Travel Costa Mesa Blog
Costa Mesa: An Easy Weekend Getaway From the Inland Empire
Need some end-of-year travel inspiration? It’s time for a reset and Costa Mesa is here to deliver. It’s just a quick drive away from the IE which means no long flights and no overcomplicated itineraries. This Orange County hidden gem is easy to get to but far enough to switch things up!
Retail Therapy
Holiday shopping at South Coast Plaza will have you knocking out that gift list (or treating yourself—we don’t judge). This shopping paradise is packed with hundreds of luxury shops and your go-to brands. Where else can you strut through a two-story Gucci store and then do the same at a two-story Balenciaga?
For a shopping adventure that’s a bit more eclectic and artsy, head over to The Lab! Explore one-of-a-kind shops like Plant Matter, May Martin, and 1978—all creatively housed in retro Airstreams. And for a cool keepsake, walk across the street to The CAMP and take some pictures at Booth. This viral, celeb-loved vintage photo booth gives you an iconic black-and-white photo strip for just $5!
Deliciously Instagrammable
Photo by Calo Kitchen + Tequila
Love food? The foodie scene here is chef’s kiss with eateries that are basically begging for a photo op! Here’s a list of the most aesthetic and tasty spots in Costa Mesa:
- Blossoms and Brass – Best known for their pink Blossoms Rigatoni pasta
- The Plot – Best known for their Beet Reuben sandwich
- Ahba – Best known for their double smashed wagyu Ahba Burger
- Calo Kitchen + Tequila – Best known for their Short Rib Enchiladas
- Maizano – Best known for their grilled octopus Encacahuatado
Photo by Blossoms & Brass
But really, the list could go on forever! Click here to start planning your Eatcation® adventure and discover even more of our top recommendations.
Relax, Relax, Relax
Photo by Costa Mesa Ceramics
For some well-deserved “me time,” Costa Mesa perfectly blends relaxation with one-of-a-kind experiences, creating the ultimate self-care getaway. Start by giving your skin some much-needed love with a custom facial at Facial Lounge. Next, take your zen to the next level with snake yoga at LXRYOGA—yes, snakes! It’s the perfect mix of relaxation and adrenaline, with ball pythons. Want to round out your wellness escape with a little creativity? Pop over to Costa Mesa Ceramics and roll up your sleeves—there’s something incredibly calming about crafting your own pottery masterpiece.
Sips and Shenanigans
Photo by Pie Society
Let’s be real: no staycation is complete without a few fabulous drinks! Check out Ruin Bar, a hidden gem that feels like your hip friend’s secret speakeasy. For an aura of mystery enjoy a round of creatively crafted cocktails at P10neer hidden inside Dick Church’s restaurant.
For a quirky twist, swing by Pie Society, where pizza meets prohibition, and your cravings for carbs and cocktails are both satisfied. And if you’re in the mood for a cozy vibe, Oak & Coal has your back with some killer sake and mouthwatering yakitori.
But wait, there’s more! If a round of drinks leaves you itching to hit the dance floor, Costa Mesa has plenty of spots where you can bust a move. Check out these top places to dance.
Recharge and Repeat
After a day of shopping, dining, and unwinding, why not treat yourself to a comfy stay in one of Costa Mesa’s hotels? Booking a hotel not only means you won’t have to worry about the drive home (hello, no designated driver drama), but it also gives you a cozy spot to recharge for another day of adventure. So go ahead, treat yourself—you’ve earned it!
Heading here during the fall? Be sure to check out our blog for all things fun and fall in Costa Mesa!
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Posted in Food, Hotels, Locals, Misc, Music & Art, Play, Shopping, Travel
Road Trip Ready: Cruise from Los Angeles to Costa Mesa
If you’re looking to get out of LA for the weekend and want something that’s flexible, stress-free, and close to home, all you need is one tank of gas. Fill up your car and head south to Costa Mesa, the City of the Arts®. Spend your time exploring, dining, and shopping–not sitting in traffic.
