Travel Costa Mesa Blog
Costa Mesa’s Best Food, Shopping, and Experiences in 2025
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 2025.
We couldn’t include every stop we loved, so we recommend you use this to kick off your itinerary and discover—or rediscover—everything that makes Costa Mesa an unexpected favorite. Let’s dive in and celebrate the best of this year!
Eastside Costa Mesa
Eat: Salty Horse
What makes it special: You’ll be ooo-ing over the drink menu, aaa-ing over the food, and somehow end up with a full spread at Salty Horse. The space is a cowboy meets coastal vibe, with a fusion menu pulling flavors from Asian, Mexican, and American cuisines. In a hurry? Grab their classic Cowgirl Matcha to go. Got time to settle in? The pink pitaya pancakes and loaded soyrizo breakfast burrito are perfect for brunch.
Shop: Paseo 17
What makes it special: This Spanish courtyard-style retail space has everything you need to build-your-own perfect day. You can start with coffee at Milligram, then treat your skin to a facial at Freeface. Refresh your wardrobe at Purre Boutique or find a new signature home scent at Slow Goods. Pick up a freshly made bread at Rye Goods and pair it with artisanal jam from Mercado Mesa or finish strong with an Italian dinner at OSPI.
Experience: Snake Yoga
What makes it special: Only in Costa Mesa! What started as a passion project quickly became a viral sensation 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 try something totally out of the ordinary.
Westside Costa Mesa
What makes it special: A local favorite in Costa Mesa’s coffee scene, Neat lives up to its name with simple, elegant décor in minty green and cool cream. Their menu is equally neat, dotted with latte essentials, seasonal favorites, and a lime jasmine green tea that you’ll be coming back for. As day turns to night, Neat undergoes its own transformation, becoming Third Place in 2025, a wine bar with cozy, glowing lighting and rich conversation.
Shop: Saltwater Leather Co
What makes it special: Tucked into a creative enclave just minutes from the Pacific Ocean, Saltwater Leather Co is named for the water that nips at their heels. A true family affair, primarily run by mother and son, Jaime and Chase Huante. Some may call Jaime a multi-hyphenate, an accomplished chef, and formerly embroidery and crochet teacher at The CAMP, but it’s her leatherworking that shines the brightest. Their Belt Bar and Custom Italian Leather Sandal experiences are hands on, creatively affirming experiences where attendees walk away with luxury goods made by their own two hands. It’s an experience only possible in Costa Mesa, and it’s one that utterly captivated us in 2025.
Experience: Wayfarer
What makes it special: The Wayfarer is Costa Mesa’s live music venue and gastropub, celebrating over ten years of bringing live performance right to the community. Every style of music has a home at The Wayfarer, and everyone is welcome. Drop by and you might discover your next favorite band. We couldn’t help but take notice of the calibre of talent taking the stage this year, and we can’t wait to see what 2026 holds.
Mesa Verde
Eat: Il Girasole
What makes it special: Blue velvet seats, modern art with colorful impasto, bright and tangy passionfruit, silky smooth tiramisu—Il Girasole is a rich delight for the senses, from the decor to the cocktails to the dishes and dessert. Soon to round out a year in Costa Mesa, the concept belongs to Florence-born Chef Antonio Bevacqua. Il Girasole is California-forward Italian food that has a way of lingering even after you’ve left. Find it at SOCO and The OC Mix.
Shop: Thrift & Secondhand Finds
What makes it special: “Thanks, it’s vintage,” is what you’ll be saying after a day spent making your way through Costa Mesa’s upcycling shops. Start out at the brand-new Goodwill of Orange County on Harbor Blvd, where you’re going to need a few hours and a double shot of caffeine to power through. We didn’t know what a treat a brand-new Goodwill is until we had it. The treasures are bountiful, the shop is sparkling clean, and your cart will be overflowing. Follow up with 2nd Street at The CAMP, Buffalo Exchange at The LAB, and Landers Supply House right across the street from Goodwill.
Experience: Costa Mesa Country Club
What makes it special: If a professional golfer—aka Jake Knapp—has teed off here, then it’s definitely a must-do. The Costa Mesa Country Club is a quiet, scenic gem featuring two classic municipal courses, a 30-tee driving range, and pristine practice areas where pros and amateurs alike fine-tune their game. Designed in 1967 by William F. Bell and Ronald Fream, the courses have stood the test of time.
