The Perfect Coastal Holiday Day Trip Itinerary: Orange County Christmas Tree Crawl

I just got the most magical suggestion for a holiday day trip itinerary, and I couldn’t wait to share it with you! If you’re craving the perfect mix of festive cheer and coastal charm, this Orange County Christmas Tree Crawl is for you. From seaside stops to sparkling lights, it’s a day of holiday magic you won’t forget. Perfect for families, friends, or solo explorers, this itinerary will have you falling in love with Christmas along California’s stunning coast.

Stop 1: San Clemente Pier – Coastal Christmas Kickoff

Start your day at the picturesque San Clemente Pier, where the holidays meet classic SoCal charm. Take a peaceful morning stroll along the pier and enjoy the calm waves, cool air, and charming seaside views.

Don’t Miss: Stop by Bear Coast Coffee nearby for a warm seasonal latte to start your day off right.
Photo Moment: Capture the pier framed by palm trees and coastal holiday decor for a perfect Christmas-on-the-coast shot.

Stop 2: Outlets at San Clemente – SoCal’s Grand Christmas Tree

A short drive from the pier, the Outlets at San Clemente are home to one of the tallest Christmas trees in Southern California—a jaw-dropping 100-foot beauty adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and sparkling ornaments.

Don’t Miss: Do a little holiday shopping or grab a festive snack from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory.
Photo Moment: Stand under the towering tree for an unforgettable, larger-than-life holiday photo.

Stop 3: Dana Point Harbor – Twinkling Coastal Cheer

Next up, head to Dana Point Harbor, where the waterfront transforms into a whimsical winter wonderland. The harbor is lined with festive displays and themed trees that reflect beautifully onto the water.

Don’t Miss: Enjoy a hot cocoa or snack from Coffee Importers as you wander the decorated pathways.
Photo Moment: Snap a shot of the colorful light displays, especially near the Candy Cane Lane area for a festive touch.

Stop 4: Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel – Luxury Meets Holiday Magic

Take a drive up to the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, where elegance meets holiday charm. Inside the resort, you’ll find stunning Christmas trees and festive displays, including a breathtaking gingerbread house display that feels straight out of a storybook.

Don’t Miss: Explore the property for beautiful ocean views paired with luxurious holiday decor.
Photo Moment: The gingerbread house and tree in the lobby make for a picture-perfect holiday backdrop.

Stop 5: Montage Laguna Beach – Coastal Elegance and Christmas Vibes

A quick drive leads you to Montage Laguna Beach, where Christmas meets coastal sophistication. The property’s stunning trees, holiday decorations, and panoramic ocean views create a magical setting for the season.

Don’t Miss: Stop by The Lobby Lounge for a cozy drink and enjoy the ocean view while soaking up the holiday spirit.
Photo Moment: Capture the beautifully decorated trees with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop.

Stop 6: Roger’s Gardens – A Winter Wonderland

Next, head inland to Roger’s Gardens in Newport Beach—Orange County’s ultimate Christmas wonderland. Their themed holiday displays and twinkling decor make this a must-see stop for seasonal inspiration.

Don’t Miss: Explore their famous Christmas Boutique, where you’ll find unique ornaments, decor, and gift ideas.
Photo Moment: Every corner is photo-worthy, but don’t miss the beautifully decorated trees and displays throughout the boutique.

Stop 7: Fashion Island – The Iconic Coastal Christmas Tree

No holiday crawl is complete without stopping by Fashion Island to see their iconic 90-foot Christmas tree. Set in the heart of the shopping center, this towering tree is a glowing symbol of the season.

Don’t Miss: Grab a quick bite or seasonal treat from Blüestone Lane or one of the festive food carts.
Photo Moment: Pose in front of the towering tree surrounded by holiday lights—it’s a quintessential OC Christmas photo.

Stop 8: Balboa Island Firehouse Tree – A Festive Finale

Wrap up your Christmas Tree Crawl at Balboa Island, where you’ll find the charming Firehouse Tree—a community favorite that’s been lighting up the island for decades. The entire area is aglow with festive lights and decorations that reflect beautifully off the water.

Don’t Miss: Treat yourself to a holiday dessert like a Balboa Bar from Sugar ‘n Spice or a hot cocoa for a cozy stroll.
Photo Moment: Capture the Firehouse Tree lit up against the night sky, surrounded by Balboa’s twinkling holiday charm.

Make the Day Magical

Create a holiday playlist for the drive—“It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” and “Santa Baby” set the perfect tone.
Bring along a festive scarf, cozy thermos of hot cocoa, and a good camera—you’ll want to remember every magical stop.
Try to see how many trees you can visit in a day for a jam-packed sightseeing tour, or break it up into two separate days to linger at each stop.
Invite friends or family and make it an annual tradition!

Wrap Up the Crawl

The Orange County Christmas Tree Crawl is the perfect way to spend a holiday day soaking up the festive spirit and California’s coastal charm. From twinkling harbors to grand Christmas trees, this itinerary will leave you feeling merry, bright, and full of holiday cheer.