is where you can go to see some of the richest suburbs of the country and it is where the popular show “The OC” was filmed.
• Seal Beach is a small, cute little beach town filled with local shops, restaurants, and Irish pubs all along Main Street.
• Santa Ana is home to the largest Mexican-American population. Here you find some uniquely created tacos, especially those offered up by the street vendors along the shore.
• Buena Park is another place to visit if you want some thrills for your memory bank. Get on the rides at Knott’s Berry Farm or go back in time at Medieval Times.
• Costa Mesa is the perfect place to be in the summer, and it is home to the Orange County Fairgrounds where you have numerous events, including the yearly fair.
• Beaches are plentiful in the OC. You can sit on the sandy beaches and soak up the Southern California sun, or go whale watching from Newport Beach. Multiple cruises take off from the harbors, which let you explore the coastline from different angles. You can also rent items and participate in water sports, such as jet skiing.
• Visit the Ocean Institute in Dana Point, which is an ocean preservation society that has science and maritime history exhibits, touch tanks, aquariums, and more. On weekdays, admission fees are $5 USD per guest. On weekends, adults pay $10 USD while seniors (55 and older) and youth (ages 2 – 12) pay $7.50 USD.
• Mission San Juan Capistrano is the only mission in Orange County, and they have activities for families visiting the area. You can take a self-guided walking tour of the grounds, explore the koi ponds, and enter the historic adobe buildings. General Admission tickets cost $9 USD for adults, $6 USD for seniors (60 and older) and $6 USD for children (ages 4 – 11).

Tips and tricks for visiting Santa Ana

Southern California is known for the sand and surf, and while it is relatively tourist-friendly, there are a few things you want to keep in mind.

Pack accordingly

The climate in Santa Ana stays in the 70 degrees Fahrenheit range, but peak summer months can rise into the 90’s. Coastal areas are always cooler than inland, so bring a light jacket if you plan to stay along the coast at night. It is best if you dress in light layers, especially because temperatures fluctuate during the day.

Be ready for the fog

If you are not used to being on the coast, you might notice that some mornings are blanketed in thick fog. Be careful driving in this weather, and remember to still put on your sunscreen. The fog does not shield you, and you might find you burn easier in the fog than on a bright, sunny day.

Staying safe in Santa Ana

As a major metropolitan area of Southern California, you do have some areas that are more prone to crime in Orange County. Never leave valuables in your car, and when you return to your hotel, always use the main entrance. Avoid non-tourist areas at night, because you may find yourself exposed to activities such as prostitution and pick-pocketing. Beaches are generally safe during the day and into the evenings, but they also have time restrictions. Therefore, you must leave the beach areas once closed.