Travel Costa Mesa Blog
9 Ways to Ring in the New Year in Costa Mesa
Get ready to wrap up the year with a celebration to remember! Costa Mesa is gearing up for an epic New Year’s Eve, and there’s no shortage of things to do. Whether you’re in the mood to dance the night away or indulge in a delicious dinner, there’s something special for everyone.
1. Welcome the New Year at TIME Nightclub

Image via TIME Nightclub
Get ready to dance the night away. Ring in the New Year at TIME Nightclub, featuring DJ Valentino Khan! Join the celebration starting at 9pm, where the beats, lights, and energy will keep your spirits high all night long.
Why not celebrate the end of the year as a VIP? Elevate your experience with table service for a New Year’s Eve party you’ll talk about for years.
2. Spice it up at Sevilla Restaurant and Bar

Image via Sevilla
Start your evening with delicious Spanish tapas at Sevilla, and keep the night going with flamenco, live Latin music, and specialty cocktails. Sevilla is also showcasing a three-course prix-fixe menu with a show stopping paella Valenciana, topped with a cold lobster tail.
Reservations are highly recommended. Call 949-688-1555 or purchase a package online.
3. Find your VIP vibe at Mesa

Image via Mesa
If you prefer a relaxed, lounge environment, join the NYE festivities at MESA. Enjoy their prix-fixe dinner service at 7pm so that you’re ready to let the good times roll when the nightclub opens at 10pm. Indulge in premium champagne and live music by DJ Zeb as you revel in the joy of the countdown.
Book your reservation online for their NYE gala here.
4. Bling in the New Year at The Country Club

Image via The Country Club
The Country Club in Costa Mesa is offering the ultimate VIP perk for their NYE celebration: bottomless bubbly. Grab a champagne wristband for you and your crew and keep your glass full at their unlimited champagne bar. You’ll want to dig into a delicious dinner before the party kicks off, so schedule a seating for their chef-special dinner at 5:30pm or 7:30pm.
The Country Club is pulling out all the stops for the midnight countdown so that you can start 2025 off with a bang. Make a reservation here.
5. Don’t miss an epic Y2K dance party at The Wayfarer

Image via The Wayfarer
If you’re looking for live music but less of a nightclub vibe, gastropub and live music venue The Wayfarer might be the perfect fit.
Dance the night away and hear all your favorite 90s and 00s songs by local favorite, Sega Genecide. Enjoy a complimentary champagne toast during the countdown, then get back to dancing to your Y2K faves, plus some 2024 hits. Doors open at 9pm, and tickets are available online. This event is likely to sell out, so don’t wait.
6. Celebrate the year of BRAT

Image via Yelp
BRAT is forever at Costa Mesa’s Tin Lizzie Saloon. This LGBTQ+ friendly club will be serving their “Holidaze” cocktail menu and serving up the best Mean Girl tracks of 2024. Wear your best BRAT outfit and step out for a 365 party girl bash. You’ll feel so Julia as you ring in the new year.
7. Toast to the New Year at Water Grill

Image via Water Grill
Make your New Year’s Eve truly special with a delicious four-course prix-fixe menu at Water Grill. Elevate your experience with a thoughtfully curated $50 wine pairing option.
Cheers to a night of indulgence, celebration, and culinary perfection!
8. Treat yourself to fine dining at The Westin

Image via The Westin South Coast Plaza
New Year’s Eve dinner at The Westin is a classy way to mark the end of the year, especially when celebrated with friends and family. Executive Chef Nelson Sanchez has created a three course prix-fixe menu, served with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine. You can dine as early as 3pm or as late as 11pm.
9. Keep the party going at a Costa Mesa hotel

Image via The Westin South Coast Plaza
A stay at a Costa Mesa hotel is the epitome of a New Year’s Eve well spent: safe and carefree, with a touch of luxury and indulgence. Dance the night away without worrying about busy, late-night transportation and wake up in the comfort of one of our award-winning hotels.
See you in 2025! Happy New Year!
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Costa Mesa’s Best Food, Shopping, and Experiences in 2024
Meet your next Eatcation®, Shopcation, or Vibecation.
We’re thrilled to share our end-of-year guide to the best Costa Mesa has to offer. From mouthwatering meals to one-of-a-kind shopping and unforgettable experiences, we’re celebrating the highlights from each of Costa Mesa’s diverse neighborhoods.
How did we choose the best? We tapped into staff and community favorites, kept our finger on the pulse of everything new, and thrilled with every viral video. The result is a curated list of what captured the heart and soul of Costa Mesa in 2024.
We couldn’t include every stop we loved, so we recommend you use this to kick off your ‘cation and discover—or rediscover—everything that makes Costa Mesa an unexpected favorite. Let’s dive in and celebrate the best of this year!

