Marina Park, Newport Beach
Cool for kids: Ocean theme and climbing equipment galore, plus a huge tunnel slide from the second floor of the iconic lighthouse.

Happy adults: Perfect views to relax beachside while keeping your eyes on small children.

Prehistoric Playground, Laguna Hills
Cool for kids: A fast slide, dinosaur-themed play areas, a tire swing, and spitting-tortoise water features.

Happy adults: Multiple options for all ages so no one is bored, and plenty of spots to sit and watch the fun.

Northwood Community Park, Irvine
Cool for kids: Castle surrounded by sand, great for ages 6 to 12 to chase each other, jump off ledges, and play imaginative games. Swings are plentiful.

Happy adults: Modern recreation center with clean, nice bathrooms. Best for kids who don’t need constant supervision.

Pavion Park, Mission Viejo
Cool for kids: Listening stations with animal sounds, a dance pad, a swing that resembles a zip line, plus a maze to navigate by letters or numbers

Happy adults: Plenty of shade, swings that hold a baby and an older child at once

Fullerton Sports Complex, Fullerton
Cool for kids: Plenty of climbing options with fake rock walls, ropes, net bridges, and moving “toadstools” to walk on, all surrounding a wooden structure with multiple levels

Happy adults: Full shade structure for the hot days and compact so it’s easy to keep an eye on everyone

Bluebird Park, Laguna Beach
Cool for kids: Fast slides built into the cement walls, a four‑story rocket structure to climb, and spinning equipment

Happy adults: Fenced along the street, nice bathrooms, wide‑open space