Bathrooms are one of those functional spaces we tend to gloss over in our decor plans—barely even noticing them until they’re messy or in need of a good scrub-down.
But the bathrooms (or shall we say washrooms, which sounds infinitely fancier) that took over Instagram this week are anything but neglected.
Instead, these five trending bathroom looks offer a sophisticated respite from the typical blah bath decor. So if you need a bit of visual inspiration to kick things up a notch (or three), check out these unconventional washroom looks you’ll immediately want to steal.
1. Black bathroom
If you want to create a chic scene in your washroom, try an all-black look like this one from @miltonandking.
“Black bathrooms are all about drama and moodiness,” says designer Doreen Amico-Sorell, of Sorell Interiors. “They are especially popular in a powder room, which is often treated like a little jewel box, able to be adorned any way you like.”
Soak in a tub and dream of dancing with an unforgettable statement chandelier like this disco-inspired one from @chelsgc.
“I’m in love with the disco ball chandelier,” says designer Maggie Clarke, of Maggie Clarke Interiors. “I just used one in a project to infuse femininity amongst other masculine and sharp-edged elements. In addition, this type of chandelier serves as a beautiful focal point for a bathroom.”
Get the look: Bring some fun 1970s energy into your bathroom with a cabaret chrome pendant.
3. Popsicle stick tile
This tile design is one of the best we’ve seen in a while. Pretty in pink and elegant in its own right, the popsicle stick tile from @chandeliers.and.champagne is one to consider for your next bathroom upgrade.
“This is such a fun way to add a pop of color and pattern in an otherwise utilitarian space,” says Clarke. “Bathrooms have a lot of cold elements such as floor tile, shower doors, and mirrors. Adding a curved shape creates beautiful balance. How fun would this be in a kids bathroom?”
Have a wallpaper you simply adore? Then why not try it out in every color—or at least in two shades to create a contrasting design like this one from @divinesavages.
“Contrast is such a beautiful way to add interest to a wall,” says Clarke. “Much like throw pillows, wallpapers don’t have to be ‘twins’—just make sure they’re ‘sisters.’ In other words, while contrasting wallpapers need to flow together—they don’t necessarily need to match perfectly.”
Concrete has been everywhere in design lately—from our patio furniture to entryway tables—and now the material is creating a brand-new look for our bathroom sinks, as seen in this post from @meiraustralia.
“Concrete, when used to create a sink, can really become that statement piece,” says Amico-Sorell. “So simple, yet available in a variety of shapes and sizes. The material is also versatile enough to pair well with modern or rustic decor.”
As you set out on your homebuying journey, you likely have a plan in place, and you’re working on saving for your purchase. But do you know how much you actually need for your down payment?
If you think you have to put 20% down, you may have set your goal based on a common misconception. Freddie Macsays:
“The most damaging down payment myth—since it stops the homebuying process before it can start—is the belief that 20% is necessary.”
Unless specified by your loan type or lender, it’s typically not required to put 20% down. According to the Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the median down payment hasn’t been over 20% since 2005. It may sound surprising, but today, that number is only 13%. And it’s even lower for first-time homebuyers, whose median down payment is only 7%(see graph below):
What Does This Mean for You?
While a down payment of 20% or more does have benefits, the typical buyer is putting far less down. That’s good news for you because it means you could be closer to your homebuying dream than you realize.
If you’re interested in learning more about low down payment options, there are several places to go. There are programs for qualified buyers with down payments as low as 3.5%. There are also options like VA loans and USDA loans with no down payment requirements for qualified applicants.
To understand your options, you need to do your homework. If you’re interested in learning more about down payment assistance programs, information is available through sites like downpaymentresource.com. Be sure to also work with a real estate advisor from the start to learn what you may qualify for in the homebuying process.
Bottom Line
Remember: a 20% down payment isn’t always required. If you want to purchase a home this year, let’s connect to start the conversation and explore your down payment options.
You can throw a legendary Super Bowl party—even when you’re only watching for the commercials. Here’s what to do!
Every editorial product is independently selected, though we may be compensated or receive an affiliate commission if you buy something through our links. Ratings and prices are accurate and items are in stock as of time of publication.
It seems that the best parties in the winter all revolve around football. Even if you don’t love sports, fear not. Throwing a Super Bowl party can be just as fun for the host as it is for sports fans. Stock up on tailgate snacks and slammin’ Super Bowl cocktails and let’s get going!
BRIANNA GRIEPENTROG/TASTE OF HOME
Bring on the Drinks
Football wouldn’t be a great American sport without a great American beverage. Before the party, snag a local beer from the cities of the teams competing or pick up one of our favorite cheap beer brands for your shindig. If they’re not into beer, pick a signature cocktail for each team based on their city, mascot or team colors. Mix up a pitcher of each drink ahead of time with a little splash of food coloring to match each team’s jerseys.
