Orange County, California on the Cheap

I live in and work amidst some of the wealthiest people in America, perhaps even the world. On a daily basis, I am confronted with images of luxury cars, designer bags and cute, tiny dogs rich people lug around in Louis Vuitton carriers. With its endless coastline, envious weather and unlimited shopping, Orange County has become a magnet for the rich. But that doesn't mean the less fortunate of us can't enjoy some of the best that Orange County has to offer! Take it from a used-car driving, coupon clipping girl like me, Orange County isn't the playground just for the rich. The OC offers a smorgasbord of delights, and the list below is only a glimpse of what Orange County has to offer.

Laguna Beach

A favorite destination for beach goers and art lovers alike is the seaside community of Laguna Beach. The city of Laguna Beach has become a mecca for artists and art lovers. How do you enjoy Laguna Beach on the cheap? Well for starters, you can start by taking a stroll on part of Laguna Beach's seven miles of picturesque coast. It won't cost you any money to take in the stunning view. Or you can enjoy a visit into one of the city's numerous art galleries or festivals - tickets don't break the bank and just because you can't afford some of the art, doesn't mean you can't sit back and appreciate it! In addition, if you are a Bank of America customer, you can take advantage of the Museums on Us program which offers free admission the first weekend of every month to various museums throughout the US, including Laguna's very own Laguna Art Museum. In the end, Laguna Beach can offer you sun, sand and culture

Balboa Island

Another inexpensive yet enriching experience awaits you at Balboa Island, a charming oceanside community located in the heart of Newport Beach Harbor. Stepping onto the island, the quaint and enchanting homes and shops immediately conjure up images of another popular seaside community, Cape Cod. The trip getting to the island is just as enchanting as the island itself. Though accessible by car or foot, I highly suggest getting to the island by ferry for the most gratifying experience. With departures from the Balboa peninsula every few minutes, you enjoy a picturesque and relaxing ride across the harbor for the typical price of $1.00. Though I am sure the view is equally beautiful during the day, my favorite time to take the ferry is during the early evening. The ferry ride becomes almost magical when you find yourself suddenly engulfed by the dark waters of Newport Harbor. The sparkling lights of the Fun Zone and the Balboa peninsula behind you serve as a reminder of where you've been, and just how much closer you are getting to Balboa Island, and the possibilities of all that await you. Once on the island, the magic continues. Numerous boutiques and galleries, cafes and restaurants filled with locals and tourists alike spot the island. Though the shops here tend to be a bit on the pricy side, window shopping and taking in the ambiance of this thriving community are free! Balboa is best seen on foot and a convenient walkway throughout the island offers unrivaled views of the beautiful (typically multi-million dollar) homes, as well as the yacht lined harbor. There is so much to take in on the island visually, that the two-mile walk around its perimeter will pass by like a breeze.

ORANGE COUNTY GREAT PARK

Located on the site of what used to be the El Toro Marine Corps Air Station, the Great Park in Irvine, California will span over 1,300 acres and promises to provide a wide array of activities for the budget-conscious individual. Though not in its final phase yet, a 2.5 mile canyon and lake, miles of walking and biking trails, a sports park and a botanical garden are just some of the ambitious projects planned for the park. While the majority of the park's features are still in the initial stages, there are a number of activities already underway. Currently, the Great Park offers a tethered helium observation balloon which offers unrivaled views of the surrounding area. Free concerts and dance pavilions are planned every Friday and Saturday night for the upcoming summer season. And for those southern California residents who long for a winter wonderland, the Great Skate Ice Rink is just what you need. Did I mention its also providing free parking, admission and skate rentals this season? Who ever said you couldn't get anything for free, huh?