10 End-of-Summer Kids Activities in Orange County Before School Starts

In Orange County, sunny days are far from over — but the school calendar is about to fill up. There’s still time to pack in a few more family-friendly OC kids activities before the homework and carpools take over.

Here are 10 fun things to do with kids in Orange County to close out summer with a splash.

1. Spend the Day at Newport Beach

Keywords: Newport Beach with kids, best OC beaches for familiesBuild sandcastles, rent bikes along the boardwalk, and watch the sun dip behind the pier.

2. Explore Pretend City Children’s Museum

Keywords: Pretend City OC, Orange County children’s museumA miniature city built just for kids, where they can role-play jobs, shop in a tiny grocery store, and “drive” around town.

3. Go Whale Watching from Dana Point

Keywords: whale watching Dana Point, family boat tours OCSummer is prime time for blue whales and dolphins — a thrilling way to spend the day on the water.

4. Visit the Great Park Balloon in Irvine

Keywords: Great Park balloon ride, Irvine kids attractionsTake a free tethered balloon ride for sweeping views of Orange County. There’s also a carousel and playground nearby.

5. Spend an Afternoon at Balboa Fun Zone

Keywords: Balboa Fun Zone kids, OC boardwalk attractionsPlay arcade games, ride the Ferris wheel, and take the ferry across to Balboa Island for frozen bananas.

6. Explore the Ocean Institute in Dana Point

Keywords: Ocean Institute Dana Point, marine education OCHands-on tide pool programs, aquarium exhibits, and tall ship tours make this an educational and fun outing.

7. Cool Off at The Wave Waterpark in Vista (nearby)

Keywords: The Wave Waterpark kids, OC water parksPerfect for hot August days — with slides, a lazy river, and a kiddie splash area.

8. Take a Hike in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park

Keywords: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park hike, OC family hikesEasy, shaded trails with ocean views and the chance to spot wildlife make this a kid-friendly adventure.

9. Tour the Mission San Juan Capistrano

Keywords: Mission San Juan Capistrano kids, historic sites OCHistory comes alive at this beautifully preserved mission, complete with gardens and koi ponds.

10. End with Ice Cream at Honeymee

Keywords: best ice cream Orange County, OC dessert spotsTry the honey-drizzled milk ice cream for a sweet summer send-off.

Make Kids Activities Easy: Get More Local Ideas in One Tap

Planning last-minute adventures in OC shouldn’t mean endless Googling. The Things to Do with Kids app has hundreds of Orange County family activities, updated daily — from beaches to museums — all in one place.

🎯 Download on the App Store🎯 Get it on Google Play

Spend less time searching and more time making memories before school starts.