TASTE OF HOME
Do a Dip
Cheesy dips are a staple of any legendary tailgate, and a Super Bowl party is no different. Look for a few creative recipes and choose one that is cheesy, one that is meaty, one that is spicy and one that is vegan to appease all the different taste preferences of your group. Look to these dip recipes for inspiration.
To be the envy of all your friends (and the star of their Instagram stories) build yourself a snack stadium. Fill a few cardboard boxes or aluminum pans with all your favorite snacks (including some of these healthy Super Bowl recipes, for a well-balanced selection). Make a field out of a frosted cake and place it in the center. Learn how to build a snack stadium with our step-by-step guide.
VIA MERCURIALCREATIONS2/ETSY.COM
Set the Scene
Make your guests feel like they’re watching the game from the sidelines with plenty of creative decorations. From AstroTurf coasters to football drink stirrers to a festive concession stand sign, decorating for your party can be just as fun as the party itself. Decorate one half of the living room with one team’s colors, and the other half of the living room with the other team’s colors. Your guests can choose where they want to sit and cheer on their favorite team.
TASTE OF HOME
Wing It
The staple of any great sports viewing party is a tray of sticky, sweet and tangy chicken wings. Prepare a range of flavors from extra spicy to sweet and mild and have a few dipping sauces (like ranch or blue cheese dressing) on the side. Wings are the perfect finger food, but be sure to have plenty of cocktail napkins ready for these fall off the bone, finger-licking goods!
VIA AMAZON.COM
Show Your Spirit
Throw a competition to see who has the most (and most creative) team spirit in the group. Have a face painting kit at the ready with some colorful streamers and spray on hair dye. Challenge your friends to create the craziest costumes and have a makeshift catwalk for them to show off their team spirit.
TASTE OF HOME
Pick a Winning Dessert
What better way to wash down all those wings and beers than with sweet and decadent Super Bowl desserts! Help ease the pain for the losing team with a crowd-pleasing classic like caramel brownies or ice cream and cookie pie. Even if their team lost the game, we bet your guests will leave with a full belly and happy heart.
Laura is a New York-based freelance food writer with a degree in Culinary Arts from the Institute of Culinary Education and a degree in Journalism from Penn State. Her work has appeared in Taste of Home, Chowhound, the Culture Trip and Patch.
😟 Are you worried that you might be facing foreclosure? If you haven’t taken advantage of the forbearance period, it may be time to research and understand your options. It starts with knowing what foreclosure is.
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📞 Call us today! CA REAL ESTATE GROUP powered by Keller Williams Realty
If you hate digging around crammed kitchen cupboards to find the right pot or pan come dinnertime, a hanging pot rack could change your life. Really.
Hanging pot racks are a major space-saver in a kitchen, freeing up cupboard room while also keeping your most-used items—your cookware—easily viewable and accessible. Just reach up, grab one, and you’re good to go!
Still, before you jump into the pot rack way of life, you should assess how much you like to cook and how often you actually do so. If your meal planning routine consists of spaghetti on Monday and then six days of takeout, you probably won’t get much use out of this kitchen feature.
You also need to allocate enough space—and the right spot—for a pot rack. Choose wrong, and it could be more of a headache than it’s worth.
So before you add to cart, here are some questions to ponder, as well as a rundown of the various pot rack styles available.
Most kitchens only sport a single window or two, so don’t block the only natural light you get by hanging your pot rack here. You’ll also want to avoid hanging a pot rack over the stovetop, because this is a recipe for all kinds of grime.
“It may seem convenient to put a pot rack over the stove, but doing so can cause grease to build up on your cookware,” says Andrea Correale of Elegant Affairs Caterers.
One of the best places for a pot rack is over a kitchen island. Or if you don’t have an island, hang the rack over the portion of the countertop where you prep food.
Height is another variable you’ll want to get right. Make sure that the pots are low enough to be within easy reach, and won’t require you to climb up on a chair every time you boil eggs.
Still, the rack should also be high enough not to cause head bonks or obstruct your view.
Pot racks aren’t just a way to save cupboard space, but are also an excellent opportunity to highlight your collection.
“Use a rack to show off your more stylish cookware in an elegant, creative way that matches the rest of your kitchen decor,” says Correale.
You could match a stainless-steel rack with your stainless fixtures or appliances, or install a rack made from copper piping to match tones in your cabinets.
That said, make sure the bottoms of your pots and pans are super clean, or you really shouldn’t hang them up, says Darla DeMorrow of HeartWork Organizing. No one wants to be faced with scratched or sticky pot bottoms every time they enter the kitchen.
Correale also warns “not to overload a pot rack, since laden racks can make a kitchen look crowded, and too many pots may be too heavy for the hooks to manage.”
If you never use that 12-inch egg poacher, why is it getting prime real estate on your rack? Save this hanging device for everyday pots and pans you constantly reach for, like the little guy that holds two fried eggs, the oatmeal pot, or your trusty cast-iron skillet. Occasional-use items should be stashed in the pantry (we’re looking at you, turkey roasting pan).
