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    Environmental Nature Center

    4.5 (66 reviews)
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    Updated 2 months ago

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    Native poppies
    Star G.

    If you're in the area, it is imperative that you take your children to the Environmental Nature Center. Discover family-friendly hiking trails nestled amidst the cool shade of magnificent redwood trees, coupled with a variety of native plant communities. Naturalists possess a wealth of information about plants and animals and are enthusiastic to share this knowledge. Make sure you visit the gift shop!

    Bunny
    Yonnie C.

    Came here today for an impromptu visit, around 11am and spent a good 1-1.5 hours on site. One person at the museum front desk showed us the snakes & scorpion on display. We also got to touch real animal fur; at least 6 of them! Butterfly house outdoors was fun, a lady there explained about the 2 cloudless sulphur butterflies we saw - lots of dried chrysalis hanging on a wooden box. Did some hiking around the whole nature center. Went to the very end of the hiking trail towards 15th street, loved the shade from the redwood forest. Even saw a bunny on our trail too, plenty of geckos. They also have lots of tomatoes and saw herbs growing in the organic garden. Great place for kids & families. Donation box available in the museum, free admission right now on Saturday & Sunday's.

    What a great place to getaway from the craziness of the city! We are in love with this place and will probably be back soon. Great for kids. Super clean, safe and the staff very friendly and helpful. The place is beautiful. A little peace of nature hidden by the coast.

    Joe L.

    The ENC was one of those places that I had bookmarked a long time ago but only got around to checking out recently. This is probably because of their limited hours. They're only open Monday through Friday 8 to 5 and Saturday and Sunday 8 to 4. I'm glad we were able to make it one Saturday because it was well worth the visit. The ENC is only 3.5 acres, but it does a lot with what little area it has. There are walking trails, a butterfly house, and a "green building" which acts as an educational center. A lot of what the ENC has is geared toward kids, but people of all ages who enjoy botany, bird watching, or just relaxing in a natural setting located in an unlikely section of Newport Beach will enjoy what the center has to offer. It's available for weddings and other special events (they were setting up for a wedding when we showed up!) Check out their website for the story of how the ENC came to be, lists of the flora and fauna that one can see there, and lots of other useful info. Admission is free, but they accept donations and volunteer applications.

    Claudia D.

    This center was smaller than I thought. The nature hike wasn't that great because you can see people's houses, a school, and all the trees were covered in spiderwebs. The butterfly house was okay, it didn't have more than 10 butterflies inside. I took us less than an hour to go through everything.

    Trails
    Michelle N.

    I have had this place bookmarked forever and we finally got a chance to go!! We went on a Saturday morning so it was a bit warm but that didn't keep us from exploring the many trails. My 3 year old was having so much fun leaduring the way and discovering the streams, critters, butterflies and so much more. This center is truly a hidden gem that is overlooked. We spent about an hour walking around the trails and hanging out with the butterflies in the garden. Can't wait to go again. Next time I will pack some water and maybe some light snacks. They have a few picnic tables near the stream and throughout the center. On our way out I saw them setting up what appeared to be a quaint wedding ceremony. It looked so cute!

    Tune Into Bernie Sanders G.

    This place is Wonderful and completely overlooked, a sanctuary that's largely unnoticed. I stumbled in not knowing what to expect, and as I kept walking, was continually more and more overwhelmed. At each point I thought that surely, nothing can top this, but was ecstatically wrong. I almost don't want to share how incredibly Perfect this place is because it's just too good for the general public. So please, only come here if you have been looking and yearning for a nature haven to unwind in and feel that Orange County is depriving you of your common sense. I don't need to describe any more, because you go visit yourself. ... 500 STARS!!!!!

    Beatiful native plants and flowers throughout nature hike!

    I highly recommend the Environmental Nature Center (ENC) in Newport Beach for school/boy/girl scout groups. I visited as a chaperone for an elementary school group field trip. We had an awesome time during our 3 hour visit. xxxxxxTHE NATURE CENTERxxxxxx The ENC is a state of the art eco-friendly facility with high ceilings, a small museum, classrooms (for summer camps/special events/ENC preschool), and a registration area. A majority of the learning occurs outdoors where there are 2.5 acres of open land representing various habitats. xxxxxxTHE TOURxxxxxx I highly recommend going on a tour. The tours are tailored to grade level groups. This is good because a one-size-fits all tour just doesn't work-especially with kids. We stopped at about 6 stations throughout our nature hike. At each stop, the tour guide, Mr. A, gave a short lesson and then led the children on a related hands-on activity. In the first activity the kids walked through a redwood forest and learned about the different parts of a tree, and how to determine a tree's age. Mr. A guided the kids in a role play about the different parts of a tree. Another stop included a discussion on prey vs predator. The tour guide showed the kids various animal skulls. The kids had to determine if the animal was prey or predator based on the shape of the animals' teeth. We also visited a butterfly pavillion, where we saw caterpillar eggs, chrysalis and large monarch butterflies flying throughout. At one of the final stations the kids learned about camoflauge. They pet a small snake and a toad. The highlight of this activity area was that the Executive Director of the ENC camouflaged himself and hid in the bushes. When the students searched and eventually found him, the concept of camouflage definitely hit home. xxxxxxxOVERALL TAKExxxxx We absolutely enjoyed the ENC. Mr. A was an awesome tour guide. He was was informative, promoted hands on learning, and did a great job of educating children on nature. I wanted to give it 5 stars but I think ENC can re-emphasize key learnings at the end of the tour-whether it be a final discussion about key learnings or a writing/drawing activity where children affirm their commitment to protecting nature. This way the purpose of the Center is emphasized and children leave with a deeper sense of new understanding and appreciation for nature.