South Coast Metro
Eat: 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 Ramen Nagi, 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 several notable firsts:
- First Dior Beauty in North America
- First Manolo Blahnik boutique on the West Coast
- First Delvaux flagship on the West Coast
- First-ever ZARA Man
Honorable mention: Pop Mart. No, it’s not new to South Coast Plaza —but it was our Labubu plug for the year, and honestly, that deserves a recognition.
Experience: Mitsuwa Marketplace
What makes it special: Back from Japan and already missing it? Luckily there’s Mitsuwa Marketplace. This Japanese-style market is packed with hard-to-find snacks, fun stationery, and plenty of aisles worth browsing. Some of our favorite finds include fruit daifuku, cream pan, frozen Kirin beer, and matcha soft serve. Be sure to explore the food court, it’s a quick escape to Japan minus the flight (and jet lag).
Theater and Arts District
Food: Moongoat Greenhouse
What makes it special: In a city rich with independently owned, high-vibe coffee shops, this just might be the best vibes around. Half greenhouse, resplendent with leafy friends from mother-daughter duo DashnGrow, and half goat—that is, Moongoat. Moongoat Coffee is a Costa Mesa-based independent coffee chain, and this marks their second location in Costa Mesa. Just steps away from public sculpture garden, Isamu Noguchi’s California Scenario, stop in for coffee, matcha, or their delicious breakfast biscuits.
Shop: Maum Market at OCMA
What makes it special: Orange County Museum of Art has a dedicated curator in an unexpected location, and that’s their gift shop. While you can still browse the traditional Taschen tomes and greeting cards, it’s primarily dominated by Maum Market, a collective of Asian creators and Asian-founded brands. Shop locally made home goods, gifts, wellness products, and little pieces of luxury before stepping into the main galleries of the museum. Maum Market puts a special focus on handmade, small businesses, all with an elegance and attention to detail that suits a location as stately as OCMA.
Experience: Pacific Symphony
What makes it special: Don’t hit the snooze button: Pacific Symphony has new blood and refreshed energy coming into their 2026-2027 season. 2025 marked Alexander Shelley becoming the Artistic and Music Director Designate of the Symphony, and he took the conductor’s podium with a surge of dedication and enthusiasm that permeated throughout the Symphony’s home at Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. In Costa Mesa, the City of the Arts®, Shelley proves that classical music has its place in a city teeming with creativity, style, and counter-culture expression.
SoBeCa District
Eat: Green Cheek Beer Co
What makes it special: Neighborhood-wide, Sobeca spells community—or maybe only after a few drinks at Green Cheek Beer Co. Either way, the brewery, right off the hub of Randolph Street, is expansive in space but intimate in community. Try one of their many options that’s brewed right on sight, from a hard lavender lemonade to their Czech-style pilsner. Come hungry, too, because their food menu has one of the best smashburgers in Orange County, and their Triangle Supreme is a vegan-friendly dead ringer for a similar item from a fast-food favorite that rhymes with Raco Rell…
Shop: General Store by the Pour Kids
What makes it special: General Store by the Pour Kids has a lot of heart, thoughtfully positioned to bring a space into Costa Mesa that didn’t already exist. Part coworking, part coffee shop, part hip, branded merch, part importer of classic Japanese homeware—General Store takes on a lot, and it succeeds. It’s the perfect place to just “stop by and see what they have.” You’ll find unique gifts and new friends. If you see a design you like, be sure to go ahead and get it, as their merch is produced in small batches, and after they run out, it may never come back.
Experience: CANVASWORKER
What makes it special: Tucked into small garages right off Randolph Street is CANVASWORKER, the home of beginner-to-expert level classes on tote and backpack making. Douglas Davidson, industry insider and designer for The Brown Buffalo, leads with clear instructions, patience, and a style all his own that makes you feel instantly engaged. Hear stories about his decades working in the accessories industry, while assembling your project on professional, industrial sewing machines. No previous experience is necessary for his beginner-level tote making class, but Davidson’s steadfast guidance makes you feel capable of creating anything. Walk away with something you’ve created with your own hands, and with a new appreciation for the small details that go into the world we carry around us.
Honorable mention: 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.
