2023 Best High Schools for Athletes in Orange County

• Santa Ana, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  576 reviews

Alum: I was the first of my family to attend Mater Dei and I fell in love with the school. I made so many great memories from the football games to the amazing friends I made. I thought the classes prepared me for college tremendously and made it very easy to transition into college. Although, the tuition is expensive I think every penny was worth it. The teachers were amazing and always made the subjects fun and exciting to learn about. I think the opportunities I received by being a Mater Dei Alumni also made the high school worth it. When you become a Monarch you will always be a Monarch and everyone in that community is aware of that. You are not only joining a school, you are joining a great big family! Go Monarchs!... Read 576 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 25

• Saddleback Valley Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.05 out of 5  650 reviews

Alum: During my time as a student at Mission Viejo High School, I found and experienced many good things. The school is one of the few institutions that offers courses in the international baccalaureate (IB) program. As a student who was fully enrolled and committed to this program, I can confidently say that it does prepare students for college. So, as long as you are taking full advantage of the opportunities that the school is giving to you as a student, you will find the workload in college manageable. Furthermore, the leaders who guide the program are an additional bonus. Many instructors working both inside and outside the program are provide helpful resources and guidance. While there are many good things about this school in terms of the educational aspect, there are also a few things that could be improved on. Things such as choice of counselors, academic advisor availability, and etc. Despite these things, I would highly recommend attending this high school!... Read 650 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 25

• San Juan Capistrano, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  211 reviews

Parent: JSerra is a college-prep school with very challenging curriculum. There are many AP and Honors classes available, as well as such courses as pre-law, pre-med, pre-engineering, and others. Teachers and staff were terrific and always available to help you when you need it. School facilities and grounds were always kept clean and tidy. The only change I would make is to increase on campus parking. Otherwise, I would highly recommend this great school!... Read 211 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 26

• Rancho Santa Margarita, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  330 reviews

Parent: Best teachers. Incredible coaches. Administrators who care about your student’s (and family’s) overall experience. World class arts program. Our son does Steel Drums as an elective and has also participated in several sports — Cross Country, Volleyball, Track. The concerts are next level — so much talent, so fun to watch! The coaches have all been tremendous and have taken their teams to CIF and State champs. They really care about the kids and are great leaders. There’s just so much love here. They say “Find it Here” and that’s so true…there’s really something for every interest.... Read 330 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 44

• Newport-Mesa Unified School District, CA•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  290 reviews

Parent: Has many opportunities for AP classes. Great PTA, Foundation, and Boosters Club. Has funding and events like a private school, even though it is a public school. Terrible counseling department- actually, not only worthless , but detrimental. Will not help students in signing up for best classes to take. Students/parents have to figure out from outside sources for the ideal classes to take for college resume. Need outside college advice!... Read 290 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 24

• Capistrano Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  443 reviews

Senior: San Clemente High School is such a special place that I have been fortunate enough to be able to attend for my high school academic career. The teachers are so caring and involved, and the whole town supports the high school just as the high school supports the local businesses. SCHS is a close-knit community that is constantly working to improve itself for the better of the student body. There are so many vast opportunities for students of different interests, backgrounds, and identities that allow them to surround themselves with people of similar interests and those of different perspectives. I have had the most amazing time at SCHS and I have made memories that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.... Read 443 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 26

• San Juan Capistrano, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.07 out of 5  56 reviews

Parent: I have 2 children at St. Margaret's and I can't say enough good things about the school and the environment. They really do try to develop the whole child. It isn't just a factory trying to turn out 4.0 students with 1600 SAT scores! Yes it is competitive, but in a good way. Many of the students have been at the school since pre school! The facilities are amazing - better than 99% of the colleges out there. The teachers really care and for the most part, the parents are great. Yes, there are the occasional obnoxious parent, but they usually get chopped down to size cuz there is always someone wealthier and more successful than them :-) If you want your child to develop into a great adult with compassion and drive, then SMES is an excellent place to go.... Read 56 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Total number of sports 24

• Huntington Beach Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  337 reviews

Senior: Edison High School set me up with a solid foundation toward the beginning of my adult life. Through my classes, clubs, and the friends I have made I feel more connected to my community. My favorite part of my time here is participating in the CIBACS Program. Center for International Business and Communications Studies is a program taking over students' english and history classes. Throughout my four years, I have developed skills in public speaking, marketing, and networking. Besides working on our various projects, I enjoyed working with underclassmen as a mentor for their own work. We all go to school in the morning till early afternoon, but what happens after that? At Edison, I do not only feel connected in the classroom but in the activities after school. Watching football games, going to music shows, and supporting programs in their ventures have been a core memory of mine. Between all the sports programs and classes I could not have asked for a better place to grow and learn.... Read 337 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Total number of sports 25

• Anaheim, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  105 reviews

Parent: As a parent and staff member at Servite, I have been impressed with the quality of teachers, counselors, staff and coaches. I have 2 sons at Servite, and I can honestly say that Servite is the only place I'd want them to be. The faith formation program is great, and there are plenty of opportunities to find something that fits with your sons interests and personality- whether it is sports, leadership roles, clubs, or service projects. There really is something for everybody. The sense of community and brotherhood is very strong at Servite. Many Servite families are quick to volunteer and bond with each other over various events and activities, and I cherish the friendships I have made there. There are so many ways to get involved, which only enhances your family's Servite experience. Come and check out what Servite has to offer! You won't be disappointed! CREDO!... Read 105 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Total number of sports 16

• Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  320 reviews

Senior: The best thing about El Dorado is the remarkable and unique school spirit on campus! Everyone on staff and in the classrooms are incredibly kind, generous, and helpful to guide you on your path to college or the career field. Our student body is flooded with school spirit and overall support for one another and I would not change one thing about our school spirit! The various offered courses, including Honors, Advanced Placements, Arts, and more, create a diversity on campus that is distinctive for our school. Teachers, administrative staff, counselors, and coaches all contribute to create a supportive and encouraging environment. If I could change one thing about El Dorado, I would increase the number of clubs and the types of offered classes. While our current clubs and offered classes are already phenomenal, I believe that increasing the variety and diversity of clubs and classes could improve the student body and allow students to thrive in their respective fields of interest.... Read 320 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Total number of sports 26

• Saddleback Valley Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  634 reviews

Senior: My overall experience with Trabuco Hills High School has been amazing. The campus has such positive energy, especially the program called Unified Sports. Unified Sports and Best buddies brings everyone together. I have seen staff, advisors, ASB, and many students participate together in the hopes of continuing spreading Inclusion. Also the AP program is pretty good and the Choir program is amazing! The teacher really cares for music and has the ability to capture what it means to sing in a choir. I recommend this school because it has so many options.... Read 634 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Total number of sports 25

• Capistrano Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  757 reviews

Junior: The faculty at Aliso Niguel High School is top-notch, with knowledgeable and experienced teachers who are dedicated to their student's success. They provide a challenging and engaging curriculum that fosters critical thinking skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities ranging from sports teams to clubs, music programs, and community service projects, providing a well-rounded high school experience. The campus is beautiful and well-maintained, with modern facilities and resources supporting student learning and engagement. Aliso Niguel High School also values the importance of technology in education. It has implemented the latest tools and resources to support student learning, including a robust computer lab and access to online resources.... Read 757 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Total number of sports 27

• Orange, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.2 out of 5  199 reviews

Parent: Orange Lutheran provides a wonderfully supportive environment for its students that promotes individual and spiritual growth. The staff and faculty loves our kids and is dedicated to their well being. The athletics and performing arts are incredible and we have loved having our kids involved in both. I would highly recommend OLu!... Read 199 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Total number of sports 25

• Fullerton, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  194 reviews

Junior: It is a wonderful experience! Something enjoyable about the school is the friendliness and the love that flows in the community! Another thing is being able to express yourself through different activities from theaters, sports to different clubs! Our school makes sure that students have the best opportunities to choose from. Throughout the COVID19 pandemic, our school has made sure to keep us connected and updated on events and things to come! The school does not tolerate bullying or any acts of hate on others! It is a well-rounded school and makes sure that it's students learn how to show respect!... Read 194 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Total number of sports 15

• Santa Ana Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  616 reviews

Alum: What I dug about Segerstrom was the amount of good times I had over there, and the amount of friends I've made both with teachers and students that I still talk to sometimes. I feel that in my beginning years that being freshman all the way to sophmore year I got close to some friends that were into Yu-Gi-Oh! like me as well as playing Pokemon videogames sadly they weren't there for too long soon as after junior year the friends I mentioned were seniors and graduated and went their separate ways. The best year in high school for me since I grew out out of that somewhat loner stage I had. That year also got me nominated for prom king due to the overall popularity that I grew during that year that was mostly due to my laidback and fun personality. Sadly I didn't get in since I didn't do much marketingand I was more focused on getting my government grade up but I had fun at prom nonetheless. I wish I'd go back in time to revisit but I have to move forward in my life.... Read 616 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A minus

• Total number of sports 22

• Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  312 reviews

Senior: High school has been such a rewarding experience for me. Through the caring and passionate staff that Esperanza is equipped with, I feel better prepared for the future. In addition, Esperanza has also allowed me to have a memorable high school experience. Whether it be through clubs or academics, I always felt encouraged to participate and branch out of my norm. Although cut short due to COVID, I felt beyond welcomed my freshman year. I was a shy girl who was able to quickly develop a strong and inclusive personality. I joined Link Crew my sophomore year- a club focused on welcoming the freshman- and was able to reciprocate the love shown towards me. Continuing my journey through high school, I felt fully supported by the Esperanza family. This family included my teachers, counselor and even the janitors. I felt the happiness radiating from everyone who works there. My experience through high school has allowed me to set high standards to attend a welcoming college.... Read 312 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A minus

• Total number of sports 17

• Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  391 reviews

Senior: I have been a student at Yorba Linda High School for four years. I absolutely love the school! Administration is involved with activities during lunch, assemblies, etc. Most of the extracurriculars I've been in have been an awesome experience. Overall, this school is very resourceful and helpful to their students!... Read 391 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A minus