Whether you love making plans and little details or you’re all about spontaneity, your Costa Mesa vacation is only one tank of gas away.
Get in the car, Angelenos. We’re going to Orange County.
Stay in the Middle of the Adventure
OC Hotel is a contemporary boutique hotel with a fresh and stylish surf aesthetic. It’s five to ten minutes from our favorite Costa Mesa hot-spots, like incredible shopping at South Coast Plaza, or year-round fun at the OC Fairgrounds. If the beachy vibe of OC Hotel has you in the mood to catch some waves, it’s only minutes away from Huntington and Newport Beach.
Check out all of Costa Mesa’s hotels and find the perfect stay for your LA-to-Costa-Mesa road trip.
A New Culinary Scene
By keeping your adventure close to home, you support local businesses and the local economy. Costa Mesa’s dining scene represents the community that built it: a diverse and international collective of makers, creators, and builders that call Orange County home. From Michelin-starred dining to speakeasies with hidden entrances, there’s something special for everyone to get a taste of.
Turn your road trip into an Eatcation® and get started at The CAMP, a gathering spot and shopping center for healthy living. Try the artisan pizza at Folks Pizzeria for bubbly crust and seasonal toppings. (Make a reservation in advance to guarantee yourself a pie!) Brand new to The CAMP is AhbA, a restaurant with California casual fare and retro, Western vibes. Try their highly recommended wagyu burger and see how it holds up against your LA favorites. For a relaxed al fresco experience in a gorgeous European-inspired courtyard, grab a Monte Cristo sandwich at Le Chateau Garden Bistro inside the Ayres Hotel.
Keep the energy up with craft cocktails and kitschy, photo-worthy decor at Cowboys and Poodles. If a pub is more your style, Green Cheek Brewery is only a few steps away and touts their hoppy beers, crispy lagers, and big stouts.
Activities on Easy Mode
The one-tank trip lets you save time while allowing maximum flexibility to leave and arrive when you want. Your vacation should be spent making memories instead of waiting for traffic on the 101. Having to look for street parking is so LA–in Costa Mesa, it’s a breeze to get around. You can even ditch the car and walk to your next adventure.
If you prefer classic comfort and upscale, critically-acclaimed dining, stay at The Westin South Coast Plaza and walk across the bridge to one of the most spectacular shopping destinations in the country. South Coast Plaza is a shopping destination unlike any other, with hundreds of unique luxury offerings and West coast exclusives. If you’re traveling with someone who prefers to park themselves on a chair and wait outside the store (you know the kind), South Coast Plaza is indoors, air conditioned, and thoughtfully designed.
What about a slow-cation? For a more mindful and conscious getaway, Costa Mesa lives up to its name as City of the Arts®. There’s plenty of arts and culture to experience at no cost, and keeping it local reduces your carbon footprint. Try Costa Mesa’s public, self-guided Art Walk tour or visit Orange County Museum of Art. OCMA hosts several exhibits at a time, many of them kid-friendly or delightfully unexpected. For example, “Yves Saint Laurent: Line and Expression,” an expansive curation of original drawings and dresses from the famed designer, comes to Costa Mesa directly from Marrakech, Morocco.
No matter what kind of getaway you have in mind, Costa Mesa is only a tank of gas away. Buckle your seatbelts, turn on your favorite playlist, and hit the road. We’ll see you soon!
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The Best Places to Dance in Costa Mesa
Whether you’re into EDM, country, or hip hop, Costa Mesa has a dance floor for every vibe. From high-energy nightclubs to laid-back lounges here are the best places to dance the night away.
TIME Nightclub
TIME Nightclub is where the party never stops. Think Vegas, right in Costa Mesa! Its state-of-the-art lighting and sound system will have you feeling the rhythm the minute you walk in. TIME is the ultimate EDM club, playing beats ranging from house to bass and every groove in between. You can catch epic DJ sets and live performances from big names like Steve Aoki, Tiësto, and Zedd.
