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Best Places For Picnics In Orange County

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(credit: Istockphoto)

Living in Orange County has many perks - one of them is the alluring outdoor beauty. These OC picnic spots range from breathtaking beaches and picturesque lakes to lush, grassy parks. Whether a romantic outing or group get together, the special locations below are sure to please. Need more ideas? Visit our other list of the Best Places In Orange County For A Picnic.

heisler park gazebo
(credit: CBS)

Heisler Park
375 Cliff Drive
Laguna Beach,CA 92651
(949) 497-3311
www.lagunabeachcity.net

This hidden gem provides visitors with a peaceful ambiance ideal for a romantic picnic for two or a large gathering. Bring blankets, jackets, friends, family and your favorite snacks and you are set. You can revel in the natural beauty adorned among the coastline composed of crashing waves, vast ocean views, palm trees and bright flowers with the special people in your life. Additionally, there is a BBQ area on site overlooking the ocean fit for a group get together. Plenty of parking is available and restroom facilities are conveniently located on site.

salt-creek
Salt Creek Beach
33333 S. Pacific Coast Highway
Dana Point, CA 92629
(949) 923-2280
www.ocparks.com

For a tranquil beach experience with inexpensive parking, check out Salt Creek Beach. In addition to breathtaking areas on the sand, there is a considerable grassy area next to the ocean perfect for a picnic. Parking is only $1 per hour, and you can also bring your four-legged family members. The unique area enables you to enjoy the beach and grassy area throughout the day, engaging in a variety activities such as playing frisbee, surfing, reading, snacking, sunbathing and swimming. The area is especially known for being an ideal surfing spot, so you are sure to see some gnarly waves.

Hillcrest Park FB copy
(credit: Hillcrest Park/FB)

Hillcrest Park
1200 N. Harbor Blvd.
Fullerton, CA 92832
(714) 738-6575
www.ci.fullerton.ca.us

Hillcrest Park is a suitable picnic spot for the entire family. There is a substantial picnic area with adequate seating, restroom facilities on the premises and BBQ pits for those who want to grill on site. Additionally, kiddos can exert extra energy at the two playgrounds in the park. With all of the amenities, Hillcrest Park could become a family favorite.

Related: Best Hiking Trails In Orange County

Crescent Bay Point Park (Shelby Barone)
(credit: Shelby Barone)

Crescent Bay Point Park
Crescent Bay Drive
Laguna Beach, CA 92652
(949) 497-0711
www.lagunabeachcity.net

Tucked away in a residential neighborhood, Crescent Bay Point Park is unknown by many. The serene coastline is surrounded by mansions, bright flowers, birds and blue waters to make for a memorable "staycation." You can bring friends and all of the family members, including your pup. In addition to tasty treats, be sure to grab blankets and jackets to stay warm in the crisp ocean breeze.

huntington beach central park disc golf course
(credit: City of Huntington Beach)

Huntington Beach Central Park
18100 Goldenwest St.
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
(714) 536-5486
www.huntingtonbeachca.gov

In addition to being an excellent place to have a picnic, Huntington Beach Central Park provides several other activities on site for visitors. Perfect for couples, families and friends that enjoy being outdoors, the area has a lake, horseback riding trails, horseshoe pits, camping grounds, frisbee golf, restrooms and permitted fishing. You may want to start the day with a sunrise picnic and decide to make a weekend of it. If the picnic turns out to be a bust, no need to worry. There are four restaurants at the park. It's the perfect spot to be in touch with nature without "roughing" it.

Related: Cycling Expert's Favorite Rides In OC

What are your favorite spots for a picnic in Orange County? Share in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter.

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Stacy Brecht is a professional writer, dancer, marketer and model in the Los Angeles area. Brecht also enjoys traveling, wine, fitness training, volunteering, movies and trying new restaurants. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.


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