Travel Costa Mesa Blog
Plan Less, Live More: Costa Mesa’s Guide to a Surreal Good Time
You know that feeling when some places just click? That’s Costa Mesa. Whether you’re desperate for a weekend getaway, want to catch up with friends over drinks and a perfect meal, or if you’re eager for an afternoon of retail therapy, the city does all the work for you. From coffee at sunrise to cocktails at sunset, Costa Mesa delivers such a good time, it’s almost surreal. All you have to do is show up. For real.
New to the City of the Arts®? Costa Mesa is at the heart of Orange County, just a few miles from the Pacific Coast and John Wayne Airport (SNA)—which we always rec flying into, since it’s so well located, scrupulously maintained, and chill to navigate. We’re a short drive from Los Angeles or San Diego, too, which makes us a great home base for exploration.
Retail Therapy On Easy Mode
We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention South Coast Plaza first. It’s a mecca for shoppers, with over 250 stores all under one enormous, air-conditioned roof. Nothing illustrates how effortless Costa Mesa is than being able to hit up Michelin-rated food and designer flagship stores in the same location. If there’s something you want, it’s going to be at South Coast Plaza.
Some of South Coast Plaza’s recent additions include the first Manolo Blahnik on the West Coast (here’s to you, Carrie Bradshaw!), the first ever Dior Beauty flagship in North America, and Zara’s first stand-alone menswear boutique in the United States.
If you need to refuel amidst all the shopping, a quick and easy solution is Collage Culinary Experience. It’s the plaza’s dining hall that’s really more of a culinary collective. Whatever you crave, if it’s sushi, ramen, tacos, or something sweet, hit up Collage. (We usually hit up a few places in Collage and make ourselves a little tasting menu of our faves. Great place for groups, families, and choosy eaters!)
Just beyond the plaza, there’s tons of tasty options if you’re looking to explore some more. Mercado Gonzalez, called the Disneyland of Mexican food by locals, offers seventy-thousand square feet of a Mexican market experience: shopping, eating, drinking, and generally excellent vibes—local meets luxe and everything in between, and you can do it with a margarita in hand! Mitsuwa Marketplace is a ticket to Japan: hit up Matcha Ren for the perfect sweet treat, but don’t miss out on the affordable necessities at Daiso or Maido for one-of-a-kind gifts and stationery.
Culinary Joy at Any Time of Day
Our favorite day-to-night spots take care of your appetite, whenever it happens to appear. In the daytime, hit up Hola Adios for beachy cafe excellence, but at night, the same spot turns into moody Diner Noche, with nostalgic, Americana diner vibes. Work In Progress has a similar switchup: cafe during the day, but an intimate, fun tapas bar (Bar Tinto) at night.
Art, Culture, and Chill
Had your fill of shopping and eating? We can’t leave out one of the major draws of the city: its arts scene. Try the Orange County Museum of Art—it’s not some stuffy museum with all the old classical paintings. It’s modern art featuring everything from kids programming to Bar Verdant, which we know from experience is a great place to grab wine on a date.
We’re called the City of the Arts® for a reason. Whether it’s OCMA, Segerstrom Center for the Arts, or the three stages at South Coast Repertory Theater, our Theater District has something to offer everyone.
Stay in the Center (or Drift Toward the Coast)
If you plan to stay in the Arts District (near South Coast Plaza and OCMA) and want something walkable, you’re looking at some incredible hotel options: Westin South Coast Plaza, Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Costa Mesa Marriott, Hilton Orange County Costa Mesa, and Crowne Plaza.
If you want to be closer to the beach (and we don’t blame you!), there’s wonderful options too: OC Hotel and Ramada are great picks. Make sure to look at all the options to pick the best place for your stay.
Whatever your choice, just know that when you arrive in Costa Mesa, everything falls into place. You’ve got endless options for shopping, dining, exploring, and enjoying art—whatever your taste, a surreal good time is always on the menu.
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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
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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Winter Wonders in Costa Mesa: Festive Activities for a Magical Holiday Escape
‘Tis the season! If you’re looking for some festive fun, head over to Costa Mesa, California. From holiday markets to merry performances—and enough Christmas décor to absolutely pass the vibe check—this city has everything on your winter bucket list.
Experience Winter in Costa Mesa—No Snow Chains Required
Dive headfirst into the holiday spirit at Winter Fest OC, SoCal’s largest winter festival! Glide through their ice-skating trail, enjoy winter-themed cocktails inside a cozy fireside igloo, speed down a 150-foot ice tubing slide, and experience a light show perfectly synchronized to your favorite holiday songs. It’s family friendly and full of photo ops for your IG stories!