Pot rack styles to consider
Rectangular, circular, metal pipes, a wooden board with simple hooks, and more—all are worthy pot rack shapes and materials. Here are some different versions, as well as the pros and cons of each.
Brushed stainless steel
Twelve hooks and a lifetime guarantee!
(Bed, Bath & Beyond)
Not only can you dangle your cookware from this attractive, brushed stainless-steel rack, but you can place cookbooks and lids on the upper shelf ($120, Bed, Bath & Beyond).
Half-circle bronze rack
This pick also comes in polished copper or stainless steel
(Amazon)
An oil-rubbed bronze option from Cuisinart looks classy and professional, so you know it can handle your old skillets. And the six hooks slide around the semicircle, making it easy to grab the pan you need ($60, Amazon).
Wooden ceiling rack
Birch wood and steel combine to create a strong rack
(Wayfair)
An open-grid rack like this one offers lots of ways to display your pots, and the top shelf is available to hold those lesser-used pans. This product also comes with extra hooks, so you can sneak in a few more ($81, Wayfair).
Wall-mount rail
Order two of these so you can also display utensils.
(Wayfair)
Saving space—and money? This easy-to-mount wall rack has room for 10 pots and supports up to 25 pounds of weight ($24, Wayfair).
Or go for the classic Julia Child style: a pegboard. Child was famous for her large board, which featured the outlines of every pot she owned, so she knew where to hang them when not in use.
“A pegboard is an underutilized hanging tool, and it makes sense in smaller kitchens or ones with empty wall space,” says DeMorrow.
Standing pot rack
It’s convenient, but it does need assembling.
(Wayfair)
Not every pot rack needs to be suspended. There are versions, like this one, that sit on the floor against a wall or tuck into corners, too ($340, Wayfair). Correale favors the standing type, since, he says, “It’s easier to reach and clean and you can move it around the kitchen as you please.”
Free-standing pot racks also seem sturdier since they have little shelves for each item, which means you don’t have to worry so much about how heavy your pots are, she adds.
Are you one of the many renters thinking about where you’ll live the next time your lease is up? Before you decide whether to look for a new house or another apartment, it’s important to understand the true costs of renting in 2022.
As a renter, you should know rents have been rising since 1988 (see graph below):
In 2021, rents grew dramatically. According to ApartmentList.com, since January 2021:
“. . . the national median rent has increased by a staggering 17.8 percent. To put that in context, rent growth from January to November averaged just 2.6 percent in the pre-pandemic years from 2017-2019.”
That increase in 2021 was far greater than the typical rent increases we’ve seen in recent years. In other words – rents are rising fast. And the 2022 National Housing Forecast from realtor.com projects prices for vacant units will continue to increase this year:
“In 2022, we expect this trend will continue and fuel rent growth. At a national level, we forecast rent growth of 7.1% in the next 12 months, somewhat ahead of home price growth . . .”
That means, if you’re planning to move into a different rental this year, you’ll likely pay far more than you have in years past.
Homeownership Provides an Alternative to Rising Rents
If you’re a renter facing rising rental costs, you might wonder what alternatives you have. If so, consider homeownership. One of the many benefits of homeownership is it provides a stable monthly cost you can lock in for the duration of your loan.
As Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), says:
“. . . fast-rising rents and increasing consumer prices, may have some prospective buyers seeking the protection of a fixed, consistent mortgage payment.”
If you’re planning to make a move this year, locking in your monthly housing costs for 15-30 years can be a major benefit. You’ll avoid wondering if you’ll need to adjust your budget to account for annual increases.
Homeowners also enjoy the added benefit of home equity, which has grown substantially right now. In fact, the latest Homeowner Equity Insight report from CoreLogic shows the average homeowner gained $56,700 in equity over the last 12 months. As a renter, your rent payment only covers the cost of your dwelling. When you pay your mortgage, you grow your wealth through the forced savings that is your home equity.
Bottom Line
If you’re thinking of renting this year, it’s important to keep in mind the true costs you’ll face. Let’s connect so you can see how you can begin your journey to homeownership today. Call us today!
CHRISTINE ALMARINES
714-476-4637 | @carealestategroup.com
christine@carealestategroup.com
Realtor DRE 01412944
MICHELLE KIM
714.253.7531 | @michellejeankim_homes
michelle@carealestategroup.com
Realtor DRE 01885912
CA Real Estate Group | Keller Williams Realty Anaheim Hills/Yorba Linda
What is is about a deep clean that makes us feel like we really have our lives together?
I’m a firm believer in getting your new year off to a good start, which involves leaving all the clutter and mess back in 2021. Let’s explore the top things you need to declutter and organize before the midnight champagne toast, because 2022 is going to be YOUR year!
