Travel Costa Mesa Blog
Costa Mesa Celebrates National Travel and Tourism Week!
Photo by Rachel Off Duty
Costa Mesa annually embraces millions of travelers at various points of interest throughout the city, such as South Coast Plaza, OC Fair & Event Center, Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Orange County Museum of Arts, The LAB, and The CAMP. The fabulous restaurants and retail boutiques contribute to the city’s unique charm. Costa Mesa’s allure lies in its ever-changing landscape, ensuring there’s always something new to see, do, and taste
During National Travel and Tourism Week, we are honoring those who warmly embrace our visitors, promote our city with genuine passion and enthusiasm, and collaborate with others to achieve mutual success. We recognize our creative and driven business owners, big and small, and their incredibly dedicated staff, who show up daily to take care of our guests. We see our community pride growing as more stories and engagement spread. You are indispensable.
As the city’s destination marketing organization, Travel Costa Mesa recognizes the significant role of tourism in our community. The jobs it creates and the security it brings are vital for our economy. Did you know that approximately 8 percent of all jobs in Costa Mesa are sustained by tourism? The transient occupancy tax our hoteliers collect in our city accounts for the fourth most significant revenue source in the city’s general fund, contributing to the city’s funding of police, fire, and other public services. Sales tax collected from retail and dining is crucial in financing essential city, state, and county services.
Tourism has the potential to stimulate new business growth. The increased demand for goods and services, infrastructure, cultural and creative industries, collaboration, and business networking creates opportunities for entrepreneurs and enhances the visitor experience, generating more demand for goods and services. We take pride in being a part of a diverse industry that provides opportunities for economic growth.
Photo by U.S. Travel Association
Collaboration is highly valued in our industry as it fosters success for businesses, guests, and residents. However, Travel Costa Mesa recognizes that it needs help to achieve its mission. Partnerships with forward-thinking companies and positive, creative individuals are essential to our objectives. We’ve partnered with multiple businesses and entrepreneurs in Costa Mesa and look forward to establishing more connections that enhance our travel and hospitality industry. When tourism thrives, communities thrive.
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6 Ways to Spoil Mom on Mother’s Day in Costa Mesa
Treat Mom like the queen she is! From flowers to facials and fine dining, Costa Mesa has everything you need to turn Mother’s Day into Mother’s Weekend. Whether you’re planning ahead or pulling together a last-minute surprise, here are six ways to show Mom you didn’t just wing it this year.
1: Spa Day + Caffeine Fix = Mom’s Perfect Morning
Photo by Facial Lounge
Start your day with a luxurious skincare experience at Facial Lounge where every product is 100% all-natural, vegan, and cruelty-free. Then head next door to Coffee Dose —their pink walls, witty mugs, and cheeky drinks like the Espresso Tini will have her saying, ‘I love this!'”
2: Gift Her a Floral Bouquet That Will Last Forever
Photo by @phoebe_eats IG
If your mom loves flowers, why not gift her some that will last all year long? Hadley and Ren inside The OC Mix specialize in everlasting floral bouquets that are customizable, easy for Mom to care for, and eco-friendly. While at The OC Mix, swing by Balboa Gold to design custom matching charm bracelets with mom.
3: Swap Netflix for Paint Night & Pinot
Photo by Inspired Art Wine
Nothing says “bonding” like sipping wine and pretending you’re the next Bob Ross. Inspired Art Wine is hosting two Mother’s Day paint sessions with floral themes, a free mimosa for mom, and zero pressure to color inside the lines. Reserve your spots ahead of time to ensure get a seat.
4: Shop Till Mom Drops (Her Jaw at the Options)
Photo by South Coast Plaza
Treat Mom to a day of indulgence at South Coast Plaza, where luxury brands like CHANEL, Cartier, Bvlgari, and Hermès offer the perfect gift for every kind of mother. Come prepared by getting Mom a South Coast Plaza gift card, which can be redeemed at any of the 280+ shops and restaurants.
5: Treat Your Mom to a Memorable Brunch
Mother’s Day brunch is basically a love language. Here are a few can’t-miss menus:
- Silver Trumpet: Their special menu features a seafood and grill station, more than a dozen buffet options, as well as appetizers, desserts, and salads.
- Le Chateau Garden Bistro: Experience a gourmet brunch featuring omelet, carving, and seafood stations. To top it off, brunch includes bottomless mimosas.
- Knife Pleat: Celebrate Mom with a luxurious afternoon tea at South Coast Plaza’s Michelin-starred restaurant. Enjoy LAMILL teas, elegant tea sandwiches, savory bites, and hand-crafted desserts. Caviar and champagne are also available.
