Exceptional 1-2 day 50th b-day trip advice needed in OC, CA

ailenroc

We have the tradition of getting away to new places on our birthdays so we can better remember the years as they roll by.
I had planned to spent my 50th in the South Pacific but my cancer diagnosis put that on hold. Because I just had surgery, I can't be as active as usual and don't want to fly - I could do some light hiking though. I've lived in OC for 25 years and have done all the usual things ... but I'm sure there must be something I haven't done or seen. Something in or close to nature would be my first choice. All input is greatly appreciated.

Anonymous

ailen - what about pelican hill, it is just over the hill from you

i was just over at crystal cove the other day it was and always is so nice. drove by pelican hill looks very nice, i think they opened in december...

http://www.pelicanhill.com/#/?page=resort

Anonymous

Try The Hobbit ... it's awesome.  Must have a reservation, sometimes weeks ahead!

http://www.hobbitrestaurant.com/

"A meal at The Hobbit is somewhat like a play in three acts."

The Hobbit has been known as a unique dining experience since 1972. We offer a seven course, prix-fixe menu Wednesday through Sunday, by reservation only. Private parties available by special arrangement Mondays and Tuesdays. Wednesday through Saturday we begin at 7:30p.m. and on Sunday at 7:00p.m. Special event dinners, the time may vary.
The Hobbit lounge with full bar is open one hour prior to each dining time. Our food is referred to as "Contemporary Continental", a reference to its encompassing many world cuisines.

ACT I Begins in the wine cellar

All our guests are invited into our wine cellar to begin the evening. You are handed the evening's menu and a flute of Hobbit Champagne. Hot and cold hors d'oeuvres are placed throughout the cellar for you to enjoy while selecting your wine for dinner.
Executive chef/owner Mike Philippi, his wife Debra, and sommelier Greg Cole are available in the cellar to help select wines-a fun task with over 1000 labels from which to choose.

ACT II Our guests are invited upstairs to their own table

Act II includes an appetizer, followed by a fish, fowl or light meat, and then a salad course.
You are then invited to enjoy "intermission" - take a walk, relax on the patios or visit the kitchen to speak with the chefs.

ACT III A return to the table

Ten to fifteen minutes later you are invited to return to your reset table for Act III. A flavorful sorbet is next as a palate-cleanser. The main entrée is served complete with accompanying vegetables.
Dessert arrives next, always available with an after dinner list of coffee drinks, liqueurs and fine cognacs.

One seating nightly, prix-fixe menu: $74.00 per person (plus tax, tip and beverage) Dress code: Elegant casual; jackets recommended for men; ties optional. Please no denim or tennis shoes.

THE HOBBIT
2932 E. Chapman Avenue
Orange, Ca. 92869 (one mile east of the 55 Freeway)
Phone: 714-997-1972

One seating nightly, prix-fixe menu: $74.00 per person (plus tax, tip and beverage) Dress code: Elegant casual; jackets recommended for men; ties optional. Please no denim or tennis shoes.