How to Hack Orange County

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson discovers new and unexpected ways to experience Orange County with three longtime locals. First, Johnson speaks with Gisele Anderson of Capt. Dave's Dana Point Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari. Anderson shares some of her most memorable whale-watching moments as well as insider tips for making the most of your tour experience. The Dana Point local also highlights where she steers friends visiting from out of town, including her favorite beachside hotels, go-to restaurants, and scenic hikes.

Next, Johnson talks to Kurt Bjorkman, general manager of The Ranch at Laguna Beach, a resort nestled in the Aliso and Wood Canyons. Bjorkman discusses the picturesque property’s unique amenities, ocean view, and impressive list of sustainable initiatives. The outdoorsman also shares Laguna’s best spots for mountain biking, kayaking, and where to carve your very own surfboard.

Finally, the host connects with Orange Coast Magazine dining critic Gretchen Kurz to discuss the area’s flourishing food scene. Kurz dishes on under-the-radar eats in Anaheim and where to score amazing tacos in the city of Orange before heading to the coast for ocean views and savory bites in Huntington Beach. 

GUESTS

Gisele Anderson, co-owner of Capt. Dave's Dana Point Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari

Kurt Bjorkman, general manager of The Ranch at Laguna Beach

Gretchen Kurz, dining critic for Orange Coast Magazine

RESOURCES

Gisele Anderson is the co-owner of Capt. Dave's Dana Point Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari, which provides whale- and dolphin-watching tours in Dana Point, which is a Whale Heritage Site and the first Whale Heritage Site in the Americas.

Capt. Dave's Dana Point Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari

Dana Point

Orange County

Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World®

Laguna Cliffs Marriott

Surf and Sand Resort

The Coffee Importers

Proud Mary’s

The Deck on Laguna Beach

Los Rios Street Historic District in San Juan Capistrano

Cedar Creek Inn

Salt Creek Grille

Dana Point Headlands

Kurt Bjorkman, general manager of The Ranch at Laguna Beach, an award-winning, sustainably driven resort located 300 yards from Aliso Beach.

The Ranch at Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach

Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park

The Ranch at Laguna Beach – Sustainability Practices

Lost Pier Cafe

Valido Hiking Trail

The Ranch at Laguna Beach – Harvest Garden

Hobie Surf Shop

Surfing Heritage and Cultural Center  

La Vida Laguna

Laguna Beach Cyclery

Laguna Coast Wilderness Park

Gretchen Kurz is the longtime dining critic for Orange Coast Magazine and an authority on Orange County’s culinary scene.

Orange Coast Magazine

Anaheim

Radisson Blu

BluSky Restaurant & Bar

Poppy & Seed

Anaheim Packing District

NOVA Kitchen & Bar

Huntington Beach

Bluegold

City of Orange

Bosscat Kitchen & Libations

Santo Remedios Mexican Resto-Bar

ABOUT THE HOST

Soterios Johnson, formerly the local host of National Public Radio’s Morning Edition on radio station WNYC, moved from New York City to Davis in 2016. By combining his journalistic instincts with his personal curiosity, Johnson uses the California Now Podcast platform to develop a deeper understanding of his adopted home.