N.G.
Have you looked at any homes in Laguna Niguel? They have houses with stables and award winning schools. Prices are comparable to those in Irvine.
However if I had to choose between the 2, it would be Irvine hands down. It has been considered for many years, one of the safest cities in California. Also you cannot beat the education and for me that is imperative. The high schools all have a 99% graduation rate.
Irvine has its own police station, many parks, large man made lakes, A LOT of community pools and it's extremely family oriented.