The UCI Family Medicine Residency program is based in Orange County, Calif., one of the nation’s most attractive regions. Directly south of Los Angeles, Orange County is a land of intense natural beauty and spectacular scenic contrast, from the colorful marine and beach life along the coastline of its western border to the snow-capped mountains two hours inland. The location and its mild climate make Orange County an ideal home for those who love the outdoors.

Orange County also offers a vibrant economy and excellent schools. Cultural opportunities abound within the county and in Los Angeles and San Diego, both one to two hours away. There is also a large entertainment/dining/shopping complex across the street from UCI Medical Center.

The UCI Family Health Center (FHC) — Santa Ana is located in Downtown Santa Ana, a central location in Orange County, and is just a few miles away from the UCI Medical Center, allowing UCI residents to live in various communities across Orange County. Santa Ana itself is a culturally diverse city of more than 300,000 people. It is also a young community, with a mean age of 26 years old.

Family Medicine residents at Newport Beach for a retreat
Newport Beach

Being in Orange County also means being close to the beach. Newport Beach is known for its two piers and the Balboa Fun Zone, an old-school amusement park with a Ferris wheel and ocean views.

Visit Newport Beach
Family medicine residents visit the 4th street market for a resident outing
Santa Ana 4th Street Market

4th street Market is about a seven-minute walk from the Family Health Center. It is a great lunch spot for adventurous foodies.

Check Out the 4th Street Market
Family medicine residents visit the Anaheim Packing District
Anaheim Packing District

“The Packing District offers a foodie paradise for culinary enthusiasts of all ages. Within walking distance, just a few blocks northwest of the Packing House, lies a mom-and-pop retail and culinary experience, Center Street Anaheim.” — Anaheim Packing District

Learn more about the Packing District
Family Medicine residents at Lake Arrowhead
Lake Arrowhead

Lake Arrowhead is a mountain resort paradise in the San Bernardino National Forest, offering plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, from swimming and kayaking to hiking and mountain biking.

Explore Lake Arrowhead
Family medicine residents visit Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park

A widely acclaimed national park in the Southern California desert, Joshua Tree offers hiking, sightseeing, camping, rock climbing and more to visitors.

Visit Joshua Tree
Family medicine residents pose for a picture in front of the castle at Disneyland
Disneyland

Orange County is also the home to Disneyland. Many residents enjoy the perks of being an annual pass holder. However, Downtown Disney is also an option where you can have fun without worrying about ticket prices.

Downtown Disney District
Family medicine residents hike the Top of the World trail in Laguna Beach
Top of the World Hiking Trail

Orange county is also home to hiking trails with amazing views, one of them being the Top of the World Hiking Trail in Laguna Beach.

Hike the Top of the World trail
Water fountain in Old Towne Orange
Old Towne Orange

Old Towne Orange is close to the UCI Medical Center and has specialty shops, art galleries and restaurants. Its old-town charm makes it ideal for television and film production.

Explore Old Towne
The Outlets at Orange
The Outlets at Orange

The Outlets at Orange are within walking distance from the UCI Medical Center. This outdoor mall offers restaurants, shopping and a movie theater.

Shop at the Outlets