- Seasons 52: Enjoy starters like lobster bisque and avocado toast, and entrées ranging from crab quiche to wood-grilled shrimp and grits.
- Terrace by Mix Mix: Indulge in a three-course Mother’s Day brunch inspired by modern Filipino flavors, with starters like albacore tostadas, goat cheese toast with fruit, and roasted bone marrow flatbread.
Craving more brunch inspo? Check out our blog featuring Costa Mesa’s 10 best brunch spots.
6: Book Mom the Staycation She Deserves
Photo by The Westin South Coast Plaza
Surprise Mom this Mother’s Day weekend with a plush hotel room where she can relax and feel extra pampered. Book Mom an overnight stay at one of the 11 hotels in Costa Mesa, each with its own unique style and amenities.
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Posted in Events
Your Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Travel, Dining, and Outdoor Adventures in Costa Mesa
Sustainable travel is all about exploring the world while being mindful of the environment, supporting local communities, and preserving beautiful destinations—think less carbon footprint, more local love.
Costa Mesa offers the perfect blend of eco-friendly travel, sustainable dining, and outdoor adventures. Ready to discover how? Let’s dive in!
Support Local & Sustainable Shopping
Start your trip at Amis de la Terre which means friends of the earth in French. This organic, plastic-free grocery store was created by a SoCal-local with a Master’s degree in Oceanography at the Sorbonne in France. Gluten free, keto, vegan, heirloom, and fair-trade—no matter what your grocery shopping looks like, Amis de la Terre has it.
Just a few doors down, you’ll find Fill Up Buttercup, a zero-waste refill shop offering non-toxic bath, body, and household products. Bring your own containers or purchase reusable ones to stock up on essentials without unnecessary packaging.
For more sustainable shopping explore Eco Now, Fermentation Farm, and The Water Brewery, each offering their own take on alternative shopping.
Thrifting is also an easy way to avoid fast fashion while also scoring one-of-a-kind pieces. You’ll have to leave room in your suitcase for all the unique finds from Costa Mesa’s thrift and vintage stores you’re bound to score. Check out Landers, 2nd Street, or Twice The Style.
Zero Waste & Plant-Based Dining
Many of Costa Mesa’s restaurants prioritize farm-to-table ingredients, composting, and other green practices to ensure every meal is mindful of the planet.
Step into a culinary adventure at The Plot, where every dish tells a story of flavor and sustainability. Their 100% plant-based menu has made its way from Oceanside to Orange County focusing on near-zero waste practices. From their delectable Beet Reuben Sando to irresistible Banana Creme Brulee, each dish uses locally sourced produce and ingredients harvested from their very own Plot Garden.
For more plant-based dining options in Costa Mesa check out: Seabirds Kitchen, Good Town Doughnuts, or Vegan by El Zamorano.
Eco-Friendly Activities
Ditch the gas! Costa Mesa is a walkable city, making it easy to explore without a car.
Where to Stay: The Westin South Coast Plaza, Avenue of the Arts, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel or Costa Mesa Marriott
Walking distance highlights: Catch a show at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, explore world-class shopping at South Coast Plaza, visit the Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA), or find a peaceful moment at Noguchi Garden.
Where to Stay: Hilton, Crowne Plaza, or Residence Inn by Marriott
Walking distance highlights: Experience Costa Mesa’s eco-friendly shopping and dining hub at The CAMP, grab a coffee at The LAB, shop for authentic Japanese goods at Mitsuwa Market, and snap a vintage-inspired photo at Booth by Bryant.
Did you know The CAMP is one of the first eco-friendly retail campuses in the U.S.? It features a percolation system for stormwater treatment and 12 gardens supplying fresh ingredients to its restaurants.
Where to Stay: Best Western Plus, OC Hotel, or newly branded Hampton by Hilton
Walking distance highlights: Catch all the thrills at the OC Fair & Event Center, savor the flavors of authentic Mexican food at Mercado Gonzalez, sip craft cocktails at P10neer speakeasy, or go for a walk at Twinkle Park.
Explore Costa Mesa’s Green Spaces
Nature lovers will find plenty of ways to enjoy over 20 Costa Mesa local parks. Fairview Park, spanning 210 acres, is home to five different natural habitat environments, several protected species, and over 30 unique plant species. Hike through trails that lead to a scenic riverbed lined with oak trees and native California flora. For a longer adventure, take the 6.3-mile loop around Talbert Regional Park, a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Tip: Bring your own bike or rent one to cruise around Costa Mesa’s bike-friendly trails.