This summer, Mercado González featured a Lucha Libre pop-up experience, celebrating the beloved Mexican sport. Look for more pop-ups in 2025!
Central Costa Mesa
Eat: Prince St. Pizza
What makes it special: Coming in hot from New York City to Orange County, Prince Street Pizza burst onto the Costa Mesa food scene this year and hasn’t slowed down. Lines were out the door to try the authentic NYC pizza served in Sicilian-style squares and slices. Prince Street Pizza is serious about their pies, even using a special water filtration system to match the pH of NYC, so that the dough comes out just right, every time.
Shop: Mercado Gonzalez
What makes it special: Mercado González is the first concept of its kind from the multi-generational González family, responsible for the 60+ Northgate Markets across SoCal, and Costa Mesa is the only place in the world you can experience it. This wonderland of Mexican food, drink, and culture features churros, tortillas, mole, agua fresca, and so much more—all created right in front of you.
Experience: Westwood Coast
What makes it special: Do you have what it takes to be a rodeo star? Hop on the mechanical bull and find out at Triangle Square’s newest destination, Westwood Coast. If you prefer to put on your boots and boogie instead of ride, Westwood has line dancing and live music that is sure to get your toes tapping and your heels clapping.
Not ready to let the night end? Party Vegas-style at Time Nightclub or do as the locals do and try out Goat Hill Tavern where the beer is plentiful, and the vibes are always juuuust right.

Costa Mesa-based Lxryoga combines mindful fitness with snakes in small, group classes
Eastside Costa Mesa
Eat: Plums Café
What makes it special: Breakfast at Plums Cafe comes with a sweet twist: their Instagram famous two-pound cinnamon roll! Fluffy, gooey, and dripping in icing, this giant pastry is big enough to share—but if you’re feeling bold, you can take the 20-minute challenge to finish it solo and win a t-shirt that says,“Cinnamon challenges at Plums – I ate the whole thing.”
Looking for more tasty eats in the area? Tres Muchachos is serving up a delicious mashup of Mediterranean and Mexican cuisine.
Shop: Covry
What makes it special: Inclusive, fun, and stylish – that’s Covry. This women-owned, Asian-owned brand specializes in eyewear designed for diverse face shapes so you’ll never have to worry about glasses slipping or digging into your cheeks again! Swing by their flagship location, where they host a monthly nature and meditation walk to help you unplug and reset.
Experience: Snake Yoga
What makes it special: Only in Costa Mesa! What started as a passion project quickly became a viral sensation this year at LXRYOGA. As seen in People Magazine, this snake yoga experience pairs you with friendly, non-venomous ball pythons for a unique class that’s both calming and exciting. In small-group sessions, yogis first learn how to hold the snakes, then are paired with their own snake for the duration of the class. It’s the perfect way to conquer your fears—or just add a unique twist to your yoga routine.

Birds of a feather flock together at the cozy, cocktail-forward Birdcage Lounge
Westside Costa Mesa
Eat: Nudae Coffee
What makes it special: Nudae Coffee celebrated their first anniversary in 2024, and we know they’ll have many more to come. Nudae pairs their coffee with a cozy, colorful, and creative space that locals love. Their sandwiches are made fresh, and we love their seasonal drink creations. Kids and non-coffee drinkers won’t feel left out of their menu.
Shop: Amis de la Terre Zero-Waste Market
What makes it special: Amis de la Terre means friends of the earth in French, and as soon as you step in their Westside market, you become part of their community. 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.
While you’re there, stop by Fill Up Buttercup, just a few doors down from Amis de la Terre. Fill Up Buttercup is a zero-waste refill shop with thoughtful, non-toxic bath, body, and household products.
Experience: Birdcage Lounge
What makes it special: Not only is Birdcage Lounge guaranteed to give you your best Instagram pic of the night, you’re also likely to meet your new best friends. An intimate, LGBT+ space within Costa Mesa’s Strut Bar & Club, Birdcage Lounge is as beautiful as it is welcoming. Try one of their signature flocktails or attend one of their many themed nights.
We would be remiss not to mention The Wayfarer, Costa Mesa’s live music venue and gastropub, that celebrated their ten-year anniversary this year. Every style of music has a home at The Wayfarer, and everyone is welcome. Drop by and you might discover your next favorite band.

