For all of its image of sun, surf and sand, I think Orange County is one of the best places in all of California to vacation during the holidays, and it's not too early to start planning your holiday travel now.

What do you do when your waterways are long than your main street? In Newport Beach, you have your parade on water, of course, and the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is a good way to rev up your holiday spirits. If you want to watch from a local restaurant, reserve as soon as you can.

In your neighborhood, you may drive around to see the Christmas lights, but in Huntington Beach, the Huntington Harbor Cruise of Lights is the way to go, as you cruise past some of the most exuberant, over-the-top light displays in the state.

Think of a traditional church Christmas pageant but with a big budget and live animals, and you've got Glory of Christmas at Crystal Cathedral. This performance is worth the time just to see the flying angels. And the live camel.

More: How Santa Visits the OC