The countdown is on for Orange County to celebrate the Fourth of July in unforgettable style. Whether you're looking for ocean views, a waterfront dinner, or a classic barbecue bash, I’ve rounded up some of the most festive and unique ways to enjoy Independence Day across the region.
Truly one of the most special hotels in Orange County, the Surf & Sand in Laguna Beach, an iconic oceanfront resort, has completed its highly anticipated property-wide transformation, unveiling redesigned guest rooms and suites, a striking new lobby and lounge, refreshed dining and spa experiences, and upgraded conference and event spaces. The reimagined Surf & Sand highlights one of Southern California’s most picturesque stretches of coastline, with panoramic ocean views featured throughout the resort.
The wait is almost over. RELISH, the premier food, wine and spirits experience created by celebrity chef Jamie Gwen and celebrity event planner Nicole Hirsty, makes its grand debut Friday, June 27, through Sunday, June 29, at VEA Newport Beach Resort & Spa. The luxurious weekend brings together world-class chefs, master mixologists, and award-winning winemakers for an unforgettable celebration of culinary artistry.
Expanding its Orange County presence, Sweetgreen is set to open its 5th location in the region tomorrow, Tuesday, June 17, at Laguna Niguel’s Plaza de la Paz center (27221 La Paz Road, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677). O.C. diners are invited to indulge in the restaurant’s menu of thoughtfully sourced, scratch-made meals, and enjoy complimentary activations with local partners. Sweetgreen will also match every meal sold with a donated meal to Laguna Food Pantry to nourish people in Laguna Beach experiencing food insecurity.
Luciana’s Ristorante in Dana Point has once again earned Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence for 2025, a prestigious honor recognizing the world’s top restaurants for wine. The award celebrates Luciana’s commitment to pairing its elevated Italian cuisine with an exceptional, 300-bottle wine list that spans over 10 countries. Curated to complement the menu’s Northern Italian flavors—with modern touches by Michelin-trained Executive Chef Luis Sandoval—the list includes selections from esteemed producers and regions rarely found in local shops or everyday settings.
Expanding its Orange County presence, Sweetgreen is set to open its 5th location in the region tomorrow, Tuesday, June 17, at Laguna Niguel’s Plaza de la Paz center (27221 La Paz Road, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677). O.C. diners are invited to indulge in the restaurant’s menu of thoughtfully sourced, scratch-made meals, and enjoy complimentary activations with local partners. Sweetgreen will also match every meal sold with a donated meal to Laguna Food Pantry to nourish people in Laguna Beach experiencing food insecurity.
Now open at Triangle Square in Costa Mesa, Casa de Onda is a sophisticated new destination for Mexican American fusion, coastal-inspired cocktails, and al fresco dining under the stars. Translating to “house of vibes,” the restaurant debuted Saturday, June 21, with nightly dinner service and a live DJ starting at 8 p.m.
Visitors to Langson IMCA are encouraged to slow down, embrace the experience, and make space for a sense of awe and inspiration. On view through Aug. 30, California Kinship: Painting Homelife in the Golden State Before 1940 invites guests into the private worlds of early 20th-century Californians. Curated by Langson IMCA Assistant Curator Michaëla Mohrmann, Ph.D., the exhibition features portraits and scenes of everyday life—capturing moments of intimacy, care, and connection at home. Many of the works on view are drawn from the museum’s Buck Collection.
Strickland’s Ice Cream is celebrating its one-year anniversary in Costa Mesa, continuing to win…
The wait is almost over. RELISH, the premier food, wine and spirits experience created by…
The Catalina Museum for Art & History is now showcasing From Los Angeles to…
Expanding its Orange County presence, Sweetgreen is set to open its 5th location in the…
June 15, 2025