- Open select dates from Nov 28 – Jan 4
Find the Perfect Gift Shopping at South Coast Plaza
It’s time to tackle that holiday shopping list—and there’s no better place than South Coast Plaza. The whole place transforms into dreamy winter wonderland, complete with a reindeer carousel, a whimsical Santa Express train, and Santa himself ready for those frame-worthy professional photos. If you need something to keep the little ones entertained, then try one of the kid friendly workshops at Santa’s Craft Shop.
- Santa’s Craft Shop open Dec 5 – Dec 24
- Santa Photos available Nov 21 – Dec 24
Snap-Worthy Moments at the Town Center Park Tree
Capture the holiday spirit by visiting the 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 Scott Smeltzer/South Coast Repertory
Celebrate the 45th Anniversary of “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. This year they will be having Santa visits, a hot chocolate bar, holiday cocktails, Christmas carolers, and limited edition mugs to celebrate their 45th production anniversary.
- Runs from Nov 29 – Dec 28
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 3 – Dec 28
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.
Photo by Segerstrom
American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker
Dec 11 – 21
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.
Fiesta Navidad
Dec 23
Fiesta Navidad is back at Segerstrom Center, bringing Grammy-winning Mariachi Los Camperos, festive feels, and Mexican holiday traditions your heart can handle.
Snoopy House Holiday Display
Dec 12 – 19
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 19
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.
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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Sip, Savor, and Celebrate the Best of Fall in Costa Mesa
There’s a crispness in the air, and leaves take on a golden hue. Whether you consider pumpkin spice a friend or foe, it’s a can’t-miss sign of autumn.
We invite you to fall for the sights, sounds, (and spooks!) of Costa Mesa. With countless exciting events, comforting and craveable flavors, and one-of-a-kind Halloween happenings, Costa Mesa is a cozy, welcoming haven for the season. Whether you’re a local or planning your next vacation, here’s your ultimate guide to celebrating fall.
Beat the Morning Chill with Seasonal Sips
Kickstart your day with a visit to two local gems, Original Barista and Coffee Nature. These neighborhood-favorite coffee shops are a great place to taste the season and warm your soul.
By popular demand, Original Barista is bringing back their “Pumpkin Brulee Latte” made with Brulee cold foam, house made honeycomb magic, and a sprinkle of Chai dust on top. Coffee Nature has whipped up a seasonal “Witch’s Potion”: matcha, brown sugar, with pumpkin syrup AND pumpkin foam. (We definitely recommend the pumpkin foam.)
Get into the Fall Spirit at Tanaka Farm
For the ultimate fall vibes head over to Tanaka Farms and explore Hana Field Pumpkin Patch. With eight acres of pumpkins, it’s the perfect orange backdrop for all your fall photos and you’ll have no problem finding the perfect one for carving.
New for 2025: the Jurassic Fright Corn Maze! Weave your way past giant raptors, spooky skeletons, and a roaring T-Rex. Tanaka Farms, Hana Field, is open Tuesday – Sunday starting September 27th through November 9th . Book your pumpkin patch experience here.
Boo Ha Ha – A Haunted Oktobeerfest
If your idea of Halloween fun includes a pint in hand, The Boo Ha Ha at the OC Fair & Event Center on Saturday, October 25th is the place to be. Sip your way through unlimited craft beer tastings from some of the region’s best breweries — it’s basically trick-or-treating for adults, only the treats come in a frosty glass. The night doesn’t stop there: rock out to live sets from Ozzmania and The Mismiths, and don’t miss the debut of the Dead Man Drivin’ Demolition Derby, with haunted hearses crashing under the fairground lights.
Snake Yoga & Horror-Themed Axe Throwing
A spooky season calls for spine-tingling fun, and we double dare you to take a snake yoga class at LXR YOGA with real ball pythons. In small-group sessions, you’ll learn how to handle these slithery (but super gentle) companions. Pick a crystal, and the one you choose decides which snake joins you on the mat. Beginner-friendly and paced for comfort, this unique class lets you breathe, stretch, and get up close with your new scaly friends.
If snake yoga is too much of a stretch, try an axe-throwing session at Slashers Axe Throwing & Ales. This horror themed axe-throwing venue is fully decorated with memorabilia from your favorite scary movies including iconic figures like Freddy Krueger, Leatherface, and Jason Voorhees. As you put your axe-throwing skills to the test, enjoy a round of their spooky themed cocktails and beer.
Fall’s Fashion and Fun
No visit to Costa Mesa is complete without a trip to South Coast Plaza, Southern California’s ultimate luxury shopping destination! Shop the latest fall fashion trends at their newest boutiques including Gentle Monster, the first-ever Dior Beauty flagship in North America, and the west-coast exclusive for Khaite. With an array of designer labels and collections to choose from, you’ll find everything you need to give your wardrobe a seasonal glow-up.
Need a show-stopping costume for your holiday festivities? Check out the Halloween Bootique inside Triangle Square. Open all year long, this shop has the best costumes and accessories to bring your wildest vision to life!
