Regions of Orange County

Orange County is best understood by region. Each area has its own character, and locals tend to talk about the county this way. A little context goes a long way in experiencing Orange County.

North Orange County
Historic roots, classic attractions, and everyday OC life

North Orange County blends long-standing communities with some of the region’s most recognizable destinations. Cities like Anaheim, Fullerton, Orange, and Buena Park anchor the area, combining entertainment, higher education, and preserved historic districts.

This region is home to major attractions like Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm, alongside walkable downtowns such as Old Towne Orange and Fullerton’s vintage core.

Further east, communities like Yorba Linda and Anaheim Hills offer hillside living and a quieter, residential feel, while cities like La Habra, Placentia, and Stanton reflect OC’s working roots and evolving local culture.

Central Orange County
The cultural and civic heart of OC

Central Orange County is where much of the county’s civic life, cultural institutions, and culinary diversity converge. Anchored by cities such as Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, Garden Grove, Westminster, and Tustin, this area offers one of the most dynamic snapshots of modern Orange County.

You’ll find major museums, performance venues, and shopping centers alongside deeply rooted immigrant communities. Neighborhoods like Little Saigon in Westminster and Garden Grove, and the arts-focused districts of Santa Ana, highlight the region’s multicultural identity. Costa Mesa adds a creative edge with design-forward dining, live music, and institutions like South Coast Plaza and Segerstrom Center for the Arts.

South Orange County
Master-planned living, open space, and coastal-meets-suburban calm

South Orange County is known for its thoughtfully designed communities, expansive parks, and polished residential feel. Cities such as Irvine, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, and Aliso Viejo are defined by clean design, strong school systems, and access to trails and green space.

As you move closer to the coast, towns like Dana Point, Laguna Niguel, and San Clemente introduce ocean views, harbor life, and a more relaxed coastal rhythm. South County tends to feel quieter and more spread out, making it ideal for longer stays or travelers seeking a slower pace.

Coastal & Beach Cities
Surf culture, harbor towns, and iconic shoreline

Stretching along more than 40 miles of coastline, Orange County’s beach cities are among its most recognizable—and most varied. While often grouped together, each coastal town has a distinct identity.

  • Huntington Beach – Classic surf culture and wide, active beaches

  • Seal Beach – Small-town charm with a traditional pier

  • Newport Beach – Harbors, luxury shopping, and Balboa Island

  • Laguna Beach – Cliffside coves, art galleries, and creative energy

  • Dana Point – Marina life and gateway to ocean adventures

Some coastal cities lean upscale and polished, while others remain casual and surf-driven. Together, they define Orange County’s laid-back, outdoor-focused lifestyle.