Central Costa Mesa
Eat: Uncle Fluffy
What makes it special: Uncle Fluffy is one of the many delicious ways to experience Japanese culture in Costa Mesa. It’s home to the jiggly golden cheesecake you’ve been seeing all over Instagram and opening only its third California location right here in Costa Mesa—and yes, it’s a big deal. Their original cheesecake is a forever favorite, but the pistachio and lemon flavors will have you coming back. And it’s not just about the cake—pair your fluffy treat with a coffee, fruit smoothie, or a blended drink to complete your experience. Opening soon at Triangle Square.
Shop: Mercado Gonzalez
What makes it special: Mercado González is a one-of-a-kind concept from the multi-generational González family behind 60+ Northgate Markets. This 70,000-square-foot food hall is a love letter to Mexican culture and traditions, bringing everything to life right in front of you—from fresh tortillas, churros, and carnitas to artisan-made shoes, serapes, Talavera, and skincare. Add live mariachi or some cooking classes and you’ve got an all-day destination that celebrates Mexican heritage in the best way possible.
Experience: OC Pride at the OC Fair & Event Center
What makes it special: The OC Fair & Event Center hosts more than 150 events each year, and OC Pride on September 27th easily made the top of the list. This year’s celebration was fun and designed with everyone in mind, bringing the Revolutionary theme to life through the free parade and Zero Proof Sober Space to the return of the Pride Marketplace. Party energy stayed high at the Pride Stage while Pride Family Camp and Teen Pride made youth feel seen and celebrated. Costa Mesa showed up with open arms, reminding attendees that inclusivity here isn’t limited to one month—but is a year-round value.
A Giveaway With All of Our Favorites
We picked our favorites, and we’re giving it away so you can get a taste of the best Costa Mesa has to offer. Visit us at @TravelCostaMesa to enter to win.
Comments Off on Costa Mesa’s Best Food, Shopping, and Experiences in 2025
Posted in Events, Food, Locals, Music & Art, Play, Shopping, Travel
11 Must-Visit Small Businesses in Costa Mesa
We’re showing some major love to the local shops that make Costa Mesa the ultimate “wait, where did you find that?!” kind of place.
Consider this blog your Costa Mesa Gift Guide — a curated scroll of locally owned boutiques and restaurants you should totally check out this holiday season.
1. Slow Goods
Slow Goods is a love letter to artisans around the world. Located inside Paseo 17, you’ll find everything from hand-woven Bali bags to Australian letter press stationary inspired by the owner’s experiences traveling and living abroad!
While you are there check out: Purre Boutique, Milligram, and Mercado Mesa
2. Period Correct
If someone on your list is a self-described “car guy,” you can’t miss Period Correct. Their high-quality hats, shirts, and accessories are influenced by race culture and architecture. It’s all about premium materials, unique style, and exclusive collabs.
While you are there check out: Work in Progress, Quiet Golf, and Canvasworker all located on Costa Mesa’s “famous” Randolph Street.
3. Fill Up Buttercup
Looking to shop more sustainably this holiday season? Fill Up Buttercup is your one stop-shop for home and body essentials that are biodegradable, compostable, or can be easily recycled!
This shopping center has some other gems worth checking out. While you are there stop by: Fermentation Farm, The Water Brewery, and Amis De la Terre.
4. The Inconvenience Store
At The CAMP, you’ll find The Inconvenience Store which is anything but an inconvenience! This little shop is packed with one-of-a-kind finds and so many unexpected knick-knacks. You’ll discover unique Japanese shirts and ceramics, miniature ceramics, and even handmade colorful dried flower bouquets.
While you are there check out: Work in Progress, Booth, and MadeWithLoveByJAX.
5. Saltwater Leather
Shop handcrafted leather goods at Saltwater Leather. Family-owned and family-made since 2019, they believe quality is in the details! Their leather duffle bags and passport holders make great gifts for someone who is always on the go. If you’re looking for something truly unique, book a leather sandal appointment. It’s a custom-made experience tailored to your size and style — just like it’s done in Italy! And if sandals aren’t your thing, they also offer custom belts as another great option.
Other shops we love on 17th street: Fleur De Lys, Rococo Boutique, Tres Muchachos, and Goodies.
