Fun in the OC

If you've got an extra day and you're tired of theme parks, think about taking a drive down the 55 to Newport Beach. Here's the recipe for a cheap day in the OC:

1. Head to the Balboa Peninsula, parking at the area near the pier on the right side. There's a beautiful beach, lots of shops and for lunch, try the Ruby's Diner at the end of the pier.

2. A short walk across to the other side of the narrow peninsula will put you in the Fun Zone, which has a Ferris wheel, some carnival rides and rentable paddle boats to let you cruise the harbor.

3. Take the ferry from the peninsula to over to Balboa Island to walk along the strand, take in its charming Main Street and have a "Balboa Bar" (a square of vanilla ice cream on a stick dipped in chocolate and toppings).

A full day's activity for four for $100 or less.