1. Your Files
It’s a good idea to keep all of your important documents and files in one place, both for organization and easy access in case of an emergency. Certain documents should live here forever — things like your birth certificate and passport. Others you can hold for some time, but toss after a few years like old apartment leases. Make sure to shred any documents with sensitive information like your social security or bank account numbers.
2. Your Refrigerator
Be honest: when was the last time you saw the very back of your fridge? Even if you do a weekly grocery shop, there are probably spills and forgotten condiments taking up space out of sight.
Begin by pulling everything out of your fridge and tossing anything that’s empty or past its expiration date. Next, wipe down the shelves and inside your drawers to get rid of old stuck-on food and funky smells. Replace all your food, and finish with an open box of baking soda or used coffee grounds to help absorb any odors.
I always purchase clean white towels and linens because you can toss them together for a bleach load to keep them clean and fresh. I realized I hadn’t actually purchased new bath towels since college (gross), so decided to splurge on some new ones. While my old towels were still fine, I couldn’t believe how dingy and worn-out they looked compared to my new, fluffy towels! Take a tour through your linen closet; if you can’t remember the last time you bought new sheets or hand towels, it’s probably time to invest in a fresh set. Consider donating any towels that are still in relatively good shape to your local animal shelter (they always need towels!) when you stock up on new ones.
4. Sneaky Areas of Your Home
You probably regularly sweep the floors and do your dishes, but when was the last time you gave your baseboards a good wipe-down? Giving the nooks and crannies of your home a good clean is good for your health and your sanity.
Some areas that could probably use a once-over include:
The only time I ever open my medicine cabinet is to grab floss or Advil. Chances are you have some expired medications on the high shelves that are taking up space. It’s important to dispose of old medication properly. The FDA recommends disposing properly of medication or dropping off any unused or expired medications at a take-back location, so check where the nearest one to you is located.
6. Kitchen Cupboards
Is there an unused ice cream maker sitting in the back of your cabinets that was gifted to you by a well-meaning aunt? Probably. Let’s face the music: you’re never going to use that waffle maker/baked potato cooker/panini press. Donate any appliances that still work and toss anything that’s broken/missing parts. This includes old cracked cups, Tupperware without lids, and grungy baking sheets.
Clean car, clean mind! (That’s the saying, right?) Your car is another black hole area where things disappear into a dark void, never to be seen again. A deep car clean isn’t something you can do on your commute to work, so make sure to carve out a little time to dive in.
Begin by opening all your car doors so you can peek under the front chairs and between the seats. There’s almost a 100 percent chance there’s at least one lip balm down there. Toss any garbage, and run any clothes/shoes/yoga mats you’ve left in there back into the house.
Many car washes and gas stations have vacuums you can use to suck up crumbs if you don’t have a cordless vacuum on hand. Don’t forget a quick sweep of the trunk! If you’re feeling really empowered, finish off with a car wash and new air freshener.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, today I present you with the best easy hikes in Orange County.
With the sheer amount of breath-taking landscapes and amazing parks, getting out in Southern California is more than a pleasant experience.
Hiking in Orange Country is simply amazing, from easy flat trails to sloppy mountain hikes, and scenic viewpoints, you have a plethora of options to break the monotonous city life.
Whether you’re hiking alone or hanging with family and friends, I have compiled a list of what I consider some of the best easy hiking trails in Orange County.
Table of Contents
ABOUT THESE HIKES
Let me start the article by saying that I love to walk/hike but I am not an experienced hiker.
I do not own professional gear, have not done long backpacking trips, and am not in the best of physical shapes.
However, I believe Orange County has something for everybody when it comes to walking and hiking. I have picked these hikes because I have personally done them. If I have been able to complete them, a good number of people can complete them too.
So, whatever your condition, I want to encourage you to go out and tackle one of these Orange County hikes. Bring the family or a group of friends. Remember to take it easy. There is no reason to rush.
Important Notes: I recommend checking OC hiking trails status before heading to a particular place. Trails can get closed due to weather conditions (rain, fire) or other causes (mountain lion activity).
HIKING GEAR
Here are some suggestions on how to get ready to tackle the different hiking trails in Orange County.