Cultivate Your Creativity
Pick up a paintbrush—and a glass of wine—at Inspired Art Wine, a studio, bar, and gallery. All throughout October, Inspired is hosting painting sessions with a spooky twist . Paint your own trick-or-treat scene, or sign up for October 23th‘s mashup of Vincent Van Gogh’s iconic “Starry Night” with Harry Potter’s Hogwarts. No experience is necessary, and all supplies are provided.
This October, Segerstrom Center for the Arts is bringing a different kind of chill to the season with San Francisco Ballet’s Frankenstein. It’s Mary Shelley’s classic story, but told through stunning choreography and dramatic sets that will give you goosebumps-in-a-good-way. It’s dramatic, a little eerie, and the perfect excuse for a fall night out.
Savor the Season in Costa Mesa
Fall is the best time to get out and explore Costa Mesa! Full of craveable fall sips, pumpkin patch adventures, and hands-on fun, why stop at a day? Make it a getaway by booking a cozy overnight stay at a Costa Mesa hotel—you’ll thank yourself when you don’t have to rush home.
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Posted in Events, Food, Misc, Music & Art, Play, Shopping, Travel
Veteran’s Day in Costa Mesa: Heritage, Heroes, and History
When you picture the OC Fairgrounds in Costa Mesa, your mind probably goes to the sizzle and scent of fryers and grills, the bass of live music at the Pacific Amphitheatre, or the Ferris wheel towering overhead. But the land has a longer, deeper story—one that makes Veteran’s Day in Costa Mesa especially meaningful.
Long before the rides and music, the site was home to the Santa Ana Army Air Base (SAAAB). Starting in 1942, SAAAB saw thousands of cadets at the base in pre-flight training before heading overseas. In 1944, SAAAB became the Army Air Force (AAF) Personnel Distribution Command. In 1946, the base was decommissioned, though in the 1950s it was briefly used as a guided missile training facility.
Many of the service members who trained at SAAAB or worked at AAF returned to Orange County after the war’s end, and they helped develop the area into the beautiful, thriving community it is today.
From WWII to the OC Fair
It might be hard to picture now, but almost one-fifth of Costa Mesa was once dedicated to the Santa Ana Army Air Base. After the base was decommissioned, however, the land was turned over to the county and became a community hub. By the time the OC Fair was up and running in 1949, acres previously used for training, housing, and feeding service members became the site of carnival rides. (Fun fact: A lot of the land that used to make up SAAAB has been repurposed for things other than the fair. Costa Mesa High School, Tewinkle Park, and Vanguard University are just a few examples of places built on what used to be SAAAB grounds.)
Today, the OC Fair honors Orange County’s agricultural history, ensuring no one forgets its origins of citrus groves and farms. Livestock competitions have been part of the fair from the beginning, but in the present day, the three-acre Centennial Farm remains a working, year-round farm, with opportunities for hands-on learning and a memorial for agricultural workers called the Table of Dignity. 4-H students tending their animals are as big of a draw as the Ferris wheel, which shows how vital Costa Mesa’s history is to its identity.
The fair isn’t just your regular hub for concerts and festivals, but a living reminder of Costa Mesa’s origins and as the seat of military pride for Orange County.
Heroes Hall, Where Stories Live On
One of the former SAAAB barracks has been transformed into Heroes Hall, the veterans museum at the OC Fairgrounds. The museum preserves Orange County’s military history while honoring veterans from all generations. There’s a permanent exhibit called “The SAAAB Story,” which delves into the site’s past and involvement in WWII, including real uniforms, photos, and the words of service members who trained there. Year-round programming includes rotating exhibitions: currently, Echoes of Conflict: Remembering Vietnam is on display through December 21, 2025.
Heroes Hall honors more than Costa Mesa’s WWII history; it’s dedicated to veterans from all generations. Visitors are encouraged to learn from veterans at community events, and there’s educational activities for students (or just people interested in history). Stories are not just remembered, but shared across generations. And admission is free, to make sure the experience is accessible to anyone who wants to engage.
This Veteran’s Day, Heroes Hall at the OC Fair is the perfect place to experience the past and honor a history of service, sacrifice, and deep-rooted heritage. Costa Mesa invites veterans and their families to come experience Heroes Hall and find connection with the past. Whether you’re eager to connect with other veterans or just want to spend time contemplating in the oasis of the Serenity Walk, it’s surely going to be a Veteran’s Day to remember.
If you’re not from Orange County, you can fly into John Wayne Airport (SNA) or drive to Costa Mesa. We’re between Los Angeles to the north and San Diego to the south. Turn your visit to Costa Mesa into an overnight stay, and book a room at Best Western Plus, OC Hotel, or the newly renovated Hampton Inn—all within walking distance of the fair. Costa Mesa has hotels that suit every budget and type of traveler, from solo to family, business, or leisure. For our veterans, don’t forget to ask for military or government discounts!
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