So, lace up those sneakers, bring your appetite, and get ready to shop, eat, and explore Costa Mesa in an eco-friendly way. It’s a win for you and the planet!
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Posted in Misc
Women’s History Month: Celebrating the Trailblazers of Costa Mesa
As we celebrate Women’s History Month this March, we’re spotlighting the incredible women shaping Costa Mesa. From city government to entertainment, shopping, and hospitality, these women are true trailblazers making a lasting impact on our community.
Paulette Lombardi-Fries – President, Travel Costa Mesa
At the heart of Travel Costa Mesa (TCM) is Paulette Lombardi-Fries, leading an all-woman team that’s passionate about sharing Costa Mesa’s story. As the city’s official destination marketing organization, TCM showcases the best of Costa Mesa while highlighting the valuable impact tourism brings to the community. Under Paulette’s leadership, this powerhouse team has played a key role in supporting local businesses, promoting major events, and showcasing the incredible food, hotels, and arts scene that make Costa Mesa a must-visit travel destination.
Lori Ann Farrell Harrison – City Manager, Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa’s city government is proud to have several women in leadership roles, including Lori Ann Farrell Harrison, the city’s first female city manager. Since 2019, her contributions have helped drive the city forward, inspiring others to embrace leadership and make lasting change. Here her thoughts on women in leadership.
Michele Richards – CEO, OC Fair & Event Center
Michele Richards, CEO of the OC Fair & Event Center, has spent decades bringing year-round events to Costa Mesa. With over 150 events and 2 million visitors annually, her impact on the community is immeasurable. As Michele steps into retirement, we celebrate her incredible contributions and thank her for leaving a lasting mark on the OC Fair & Event Center and the people it serves.
Costa Mesa’s Hospitality Leaders
Leading Costa Mesa’s top hotels are six women general managers who are raising the bar on hospitality.
- Susan O’Brien Moore – Ayres Hotel
- Nimisha Solanki – OC Hotel Costa Mesa
- Annie Hsu – Crowne Plaza
- Jeannie Blue – Hampton by Hilton Costa Mesa Newport Beach
- Patricia Obert – Ramada
- Sue Cooke – Residence Inn by Marriott
Their unwavering commitment to service is a key reason Costa Mesa continues to attract visitors from all over. Thank you for your leadership, dedication, and for making Costa Mesa a standout destination for travelers!
Teresa Reynoso de Gonzalez – Northgate Market
Teresa Reynoso de Gonzalez, matriarch of Northgate Market, was the quiet force behind one of Southern California’s greatest immigrant success stories. While her family built their first Anaheim store in 1980, she raised 10 children alone in Mexico before reuniting with them. Her wisdom kept the family united as Northgate grew to 42 stores, including the beloved Mercado Gonzalez in Costa Mesa. A mother, mediator, and pillar of strength, Doña Teresa’s legacy lives on in every Northgate aisle and family meal it brings together.
Norma Hertzog – Former Mayor of Costa Mesa
Norma Hertzog made history as Costa Mesa’s first women mayor. Her dedication to public service is honored by the community center named in her memory, ensuring her legacy continues to inspire future generations of women leaders in the city.
Linda Sadeghi – Owner, The LAB
Linda Sadeghi is the visionary behind The LAB, Costa Mesa’s most unique retail and dining destination. With over 30 years in business, she transformed a former night-vision goggle factory into an artsy, urban space that challenges retail monotony and supports creativity. Today, The LAB stands as a beacon for female entrepreneurs and a must-visit stop on any Costa Mesa itinerary.
Molly Unger – General Manager, South Coast Plaza
For the first time in over 50 years, a woman is leading South Coast Plaza—Molly Unger. With years of experience managing high-profile retail destinations like Westfield Century City and Westfield UTC, she now oversees the West Coast’s largest shopping destination. Her deep knowledge of luxury retail and customer experience keeps South Coast Plaza at the top of its game.
Bessie Nell Lounsberry – Civic Leader
Bessie Nell Lounsberry was a dedicated civic leader in Costa Mesa, contributing to the city’s growth through her volunteer efforts. She played a key role in creating the city directory, promoting voter registration, and leading a beautification campaign that resulted in planting over 1,000 trees. Her tireless work earned her the Costa Mesa Historical Society’s Living Memorial Award in 1973.