Hiking Shoes – Wearing the right shoes is essential when hiking. I recommend investing in a good pair. Merrell shoes have always been good for my crooked feet. Not long ago, I was using tennis shoes to hit the trails. That was until I hurt my left foot. Since then, hiking shoes have done wonders for me. >Check out my hiking shoes
Hiking Socks – Wool hiking socks provide support, cushion, and prevent blisters. EnerWear sells an excellent 4-pair set for a good price. >Check them out here
Insoles – Insoles are another way to protect your feet when hiking. They do a great job absorbing shock. Walk Hero’s insoles have some of the best ratings in the market. >Get them here
Crossbody Bag – I take the minimum with me when I go on trails. I keep everything organized in a small Herschel crossbody bag. >Buy this great crossbody bag here
Hiking Poles – Hiking poles are lifesavers on trails with an incline (more if you have wobbly knees). TrailBuddy’s trekking poles are such a great help. >Check these hiking poles
Sun Block – Do not leave the house (or the car) without applying sunblock. I repeat, always wear sunblock when outdoors. >Buy sun block here
Wide Brim Hat – A wide brim hat is a great way to protect your scalp, face, and neck. The ones manufactured by FURTALK come with an anti-UV function. >Buy this amazing hat here
Sunglasses – These are another must when it comes to protecting from the sun. A polarized, sporty pair works better for hiking. >Take a look at this wonderful pair
Water Bottle – Do not forget to bring water! Keep yours cold by taking a beautiful Hydro Flask water bottle. >Check out the insane options her
Snacks – It is a good idea to carry snacks such as granola bars, protein bars, trail mix, nut, and jerky
Camera – I have never gotten used to taking pictures exclusively with my phone. I prefer to use the Sony Alpha a6000. It is compact and takes gorgeous pictures. >Buy Sony Camera here
EASY HIKES IN ORANGE COUNTY
Let’s get to the fun part of the article. Below, I have details about each chosen hike including location, distance from Downtown Anaheim (for reference), special notes, and ideas on where to head after the hikes. And, I am calling these hikes but some of them are better described as walks.
The focus of this article is easy trails but I will provide info about moderate and/or difficult trails in the places described below.
Oh, and there are so many hiking trails in Orange County! It was difficult to determine which ones to include in the article. If I do not cover your favorite OC hike, let me know in the comments section below.
SANTIAGO OAKS REGIONAL PARK
Location: Orange (Yes, there is a city called Orange in Orange County)
Distance from Anaheim: 13 miles
The Santiago Oaks Regional Park sits on a vast 1269-acre swath of land. This beautiful landscape provides a refreshing escape from the noisy city life. It’s actually a whole new world with an abundance of wildlife and mature forest including shady groves.
The Santiago Oaks Regional Park is a preferred destination for those who genuinely love nature. It’s a powerful magnet for hikers, bikers, and horse riders, thanks to the gorgeous vistas, a creek that gently curves through the wooded areas, and interconnecting foot-trails.
Easy trails include the Arizona Crossing Trail (0.04-mile), Bobcat Meadow Trail (0.28-mile), Lady Bug Trail (0.04-mile), Pony Trail (0.17-mile), Rinker Grove Trail (0.31-mile), Sour Grass Trail (0.09-mile), Towhee Trail (0.08-mile), Wilderness Trail (0.48-mile), Willows Trail (0.85-mile) and Winders Trail (0.19-mile). All of these trails are multi-use.
The Historic Dam Trail is considered easy as well but only people on foot are allowed.
The park has moderate and difficult trails for those who want to take things to a different level. In addition, you can connect to the Anaheim Hills Trail System.
Park’s maps can be obtained onsite or online. Make sure to visit the nature center to learn about the area’s history, fauna, and flora.
Parking is $3 fee on weekdays and $5 on weekends.
Where to Go After the Hike: Downtown Orange or Downtown Disney (free)
The Peters Canyon Regional Park comprises 340-acres of grasslands, marsh, and coastal sage scrub. Since within the park limits you can find the Upper Peters Canyon Reservoir, it is easy to observe different species of birds all year round.
One of the main attractions in the park (and on the OC trails system) is the Lake Valley Loop, a 2.5-miles, easy trail offering panoramic views of the reservoir. From the Lake Valley Loop, you can connect to the East Ridge View Trail and the Peters Canyon Trail and basically loop around the entire park. Keep in mind the East Ridge View Trail has a difficult rating.
These trails are multi-use, meaning that hikers, bikers, and horse riders are welcome.
Where to Go After the Hike: Downtown Orange or Downtown Disney (free)
Location: Huntington Beach (technically this reserve is located in state land and does not fall within the limits of the City of Huntington Beach)
Distance from Anaheim: 24 miles
If your favorite pastimes include bird watching and photography, then the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve is the ideal relaxation place for you.
The Reserve, protecting freshwater and saltwater marsh, sits on 1300+ acres of land and it is home to over 200 bird species. It is a favorite spot for migratory birds. This wildlife-dense wetland is located just a few miles from Downtown Huntington Beach. Believe me when I say this is a great family destination.
It features a 4.5-mile network of trails. The reserve can be accessed from the Pacific Coast Highway. The exact address is 18000 CA-1. If you enter the name of the reserve or the exact address on a GPS, you will be taken to a parking lot from where you can start to walk the 1.5 mile Loop Trail (or Inner Bay Loop Trail). From this trail, you can extend your walk by connecting to other trails.
A second entry point is through the Bolsa Chica Conservancy Building or Interpretative Center (3842 Warner Avenue). You can learn all about the flora, and fauna of this coastal wetland. Then, you can explore the area by hitting the Mesa Trail. It is about 0.6 miles (one way) to the Mesa Trail Overlook. From the Overlook, you can continue to walk around the Bolsa Pocket or connect to the Loop Trail.
