Los Cerritos Wetlands, Seal Beach, CA 90740, US

Laguna Coast Wilderness Park is an eco-friendly preserve wedged between a vital Orange County business hub and a famed coastal tourist destination. This rocky oasis features some 40 miles worth of beautiful hiking trails that jut through and around the natural crags that form Laguna Canyon. It's an ideal venue for active travelers looking for a little outdoor adventure.Parking and public transportation at Laguna Coast Wilderness ParkParking costs less than $5. There are three different lots, so you'll want to park close to where you'll be spending most of your time. You can take a bus, but you'll probably have to do a lot of route hopping to get here.Best and worst time go to Laguna Coast Wilderness ParkComing here in April and May will allow you to see the canyon in full springtime bloom. Skip the canyon from November to February, because it's far less colorful.Admission to Laguna Coast Wilderness ParkThe park is free apart from parking. You also won't need to buy any special permits for the hiking trails.Must see/do at Laguna Coast Wilderness ParkNix Nature Center is the park's home base and hosts nature-themed exhibits throughout the year. You can also hike to Barbara's Lake, which is Orange County's lone natural lake. If you want to see a bigger body of water, several of the park's trails provide you with a view of the Pacific Ocean.Other places to visit near Laguna Coast Wilderness ParkYou're about of 6-mile drive from downtown Laguna Beach's boutiques and galleries. You're also 5 miles from the outdoor shopping center Irvine Spectrum. If you want to see things from a different perspective, head 9 miles to Orange County Great Park and hop on its hot air balloon.Insider tip for visitors to Laguna Coast Wilderness ParkBig Bend Trail, Bommer Ranch Road, and Willow Canyon Road can be hiked as a loop. It's best to start the loop on Willow Canyon Road – the Big Bend Trail's steep elevation climb is brutal to ascend.Author's bio: Rich Manning is a freelance writer based in Orange County, CA. He's been writing about food, drink, and lifestyle in Southern California for over ten years.