

The holidays are magical in Orange County, and families look forward to one tradition above all—Santa photos. Whether you’re searching for classic mall photos, outdoor sunsets, or Santa visits on the water, this guide highlights every major location to capture those unforgettable holiday memories.

Anaheim – Santa Photos
Disneyland Resort Santa Photos
Dates: November 15, 2025 – December 24, 2025
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Disneyland Park: Pooh’s Thotful Spot, Critter Country
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Disney California Adventure: Redwood Creek Challenge Trail
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Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel: Crystal Cove Foyer
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Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa: Great Hall
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Disneyland Hotel: Main Lobby
Tip: Disney Santa lines move quickly early mornings and weekdays.
Brea – Santa Photos
Brea Mall Santa Photos
Dates: November 8 – December 24, 2025
Reservations available.
Location: Brea Mall (Santa set inside)
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Buena Park – Santa Photos
Knott’s Merry Farm Santa Photos
Dates: November 22, 2024 – December 24, 2025
Santa meets guests throughout Knott’s Berry Farm’s Merry Farm holiday celebration.
Costa Mesa – Santa Photos
South Coast Plaza Santa
Dates: November 22 – December 24, 2025
Two Santa locations:
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Carousel Court
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Macy’s Home Store Wing, Level 1
Open during mall hours.
Dana Point – Santa Photos
Dana Wharf Santa Photos
Dates: December 5 & 6, 2025
Photos along the harbor—reservations required.
Boat Rides with Santa
Dates: December 6 & 7, 2025 | 10am–2pm
$5 donation, reservations required.
A festive boat ride with Santa and holiday helpers.
Santa Paws
Date: December 14, 2025 | 10am–3pm
Pet photos with Santa at Mariner’s Village Courtyard.
All proceeds benefit the Pet Project Foundation.
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Huntington Beach – Santa Photos
Pacific City Santa Photos
Dates: November 21 – December 24, 2025
Mon–Thu: 11am–5pm | Fri–Sun: 11am–6pm
Sunday Santa Paws: 4–6pm
Reservations recommended.
Bella Terra Santa Photos
Dates: November 27 – December 24, 2025
Times vary daily.
Irvine – Santa Photos
Irvine Spectrum Selfies with Santa
Dates: Saturdays & Sundays, November 29 – December 24, 2025
Outdoor Santa selfie experience in the Spectrum Promenade.
Skate With Santa – Irvine Spectrum
Date: Saturday, December 6 | 10am–11:30am
Ice skating with Santa—tickets required.
Tanaka Farms Santa Photos
Dates: November 29 – December 29, 2025
Location: 5380 ¾ University Dr, Irvine
Reservation required.
Rustic farm-style photo sessions perfect for families and littles.
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Ladera Ranch – Santa Photos
Winter Fest with Santa – Ladera Ranch
Date: December 6, 2025 | 2–5pm
Holiday performances, games, inflatables, local craft fair, and photos with Mr. and Mrs. Claus.
Laguna Niguel – Santa Photos
Laguna Niguel DIY Santa at Crown Valley
Most years include community Santa meet-and-greets at the Crown Valley Community Center or Holiday Parade staging. Check the city’s event calendar for updates, as dates vary.
Mission Viejo – Santa Photos
The Shops at Mission Viejo
Dates: November 7 – December 24, 2025
Located near The Cheesecake Factory.
Reservations available.
Newport Beach – Santa Photos
Fashion Island Santa
Dates: November 22 – December 24, 2025
One of Orange County’s most iconic Santa experiences with magical outdoor décor.
Breakfast with Santa – Newport Coast Community Center
Date: December 5, 2025 | 9:30am
Includes breakfast, crafts, train rides, bounce houses, and photos.
San Clemente – Santa Photos
Sunset Photos with Santa
Dates: December 14 & 20, 2025 | 3–5pm
Location: Avenida Del Mar
FREE outdoor photos at golden hour.
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Santa Ana – Santa Photos
MainPlace Santa Photos
Dates: November 15 – December 24, 2025
Location: Macy’s Court
Reservations available.
Additional Santa Photo Opportunities You May Have Missed
Here are a few bonus Santa photo options in Orange County that pop up annually:
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Irvine Holiday Market & Light Events — rotating Santa pop-ups, usually early December.
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Costa Mesa Winterfest OC (when running) — seasonal Santa cabin.
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OC Parks & Outdoor Holiday Trails — select parks host Santa meet-and-greets.
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Local Pet Stores & Rescue Groups — pet Santa sessions benefiting animal rescues.
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Community HOA Events (Ladera Ranch, RMV, Talega) — neighborhood Santa visits.
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Tips for the Best Santa Photos in Orange County
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Book early: November and early December dates fill quickly.
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Arrive before opening: Lines are shortest first thing in the morning.
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If you want a pet session, choose Sunday Santa Paws or specific pet events.
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Consider outdoor locations for natural lighting (San Clemente, Fashion Island, Dana Point Harbor).



