Excursion Taste of orange county tour at Los Angeles

Discover the seaside jewels along Southern California's 'Orange Coast' during this picturesque, full-day sightseeing excursion.

Los Angeles, Pacific Coast Highway, Pristine Beaches, Tide Pools, Preserves, Coves, Harbours

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive southeast along the '405', or Pacific Coast Highway, en route to the 'Orange Coast'. One of Southern California's best-kept secrets, this string of seaside jewels has been compared with the French Riviera or the Costa del Sol. Approximately 42 miles (about 67 kilometres) of beautiful beaches offer pristine stretches of sand, tide pools teeming with marine life, ecological preserves, secluded coves, picturesque pleasure-boat harbours, and legendary surf breaks. Spend the day discovering this string of pearls along the legendary Pacific Coast Highway.

Orange Coast, San Juan Capistrano, Gardens, Fountains, Serra Chapel, Free Time

Your first stop along the 'Orange Coast' is at historic Mission San Juan Capistrano. California's seventh mission, it was founded by Father Junipero Serra in 1776, and boasts over 10 acres (about four hectares) of gardens and fountains, as well as the famous Serra Chapel. During your guided visit, marvel at your lovely surrounds and see the small stone chapel, the only surviving church in which Father Serra celebrated Mass. This mission is best-known for its swallows, which are said to return to nest every year at their favourite sanctuary. Following your tour, some free time is made available for independent exploration.

Las Brisas Restaurant, Clifftop, Pacific Ocean & Coastal Views

Next, re-board your coach and head to Las Brisas. This legendary clifftop restaurant, which overlooks the Pacific Ocean and beautiful Laguna Beach coastline, has been a Southern California landmark since its inception in 1938 as the Victor Hugo Inn. Converted to Las Brisas in 1979, it has become a magnet for locals and visitors from all over the world. This is Southern California dining at its best, cliff-topped and ocean-viewed. The menu is comprised mostly of seafood recipes from the Mexican Riviera.

Laguna Beach, Free Time, Beach Stroll, Photographs, Shopping, Art Galleries

After a delightful lunch at Las Brisas (or similar) and a brief overview from your guide, some free time is made available to explore Laguna Beach. Enjoy a delightful stroll along the beach, take some amazing photographs, or do a bit of browsing at the area's many art galleries. Following your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Los Angeles, Pacific Coast Highway, Beaches, Coastline, Mission San Juan Capistrano, Gardens, Fountains, Las Brisas Restaurant, Lunch, Laguna Beach, Free Time

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Walking at Mission San Juan Capistrano and Laguna Beach is at the discretion of each guest. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, bottled water, and US Dollars or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Guests must be at least two years old to participate on this tour. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Guests must be at least 21 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. The driving time between the pier and sites visited is approximately 1.5 hours in each direction. The tour sequence may vary.