Travel Costa Mesa Blog
Pride Is More Than a Parade in Costa Mesa
Pride isn’t just a parade; it’s a celebration, yes, but it’s also a commitment to a community that’s still in need of recognition. OC Pride takes place in Costa Mesa at the OC Fair & Event Center on September 27th, 2025—well after most cities have rolled up their rainbow sidewalks. We love an excuse to drag out summer (since it officially and sadly ends on September 22nd) or to simply drag out brunch. But what’s truly special is how Costa Mesa celebrates inclusivity year-round, from queer-owned businesses and arts spaces to community organizations that keep pushing for progress. Authenticity, acceptance, and joy are always in season here.
If you’re a Southern California native, Costa Mesa is an easy trip: it’s located right between L.A. to the north and San Diego to the south. If you’re an out-of-towner (or out-of-stater) looking to experience Pride the OC way, hop on a plane and land at John Wayne Airport (SNA).
How to Make the Most of OC Pride 2025 in Costa Mesa
If it’s your first time at OC Pride, we’ve got the info you need to show up, feel seen, and have a good time. This year’s theme is Revolutionary, and the activities show the care OC Pride has put into creating safe spaces. From the free parade to the Zero Proof Sober Space for alcohol-free fun, and the return of the Pride Market Place, there’s no shortage of things to do or get involved in.
More of a partier? Check out the Pride Stage and the WTF Splash Zone with plenty of DJs and lasers to keep things going well into the night. Into a family-friendly vibe? Check out Pride Family Camp or Teen Pride. Trans folks have their own affirming space with Trans Central as well. You can even connect with Orange County city pride orgs, or hear stories and performances, as well as TED Talk–style speeches, at Pride Speaks. Basically, OC Pride wants to make sure everyone in the acronym is welcome and has a place to connect with their community.
The OC Pride 2025 Parade and Block Party in Costa Mesa kick off the day at 11:00 a.m., making it one of the biggest LGBTQ+ events in Orange County. (And don’t forget: the parade is free!) At noon, the Revolutionary Festival kicks off; you do need tickets for the festival (unless you’re under 15 or over 65, in which case you get free entry); grab some tickets here. There’s a send-off at 10:00 p.m., and the entire event is over at 11:00 p.m. It’s a long, exciting day, so don’t forget to hydrate and bring your sunscreen.
A Costa Mesa Pride for Everyone
OC Pride is located in Costa Mesa, but that doesn’t mean that only locals are invited. Orange County as a whole is ready to celebrate. If you’re not familiar with Orange County, or Costa Mesa in particular, well, all we can say is get ready for some sunshine and friendliness. Not from Costa Mesa? Not from Orange County? Anxious about finding your community? We mean it when we say everyone’s welcome.
As the City of the Arts®, Costa Mesa is known for creativity, inclusivity, and a community that embraces self-expression. Hosting OC Pride isn’t just about location—it’s about identity. The same city that fills theaters, galleries, and music halls with inspiring voices and bold perspectives is proud to be the home of OC Pride 2025.
Queer-Owned Businesses to Support in Costa Mesa Year-Round
In addition to the rad selection of LGBTQ+-owned and allied vendors at the Pride Market Place, we want to spotlight some businesses to check out the rest of the year.
Stella Jean’s is a queer-founded small business serving up some of the best ice cream flavors in California. The seasonal flavors rotate and offer vegan and gluten-free options; the Yuzu + Poppyseed Cake is a personal favorite! Their always-on-offer flaves are great too, like their Mango Sticky Rice or Brown Butter Pecan.
Right next door to Stella Jean’s on 17th Street is its sister restaurant, Pop Pie Co, for sweet and savory pie goodness. Get a slice of pie a la mode (or a whole pie, if that’s your bag!), or try a hand pie on for size. The Green Hog & Cheese savory pot pie is beyond words, but everything on the menu’s great—there’s a hearty drinks selection and even breakfast options. Yum.
