From Surf Legends to Spanish Missions: Discover the Spirit of Coastal Orange County

Your day begins with a scenic ride north from Del Mar to Huntington Beach, where your Orange County journey officially kicks off. Known as Surf City USA, this energetic coastal town invites you to stroll its iconic pier, explore Pacific City, and walk Main Street—lined with surf shops and beach cafés.

Heading south along Pacific Coast Highway, your next stop is Balboa Island, a harborfront village in Newport Beach. You'll have time to explore Marine Avenue, shop local boutiques, and try a frozen banana while watching the ferries cross the bay.

From there, enjoy a narrated coastal drive through Corona del Mar, with an optional photo stop at a bluff-top overlook where you can take in views of Newport Harbor and The Wedge, a world-famous surf break.

Continuing through Crystal Cove State Park, your guide will share the history of its preserved shoreline and early 20th-century beach cottages. Soon after, the vehicle passes through Heisler Park, where sculpted gardens, tide pools, and public art frame stunning views over Laguna’s rocky coast.

You’ll then arrive in Laguna Beach, where you'll break for lunch (meals not included). Enjoy oceanfront dining, browse art galleries, or relax along Main Beach’s scenic shoreline. After lunch, head up to Top of the World, a short but rewarding photo stop that reveals sweeping views of the entire coastline below.

The tour continues south through Dana Point, where your guide will highlight its harbor, surfing history, and the Dana Point Headlands. Time permitting, you’ll pause at a scenic overlook to take in views of the marina below.

Your final stop is San Juan Capistrano, one of the oldest towns in California. Spend 40 minutes wandering the charming Los Rios Historic District, visiting the Mission Basilica, or checking out the River Street Marketplace, a new development blending artisan shops with local heritage.

As the sun begins to dip, your guide will return you to Del Mar, completing a full coastal loop that captures the energy, beauty, and story of Southern California’s famed beach communities.

• Private pickup and drop-off from your hotel, vacation rental, or custom location in Del Mar or surrounding areas
• Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle reserved exclusively for your group
• Entertaining live narration by a local guide along the full route
• Free time at four main stops:
• Huntington Beach Pier – iconic surf town with pier walk, shops, and ocean views
• Balboa Island – harbor stroll, boutique browsing, and frozen banana treats
• Laguna Beach – art galleries, beach walk, and scenic lunch break
• San Juan Capistrano – historic downtown and mission district exploration
• Drive-through narration and optional scenic photo ops
• Complimentary bottled water and light snacks onboard

• Lunch (available for purchase in Laguna Beach)
• Gratuities for your guide and driver (optional but appreciated)