Location: Aliso Viejo
Top Things to do in Aliso Viejo
What to do and see in Aliso Viejo, United States: The Best Places and Tips
Aliso Viejo is a city in the San Joaquin Hills of southern Orange County, California. It had a population of 47,823 as of the 2010 census, up from 40,166 as of the 2000 census. It became Orange County's 34th city on July 1, 2001, the only city in Orange County to be incorporated since 2000. It is bordered by the cities of Laguna Beach on the west and southwest, Laguna Hills on the east, Laguna Niguel on the southeast, and Laguna Woods on the north.
Restaurants in Aliso Viejo
1. Mission San Juan Capistrano
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
Famous for the Annual Return of the Swallows, Mission San Juan Capistrano, historic landmark and museum, welcomes over 300,000 visitors each year. Enhance your visit with our new multi-language Audio Tour available in English, Spanish, French and German and now offered free with admission. Enjoy permanent exhibits featuring historic and religious artifacts, precious and rare paintings, and more. Experience the tradition of bell ringing daily honoring the legacy of Saint Junipero Serra, who founded the Mission in 1776. Visit the newly conserved Serra Chapel, California’s only chapel still standing where Saint Serra celebrated Mass and where the Eucharist has been celebrated daily.
Reviewed By Sean H
I was reluctant to go at first but admission price of $10 was acceptable. I was pleasantly surprised by the gorgeous gardens. Beautiful old cacti and flowering varieties. My only complaint would be that nothing was labeled, though as I was leaving and returning the audio guide, which is included in the price of admission, I noticed there was a plant brochure available for two dollars which did list some of the plants. It wasn’t offered to us nor did I see it at the ticket counter. It would be nice if it were free or at least promoted. I would go back if I were in the area.
2. Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 112 reviews
Reviewed By Marty S - Tubac, Arizona
I visit Aliso Viejo often, and walk many mornings at this park. It is at 28373 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Niguel. You can park on the road or in the paid parking lot if the road is full. I usually walk on the bike path to the south, but there are many wonderful walks that I've taken. The birds and plants are wonderful. During school sessions, there are lots of kids walking or biking to school in the early morning. This path is along Aliso Creek, and there are so many wonderful birds, particularly in the winter.
3. Heisler Park
Overall Ratings
5 based on 1 reviews
Reviewed By CaliforniaLen - California
Heisler Park is a very photogenic spot stretching along the protected Laguna Beach nature preserve. It offers scenic views of offshore rocks and several paths down on to the sand. There is sometimes scarce metered parking all along the edge of the park.
4. Soka Performing Arts Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 29 reviews
Reviewed By countessjc - westminster
This is a small, but delightful venue on a beautiful campus. The students provide transportation from the parking lot to the theater so it is very convenient for patrons with mobility issues. The volunteers are extremely welcoming and helpful, but the performances that we have attended are the real reason for returning. Although students handle most of the backstage services and they can not be compared with professionals, the quality of the shows is still very much worth the reasonable price of the productions.
5. Salt Creek Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 276 reviews
Reviewed By Scott M - Lancaster, Pennsylvania
This is nice beach to walk and watch surfers atempt their sport while you're walking. The beach is not as long as some of the others but beacuse you have to walk to reach to beach in certain areas it is less crowded, which was a bonus to us.
6. Crystal Cove State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
Reviewed By Doctordan1
Beautiful campsite, stunning views, great walks over hills with sensational views over the Pacific. Friendly staff, great facilities for RV drivers. Perhaps a little expensive for a state park at $75 per night but nevertheless I would recommend this state park for its proximity to the beach and amazing treks.
7. Laguna Niguel Regional Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 86 reviews
Reviewed By Marty S - Tubac, Arizona
I often visit this park when I visit my Mom in southern CA. For the $3 charge, it is well worth it. My brother and I often take a walk circumventing the lake, where people are fishing. There is a good path all the way around. I particularly like the winter birds and ducks in the area, of which there are often many.
8. StressBusters Wellness Day Spa
Overall Ratings
5 based on 4 reviews
Reviewed By moovinup - San Francisco
I have to travel to Orange County many times a year for business but have always or nearly always had disappointing services at the spas there. You know, the ones that advertise they have the best customer service? Yeah, right...their front staff are usually busy on their personal cell phones or talking to one another to serve the customer well.
Anyway, I was in Orange County last week and saw an article in the paper about a spa in Laguna Hills, near the 405 freeway. The article talked about the owner's pregnancy work but also mentioned that her spa worked with men and children as well. On a whim I called and made an appointment. From the first sentence spoken by the gal who answered the phone, I could tell this was a very different place. She was attentive, kind and clearly wanted to serve me in the way that best fit my schedule. I went in and had a very pleasant experience with everything. Their therapist was excellent, the atmosphere is cozy and pretty (tho not too small) and VERY relaxing. I felt like I was a celebrity or something; really. What a refreshing difference from other places in OC!! Oh, and their prices were very reasonable.
I will be back.
9. Magyar Kozmetika
Overall Ratings
5 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By sarahF2156KZ - Aliso Viejo, California
I have tried many different places to get my eyelashes done and I can confidently say that Ildiko is the absolute best! She is a complete perfectionist so I leave every time with very natural, beautiful lashes. Not only is her work exceptional, but she also goes out of her way to work around my schedule no matter how busy she is. I look forward to every appointment and simply cannot say enough good things about her!
10. Crescent Bay Point Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 150 reviews
Reviewed By Laurie J
Laguna Beach is my favorite place to visit, and Crescent Bay Point Park is just one of the lovely parks to experience! The flowers and view of the coves are spectacular! It really has a Mediterranean feel!
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