Heidi Zuckerman – CEO & Director, Orange County Museum of Art
Heidi Zuckerman has been leading the Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) since its opening in October 2022. With her extensive experience in the arts, she continues the legacy of leadership set by the museum’s 13 female founders. Under her guidance, OCMA has broadened its impact, focusing on groundbreaking art while highlighting the vital contributions women have made to the art world.
The women shaping Costa Mesa are not only leading, but also redefining industries, inspiring change, and strengthening our community. Thank you for your passion, hard work, and the positive impact you bring to our city.
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Posted in Misc
Hands-On Adventures in Costa Mesa: Get Out and Make Things
If you love getting your hands dirty in the best way—think flour, paint splatters, or clay—then Costa Mesa is the place to be. Ever wanted to pretend you’re on The Great Pottery Throw Down? Yeah, us too, and we get to live out our pottery wheel fantasies whenever we want. Depending on your desires, whether it’s painting, learning about building your own hydroponics system, or even picking up some new dance moves, Costa Mesa has a workshop, class, or studio ready for you to dive in.
If you’re a SoCal native, just point your GPS to Orange County, in between Los Angeles and San Diego. If you’re not a local, fly into John Wayne Airport (SNA) and skip the hassle of LAX.
Meet Your Inner Maker
If you’re itching to start making things but don’t know where to start (or require supervision), we can’t recommend Urban Workshop highly enough. It’s a makerspace with courses, project classes, and 1:1 mentoring—they’ve got options for everything from textiles to photography and blacksmithing. There’s membership options too if you’re excited to get your make on.
Photo by @urbanworkshop
Canvas Worker has workshops to teach you how to sew a bag of your own. If you’re afraid of sewing machines, don’t be! The instructor walks you through safety and procedure and is there to make things keep running smoothly. At the end of it, you get a gorgeous bag you put together yourself.
Photo by @canvasworker
Sculpt, Glaze, Repeat
Regardless of if you’re a novice potter or a pro, there are options in Costa Mesa for everyone. ARTime Barro has workshops, an online basics course, and classes for adults as well as teens and kids. They also have the option to rent studio time, for experienced artists. Costa Mesa Ceramics has youth and adult classes, as well as the option for booking private classes, including for large groups, so you can bring the whole squad and throw down!
Photo by @costamesaceramics
Craft, Create, Innovate
Inspired Art & Wine has the perfect sip and paint experience—we’re obsessed with their Bob Ross-Inspired Oil Workshop, because who doesn’t love a happy little tree? There’s also a workshop option for wine bottle and glass painting. You can book time for private events, including for offsite and mobile painting.
Photo by @inspiredartwine
Stretch, Breathe, and Slither
Snake Yoga at YXRYOGA isn’t so much a hands-on experience as it is a whole-body-on experience. You can book a private yoga sesh (with up to four guests) and learn how to ground yourself in your body with the help of calm, slithering friends. Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it, either; we’ve brought nervous folks who ended up besties with their assigned snakes by the end.
Photo by @lxrpythons
Farm-Fresh Fun
The OC Fair & Events Center isn’t just an annual fried-food-and-rides extravaganza; there are workshops held year-round, including at Centennial Farm, a three-acre working farm that offers tours as well as farm and gardening classes. Check the schedule to see what’s coming to the event center; there’s Farmers Markets, bridal expos, and plenty of opportunities to plunge your hands into some soil.
Up Your Food & Bev Game
Sur La Table has an incredible roster of cooking classes, so you can show off everything from French pastry skills to pasta-making and intimate date-night dinners. There are options for basically every palate, and you’ll want to bring home half the store’s worth of kitchenware if you’re not careful.
Photo by @surlatable
The Mixing Glass is the home for all things beer, spirits, wine, and cider, but don’t overlook their classes! Learn about Modern Tiki or Bourbon vs Rye, as well as Mixology 101 and 201 options. And when you’re done learning, you can buy gourmet snacks and bites for your own setup, as well as high-quality provisions, to make perfect cocktails at home.
Feel the Rhythm
Ready to work up a sweat? Head to Sevilla, a nightclub with salsa and bachata dance classes (provided by OC Salsa) every Wednesday that you can attend for a modest fee. It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner, intermediate, or expert; they’ve got a class for you, and you don’t even need to bring a partner.
Photo by @sevillanightcluboc
Stay and Play in Costa Mesa
After a full day of hands-on fun, it’s imperative you have a place to chill and recharge. That’s where our incredible Costa Mesa hotels come in. If you’re ready to plan your creative getaway, remember to book a room to relax.
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Posted in Events, Music & Art, Play, Travel