Yubuya specializes in inari sushi, replacing the nori with sweet tofu
Mesa Verde
Eat: Yubuya
What makes it special: All the likes, meet the hype! Yubuya, a father-daughter-owned hidden gem, is where Korean and Japanese flavors come together in perfect harmony. If you like sushi, you will definitely love yubuchobap, delicious crispy rice pockets packed with unbelievable flavor. Their soy-marinated and creamy onion salmon yubu are a crowd favorite but if you’re looking for something with a kick, try their spicy yellow tail yubu.
Shop: SOCO and The OC Mix
What makes it special: SOCO and The OC Mix is a top SoCal design destination where designers, decorators, trend setters, and creative minds come to get inspired. From flooring that’ll make your home pop to the perfect light fixture that brings it all together, you are sure to find it here. With over 70 handpicked shops to choose from including Bang & Olufsen, Coco Republic, BoConcept, Design Within Reach, and Modani Furniture, it’s no surprise people travel from all over to discover statement-making pieces.
When hunger strikes, fuel up with delicious oven-to-table eats at Michelin-rated Arc Food & Liberations.
Experience: Inspired Art Wine
What makes it special: Inspired Art Wine takes paint and sip to whole new level! Did you know it is the only art studio wine bar in the US certified to teach Bob Ross-techniques? That’s right—come channel your inner Ross, paint some happy little trees, and sip on Napa Valley’s finest art-inspired wines. The pet portrait classes are a must-try: using a reference photo, they hand-sketch every detail of your pet onto a canvas and then help you paint stunning portraits of your fur (or feathered) friends. Whether it’s a dog, cat, pig, parrot, turtle, or horse, they’ve captured it all—with over 2,500 pet portraits and counting they are masters at capturing your pet’s unique personality.

Swarovski is one of the many luxury boutiques that has recently opened at South Coast Plaza
South Coast Metro
Food: Ramen Row
What makes it special: No Eatcation®is truly complete without a slurp-worthy stop at Costa Mesa’s famous Ramen Row! This noodle nirvana is where locals—and now lucky visitors—find bowls of soul-soothing broth brimming with umami-packed flavor. Don’t miss local favorites like Mogu Mogu, Slurpin’ Ramen Bar, Hakata Ikkousha Ramen, and Kashiwa Ramen. Trust us, one slurp, and you’ll understand why this is the ultimate comfort food row!
Shop: South Coast Plaza
What makes it special: In the shopping Olympics, South Coast Plaza takes gold. It has the highest concentration of luxury brands in the United States, and this year brought the addition of new boutiques for Zegna, Maison Margiela, Palm Angels, Marni, and so many more. It’s the exclusive West Coast location for designers like Alexander Wang, Chopard, and Missoni. In 2025, keep an eye out for Dior Parfums, Delvaux, and Acne.
While South Coast Plaza wins our “shop” category, the food also deserves a mention. You have to taste it to believe it. We’ll leave this right here… Yu Cake.
Experience: Orange Coast College Planetarium
What makes it special: The Planetarium is your all-access pass to the stars—and beyond! This spiral galaxy-shaped dome is where you can embark on a journey through space with 360° projections, immersive audio-visual magic, and stunning 3D animations. But that’s not all! Music lovers, get ready for LAZERDOME. Let dazzling laser lights ignite your senses as you rock out to epic anthems from Taylor Swift, Led Zeppelin, Metallica, and Pink Floyd. Prefer a more tranquil escape? Enter Mesmerica—an awe-inspiring journey through imaginary landscapes designed to relax your mind and stimulate your senses.

