I've lived in California's Orange County for 40 years. Here are the 8 best things to do here besides going to Disneyland.

Wendy LeeDec 27, 2022, 04:12 IST

As someone who's lived in Orange County for over 40 years, I've thoroughly explored all six beach towns.Wendy Lee

People travel to California just to visit Disneyland, but the surrounding area has so much to offer.
Orange County is home to six beach towns with delicious food, impressive art, and great shopping.

Many people travel to Disneyland in Anaheim, California, and leave before experiencing all of the attractions that the surrounding area offers.

Disneyland is located in Anaheim, California.AaronP/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images/Getty Images

Newport Beach has a ton of bike-rental stations.Wendy Lee

We watched the sun go down in Huntington Beach.Wendy Lee

We prefer the ferry over the drive to Balboa Island.Wendy Lee

Catch a performance at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa.Wendy Lee

Active travelers should take advantage of the area's many hiking trails.Wendy Lee

Laguna Beach is known for its water, but it also has a lot of art and green space.Wendy Lee

If you visit San Juan Capistrano, head to the Mission, a historic landmark and museum.Wendy Lee

There's spectacular antique shopping in Old Towne Orange.Wendy Lee