House of Intuition is an LGBT+, Latin, and women-owned oasis at the LAB Anti-Mall. If you’re looking to connect with yourself and the magic around you, or just searching for a slice of peace in a busy, loud world, HOI has your back. You can shop by intention, or you can curate your space with altar supplies, tarot decks, candles, crystals, and everything a magical heart could desire.
If you’re coming to Costa Mesa for OC Pride, make a weekend of it! The LGBTQ+ nightlife in Costa Mesa is second to none with spots like Tin Lizzie and Strut, and you’ll love the chance to crash on a cushy hotel bed after a night out. The city has a hotel for every budget and traveler, whether you’re going solo or bringing the whole family. Check out the OC Pride Package from Westin South Coast Plaza for a deal that runs through October 5th, 2025.
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Posted in Misc
Our Best Tips and Tricks for The OC Fair
Once a year, Costa Mesa’s summer sun brings a special attraction where everyone can come together for a good time. The foodies and thrill seekers can find their latest adventure, the shoppers and artists can find new inspiration, and families, couples, or solo-riders can experience sights, sounds, and laughter they’ll remember all season.
Grab your sunscreen and your appetite: it’s time for the OC Fair.
Know Before You Go
From Friday, July 18th to Sunday, August 17th (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays), the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa will be transformed into a fun-packed festival to fill up your summer days. We’ve pulled together our best tips, tricks, and insider information to help you have the best time ever at the fair this year.
Tickets
- Purchase tickets in advance. Limited daily capacity makes for a better experience for fairgoers.
- Don’t wait until the end of the season thinking you’ll beat the crowd—the last several days of the fair often sell out.
How to Beat the Crowd
- Rideshare is the way to go! It’s quicker and less stress than circling for a parking spot. That means more time to enjoy the fair.
- If you do want to avoid the crowds, come to the fair early! It opens at 11am. Grab a breakfast burrito, fresh-baked cinnamon roll, or acai bowl as you sip your morning coffee and congratulate yourself on making it in before anyone else.
- Better yet—turn it into an overnight stay. Stay at the Best Western Plus and walk to the fair. OC Hotel Costa Mesa or Hampton by Hilton Costa Mesa Newport Beach are a short Uber ride away from the Fair—or a longer walk for ambitious fairgoers. Hotels often sell out during the Fair, so book early. View all of Costa Mesa’s best hotels here.
Tips to Save Some $$$
- Tickets to performances at the Pacific Amphitheatre, The Hangar, and Action Sports Arena all include same-day entry. Visit The Hangar for tribute bands and singalong to Elton John, Prince, or Queen for a bargain, with fair admission included.
- All exhibits are free with Fair admission, including blue-ribbon winning cake decorations, woodworking and fine arts, and REWIND: A VHS Revival. (More on that below!)
- Save on food by trying the $5 Taste of the Fair. Everyday until 4 p.m. you can sample bites from a variety of vendors offering $5 menu items.
NEW: OC Fair After Dark at Plaza Pacifica is where to go for music and dancing—Friday through Sunday nights feature swing dancing, DJ sets, and Latin beats that keep the fun going. Free with Fair admission!
Did You Know That…?
- OC Fair is a celebration of Orange County’s agricultural heritage. From cattle to lima beans, agriculture was a driving force in the development of Orange County, and the Fair is a rare moment where we can get closer to our food production. Visit the Fair’s Centennial Farm, a year-round working farm, to meet animal educators, get up close and personal with exotic animals and barnyard favorites at the petting zoo, and cheer the pigs at the All-Alaskan Pig Races!
- REWIND: A VHS Revival features hand-painted, large-scale recreations of album covers and movie posters, live painting demos, and more—all capturing the spirit of the VHS era. It’s a nostalgic celebration of bold graphics and pop culture that defined a generation.
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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 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
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 Hampton by Hilton Costa Mesa Newport Beach
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