5. Inspired Art Wine
If you are looking for a fun group night out or memorable date night, we recommend booking a class at Inspired Art Wine. Take a step-by-step painting class while sipping on a glass (or two) of wine! This relaxed space is a great way to tap into your inner artist and take a break from the holiday stress.
While you are there grab a new record at Port of Sound Record Shoppe or lunch at YUBUYA.
6. Landers Supply House
Landers Supply House is a must-visit for any slow fashion or vintage shopper. Their wide range of vintage denim, jackets, and jewelry with an americana twist is the perfect place to find a gift for someone who appreciates a unique, timeless piece.
Other thrift shops we love: Twice The Style and SoLo Consignment.
8. NEAT
Nestled in the heart of a local neighborhood , NEAT is a top choice for anyone looking for freshly brewed coffee and a warm welcoming vibe. If you need stocking stuffers, they have coffee bags from around the world, available for purchase!
If you swing by after 4:30, Tuesday through Thursday, NEAT transforms into a cozy, under-the-radar wine bar called Third Place.
Other local coffee shops we love: Coffee Nature, Original Barista, Nudae, and MoonGoat.
9. Plant Matter
Plant Matter is ready to add a touch of green to your space! Shop a beautiful selection of plants inside a retro airstream at The LAB and walk out with all the plant-care tips you’ll need for your new find.
At The LAB (Little American Business) all the stores are worth a visit, but here are a few of our favorites: Bred Hot Chicken, Good Town Doughnuts, and Things Between.
10. SISU
If you need a gift for someone who loves exploring the outdoors, you have to check out SISU at the SOCO & The OC Mix. This sibling-owned shop carries sustainable camping gear and home goods from Asian brands you won’t be able to find anywhere else! Check out our viral reel about their store to learn more.
While you are there check out: Balboa Gold, Hadley & Ren, and Local Fare.
11. Costa Mesa Ceramics Studio
Book a wheel-throwing class at Costa Mesa Ceramics Studio, where you can mold and shape clay into unique pottery pieces. Not much of an artist? Don’t worry, they have a lovely selection of handcrafted dinnerware and vases ready for purchase!
Other studios we love as the “City of the Arts”: ARTime Barro, The Pottery Studio, Location 1980
Take a Shopcation
With so many small businesses in the city to explore, why not turn your visit into a Shopcation? Find one-of-a kind gifts for everyone on your list, including yourself! At one of our eleven hotels, we have something for everyone! Plan your stay.
Comments Off on 11 Must-Visit Small Businesses in Costa Mesa
Posted in Shopping
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.
Hocus Pocus Beetle Juice Drag Show
You’re going to want to drop this one in the group chat! From October 3rd through November 1st , catch Orange County’s most wicked drag performance at STRUT Bar & Club. The Hocus Pocus Spelltacular Drag Show is filled with fun surprises that will leave you spellbound all while you sip on your favorite poison from the bar—because what’s a little witchcraft without a drink in hand? We recommend trying their citrusy “Midnight Cabaret-tini” or their fizzy “My Ex Jack’s Lemonade!”
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.
Comments Off on Sip, Savor, and Celebrate the Best of Fall in Costa Mesa
Posted in Events, Food, Misc, Music & Art, Play, Shopping, Travel
Costa Mesa Unlocked: Revealing Experiences You Won’t Find Anywhere Else
If you think you know everything about Southern California, that it’s all beaches and theme parks, think again! Costa Mesa is where the real magic happens. Known as the City of the Arts®, this crown jewel of Orange County is all about unforgettable experiences. Think Broadway-calibre theater, shopping that puts Rodeo Drive to shame, and a foodie scene that boasts Michelin-recognized dining. If glitz and glamor isn’t your scene, try indie creativity with hidden-gem boutiques, vintage photobooths, and quirky experiences like snake yoga. Read on to find out what you can do in Costa Mesa that you can’t do anywhere else.
You can find Costa Mesa nestled between Los Angeles and San Diego, so it’s an easy drive for locals. If you’re further away, fly into John Wayne Airport (SNA) to beat the LAX crowds.
Exclusive Bites
Celeb chef-turned-actor Matty Matheson (you probably recognize him from The Bear) opened Matty’s Patty’s Burger Club in Toronto, where it received gangbuster reviews. You don’t have to fly to Canada to get a taste of one of these saucy, saucy burgers or gooey poutine: the only other location is in Costa Mesa! (P.S. Get the Pineapple Soft Serve for dessert. It’s the perfect finish.)