Dogs are not allowed on the trails.
Where to Go After the Hike: Bolsa Chica State Beach, Sunset Beach, or Downtown Huntington (to check out the pier, museums, eateries, or Pacific City).
Talking about beginner hikes in Orange County, we cannot forget to mention the Badlands Park Trail (some people may call this trail the Seaview Trail because of a nearby park and trail).
It will take you just about 45 minutes to complete this scenic loop that snakes behind a residential area and affords breathtaking views of the southern Laguna Beach coast and Dana Point.
The trailhead can be found at 31671 Isle Vista. The 2.3-mile trail (roundtrip) is very easy to walk and offers ocean views along the way. The trail is heavily trafficked, so expect to have others around. Try to hike during the week to avoid crowds.
Furry friends are welcome on the trail but must be kept on a leash.
Where to Go After the Hike: Treasure Island Park (one of the most gorgeous places in Laguna Beach), Aliso Beach, or Salt Creek Beach
BACK BAY LOOP
Location: Newport Beach
Distance from Anaheim: 18 miles
Upper Newport Bay is a great place for nature and bird lovers. It attracts over 35,000 migratory birds during winter, and it’s home to 6 endangered bird species. Moreover, the Bay offers access to bluff vistas, scenic spots, and several educational facilities.
The Newport Back Bay Loop, a 10.5 miles long trail, allows visitors to experience this ecosystem. Before you start screaming, no, I am not suggesting you complete this loop in one sitting.
There are multiple entry points. You can complete different sections at different times. Actually, this is what makes the Back Loop one of the top hiking trails in Orange County. You can walk it 3 or 4 times and see something new on every occasion.
The park is completely free and dogs are allowed.
The Back Bay Loop connects to the Mountain to the Sea Trail. You can walk from here to Peters Canyon Regional Park.
Where to Go After the Hike: Balboa Peninsula, Balboa Island, Fashion Island, or Corona del Mar
Within the Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park, there is an area containing red rock formations. I know these are not necessarily associated with California but we have some.
From the parking lot off Market Place Street (keep in mind there are several parking lots in the park), take the Borrego Canyon Trail (about 1 mile) and connect to the Red Rock Canyon Trail (you have to pass through Mustard Road).
Even though most people visit the park to see the red rocks, there are about 17 miles of trail within the property. There are other easy trails that can be started from the Glenn Ranch Road parking lot.
Where to Go After the Hike: Irvine or Laguna Beach
Crystal Cove State Park is huge (3,936 acres). The park comprises 3.2 miles of beach (in a natural state) where sunbathing, swimming, surfing, diving, and tide pooling are permitted. In addition, there are 2,400 undeveloped acres of land ideal for backcountry hiking and primitive camping.
This is my top pick on this list. If you can only visit one hiking area in Orange County, make it Crystal Coast. I am convinced this is one of the most beautiful parks in California.
The 3-mile Bluff Trail hugs the coast and offers crazy beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. There are multiple entry points to the trail. You do not have to walk the 3 miles if you do not want to. The entire trail is unshaded, so may want to take your sunscreen along with a bottle of water and probably a hat too.
After hiking, make sure to check the beach cottages at the Crystal Cove Historic District, the tide pools, and the shakes prepared at Ruby’s Shake Shack (because we all need a shake after hiking).
The park deserves the entire day (or most of the day). Make arrangements accordingly.
Where to Go After the Hike: I recommend enjoying the park for the day. If you want to keep exploring the area, you can stop by Corona del Mar, the Balboa Peninsula or Heisler Park in Laguna Beach (another top pick).
The Buck Gully Reserve can be seen as a long green belt located in the seaside neighborhood of Corona del Mar. The Reserve is completely surrounded by residences. The trailhead can be found at 872 Poppy Avenue. Park on the street.
The Bulk Gully Trail is about 5.2 miles long. It is a fairly easy trail with just enough incline for a good workout.
Be ready to spot wildflowers, insects, birds, and small mammals. For a little more challenge, you can try the shorter but steeper Bobcat Trail. Dogs are not allowed, but you can have a good outdoor time with your kids.
There are no facilities onsite. Bring enough water and have a bathroom break before heading to the trailhead.
Carbon Canyon Regional Park is a favorite among locals because of its lake, fishing piers, sporting facilities, grassy fields ideal for picnics, and scenic trails.
The showstopper in the park is the 3-acre Redwood Groove (the only one in Orange County). This area is accessed through the 1.1-mile Redwood Trail. Do not miss the redwoods if you visit!
Other easy trails in the park include the Carbon Canyon Creek Nature Trail and the Bell’s Vireo Trail. In total, there are about 2.5 miles to enjoy.
