Home / Newsletter / September 18, 2026
Into the Weekend with Jim · September 18, 2026

What’s Happening Around Orange County This Week

A landmark Irvine attraction gets a makeover, Great Park adds new destinations, big changes are coming to Dana Point and more.

Did you know?

Irvine Spectrum's New SunWheel Debuts This Weekend: The Irvine Spectrum Center will unveil its newly reimagined SunWheel on September 19, replacing the Giant Wheel that had been a landmark at the center for more than two decades. The new attraction features 42 redesigned gondolas, an upgraded lighting system and a refreshed experience while maintaining the familiar 108 foot profile. It's a notable update to one of Irvine's most recognizable destinations.

Laguna Cliffs Resort is becoming a JW Marriott: The Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa in Dana Point is set for a major renovation and will be rebranded as The Ocean Cliffs at Dana Point, a JW Marriott Resort. The 381 room property will receive a new pool, an additional 6,000 square foot ballroom, a new chef led restaurant and upgrades throughout the resort. The transformation is scheduled for completion in 2027 and will make it only the second JW Marriott property in Orange County, arriving alongside the ongoing $600 million redevelopment of Dana Point Harbor.

The Canopy at Great Park Starts Coming to Life: The long awaited Canopy at Great Park is beginning to open in Irvine, with In N Out becoming its first operating tenant this month. Nearly 20 businesses are planned for the 90,000 square foot center, including T&T Supermarket, Philz Coffee, H&H Bagels, Brooks Running and several restaurants and specialty retailers. The remaining businesses are expected to open in phases beginning later this year and continuing into 2027.

San Clemente Moves Quickly to Repair Its Coastline: San Clemente has authorized up to $1 million in emergency work after powerful waves and high tides damaged the pier and portions of the coastline. The pier lost a pylon and at least 17 braces, with repairs alone estimated around $300,000. The city is also planning additional sand berms and beach replenishment to protect North Beach and other vulnerable areas ahead of future winter storms.

26 View Ter | Just Sold

Just Sold in the Summit, featuring an oversized lot, cul-de-sac position and a permitted Junior ADU. It’s the perfect mix of high-end modern upgrades and a large private backyard, all just minutes from Irvine’s best schools and resort-style amenities.

8 Del Rey | Turtle Rock

Behind the gates of The Pointe in Turtle Rock, 8 Del Rey is a completely renovated three bedroom home, featuring more than 2,300 square feet of living space, a three car garage and a backyard overlooking scenes from Strawberry Farms Golf Club

28 Blue Summit | Open House

28 Blue Summit is a tastefully updated estate that balances grand-scale entertaining with intimate everyday comfort. The home features a main-level suite and sizable office space. Open Saturday and Sunday from 1-4PM

118 Coral Rose | Irvine Condo

Welcome to 118 Coral Rose, a freshly updated 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offering approximately 1,280 sq. ft. of light-filled living space in Irvine’s coveted Turtle Ridge.

Coming Soon | Turtle Ridge

Coming Soon to the Summit at Turtle Ridge, five bedroom, four and one half bath home cited on an over 10,000 square foot lot. Please contact Jim for more information or to schedule a private showing

Lake Forest | Open House

A stunning single-family residence in the highly sought-after Baker Ranch community of Lake Forest. Designed for seamless indoor-outdoor living, five-bedroom, five-and-a-half-bath home centers around an inviting enclosed courtyard.

Available Lease | $9,000/month

Peek-a-boo ocean and city light views. Spanning 2,900 square feet in size on a approximately 5,100 sq ft lot this home features 3 bedrooms and 3 bathroom to include a private casita and formal dining room.

Off-Market Opportunities

Exclusive Turtle Ridge Opportunities We currently have a high volume of qualified buyers looking specifically in the Irvine area for private sales. If you are considering a move but prefer a discreet transaction, or if you are looking for off-market listings not found on the MLS, contact us today to discuss our current inventory.

Available Lease | Crystal Cove

Experience premier coastal living in Crystal Cove’s exclusive Sea Crest enclave—this stunning estate offers unobstructed Pacific views, an infinity-edge pool, and luxurious indoor-outdoor living.

Questions on any of the above, or on a home that is not in it? Jim Watson reads every reply — call or text (714) 342-4040, or use the form on the home page and the team will come back within one business day.

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