So, what do Americans like to do on vacations?

Well, The Chicago Tribune did a poll on the best things to do when vacationing and came up with some really interesting facts.

Topping the list as one of the favorite vacation activities for Americans is relaxing on the beach with the crystal blue waters of the ocean shimmering in front of them. Just 8% of people are going to opt for a staycation while 92% will be heading for destinations in or out of the country to get lots of rest and relaxation.

Let’s talk about some more interesting facts. Did you know that Airbnb has chosen coastal Orange County as one of its top 10 most-visited destinations? With its miles of gorgeous beaches, stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, and soft white sands, that’s where lots of Americans are going to be headed each summer. Combine the lovely warm weather with tranquility, and you have the perfect vacation spot.

Are you wondering, what are the best R&R things to do when vacationing in Orange County? Let’s take a look.

1. Visit One of the Best Spas

Start off your vacation with a booking at one of the best spas in Orange County where you can choose from a range of treatments that are sure to leave your skin glowing and body feeling young and rejuvenated. For instance, should you choose to stop by at the Los Angeles Med Spa, you can pick one of the hair removal and skin aging treatments. So, if you’re looking to put your best skin forward in those sexy bikinis, the spa would be just the place to start. And, did we mention the non-invasive, inch-loss procedures that can sculpt your body to perfection? Yep! You definitely want to start here.

2. Head for the Beaches

Considering that you’re here for the sun and surf, relaxing on the beach as one of the top R&R things to do absolutely deserves mention. So, which are the best beaches in Orange County? Let’s see now. There’s 42 miles of exquisite coastline to explore. But, TripAdvisor directs you to the most beautiful ones such as Seal Beach, the 8-mile long Huntington Beach, and the smaller cove beach, Little Corona Beach that boasts of the best tide pools. San Clemente, Dana Beach, and Laguna Beach for the art lovers are other destinations you could add to your list of the best things to do when vacationing.

3. Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruises

Even if you aren’t particularly a wildlife fan, you must take the time to go whale and dolphin watching when in Orange County. People who have spent time on the deck of the cruise ships watching the gentle giants of the ocean frolicking in the water talk about what a humbling experience it is. You can always combine your cruise with breathtaking sunset views of the sun slipping below the horizon painting the sea and sky in brilliant hues. Take all the pictures you want for delightful memories.

4. Go on a Romantic Gondola Ride

If you’ve always wanted to visit Venice and take a ride in a gondola, you don’t have to travel all the way to Europe. Like BuzzFeed recommends, simply add a trip to Huntington Beach in your vacation itinerary, and you could sign up for a gondola sunset cruise through Huntington Harbor. Cuddle up with your loved one and steal a piece of the 1000-year old tradition as the gondola glides besides islands and into the canals of Huntington Beach. Newport Beach also has Gondola Adventures and The Gondola Company so you can choose the one that suits you as one of the best things to do when vacationing in Orange County.

5. Learn to Paint

Psychology Today has this article that tells you how painting is an utterly relaxing activity. And, it’s one of the best things to do when vacationing in Orange County. But, with an added twist! Along with lessons in painting and a palette of colors to explore your creative side, you’ll also be sipping on wine. Sign up for a private class or a group session and learn a new skill even as the wine loosens your inhibitions and lets you have fun. You may even discover a genius hiding somewhere inside you.

6. Visit a Botanical Garden

Spending time in nature is another of the most relaxing things to do when vacationing. If you’re visiting Orange County in summer, you must go for a walking tour of the Corona del Mar’s Sherman Library and Botanical Gardens. Enjoy viewing the gorgeous blooms, plants, and other greenery. You’ll have the opportunity to see both endemic and exotic varieties of plants that will fill your senses with pure delight and tranquility. And, don’t miss a visit to the village of the local folk, the garden gnomes.

7. Wining and Dining

If you’re a gastronomic aficionado, Orange County is just the place to be. Take the Old Towne Orange Walking Food Tour and sample some of the local fare at the different restaurants. For instance, the Watsons Drug and Soda Fountain that has been open for business since 1899, Felix Continental Cafe, and Citrus City Grille to name a scarce few. And, given that the most delicious of food should be accompanied with the right wines, check out the Cowboy Canyon Winery and Silverado Canyon’s Giracci Vineyards.

These are only a few of the exciting yet, relaxing getaway ideas you can choose for your trip in Orange County. Talk to your travel advisor and you will be spoiled for choice when working out the best things to do when vacationing in the region.

So, what would you like to do on holiday this summer?