‘Tis the season for shopping, and South Coast has it all

South Coast Plaza has geared up for the holidays with activities and Christmas carols throughout the center. Photos with Santa Claus are conveniently located in two locations -- Level 1 of Carousel Court and the Macy’s Home Store wing -- through Dec. 24. With photo purchases, you’ll receive a complimentary Santa’s Express Train pass. Open all center hours. Santa’s Express Train operates through Jan. 1 at Level 1, Crate and Barrel Wing. At Santa’s Village, children can make holiday crafts to take home. Prices vary per craft, or you can purchase a $5 activity pass and create a selected craft from each Santa’s Village Shop. Level 1, Carousel Court.

Reindeer riding

Children can ride the reindeer carousel at South Coast Plaza for $1. Santa’s reindeer replace horses on the carousel during the holidays. Carousel Express cards are available in $5, $10 and $25 denominations at any concierge desk. Located on Level 1, Carousel Court. Christmas carols will be sung by Dickens Carolers, musicians and local school groups.

Plenty of places to buy

South Coast Plaza offers great shopping for everyone on your list. For those that adore luxury gifts, Louis Vuitton offers a beautiful and understated diamond watch for $3,700; (714) 662-6907. Valentino carries a crystal-trimmed iPod case in pink, powder blue and clear crystals for $840; (714) 751-3300. Salvatore Ferragamo has a beautiful pair of velvet stilettos with tassels and croc-print soles for $570; (714) 979-7654. Other hip and stylish gifts can be found at Paul Frank, (714) 979-3556; Vertigo, (714) 556-5903; Diesel, (714) 556-5540; Zara, (714) 668-1660; and Steve Madden shoes, (714) 241-7055. Find perfect holiday dresses or stylish menswear at Chanel, (714) 754-7455; Gucci, (714) 557-9600; Banana Republic, (714) 327-8400; Brooks Brothers, (714) 436-1961 and John Varvatos (714) 545-5551.

Spots for gadgets

and for games