Sevilla Night Club
Learn some new moves by taking a dance class at Sevilla Night Club located inside Café Sevilla. Every Wednesday starting at 8:00 pm you can join one of their Salsa or Bachata classes. Whether you’re rolling in solo, with friends, or with a partner, these classes are perfect for all levels. And the fun doesn’t stop there— grab a drink at the bar and keep the party going with an open dance floor until 1:30 am. No reservation is needed, just show up for a good time!
STRUT Bar & Club
STRUT is the ultimate destination for LGBTQ+ nightlife in Costa Mesa. This inclusive club offers weekly entertainment from top drag artists and DJs. Whether you want to turn it up like Kesha, break out your party pink for Chappell Roan on one of their iconic theme nights, or just feel like hitting the dance floor for a spontaneous party, Strut promises an unforgettable experience. Get ready to live your best life and dance like nobody’s watching!
Westwood Coast
If country music and Boot Scootin’ Boogie is more your thing, then head over to Westwood Coast! This casual steakhouse hosts fun line dancing sessions every Thursday at 10:00 pm. With over 100 bottles of bourbon to choose from, you’ll find the perfect drink to complement your evening. For an extra thrill, try your hand at the mechanical bull and see if you can stay on for the full ride!
Wayfarer
The Wayfarer is one of Costa Mesa’s best live music venues. Their eclectic mix of up-and-coming local bands and legendary acts, make it a go-to for anyone who’s into music. You can expect to hear everything from indie and alternative rock to electronic and hip-hop. Don’t miss their popular Y2K nights, where you can experience your favorite 90s and 00s hits performed live. With a full bar and kitchen on-site, you can grab some tasty food and drinks while you rock out.
Mesa Lounge
Located at the CAMP, Mesa is perfect if you’re looking for chic lounge vibes. Step into a sleek, stylish ambiance, with an in-house DJ playing Top 40 hits and hip-hop tracks. In addition to their dance floor, enjoy a menu of tasty bites and amazing craft cocktails! Make sure to try their famous lychee martini or go all out with bottle service and take your night to the next level.
Maximize the Fun
As you plan your night, maximize the fun by booking a hotel room! With so many incredible venues and clubs to explore, you can dance the night away and then head back to your cozy room for some well-deserved relaxation. What are you waiting for? Time to put on your dancing shoes!
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Posted in Events, Hotels, Misc, Music & Art, Travel
The Ultimate Summer Destination for SoCal Travelers
If you’re looking for the ultimate location to plan a Southern California vacation, then Costa Mesa is the place to be! It’s the perfect home base if you want to explore Disneyland, Hollywood, and beyond. Experience our incredible dining options, shopping destinations, and exciting summer events —all in one trip.
The Perfect Location
Costa Mesa is located right in the middle of Southern California, which makes it super easy to hit up all your summer bucket list destinations.
Plus, if you’re all about spending as much time as you can at the beach, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, and Huntington Beach are all just a short drive away and we have plenty of beach-close hotels to choose from.
Foodie Paradise
Costa Mesa is the most flavorful destination in Southern California! With the only 2 Michelin Starred restaurants in Orange County plus 6 Michelin Recognized spots, it’s truly the perfect city to take an Eatcation®. Whether you’re craving artisan coffee, gourmet burgers, or exotic eats, our city has it all. Dive into our insane variety of restaurants and discover new flavors!
Boutique Bliss
Did you know the largest shopping center on the West Coast is located in Costa Mesa?
Experience designer shopping at South Coast Plaza where you can explore over 200 boutiques including a massive two-story Gucci store and the largest Balenciaga boutique in the Americas. But, if you are more into local finds, Costa Mesa has plenty of unique boutiques. Some of our favorites can be found at The LAB and The CAMP.
