Location: Niguel Botanical Preserve, 29751 Crown Valley Pkwy, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

Wrap the workweek and clear your head before the choas of the holidays start. Nothing beats fresh air and a beautiful sunset. The Laguna Niguel Botanical Preserve sunset walk is the perfect place. Bring a light jacket, a camera or phone for sunset shots, maybe a hot drink in hand. It’s the kind of outing that helps you recharge quietly and sets a calm tone going into the weekend.

Location: Ladera Ranch Library, 29551 Sienna Pkwy, Ladera Ranch
Date: Wednesday, October 29, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

November screams comfort food! Keep the ingredients fresh and local at the Ladera Farmer’s Market. Come with your Thanksgiving prep list and your guests will be blown away.

Sundays in Ladera are best spent at the Farmers Market. Local growers, bakers, and small-batch makers set up along the park, filling the air with the smell of coffee and fresh bread. You’ll find everything from seasonal produce and farm eggs to handmade treats and fresh flowers. Bring your Thanksgiving list, grab what’s in season, and leave with everything you need to WOW your guests.

Location: Dana Point Harbor, 34571 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629
Date & Time: Beginning November 12 2025

There is no better place to spot holiday lights than in Dana Point Harbor! The harbor transforms into a glowing coastal wonderland with more than a million twinkling lights, themed installations, and holiday music. You can stroll the marina walkways, snap photos at light tunnels and oversized ornaments, and grab hot cocoa from local cafes. It’s a must-see this holiday season.

Location: 28715 Los Alisos Blvd, Mission Viejo, CA 92692
Time: Open between 9:30 am - 6:30 pm

This new Mission Viejo indoor play space is quickly becoming a parent favorite. Especially as the evenings are getting darker earlier and the weather a bit chillier. Filled with pretend play for toddlers and young kids. PlayHub offers bright atmosphere, clean play zones, and a mini café (so you don’t have to go without your coffee!). If you’ve got little ones with energy to burn, this is the spot.

Location: Caspers Wilderness Park, 33401 Ortega Hwy, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025
Time: 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Spend an (early) evening under the stars with OC Parks’ rangers and local astronomers at this hands-on astronomy night. Families can peek through telescopes, learn about constellations, and see the planets up close while the sun sets behind the hills. Kids will love meeting real “space rangers” and exploring glow-in-the-dark activities designed just for them. Ideal for families with kids ages 5+. This event is FREE, however, it is $5 for parking. Learn more HERE.

Location: 25642 Crown Valley Parkway, Suite D6 Ladera Ranch, CA 92694

If you’re looking to switch it up from your average fitness class or gym routine, you’ll love Row House! It’s a rhythm-driven, full-body experience that hits 86% of your muscles in every session. The workout mixes cardio and strength intervals for maximum efficiency, building endurance without the joint strain of high-impact training. The energy in the room is electric. It’s not about competition; it’s about connection, momentum, and leaving stronger than you arrived.

Location: 1 Monarch Beach Resort N, Dana Point, CA 92629

You’re in for a treat at one of South OC’s best data night spots! Ticked inside of the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach, Bourbon Steak delivers a top-tier dining experience led by award-winning chef Michael Mina. The menu features juicy steaks, fresh seafood, and the best craft cocktails. And if you’re into Bourbon…this spot is a MUST. With an ocean-view backdrop and impeccable service, it’s the kind of dinner that feels like a celebration. You will definitely want to plan for this one as reservations are highly recommended.

Location: 213 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, CA 92672

This is one of my absolute faves! Nick’s is a San Clemente staple. Expect perfectly executed comfort food, delicious cocktails, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere that works just as well for a weeknight dinner as a special occasion. Their fried chicken, prime rib dip, and seasonal cocktails never disappoint. But for me, it’s the Bistro Plate (IYKYK, if you don’t, you gotta go!). It’s classic South OC done right—warm, stylish, and always consistent.

Earn your feast this Thanksgiving.

📅 Thursday, November 27, 2025
📍 Dana Point Harbor

Start Thanksgiving morning right with the 48th Annual Dana Point Turkey Trot — choose from a 5K, 10K, Combo 15K, or the Kids’ 1-Mile Gobble Wobble. The course is USA Track & Field certified and views are stunning. Expect festive energy: costume contests, a health & fitness expo, and local vibes. Best part? Your entry supports community charities.
🎟️ Register & details: turkeytrot.co