Photo by @mattyspattysburgerclub
Mercado Gonzalez is a 70,000-square-feet Mexican market transplanted to Costa Mesa. The food choices are plentiful, and traversing the whole thing can be an all-day adventure. No need for plane tickets or border crossings here; just show up hungry. For that extra dose of exclusivity, we rec the churros from Churrería El Moro, since Mercado Gonzalez is the flagship U.S. location where you can try their famous treats.
Photo by @elmoro_usa
Wild & Wonderful Experiences
Ain’t no fair like the OC Fair! Running from mid-July to mid-August, this summer extravaganza has rides, live music with artists like Melissa Ethridge, Fitz & the Tantrums, and Blues Traveler, and deep-fried everything, along with fresh, healthier options. While the Fair has wrapped up for 2025, the excitement doesn’t end when the Fair does. The Fairgrounds hosts events all year. We’re looking forward to OC Japan Fair in October for the incredible food, and Gem Faire in December for everything that stuns and sparkles. The OC Fair & Events Center brings all the classic, nostalgic fun of a county fair, but bigger, better, and with Southern Californian flavor.
Got a case of FOMO? Try out viral experiences IRL in Costa Mesa, like LXRYoga’s famous (and adorable) snake yoga. Sure, goat yoga has been all the rage on the apps, but snake yoga is another thing entirely; the snakes are friendly and calm, there’s five minutes of photo opps to get your perfect snake selfie, and you get to hang out with a slithery new friend.
Photo by Jeff Gritchen
If snakes give you creepy-crawlies, there’s another viral hit in Booth by Bryant. Miss the old analog photobooths and their cute black-and-white pics? They’re a relic of the past, but in Costa Mesa, you can hop into a vintage booth and bring back memories or make new ones.
Photo by @sinadeinert
Costa Mesa’s known as The City of the Arts® for so many reasons, but a big one is the Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA). The museum is a love letter to modern and contemporary art, and especially to California. Best yet, because of an endowment, admission is free. Accessible, cultural, and thought-provoking, with frequent rooftop events and artist talks, OCMA is one the coolest places in the city.
Photo by @ocmamuseum
Retail Therapy
Costa Mesa has all sorts of shopping experiences that think outside of the box. The CAMP is a green, eco-conscious, and healthy-minded outdoor retail campus with tons of dining options, sustainable and artisanal shops, and even a ceramic and pottery studio. Every time we go to the CAMP, we find something new to obsess over; recently, it’s been the 2nd Street USA location, where we’re obsessed with the well-curated, premium secondhand goods.
Photo by @thecampoc
The LAB is not a mall; it’s an anti-mall. The variety of shops and restaurants—like Buffalo Exchange for thrifting, an Airstream trailer selling vinyls at Creme Tangerine, and Chef Atsushi Yokoyama’s Hana re, just to name a few—puts hometown malls to shame. Not that we have anything against an Orange Julius, patron saint of our childhoods, but we’d much rather go to a speakeasy like RUIN and have a Kiki Kiwi cocktail.
Photo by @thelabantimall
We saved some of the best for last with South Coast Plaza. Not only is it the largest shopping center on the West Coast, with over 250 retailers, but it’s also the home to incredible food and the Segerstrom Center for the Arts (where you can find OCMA). South Coast Plaza is the West Coast–exclusive home to brands like Alexander Wang, Missoni, Khaite, and Chopard. Beverly Hills who?
Photo by @southcoastplaza
Costa Mesa’s waiting with one-of-a-kind experiences. Bring your appetite, your sense of adventure, and your cutest comfy shoes to explore everything the city has to offer. But why rush? Book a room in one of our fabulous hotels to enjoy a multi-day experience.
Comments Off on Costa Mesa Unlocked: Revealing Experiences You Won’t Find Anywhere Else
14 Date Ideas for Valentine’s (or Galentine’s) Day
Chocolate and a night in? Sweet, but let’s be real—Costa Mesa has way too much going on to stay home. This Valentine’s (or Galentine’s) Day, why not upgrade your plans with something that will make your heart flutter.
