European-style Vacation in Orange County
As the sun casts golden rays over the Pacific, a soft breeze carries the scent of rosemary and salt down the coastal paths of Orange County. Here, you can find yourself sipping a cappuccino on a sun-drenched terrace, surrounded by Tuscan-inspired architecture—an experience that seems straight out of a Mediterranean postcard but is refreshingly just down the road. With its palm-fringed beaches and a culinary scene that rivals any European café, Orange County offers a tantalizing alternative to overseas travel. It seems more residents are opting for local indulgences, with a recent survey from the Travel Management Institute indicating a 30% increase in short staycations within metropolitan areas. As experts suggest, “Traveling is evolving; people are seeking to recreate the essence of Europe in their weekly plans rather than long escapes” (Dr. Clara Edwards, Travel Behavior Analyst).
🏨 Where to Stay
The Resort at Pelican Hill transports visitors to a Tuscan hillside with olive groves and stunning ocean views. The property, featuring private villas reminiscent of Umbria, boasts a circular, Coliseum-style pool and luxurious spa treatments that seamlessly fuse relaxation with scenic beauty.
Insider Tip: For those seeking tranquility, book a garden-view bungalow to enjoy peaceful mornings and aperitivos on your private terrace.
Lido House embodies a balance between Cape Cod charm and the elegance of the French Riviera. Its designer interiors and rooftop lounge spots attract a younger, more vibrant crowd looking for a chic staycation experience.
Insider Tip: Request the “McKee” suite to revel in soft coastal interiors and a personal rooftop space.
🍝 Where to Dine
Andrea at Pelican Hill serves housemade pasta with the elegance of an Amalfi coastline restaurant. With silver service and a sunset view over the Pacific, it’s a dining experience not to be missed.
CdM Restaurant in Corona del Mar offers modern Italian cuisine in an atmosphere that channels Milan’s chic restaurant scene. Dark, moody interiors and a refined menu provide the perfect backdrop for a stylish evening out.
Driftwood Kitchen, Laguna Beach encapsulates casual elegance reminiscent of the Riviera, offering fresh seafood with spectacular ocean views, making it a popular choice for beachgoers.
⛵ How to Play
Yacht Day from Lido Marina offers a taste of luxury without needing a passport. Electric Duffy boats provide a leisurely cruise, while full yacht charters come equipped with provisions for a truly indulgent experience.
Pelican Hill Golf Club offers cliffside fairways with ocean views comparable to those found in Portugal, making it a sought-after destination for golf enthusiasts.
🛍️ Where to Shop
South Coast Plaza, akin to the Champs-Élysées in Paris, boasts high-end brands such as Dior and Chanel along with unique boutiques that entice fashion enthusiasts to explore.
El Paseo, Palm Desert is a luxurious day trip for those who wish to experience resort-town shopping at its finest, blending the elegance of fashion with a relaxed atmosphere.
In a world where travel plans are increasingly dictated by uncertainties, the allure of European-style experiences close to home emerges as a compelling alternative. Visitors to Orange County can create their own slice of Europe, enjoying rich culinary landscapes, charming accommodations, and leisurely activities as they bask in the Southern Californian sun. The essence of vacationing in enchanting locales can indeed be found right here, inviting both locals and tourists to relish each moment—passport not required.