Other amenities include volleyball courts, tennis courts, playgrounds, paved biking paths, baseball fields, horseshoe pits, a native garden, and picnic pavilions.
The parking fee is $3 on weekdays and $5 on weekends.
Where to Go After the Hike: There is enough to do in this park for an entire day. There are more hiking opportunities at the adjacent Chino Hills State Park.
Quail Hill Trail is a 2-mile loop hike located at the Irvine Open Space Preserve. This trail is easy enough for beginners and offers a relaxing walk through native grassland. It has a slight incline which is simple to tackle by kids, bikers, and joggers.
The trailhead is located at 34 Shady Canyon Drive. Free parking is available at this spot.
Other trails in the Irvine Open Space Preserve include the Bommer Meadow Trail, Nature Loop Trail, and Bommer Pass Trail. The Quail Hill and Bommer Canyon trailheads are connected by the Shady Canyon Bikeway. You can drive between the two areas (since there are about 3 miles between them).
Also, it is possible to connect to trails in the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park.
Where to Go After the Hike: Irvine, Newport Beach, or Laguna Beach
TOP OF THE WORLD – HIKES IN ORANGE COUNTY
Location: Laguna Beach
Distance from Anaheim: 30 miles
As the name implies, the Top of the World Trail leads to panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, hills, canyons, Catalina Island, and even Mt Baldy.
The trailhead can be found at 580 Canyon Acres Drive. Park on the street. Let me warn you this is a steep trail leading up (about 1 mile, 2.4 miles round trip).
Now, I have included this trail here because you can “cheat” to make it to the top. All you have to do is drive to Alta Laguna Park. From there, you can access the trail (from the top) and walk as much as you want. Just keep in mind that the longer you go down, the harder is going to be to go back to the top.
You may have to bring some water, a hat, a hiking pole, and sunscreen. From here, you can connect to the West Ridge Trail (Moderate) and Dripping Cave Trail (Moderate).
Where to Go After the Hike: Heisler Park or Treasure Island Park for incredible coastal views
RONALD W. CASPERS REGIONAL PARK
Location: San Juan Capistrano
Distance from Anaheim: 40 miles
Ronald W. Caspers Regional Park protects 8,000 acres of coastal oaks, sycamores, grassland, streams, and valleys.
Easy trails include the West Ridge Trail (2.27-miles), Juaneno Trail (2.68-miles), and Mesa Loop Trail (1-mile). As you can see, there are plenty of options when it comes to family-friendly hikes.
The options become even more varied when you take into consideration the moderate and difficult trails in the park. A map can be found online or onsite.
If camping is your thing, you can try to secure a spot in the park. This is one of the rare places where you can camp inland in Orange County (I am referring to public facilities). An equestrian campground is available as well.
Where to Go After the Hike: Mission San Juan Capistrano and/or Old Town San Juan Capistrano
The Dana Headland can be seen for miles. Therefore, it makes total sense to explore this natural landmark.
The Dana Point Preserve, the actual land above the headland or promontory, is part of the Headlands Conservation Area Trail System. The trail around the preserve is one mile long. There are several viewpoints along the way. You can access the trail by parking at the Nature Interpretive Center.
Now, you can connect to other parks in the trail system. For example, the loop connecting the Dana Point Preserve, Harbor Point Conservation Park, and Hilltop Conservation Park is 1.5 miles long and rated moderate.
A 2.5 miles loop (rated moderate too) goes through all the places mentioned above plus the Strand Vista Park, Strands Beach, and South Strand Conservation Park.
As you can see, there are many options when it comes to this area.
This is another of my top recommendations when it comes to Orange County Hikes. I am so in love with Dana Point!
Where to Go After the Hike: Strands Beach, Salt Creek Beach, the Harbor (for water activities, sailing, whale watching cruises, eating, and shopping), or Doheny State Beach
The Beach Trail is one of my favorite walks in Orange County In my opinion, this is one of the best coastal walks in Southern California. From the trail, you can see the Dana Point Headland, San Mateo Point, and the north shoreline of San Diego County.
This 2.3 miles (one-way) easy trail goes from North Beach to Calafia. Here are some ideas on how to tackle this OC trail:
Park at North Beach and walk all the way to Calafia. You can stop in the Downtown/Pier area for a break. This is a 4.6 miles round trip walk
Park at North Beach and walk to the Pier (1 mile, one way)
Park at Calafia and walk to the Pier (1.3 miles, one way)
Park at one of the Pier lots and walk north or south
Where to Go After the Hike: Downtown San Clemente, Trestles, San Onofre, or San Juan Capistrano
It has been incredible to share with you some of the best hikes in Orange County. Happy hiking!
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We’ve all been there—barely surviving the morning rush hour of making lunches, signing permission slips, and searching for matching socks. Then after a busy day at work and school comes the evening whirlwind of homework, dinner, and maybe a few minutes of downtime.
That leaves most of us with no time to keep our home tidy, much less clean.