After Dark Adventures
The fun never ends in Costa Mesa. The nightlife here is lit with cool bars, craft breweries, and plenty of locations to enjoy live music. Whether you’re into dancing, enjoying craft cocktails, or catching a live band, Costa Mesa has you covered. We recommend visiting Mercado Gonzalez, a massive Mexican food hall offering a full cocktail bar and live mariachi music, or newly opened, Westwood Coast for country vibes and line dancing.
Events and Concerts
If you’re in town for the summer then you have to hit up the OC Fair which runs from July 19 – August 18th! It’s one of the top ten largest fairs in the U.S. and has no shortage of rides, carnival games, animals, arts and crafts, beer, food, and live music. Bonus tip: attend a concert at Pacific Amphitheater and get free fair admission. This year’s lineup includes UB40, Stray Cats, Big Time Rush and so many more, check out the full list.
Arts and Culture
Explore the artsy side of Costa Mesa at Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA). Don’t miss the chance to walk through their new Yves Saint Laurent: Line and Expression exhibit. For the first time in the United States, you can explore the designer’s groundbreaking work from the 1960s until 2002, his last show. Admission is FREE!
Segerstrom Center for the Arts is another great choice if you are looking to catch a Broadway show like Clue and Peter Pan. This summer, they’re also hosting free events like outdoor movies and dance classes—perfect for making the most of your summer nights!
Get Ready for an Unforgettable Summer
So what are you waiting for? Drop this blog in the group chat, book your hotel stay, and get ready to experience the best SoCal vacation you’ve ever had. We can’t wait to see you here!
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Posted in Events, Food, Hotels, Music & Art, Play, Shopping, Travel
14 Date Ideas for Valentine’s (or Galentine’s) Day
There’s nothing wrong with a box of chocolates and a quiet evening staying in on Valentine’s Day. But with the sheer number of things to do in Costa Mesa, why not make it a day or night out on the town. Now, choosing from among the spectrum of activities is a different issue, which is why we put together a curated list of our top 14 date ideas for Valentine’s (or Galentine’s) Day in Costa Mesa.
All of these options are great whether you are out with your partner or a group of friends. Whomever you plan to spend Valentine’s (or Galentine’s) day with, you can count on making memories.
1. Loosen Up With Inspired Art Wine
Photo by Inspired Art Wine
Art and wine have gone together for centuries, and the rise of painting classes with wine is a testament to this fact. Inspired Art Wine uniquely merges an art studio with a wine bar. They offer painting classes (with wine), as well as wine-focused sessions where you can learn about tasting profiles and create custom labels. For Valentine’s Day, they’re hosting a painting class featuring the scene “London Walk,” perfect for the romantic occasion! Seats are limited, though, so we recommend booking your spot sooner rather than later.
2. Feast at the Mercado González Food Hall at Northgate Market
Can’t settle on a single place to eat? The new Mercado González food hall features 20+ stalls, including a well-stocked bar, ensuring you, your date, or your friends will all find something to enjoy. What turns this into a really lively date night is the live music, featuring local artists who know how to add some flair to a night of gastronomic enjoyment. Don’t forget to try their limited edition heart shaped churros and sweet bread conchas while you are there!
3. Get Crafty at Lovely Curated Things
Photo by Lovely Curated Things
Boutique store, Lovely Curated Things is hosting a special Galentine’s Candle-Making Workshop on February 10th. This event comes with some extra perks, including in-store discounts, drinks and a light appetizer, and personal instruction. Tickets are sold beforehand, so be sure to book yours in advance.
4. Break a Sweat at Rockreation
Photo by Rockreation
Beginners and experienced climbers alike are welcome at Rockreation, a Costa Mesa climbing center with a focus on health, fitness, inclusion, and community. Book a climbing class matched to your level and goals (fitness, speed, or technique), or even set up a private instruction session for you and your partner. Nothing strengthens bonds more than a little healthy competition!
