Art and Nature Promise Serenity in the City
Life is loud. Our minds can be louder. And cities can be the loudest. We are constantly consuming sights and sounds that grab our attention, living in a constant state of overstimulation. Sometimes we need to immerse ourselves in quiet to find ground. We could all use a time-out so that when we clock back in, we’re ready to feel the calm amid the chaos. While it can be difficult to find an intimate oasis to be with your thoughts in a bustling beach town, it’s not impossible. Fear not: we found nine quiet places in Orange County where you can locate that inner peace.
Ramakrishna Monastery
This nondenominational monastery is a true haven for those in need of a little zen. With 40 acres of rolling hills, a meditation temple and their famed shrine trail, there is plenty to explore at this working monastery. Here, you’ll be able to soak in the serenity. The shrine trail features homages to some world religions and has their version of a panchavati tree, where you can reflect, walk and worship. Visitors are welcome at the monastery from 9-11 a.m. and 3-5 p.m. daily. In keeping with the spiritual atmosphere, suitable dress and demeanor are required.
Location: Trabuco Canyon
Museum of Peace and Quiet
We are confident that our readers know the calming value of retail therapy—and that’s what Museum of Peace and Quiet is here to offer. Committed to a clear state-of-mind, this contemporary label presents simple objects that are designed for everyday use. Once only available online, you can now visit their new brick-and-mortar storefront in Corona del Mar. Always on-trend, this brand has everything you need to outfit an easy lifestyle—from leather-bound notebooks and easy-sipping espresso sets to classic crewneck sweatshirts. Take a break from the noise and listen to their Peace & Quiet app while learning about their many meditative projects.
Location: Corona del Mar
Heisler Park
Heisler Park offers some of the best oceanfront views in the OC, where picnickers can lounge on their choice of a grassy knoll, sandy bank, rocky outlook or any type of bench—either man made or formed by nature. There are plenty of to-go food options in the area, like Husky Boys, Asada or Urth Caffe. Grab whatever grub you’re craving, then hit the winding trails of Heisler Park. Be sure to scope out the seaside tide pools and maybe stop for a post-stroll sip at Royal Hawaiian or Las Brisas. If you are lucky enough to be at the park around sunset on Friday evenings in May and September, head to the amphitheater for the sunset serenade concert series—they start at 5:30 p.m.. Think of it like a movie score for a California sunset—it’s a great way to recharge after a long week.
Location: Laguna Beach
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Hidden House Coffee
Located in San Juan Capistrano, Hidden House Coffee is one of our favorite secret spots. Nestled in the heart of the charming Los Rios District, directly across from the train station, this cafe is serving up buzzy beverages and baked goods for all those in-the-know. Leisurely explore the surrounding town, where you’ll find the O’Neill Museum and Cottage Home & Garden. If you find peace among farm animals, then a visit to Zoomars is in order. This area, called River Street, is in the process of going through a huge glow-up, so put it on your radar—it’s about to be the Wild West of Lido Marina Village.
Location: San Juan Capistrano
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The Ecology Center
Once you’ve curbed your caffeine craving, take a quick drive down the road to The Ecology Center for some quiet reflection on the farm. There’s a shop with farm-fresh local ingredients, a little cafe serving up sweet and savory snacks and an entire property that teaches the importance of reducing the impact we have on our land. See if you can score a tour of the farm while you are there, too!
Location: San Juan Capistrano
Cerritos Sculpture Garden
Full of memorials, mirages and a myriad of sculptures and free space, Cerritos Sculpture Garden is an amazing place to unwind and enjoy peaceful contemplation while learning about the current exhibits on display. “The Mirage” is a must-see that presents a floating illusion, and “Infinity” is another mind-bender that’ll have you scratching your head. Be sure to hit up local bakery Tous les Jours for some fresh-baked bread and a lavender latte before or after your visit to the garden.
Location: Cerritos
Noguchi Garden
Does Noguchi Garden sound familiar? You probably read about it in our article on 11 date ideas in Orange County that cost less than $25. This contemporary sculpture garden, located inside the Pacific Arts Plaza in Costa Mesa, is a architectural oasis that is open to the public and perfect for quieting the mind and appreciating art made from organic materials. Open until midnight, you can come here whenever you need a moment to reflect and recharge. These unique gardens, created by Isamu Noguchi and commissioned by the Segerstrom family in 1979, aim to represent California’s unique geographical characteristics.
Location: Costa Mesa
Fullerton Arboretum
This is another place where you might be surprised to know it exists in our own backyard. Who would’ve thought? This botanical beauty prides itself on cultivating a sustainable future and allows curious visitors to explore 26 acres of flora and fauna from around the globe. This is the perfect spot to listen to a podcast and simply get lost in nature. The centerpiece of the property is Heritage House—built in 1894, this relic is now a museum that is decorated like a doctor’s home and office. The arboretum is open from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily, and parking is $4 an hour or $10 for the whole day.
Location: Fullerton
