SoCal Summer Adventures: 8 Things to Do This July
Summer is in full swing, and July might be one of the best months to explore everything Southern California has to offer.
Whether you're looking for a family outing, a relaxing day trip, or a fun evening with friends, these experiences showcase some of the best our region has to offer.
🎡 Orange County Fair
📍 Costa Mesa | July 17–August 16
Nothing says summer quite like the OC Fair. From carnival rides and live music to creative exhibits and legendary fair food, this annual tradition has something for every age.
Whether you're there for the concerts, the animals, or simply a giant cinnamon roll, it's a classic Southern California experience worth revisiting every year.
Perfect for: Families, date nights, and summer nostalgia.
🎨 Laguna Beach Art Festivals
📍 Laguna Beach | Throughout July
Summer in Laguna Beach means art season.
Visitors can explore the Sawdust Art Festival, Festival of Arts, and the world-famous Pageant of the Masters. Local artists, live music, handcrafted goods, and beautiful coastal scenery make this one of Southern California's most unique cultural experiences.
Perfect for: Art lovers, couples, and weekend explorers.
🏝️ Catalina Island Day Trip
📍 Avalon, Catalina Island
Sometimes the perfect getaway is only an hour away.
Take the ferry to Catalina Island for a day filled with waterfront dining, boutique shopping, snorkeling, golf cart tours, and incredible ocean views. It feels like a vacation without a plane ticket.
Perfect for: Families, couples, and anyone craving island vibes.
🚠 Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
📍 Palm Springs
Trade triple-digit temperatures for mountain air with a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
The ten-minute journey carries visitors from the desert floor into the cooler climate of Mount San Jacinto State Park, where hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and stunning views await.
Perfect for: Outdoor enthusiasts and anyone looking to escape the summer heat.
🎬 Outdoor Movie Nights
📍 Various Southern California Communities
Many local cities host free outdoor movie nights throughout July.
Bring lawn chairs, blankets, and your favorite snacks for a relaxed evening under the stars. From family classics to newer releases, these events are an affordable and memorable way to enjoy summer nights.
Perfect for: Families and community gatherings.
Bonus Summer Adventures
Looking for even more ideas? Here are three additional day trips worth adding to your summer bucket list.
🎶 Concerts in the Park
📍 Various Communities
Free summer concerts continue across Southern California all month long. Grab dinner from a local food truck, bring a chair, and enjoy live music with friends and neighbors.
Perfect for: Budget-friendly family fun.
🌲 Idyllwild Summer Escape
📍 Idyllwild
Need a break from the heat?
Idyllwild offers cooler temperatures, charming local shops, hiking trails, and mountain-town character that feels worlds away from city life—all within a short drive.
Perfect for: Weekend getaways and nature lovers.
🍷 Temecula Wine Country
📍 Temecula
Summer mornings in wine country are hard to beat.
Enjoy wine tastings, vineyard dining, hot-air balloon rides, and beautiful scenery before the afternoon temperatures rise. It's one of Southern California's most popular day-trip destinations for a reason.
Perfect for: Couples, friend groups, and food lovers.
Make the Most of Summer
One of the best things about living in Southern California is having so many incredible experiences right in our backyard.
Whether you're riding the tram above Palm Springs, wandering through Laguna Beach art galleries, or catching a movie under the stars, we hope this month inspires you to explore somewhere new and make some great summer memories.
Happy adventuring!
— The Navigate Team