Due to a generous donation, admission to OCMA (Orange County Museum of Art) is free to all guests for ten years
Theater and Arts District
Food: Vaca
What makes it special: Led by Executive Chef Amar Santana, Vaca brings the best of Spain to Orange County. Already known as a two-time contestant on Bravo’s Top Chef, Santana was named to 2024 Latino Leaders by TIME. Santana was one of only seventeen individuals recognized, alongside George Lopez and Aubrey Plaza. Vaca is a community favorite and Michelin-rated, best known for its paella and vast selection of meat cuts.
Shop: OCMA’s Shop
What makes it special: Orange County Museum of Art featured eleven exhibits this year, from Yves Saint Laurent: Line and Expression, which received accolades from W Magazine and Los Angeles Times, to Martin Creed’s Work No. 3868 Half the air in a given space, which was an instant viral hit.
OCMA’s Shop followed suit with a well-curated rotation of artsy knick-knacks from small businesses, local Orange County creators, and organizations giving back to the community. Some of the pop-up shops featured include: People’s Pottery Project, supporting formerly incarcerated women, trans, and non-binary individuals through their collaborative studio; and Funday Collective, a husband-and-wife duo blending creativity, realism, vintage, and most importantly, fun.
Experience: Docent Tour at Segerstrom Center for the Arts
What makes it special: The magic of experiencing the performing arts is created in two ways: the preparation behind the scenes, and the performance on stage. SCFTA’s docent-led tour lets you step behind the curtain (literally!) and take a deep dive into everything that happens backstage. Learn the history of the Segerstrom family and their impact on Costa Mesa and the entire Orange County region, while walking through rehearsal spaces and VIP rooms like you’re a part of the cast.

The Mellowist connects art and nature with people, both artists and collectors alike, resulting in a thriving community
Sobeca District
Food: The Plot
What makes it special: Sustainable, zero-waste, and proudly plant-based: that’s The Plot, new to Costa Mesa this year. With a successful San Diego-based dining concepts already under their belt, Davin and Jessica Waite chose the conscious living campus, The Camp, for their next endeavor. Their produce is sourced as locally as possible, with no single-use plastic. Having a meal at The Plot is an invitation to taste and think about vegetables, sustainability, and the impact of our choices in a new way.
For other vegan-friendly options, stop by Blackmarket Bakery, also at The Camp, for freshly baked bread and pastries.
Shop: Mellowist
What makes it special: As seen in our summer “We’ve Got Good Taste” video, Mellowist is a locally-owned and operated gem located on Randolph Street, where you’ll find an exquisite collection of rare cacti and handmade pottery. This mini oasis offers a unique shopping experience, perfect for both plant enthusiasts and those looking for unique one-of-a-kind gifts.
While you’re there, make a pit stop at Period Correct for automotive-inspired streetwear, and swing by Quiet Golf for modern golf gear and accessories.
Experience: Booth by Bryant
What makes it special: You’ll find the coolest travel keepsake at Booth By Bryant! These celeb-approved, TikTok viral vintage photo booths snap iconic black-and-white photo strips for just $5. It’s a throwback moment with a modern twist and a timeless way to capture your Costa Mesa memories.
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Posted in Events, Food, Locals, Music & Art, Play, Shopping, Travel
The Best Liquor Stores in Costa Mesa to Pick Up Your Holiday Booze
Cozy cocktails, cold beers, or crisp wines—there is no wrong choice for a holiday celebration. Instead of grabbing the same old ingredients from the same old stores, try one of these local Costa Mesa liquor stores. These small businesses each offer a unique selection of drinks and cocktail essentials that’ll make your holiday celebrations cheers-worthy!
Here’s the Top 5 Liquor Stores in Costa Mesa to Toast the Season
Image via Hi-Time Wine Cellars
Hi-Time Wine Cellars
Address: 250 Ogle St, Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Voted one of the top 10 wine shops in the US, Hi-Time Wine Cellars stocks everything. From domestic brews to exotic whiskeys and exquisitely rare wines, their broad selection has something to match the vibe of any holiday celebration. After over six decades of business, this family-run shop knows a thing or two about fueling Costa Mesa holiday celebrations.
Why it’s worth stopping by:
- Top-tier underground temperature-controlled wine cellar
- Walk-in beer refrigerator with 1,200+ varieties of beer
- Classic-style wine bar to sample featured vintages before buying
Image via Mixing Glass and Market
Mixing Glass and Market
Address: 1500 Adams Ave, 104A, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Pick up cocktail ingredients, gift basket supplies, and quirky items for last-minute gifts all in one place. Better yet, stop by for a holiday cocktail class so you can put those ingredients to use and impress your friends and family. Their carefully curated selection ensures that you and your guests’ taste buds will appreciate whatever you pick up for the holidays.
Why it’s worth stopping by:
- Everything you need to stock a home bar and mix memory-making cocktails
- Specialty gourmet pantry items that will brighten any celebration
Ranch Spirits
Address: 2651 Irvine Avenue, Suite 1, Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Ranch Spirits balances a unique small business vibe with a big-time selection of beverages. As another family-owned business, they have made a name for themselves in the Back Bay with a quality stock of products. They’re constantly pouring up tastings of new arrivals, so there’s always something new to experience.
Why it’s worth stopping by:
- Classy interior with a curated selection of beverages
- Family-run, pet-friendly space with a laid-back atmosphere
- Easily swing by Irvine Ranch Market next door for last-minute charcuterie goods or a quick side for a potluck.