• Total number of sports 25

• Capistrano Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  432 reviews

Sophomore: My sophomore year was pretty good! The majority of my teachers were great and I felt like I really learned a lot. My English teacher got injured in the beginning of the year and took a paid leave for the rest of the school year, so I was stuck taking a different class. My Spanish teacher also did not teach very well. Overall, mostly everything was good and I enjoyed it.... Read 432 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A minus

• Total number of sports 25

• Brea-Olinda Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  420 reviews

Junior: The community and diversity of people at Brea-Olinda High School is what builds new friendships and lifelong relationships. Coming from a small town in Orange County, every kid that lives in Brea goes to Brea-Olinda High School so you basically know almost everyone there and peers are usually welcoming. Something I would like to see change is the girls' athletic programs, the coaching staff, and the board that chooses the coaching staff. There needs to be an improvement in the teaching curriculum and adding more fun to everyday learning in cool, boring classrooms. However, the wide range of electives and choices in different career pathways is something that stands out at this school.... Read 420 reviews

• grade A

• grade A minus

• Total number of sports 22

• Los Alamitos Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  912 reviews

Junior: I adore how Los Alamitos High has many classes and paths for students to take. In fact, a new STEM building was added last year to provide more classrooms, newer chemistry supplies, and a robotics room with computers, a plasma machine, 3D printers, and other manufacturing machines. As a result, the students who are interested in engineering, robotics, and other technology majors are exposed to tools and equipment they will encounter in the future. In addition, Los Alamitos has many art and music programs such as band, jazz band, orchestra, photography, ceramics, art, and dance. To add on, Los Alamitos High has many clubs ranging from D&D, UNICEF, CFA, Emerging Leaders, American Red Cross, Beach Cleanup, and more. The only negative associated with this school is the large number of students who attend it. This commonly leads to classes being around 35 to 40 students, making some students feel claustrophobic and overwhelmed.... Read 912 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A minus

• Total number of sports 27

• Santa Ana Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  839 reviews

Junior: I've had a great experience with Godinez Fundamental High School and would recommend it to any incoming freshman. The teachers are always looking out for ways they can help their students and the school itself offers many opportunities. Some of theses opportunities includes free AP courses and free dual enrollment courses which can help students get advances in their academic career. Overall, Godinez is an amazing school!... Read 839 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A minus

• Total number of sports 22

• Fullerton Joint Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  362 reviews

Senior: This school is AMAZING! They have helped me become a great student and I will be going to one of the top colleges in the country next year. At La Habra HS everyone from the administration, teachers and coaches will help you achieve your goals. It really feels like a family. I am very grateful I went to school here.... Read 362 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A minus

• Total number of sports 22

• Capistrano Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  483 reviews

Senior: This school was overall amazing. The teachers were incredible. The counselors were also amazing and the other staff were all great people aswell. I could see in my eyes that they were all genuinely happy to be there and wanted the best for the kids. the school has so many programs to help the students get into good colleges which most school in the area do not have However, the school does not lack in amazing staff and opportunities it does in cleanliness and operational stuff. For example, the halls are really dirty. especially the bathrooms, they are so unbelievably dirty you can’t even go into them the vending machines break quite often, the power might go off sometimes and the air conditioning was not operating for around a month and a half towards the beginning of the school year and at least once or twice a week the fire alarm goes off having a very unpleasant noise for everyone to hearbut overall, if I had a kid, I would definitely feel comfortable sending them to this school.... Read 483 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A minus

• Total number of sports 26

• Orange Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  424 reviews

Senior: I am currently a senior at Villa Park High School! There is honestly so much it say about VP. One of the things I would have to say is that I am very thankful for the variety of class options we have here at our school. We have various CTE pathways, and thanks to these courses, I was able to find the career right for me! Another noticeable thing about VP is student diversity. I think every individual student play a big part in contributing to our school. The teachers we have at VP are very attentive to the needs of each student and are always ready to assist in any way they can. Moving on, the counselors here are amazing! They are always available to talk, and are consistently checking up with students about their academics and future plans. Being a student more in the sidelines, I have observed this school the past four years, and I can honestly say that VPHS does it’s best to bring every student to success. Tomorrow is my last day, and I’m glad I attended this phenomenal school!... Read 424 reviews

• grade A

• grade A minus

• Total number of sports 23

• Tustin Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  511 reviews

Senior: I have gone to this school for almost 3 years and will be a graduating senior this year. Overall I have had a very well experience as a student here. There are great teachers, great librarians, amazing computer technician, and overall amazing staff throughout the school. The school ASB has amazing spirit and and pride for Foothill High. At student games, pep rallies, or events there is always amazing spirit throughout the school. The school clubs allow the students at foothill high to engage with other students who share the same interest like: volunteering, art clubs, culture, mock trial, music, etc. Foothill high school has amazing programs for athletes with a large variety of sports, such as: Swim, Golf, Lacrosse, water polo, Baseball, Soccer, Wrestling, Cross Country, Track, Dance, Cheer, etc. Foothill Highschool is very diverse with students from different cultural backgrounds. Other than the students, the campus has great resources to connect parents with student activities, etc... Read 511 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A minus

• Total number of sports 21