Los Olivos Community Park

Park Overview

Tucked away near the former Irvine Meadows Amphitheater site, Los Olivos Community Park is a breath of fresh air in Irvine's urban landscape. This 12-acre park opened in March 2019 and has become popular with locals. With its pristine grounds and contemporary facilities, the park offers a safe space where neighbors can unwind and connect.

Musical-Themed Playground

The musical-themed playground has a fun musical focus - literally! Paying homage to the area's rich entertainment history, this playspace invites kids to create their own concerts with built-in musical instruments scattered throughout.

Imagine your little ones hopping across a recycled rubber surface decorated with musical notes, scaling rope climbers, and traversing a soft black bridge. The modern design thoughtfully accommodates children of all ages, with structures that challenge and delight both toddlers and pre-teens.

Kids particularly love the two large disc swings (think cooler versions of tire swings) and the designated "band" areas featuring outdoor percussion instruments. Whether your child is in the 2-5 age group or the 5-12 bracket, they'll find equipment perfectly suited to their adventurous spirit.

Sports Facilities

Athletes of all stripes will feel right at home here. There are lighted baseball and soccer fields for evening games, lighted basketball courts for pickup matches, and four tennis courts if you're feeling competitive.

If pickleball is more your speed, you're in luck - the two pickleball courts rarely see crowds, meaning you can usually snag a spot without waiting. For those who prefer to keep moving, a paved jogging track encircles the park, great for walking, jogging, or biking laps. There's even an unmarked area that resembles a bocce ball court for the more strategically-minded visitors.

Community Center

At the heart of the park stands the Los Olivos Community Center, a versatile facility used for various community activities. With its multipurpose room, warming kitchen, and patio space available for rent, it's ideal for classes, programs, and special events. During summer months, the center buzzes with children's activities, offering parents reliable programming options.

Amenities

Los Olivos includes several practical amenities worth noting. Clean, modern restrooms eliminate the typical park bathroom anxiety, while drinking fountains equipped with water bottle fillers keep you hydrated during workouts. Dog owners will appreciate not having to bring their own bags, thanks to the on-site poop bag dispensers.

Planning a gathering? Two large covered picnic areas offer numerous tables and outdoor grills, creating perfect settings for birthday celebrations or family reunions. The several barbecue pits around the park mean you can bring your grilling A-game to your next outing.

Practical Information

While the park has some shaded areas, you might want to pack extra sunscreen during summer months - additional shade would be welcome when temperatures climb. Take note that the playground's sand/recycled rubber combination can be a bit slippery at times. If you have younger explorers, you might need to keep a closer eye on them when they tackle the larger ladders and monkey bars.

One of the park's hidden perks? It's typically less crowded than other Irvine parks, offering a more peaceful setting for your outdoor activities. The spacious parking lot usually has plenty of spots available, making your visit that much more stress-free.