Image via Hi-Lo Liquor
Hi-Lo Liquor Market
Address: 2981 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
The trendiest liquor market in the trendiest part of Costa Mesa, Hi-Lo has set out to make shopping for drinks a social experience again. With weekly tastings, regular events, and an eclectic selection, they make a visit a chance to broaden your beverage horizons. Their shelves have recognizable brands, but they also always stock something new that can make a holiday celebration worth remembering.
Why it’s worth stopping by:
- 1-hour delivery with no order minimum for all of Costa Mesa
- Off-grid and hard-to-find beers, wines, and spirits
- Located in The CAMP, a perfect spot for snagging last-minute gifts that are as thoughtful as they are eco-friendly!
Minute King Liquor
Address: 2052 Newport Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92647
The classic liquor store experience at Minute King cannot be beaten. Stock up for your holiday celebration with ice-cold options from the beer cave with a surprisingly deep selection of craft brews, or find staple brands and party snacks in their neatly organized interior.
Why it’s worth stopping by:
- Broad selection and morning-to-midnight hours of operation make it perfect for grabbing last-minute essentials
- Within easy walking distance for anyone staying at Holiday Inn Express & Suites
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Winter Wonders in Costa Mesa: Festive Activities for a Magical Holiday Escape
‘Tis the season! If you’re in the mood for some festive fun, look no further. Grab your beanies, charge up your phones, and get ready to experience Costa Mesa winter activities full of holiday vibes!
Top 5 Winter Activities & Events in Costa Mesa
Feel the Holiday Magic at Winter Fest OC
Dive headfirst into the holiday spirit at Winter Fest OC, Southern California’s largest winter festival! Glide through their enchanting ice-skating trail, enjoy winter-themed cocktails inside a cozy fireside igloo, speed down a 150-foot ice tubing slide, and experience a dazzling light show perfectly synchronized to your favorite holiday songs. It’s a must-do event with plenty of attractions for all ages and so many festive photo ops to fill your IG stories!
- Open select dates from Nov 22 – Jan 5
Find the Perfect Gift Shopping at South Coast Plaza
It’s time to get your holiday shopping done, and where better to do it than at South Coast Plaza? The magical holiday décor transforms this famous shopping destination into an atmospheric winter wonderland. Find the reindeer carousel and a whimsical Santa Express train inside the center’s festive corridors, or track down Santa to take memorable professional photos. Try your hand at holiday crafts with Santa’s Craft Shop workshops. With an unparalleled selection of high-end stores and holiday essentials, South Coast Plaza offers a luxurious holiday shopping experience.
- Santa’s Craft Shop open Dec 6 – 24
- Santa Photos available Nov 22 – Dec 24

Snap-Worthy Moments at the Town Center Park Tree
Capture the holiday spirit by visitingthe massive Christmas tree in Town Center Park to take photos, easily located right in front of The Westin South Coast Plaza. If you’re in the mood for a tasty meal, try Vaca, a renowned Spanish restaurant with a perfect view of the tree. And here’s a bonus – it’s just steps away from Segerstrom Center for Arts and South Coast Repertory so you can top off your night with a live holiday performance!
Indulge in Sweet Delights at Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee
Satisfy your craving for a sweet treat with freshly made donuts from Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee. With accolades from CN Traveler, this culinary sensation is also a local favorite. Keep an eye out for their limited-time holiday options. From bourbon delights to peppermint perfection, experience the joy of the season in every bite.

