Portola Park

Park Overview

Tucked near the intersection of Santa Clara Avenue and Lyon Street in Santa Ana, Portola Park spreads across a generous 9.07 acres. This neighborhood space is where locals come to play, relax, and connect. When we visited during spring, the lush green spaces were complemented by gorgeous purple-flowering trees that added a touch of magic to the landscape. The park feels both energetic and peaceful at the same time.

Athletic Facilities

If you're looking to break a sweat, Portola offers several options. The basketball courts come with lights for those evening games when the day's heat has subsided. There are also tennis courts for racquet enthusiasts and a versatile multi-purpose field where we've seen everything from soccer matches to frisbee games. Baseball fans can make use of the ball diamond for informal games.

The fitness court is good for outdoor workout sessions. They've also added a newer fitness zone with various exercise equipment, however it might benefit from some updates in the future.

Family-Friendly Areas

Got kids? The park features two playground areas that cater to different age groups. The larger playground has solid equipment that keeps older children entertained, while a smaller area gives toddlers their own space to explore, albeit with fewer options. The expansive green lawns are ideal for impromptu games of tag or simply letting little ones burn off energy.

Picnic tables dot the landscape, but you might need to arrive early on weekends to snag one. No table? No problem. The soft grass makes for perfect blanket picnic territory.

Amenities and Features

The basics are all here: drinking fountains (for both humans and four-legged friends) keep everyone hydrated during play. There are restroom facilities available, but note that they close relatively early (around 5-6 PM) and lack doors on the stalls - something to keep in mind if privacy is important to you.

Walking paths meander through the grounds, making it easy to get your steps in while enjoying the scenery. If you're driving over, you'll find 51 parking spots available.

Dog-Friendly Features

Your furry companions are welcome at Portola Park as long as they're leashed. The grassy areas offer plenty of sniffing opportunities, and the thoughtful addition of dog-level drinking fountains means your pup can stay hydrated during your outing.

Park Rules

To keep Portola Park pleasant for everyone, certain activities aren't allowed - these include property defacement, alcohol consumption, smoking, and camping. Dogs need to stay on leash at all times to ensure all visitors feel safe and comfortable enjoying this community space.