    ENC Building
    Allison R.

    Located right across the street from my apartment. I love when they have special events, especially when they have music/ live bands. I can hear the music so clearly. I have been inside the museum but not in the back. The museum is very creative and informative.

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    Lori W.

    Glad you enjoyed it! Hope you can visit soon soon.

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    3 months ago

    Took my son for a homeschool field trip and he loved it. Love how they let us touch the animals & was so sweet about it

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    Lori W.

    Thank you for your lovely eloquent review! Visit again soon!

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    Lori W.

    Thank you for your kind words, Ana! I will share them with staff. :)

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    Really cool spot. What a gem for the area! My 2 1/2 year old loves wandering the trails. The staff were also great. We will be back.

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    Page 1 of 2

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    Review Highlights - Environmental Nature Center

    Check out their Butterfly House from 10-3, Monday through Saturday - best times are May 1-September 30.

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    Frontiers Academy

    Frontiers Academy

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    When I started researching schools for my first child, I had a long list of requirements: a…read moreMandarin immersion program (culturally important to us), strong safety protocols, happy and stable teachers, and a philosophy of raising respectful global citizens--not just checking boxes for academics. I asked every question I could think of, from how they handle sickness to how teachers are supported, and I observed everything from class ratios to daily routines. We visited several schools, but ultimately chose Frontiers, and I'm so glad we did. The difference was clear: attrition among instructors was low, and my son's teacher had been there for many years. To me, happy teachers = happy kids. From the start, the staff were warm, communicative, and professional. I've been consistently impressed by their attention to detail, safety standards, and how thoughtfully they care for each child. Beyond the nurturing environment, the academics are truly top-notch. It's a trilingual school so teaches in English, Spanish, and Mandarin. The curriculum is rigorous; I love that my son is being challenged intellectually while also building confidence, creativity, and curiosity. What gave me peace of mind is knowing my child is not only in a stable environment but also one where learning is engaging, meaningful, and sets a high bar. Communication has been excellent--I always feel in the loop. I've seen firsthand that the children are thriving, not only in Spanish or Mandarin but in all aspects of their development. If you're a parent who values stability, honesty, safety, and outstanding academics in a school culture where teachers are genuinely happy--Frontiers stands out. It checked every box on my list.

    Wonderful place. Kids love their teachers and want to go to school. Not to mention they are…read morelearning three languages.

    College Living Experience

    College Living Experience

    (4 reviews)

    I am writing this review as a student of CLE…read more I would like to shine a light on CLE's small, close-knit and intimate community of both peers and mentors. This is by far the best feature of CLE. Every educational institute is different and depending on your needs, CLE could be the perfect fit for you, or it might not be. But if your problem lies in the realm of being anxious or being painfully shy--- or having a lack of friends and a support system--- then CLE could very well be the proper treatment for you. Let me explain: The Center, or the main office of CLE, is where all of our sessions are held. There is always a handful of staff and students at the center that I talk to when I'm there. I like to randomly pop into my advisers office to chat. He has my cards and drawings pinned up on his wall. I like to pop into one of my tutors room and ask him advice about my career and my friendships. I also like to hang out with my friends in the common room and make slap stick humor jokes but also more witty ones. Then there are the socials. You are allowed as many socials on your schedule as you want. I estimate there are about 12 hours of scheduled socials per week currently that each of us can pop into when we have time. They include the following: Disney social, Film group social, Friday Morning Social, which last for 3 hours and we go out to some place like the beach or the mall, Friday dinner social, community chill and lunch social, voice and piano social, Men's group social, and women's group social. At the apartments, most of us live with a roommate. We all live in the same apartment complex. This has allowed me and my closest friends to hang out at each other's places three times a week in addition to the socials. My roommate buys DVD's off of amazon for us to watch and cooks curry and pie every now and then to share with us. There are also a lot of food places in walking distance that I like to go to with my friends. The apparatus I just described is the method by which CLE provided their treatment to my anxiety, shyness and lack of a support system. I was painfully shy before I came to CLE and now I have many friends. That is a big change. As you can see, this is due to the community being, for lack of better phrase "intimately programmed into your daily life". Personally, I liken this aspect of CLE to a "junior version of university life"

    The program is the worst program I have ever went to. When I was there from 2011, I only stayed…read morethere for almost two years. Let's put it this way save your money parents. Otherwise your child will need therapy or other help.