5. Stay Classy with Dinner and a Show
Photo by Silver Trumpet
No date is more iconic than dinner and a show! Start with a Valentine’s Day dinner at Silver Trumpet, treating you and your partner to a 4-course prix-fixe meal. Dishes include saffron lobster risotto, wild mushroom bisque, hand-crafted desserts, and more. Then take a two-minute stroll across the street for a striking live performance of Disney’s The Lion King at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. This award-winning spectacle features breathtaking music by Elton John, dazzling visuals, and a classic story of courage.
6. Make Something Special at Color Me Mine
Color Me Mine is always ready to provide a calm and creative night out! On February 14th they have planned a special Valentine’s Day celebration with the unique feature of BYO (bring your own) champagne, wine, or other drink. Bookings are made for two people at a time, and spaces are limited. So don’t hesitate to lock in your reservation for a night of painting ceramic artworks that you get to keep.
7. Treat Yourselves at South Coast Plaza
Photo by South Coast Plaza
Shopping at South Coast Plaza is not your usual shopping experience. The extensive list of luxury brands, flagship stores, boutique shops, unique eateries, and striking architecture make a visit to this shopping destination an experience in itself. Treat yourself or your partner to something new to remember the day by, and don’t forget to stop by Laderach while you are there for artisanal chocolate that will have you melting.
8. Be Inspired at OCMA
Photo by Jeff Gritchen
A visit to the Orange County Museum of Art might not be your first thought for a date night, but there is something special about meandering through halls of impactful artwork with a partner or friends. Walk hand in hand as you treat your eyes to works by California-based artists, as well as a growing collection of international works. Did we mention that admission to OCMA is free?
9. Learn Some Moves at Café Sevilla
Photo by Café Sevilla
Take a Salsa & Bachata dance class at Café Sevilla this Valentine’s Day to learn some impressive moves and dance the night away with someone special. No reservation is needed. Just show up with a readiness for fun (and maybe a pair of comfortable shoes) and let the music sweep you away. The night first features a salsa class followed by a bachata class, and then you can put your new skills to work for the next four hours, with the dancing wrapping up at 1:30 am.
10. Axe Your Ex at Slashers Axe Throwing & Ales
Photo by Slashers Axe Throwing & Ales
Break free from Valentine’s clichés and axe your ex this February 14th at Slashers Axe Throwing & Ales! You read that right. Bring a printed or digital picture of your ex and let out your frustrations by throwing some axes. Make sure to enjoy their wide selection of craft beers while you are there.
11. Get Rustic at ARTime Barro
Photo by ARTime Barro
For a couple that likes a hands-on approach, we recommend taking a wheel-throwing class at ARTime Barro. Learn core techniques for using a pottery wheel alongside your favorite people with lessons for all levels given by lifelong ceramic experts.
12. Unwind at Facial Lounge
Photo by Facial Lounge
The first few months of the year can be a stressful time, so unwinding on Valentine’s Day is as valid as any date. We recommend booking organic vegan facials at Facial Lounge in Costa Mesa, a spa and lounge where even a few hours can feel like days of relaxation.
13. Reward Your Skin at ECO Now
Photo by ECO Now
The Valentine’s Day Lotion Bar Making Workshop at ECO Now is your chance to make beautiful, luxurious lotion bars with custom fragrances. Control the ingredients that go into your bar for a blend that suits your skin’s needs perfectly. Take home your creations for yourself, or use them as gifts. Tickets are sold in advance, with a discount available when you purchase two tickets at a time.
14. End the Night Right with an Overnight Stay
Photo by Ayres Hotel
Having a breathtaking night out is well and good. But wrapping up the night in luxury and privacy is what creates something truly memorable. Booking an overnight stay at a Costa Mesa Hotel gives you and your partner a space of your own for a night of well-deserved comfort.
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Posted in Events, Food, Hotels, Music & Art, Shopping