But if your New Year’s resolution is to have a house that doesn’t send you into a shame spiral when friends drop by, read on for our dirty … er, clean dozen: simple, quick habits that will make it look like someone slaved over your house all day.
1. Keep cleaning supplies handy where you use them
Face it: There’s no way you’re going to trek downstairs to grab some cleaner to wipe off that toothpaste glob; you’re going to leave it there until it hardens into cement. That’s why Laura Smith, founder of All Star Cleaning Services, keeps a spray bottle of all-purpose cleaner and a stack of cleaning cloths under all her sinks in the bathrooms and kitchen, so she can wipe up any little spot or spill she sees before it becomes a big mess that requires elbow grease—and time.
2. Clean the shower while you’re showering
You’re standing there rinsing your hair, so why not do a once-over of the shower walls? Smith finds one of the best products for keeping the shower clean is natural dish soap, because it is designed to fight grease—which, surprise, is mostly what’s in the soap scum lining your shower walls!
“Give the walls a quick once-over with soap and a sponge a couple of times a week, then use the showerhead to rinse, and continue on with your shower,” she says. And always wipe down those glass doors when you are finished to keep streaks at bay.
3. Clean as you cook
This is the best way to avoid a huge headache at the end of a meal, which you know you’re going to want to walk away and leave, says Janice Stewart of Castle Keepers House Cleaning. Even if you need to keep both eyes on the burners, at least fill your sink with soapy water and stick the pots, pans, utensils, and other cooking items in to soak while you eat.
4. Run the dishwasher at night
Yes, even if it’s not quite full. That’s so you can empty it first thing in the morning so it’s ready for action.
“Train your whole family to put dishes directly in the dishwasher, which keeps the sink clean and the counters clutter-free,” Smith says.
5. Embrace spot cleaning
Remember that it’s the whole chore that will wear you down, so deal only with what absolutely has to be taken care of that moment.
“One fingerprint on the door of the fridge is not a reason to clean the whole fridge,” Stewart says.
6. Keep surfaces clear
“Flat surfaces collect clutter like a paperclip to a magnet,” says Jessica Samson, spokesperson at The Maids.
They’re also what you see as you scan the room, so when you have clutter on flat surfaces it seems like it goes on forever.
“The more you can keep tables, floors, beds, and countertops clear, the cleaner and more spacious these areas feel,” she says.
The biggest clutter culprit is paper, so don’t let it pile up. Recycle unnecessary mail the minute it comes in, and create a filing system for the rest of it.
7. Clean out your refrigerator every week
Grab those sad celery stalks that you were so sure you were going to stir-fry and those takeout leftovers that never made it to the office, and trash them before they rot and leave a lingering order, advises Dawna Boone, owner of Valet Maids.
The best time to clean out the fridge is on trash day—off it goes—and ideally, right before you go food shopping to replenish it. You’ll be able to put away the groceries more easily—and you’ll be more liable to eat them if you can see them.
8. Never leave a room empty-handed
If you’re going upstairs, take something with you, whether it’s a stack of clean laundry or toilet paper refills. If you’re heading from the living room to the kitchen, grab that magazine that needs to be recycled and the water glass destined for your empty dishwasher.
9. Have a place for everything—and keep it there
Always put things back in their proper place after every use, says professional organizer PalomaBaillie.
“Dirty clothes go in the hamper—not on the floor—and clean clothes belong in your dresser and/or closet—not left in the laundry room or piled on the bed.”
Ditto for scissors, pens, and all those wayward objects that should have a designated spot in the junk drawer, as well as shoes, umbrellas, and coats that need dedicated hooks and bins to keep the entryway pristine.
10. Finish the day with a 10-minute tidying session
For those things that weren’t part of suggestions 8 and 9, make a nightly pickup part of your routine, advocates Devoreaux Walton, a lifestyle expert at The Modern Lady.
Set aside just 10 to 15 minutes every night—put on music if it makes the process more fun—and return everything to its spot, from toys to magazines. If you have a few minutes left over, run a cleaning cloth over counters or do a quick sweep, devoting five minutes to a different area every night.
11. Purge
This is more of a long-term solution, because less stuff means less to clean and organize. Use what Baillie calls her “three-bucket method,” where you keep buckets or bins handy to deal with items on an ongoing basis.
“Trash it if it’s worn out or broken; donate it if you no longer need it, but it’s otherwise usable; sell it if it’s in good condition,” she says.
If it’s hard to part with certain items, Samson recommends moving them at least temporarily to a box in the attic or a storage space. You’ll find it easier to keep up with laundry and closet organization when you have less stuff.
12. Buy a robotic vacuum cleaner
This might seem like cheating, but it’s really not.
“It is absolutely the best money you can spend if you want to keep a clean home but have pets or small children,” Smith says.
She recommends programming it to run daily while you are at work, or overnight—and then you can enjoy clean floors without lifting a finger.
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