    Maranatha Christian Academy

    Maranatha Christian Academy

    (5 reviews)

    My oldest has been enrolled here since preschool, and is currently in Kindergarten! It's our third…read moreyear, and my youngest will be enrolled soon as well. We are not members of Calvary Chapel church, nor do we have any family that is a part of the staff. We are a brand new family that researched and visited numerous schools before deciding on enrolling our son here. The preschool program is amazing and we are so happy with their Elementary program. In kindergarten my son is reading, attending a steam class once a week, and spanish class as well. Bible and prayer are incorporated daily. Though all of this is important, what stands out to me the most is the LOVE teachers and school staff show their students. I can't list how many times I have personally seen teachers just POUR love into their students. When they tell you they are praying over them, they mean it! Communication between teachers is the best. If we have a concern they address it right away. The superintendent also emails updates that are happening throughout all grade levels, giving you glimpse of what to look forward too in the future. The school holds a large fundraiser which is the jog-a-thon, and gives us exact details as to what the funds will be going too. Last year the jog-a-thon raised enough funds for a brand new playground for the older elementary students. This year the jog-a-thon funds will be applied to a brand new Kindergarten playground which I'm so excited to see. The biggest blessing of all, is the relationships we are forming with other families!

    Our family has loved attending Maranatha Christian Academy! I often get the opportunity to share…read moreabout the school my kids attend, by way of conversations on a park playground or at church, and I often think about writing a review on Yelp, but have just been too busy, parenting our 3 kiddos. Today, I decided I would make time. If you are searching for a great school in the OC area for your child to attend, I would whole heartedly recommend MCA and the Calvary Chapel Schools family. All 3 of my kids started at this school in the Preschool (Calvary Chapel Preschool) program, which is fabulous. CCPS has low class sizes, nurturing and supportive teachers, and a perfect balance of academic and play based learning, from gardening, pe/creative movement, to formal academic concepts, with an emphasis in Biblical principals and moving toward readiness for the next grades level to come. 2 of my kids are now in the lower elementary school at MCA (one is still in preschool). Both children transitioned into Kindergarten and beyond seamlessly. All of the schools, whether preschool, middle school, or high school, really try to collaborate to do what they can to ensure students are equipped for the challenges that come in each grade level. MCA uses a blend of Christian Curricula to give balanced, cohesive instruction that meets state standards but also builds on a Biblical worldview. I have now experienced a variety of teachers and have been very impressed with the sense of caring and family I have gotten with each one. I have enjoyed seeing the school hire talented individuals and support them as they instruct my kids, using their gifts and personalities to make our classroom experiences special and dynamic in unique ways. Open communication and emails are always welcome, as I am told, as a parent, I am a partner in educating my kids. Never once did I feel like I was bothering a teacher regarding any issue that might arise throughout the school years. The school has a variety of great events throughout the year, whether it be Veteran's Day, Christmas Programs, Grandaparent's Day, End of the Year Picnic, and so many more. They really try to cultivate a sense of community. My favorite event is Open House, which is usually done in February or March. This is a great event for prospective families to attend to feel the real pulse on our campus and to ask questions about any thoughts you might have about this school. The rooms are displayed with students work to demonstrate and celebrate the learning that takes place. There are snacks, performances, and fun events through the night. Definitely call the school and ask what the Open House date is for this year, so you can get a sense of what a blessing this place is. Words don't do it justice. We love the Calvary Chapel Schools/Maranatha Christian Academy family!

    Waldorf School Orange County - High school basketball team Photo credit: Danielle Cohen

    Waldorf School Orange County

    (12 reviews)

    For my daughter is this the third waldorf school, we moved because of my job. The waldorf education…read moreis always special, wherever you are. But I can say, we are happy to be part of WSOC now. My daughter is now in 3rd grade and loves her teachers, wenn she comes home, she often even plays, that she is a teacher and repeats with her puppets what she did and learned in the school. Although she had a hard time with divorce between me and her mother, the school gave her stability, joy and purpose. If you want to have a good experience and best results with any waldorf school, it's necessary to understand it's core principles and foundation and cooperate with that. It's hundert years approved pedagogy with great results in the whole world, but it needs cooperation. I am grateful and happy, that my daughter can be educated in WSOC!

    We love Waldorf education and at Waldorf School of Orange County the College of Teachers, the Board…read moreand the Staff are dedicated to a good educational experience in the Waldorf pedagogy. Many of the teachers are amazing. My child was blessed to travel the grades with Brooke Natzke and that experience was amazing. I can't recommend a more qualified person. My are having a great experience with Mrs Schwarz in the grades now for our next child. Our daughter is attending Waldorf High School and has found many of the teachers to be very supportive and helpful. She found her passion because of the championing of her Earth Science Teacher.

    Environmental Nature Center - summer_camps - Updated May 2026

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