Photo by South Coast Repertory
Become Part of the Tradition with “A Christmas Carol” at South Coast Repertory
The holidays in Costa Mesa aren’t complete without watching a performance of “A Christmas Carol” at Tony Award-winning South Coast Repertory. Watching the story performed on stage is a long-held tradition and the absolute best way to enjoy this classic, heartwarming tale.
- Runs from Nov 30 – Dec 24
Even More Festive Things to Do this December in Costa Mesa

Photo by Inspired Art Wine
Holiday-Themed Painting at Inspired Art Wine
Multiple Dates from Dec 1 – 22
This December, pick up a glass (or two) of wine and let your inner artist shine with over a dozen guided painting sessions featuring winter and holiday themes.
Laser Holidays II at the OCC Planetarium
Dec 3, 14, 15, 20, & 22
Step into the LAZERDOME for a holiday-themed laser show featuring seasonal music from across the decades. Experience 21st-century holiday cheer with a unique, high-tech show that delights the senses.
Holiday Maker’s Hive Market
Dec 7
A local hub of culture, food, and style, The CAMP will host a special market that will spark your holiday spirit with vendors for gifts, singing by carolers, and a free Santa Claus photo op.

Creative Babe Market
Dec 7
Support local artisans and track down holiday gifts at this family-friendly event with 100+ local vendors. Free admission and the opportunity to meet beloved cartoon character Bluey (with photo ops) make it an ideal outing for the whole family!
DIY Winter Wreaths at the Centennial Farm Workshop
Dec 7
Say goodbye to plastic, store-bought holiday decorations and make your own winter wreath at this family-friendly workshop in the beautiful Millennium Barn. Be sure to RSVP by the Nov 30 deadline!

Photo by Segerstrom
American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker
Dec 12 – 22
This beautiful rendition of Tchaikovsky’s classic tale features dazzling choreography by the famous Alexei Rratmansky. This timeless story offers pure joy for the entire family.
Holidays Around the World
Dec 14
Discover how cultures around the world celebrate their holiday traditions through a day of live music and dance. The event is free with Plaza Pass, and be sure to bring your own folding chairs.

Snoopy House Holiday Display
Dec 13 – 20
Dec 16 (Sensory Friendly Event)
Stop by Costa Mesa City Hall for live performances, train rides, sledding, food vendors, Santa photos, and more. Admission is free for all ages.
Silent Night Silent Disco
Dec 20
Put on your holiday best and get ready for a unique disco experience. Pick up your pair of light-up headphones at the venue and get moving on the dance floor with holiday classics and hits.

Photo by Segerstrom
Joss Stone: Merry Christmas, Love
Dec 20 & 21
GRAMMY Award-winner Joss Stone will be accompanied by Pacific Symphony for two nights of soul music and Christmas magic.
Truffle Making at the Centennial Farm Workshop
Dec 21
Indulge in cocoa couture with a hands-on class. In two hours, you’ll have learned to melt, mix, chill, and roll hand-made truffles that you can take home in gift boxes for sweetening your holiday. RSVP online by December 14.
See What Else Costa Mesa Is Up To
To see all the top events happening over the holiday season, check out our Costa Mesa events calendar.

Book Your Overnight Stay
Skip the stress and tension of the in-laws’ house and instead celebrate the holiday season in comfort, peace, and style with an overnight stay at a Costa Mesa hotel. With central locations, these top options put you at the heart of the city’s seasonal festivities while offering a cozy, quiet space to return to in the evening for the ultimate relaxation. Beat the holiday rush and lock in your stay today.
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Posted in Misc
Your Guide to a Dazzling Holiday Gathering in Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa is your SoCal hub for culture, recreation, dining, nature, shopping, and everything in between. The holiday season brings ever-perfect weather, and an endless choice of food, fun, and festivities from downtown to the coast. Host a holiday gathering in Costa Mesa and you (and your guests) might never want to leave, and no one would blame you.
Here’s some of our favorite hotels, venues, and community spaces to host an unforgettable holiday experience.
Crowne Plaza Costa Mesa

