Wild Rivers Water Park

If you’ve been to the O.C. [1] in July, you know why the county can support two large water parks. Out in Irvine, head for Wild Rivers Water Park (8770 Irvine Center Dr., 949/788-0808, www.wildrivers.com [2], adults $32, children $20).

One of the biggest parks of its kind in the state, Wild Rivers has not one but two wave pools, more than 40 slides and rides, and areas geared for both kids and adults. You can’t bring your own food into the park, but two restaurants, a coffee kiosk, and a sweet shop serve all comers all day long.