Hobbies for Older Adults in Orange County
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The new year marks a fresh start where everyone wants to do something they haven’t done or explore things they were previously hesitant to try. New year’s resolutions are simply filled with a list of things we want to change and achieve by the end of 2026. One of those may be trying a new hobby that we want to incorporate into our routines. It may seem daunting to think of any as an older adult.
The following are some of the accessible hobbies for older adults residing in Orange County.
Classes
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The city of Buena Park in California offers free senior classes in hula and ukulele. Hula Class is available every Wednesday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Ukulele class is available every Monday from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM for beginners and from 12:45 PM to 2:00 PM for intermediates. Interested participants can register directly in class. Visit Buena Park’s website or contact (714) 236-3870 to learn more about the activities they offer.
Sports and Fitness
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Aside from senior classes, the city of Buena Park also offers pool game, pickleball, and table tennis with no registration required. Pool game is available every Monday to Thursday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM and every Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Pickleball is available every Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM for seniors. Equipment for the games is provided. Table tennis is on first come, first served basis and is available every Tuesday and Thursday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. To know more, visit Buena Park’s website or contact (714) 236-3870.
The YMCA of Orange County offers virtual fitness classes for older adults. Aside from this, YMCA offers group exercise classes free with membership, access to certified personal trainers, weight training and cardio equipment, heated indoor and outdoor pools, and senior social activities and events. The free membership may be acquired through your current health insurance provider, such as AARP, Renew Active, SilverSneakers, and Silver & Fit.
Waterfront Activities
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Waterfront activities for older adults can be found in Dana Point Harbor, where you can try fishing, paddleboarding, sailing, whale watching, and parasailing. Other activities can also be enjoyed throughout the year, like the Festival of Whales in February and TallShips Festival in September.
Whale and dolphin watching tours are also offered in Newport and older adults can avail different ticket options and discounts by booking through their website.
Arts and Crafts, Games
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Crafty Adults is a DIY program for adults that is offered by the Orange County Office on Aging. It does not require registration and is on a first come, first first served basis. For the month of January 2026, participants will make a winter diorama and supplies will be provided. To know more about the crafty adults program, visit the Office on Aging website.
In celebration of Older Americans Month in May, the Orange County Public Library celebrates it through various programs and resources catered to older adults. Three library branches across Orange County hosted the events in May 2025, such as puzzles, painting, bingo, origami, and game nights. There are no scheduled events yet for 2026, but keep an eye out for them on the Orange County Public Libraries website.
Hobbies are especially important for older adults to maintain their mental, emotional, physical, and social well-being - the key to aging well. This year, remember not to be afraid to tread new waters and embrace unfamiliarity.
Read more about older adults in the Ca Care Association News and Resources.