You’d be hard pressed to choose a more central option than Crowne Plaza Costa Mesa. Easy freeway access, a stone’s throw from the massive South Coast Plaza shopping destination, and within walking distance to some of the city’s best dining options—it perfectly bridges convenience and luxury.
Why we think you’ll love it…
- Highly versatile event spaces to accommodate a get-together of any size, from a Promenade Ballroom to the more intimate Wine Room
- Cozy Fireside Tavern with American cuisine, signature cocktails, and craft beer
- Year-round outdoor pool
- Forgot to print the guest list? On-site Business Center for any last-minute needs
Ayres Hotel Costa Mesa

Ayres Hotel Costa Mesa envelops guests in old-world luxury with spacious boutique-style rooms and suites. Both the indoor and outdoor spaces evoke a timeless aesthetic centered around guest comfort. Guests and locals routinely praise the onsite, award-winning restaurant, Le Chateau Garden Bistro.
Why we think you’ll love it…
- Flexible event spaces with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment
- Experience meeting planners available to help with organizing your gathering
- Complimentary hotel shuttle service to ensure everyone arrives on time
- The whole family can come–pets are welcome (with an additional cleaning fee)
Costa Mesa Marriott

Newly renovated, Costa Mesa Marriott places guests in the heart of the arts district, easily walkable to cultural hotspots like OCMA and Segerstrom Center for the Arts. The hotel’s bar and restaurant, aMuse, is a popular dining spot for guests and locals alike and is known for its artful cuisine and inspiring environment.
Why we think you’ll love it…
- Striking lakeside view for outdoor gatherings
- No need for a car–just minutes away from John Wayne Airport and easily walkable to world-class dining and art
- An on-site catering team for creating custom menus for your gathering
- Variety of suite options, including deluxe city-view suites
FLDWRK

Image credit FLDWORK
FLDWRK is known for its coworking spaces, but it also has a nearly 3,000 square foot space where you can host your holiday gathering. An open floor plan and large windows make the space feel even larger.
Why we think you’ll love it…
- Flexible layout with access to FLDWRK furniture
- Neutral space that allows for better personalization
- Free (and copious) on-site parking for all attendees
- Ideal location within minutes of John Wayne Airport
2145 Eats

Image credit 2145 Eats
Earthy tones and cozy lighting choices set 2145 Eats apart. Day-to-day, they are a top-rated restaurant, but they also rent out their space for gatherings and events. Not every holiday gathering needs to be over the top. Sometimes, a quiet, tasteful space is all you need.
Why we think you’ll love it…
- Intimate, cozy setting for small to medium gatherings
- An individualized menu with special event pricing
- Outdoor space ideal for enjoying Costa Mesa’s weather
- Designed with a distinctly SoCal feel
Sunsation Venue

Image credit Sunsation Venue
Budget-friendly and fun, Sunsation Venue offers a kid-friendly outdoor space with a neighborhood block party feel. The venue is packed with games and interactive stations, perfect for keeping little ones happy and busy.
Why we think you’ll love it…
- No-fuss event space with a focus on fun
- Numerous on-site games, from classics like ping pong to ax-throwing
- 10-minute drive to the beach
- RV and tent options to make it an adventurous overnight gathering
The Shindy

Image credit The Shindy
Curated, chic, or cozy? Pick your vibe at the OC’s trendiest event space. The room has a unique feel, and you can see how much thought went into the design. The founders started the venue out of a love for celebration, and they bring that passion to preparing every event.
Why we think you’ll love it…
- Flawlessly designed space featuring mid-century furniture and a modernist feel
- Partner with an experienced event planner to ensure a smooth event
- Budget management services to fit your spending framework
- Use their partnered vendors for a quick turnaround or bring your own favorites
Your Perfect Holiday Celebration Awaits
With a mix of stunning venues, white-glove service, and a festive SoCal atmosphere, Costa Mesa is the ultimate holiday gathering destination. From the versatile spaces of Crowne Plaza and Ayres Hotel to the trendy vibe of FLDWRK and The Shindy, every option offers something special to make your event memorable.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy family get-together, an elegant celebration, or a lively cocktail hour, Costa Mesa has just the right spot to create an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the season surrounded by California charm and warmth.
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