We’ve rounded up 14 must-try date ideas in Costa Mesa that’ll make your day unforgettable. Whether you’re out with your partner or your ride-or-dies, these picks guarantee all the fun, all the feels, and zero regrets.
1. Take a Paint Class at Inspired Art Wine
Photo by Inspired Art Wine
Art and wine is a timeless combo and Inspired Art Wine is taking it up a notch. 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, so book yours before they’re gone.
2. Create a Custom Charm Necklace at Balboa Gold
Photo by Balboa Gold
For a keepsake that stands out, head to Balboa Gold inside SOCO & the OC Mix where you and your besties can design your own custom charm necklace or bracelet. Choose from a selection of meaningful charms, initials, and gemstones to match your personal style. Hanging with your boo? Book a permanent jewelry appointment to make it official with a forever bracelet!
3. Climb Together & Conquer Together at Rockcreation
Photo by Rockreation
Whether you’re a newbie or a pro climber, Rockreation is the perfect spot to reach new heights together—literally. Book a class tailored to your goals (fitness, technique, speed, etc.) or set up a private session for your Galentine’s crew. Because nothing says friendship like cheering each other on…or racing to the top for ultimate bragging rights!
4. Stay Classy with Dinner and a Show
Photo by @debophotos
Is there anything more iconic than dinner and a show? Kick-off Valentine’s Day with a decadent 4-course prix-fixe meal at Silver Trumpet—think perfectly seasoned steaks and seafood, hand-crafted desserts, and more deliciousness. Then, take a romantic stroll to Segerstrom Center for the Arts for Pacific Symphony’s Pops show featuring jazz-tinted music.
5. Make Something Special at Color Me Mine
Color Me Mine is ready to paint the town red this Valentine’s Day! On February 14th, grab your partner and BYO champagne, wine, or whatever gets your creativity flowing. They’re offering an intimate evening of ceramic painting, where your masterpieces are yours to keep. Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out—reserve your spot before it’s too late!
6. Enjoy a Special Dinner in Costa Mesa
Photo by Knife Pleat
Knife Pleat: Treat your special someone to a Michelin-starred experience at Knife Pleat with a luxurious French six-course tasting menu, available on Valentine’s Day and February 15.
Descanso: Celebrate love effortlessly with a special prix fixe menu for two, featuring Mexican street-inspired cuisine, available from February 13 through 16.
Sevilla: Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere of live Latin music and Spanish cuisine at Sevilla. Their special four-course menu features dishes like warm goat cheese dip, lobster paella valenciana, and orange tart with raspberry meringue for dessert.
The Country Club: Indulge in a romantic four-course meal with live jazz, an elegant dining ambiance, and a complimentary glass of champagne, plus options for wine pairings and themed craft cocktails.
7. Treat Yourselves at South Coast Plaza
Photo by South Coast Plaza
This Valentine’s Day, shopping at South Coast Plaza is more than just a retail therapy session—it’s a love affair. With luxury brands, boutiques, and delicious eateries, you’ll find the perfect gift (or treat yourself—no judgment here). Don’t forget to grab a complimentary rose and stop by Laderach for artisanal chocolates that’ll make your heart—and taste buds—melt.
8. Be Inspired at OCMA
Photo by Jeff Gritchen
The Orange County Museum of Art is the perfect unexpected spot for a memorable date night. Stroll hand in hand through the galleries, exploring California and international masterpieces, and don’t miss the immersive Martin Creed exhibit, featuring giant yellow balloons that make for a fun photo op. Plus, admission is free!
9. Learn Some Moves at Café Sevilla
Photo by Café Sevilla
This Valentine’s Day, spice things up with a Salsa & Bachata dance class at Café Sevilla! No reservations required—just bring your dance partner and some comfy shoes for a night of fun. Start with salsa, then move on to bachata, and put your new skills to the test while dancing into the early morning, until 1:30 am. It’s the perfect way to turn your date night into an unforgettable dance party!
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. Take a Wheel Throwing Class 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. Spread the Love at The CAMP
Head to The CAMP for a day filled with love, creativity, and fun! Enjoy live tunes by Violette Rain and dive into free activities like floral arranging, custom heart wreath making, and a fun photo op backdrop. Sip on mocktails by Hi Lo Liquor, grab a bag of wildflower seeds to take home, and more!
14. End the Night Right with an Overnight Stay
Photo by @steadyjenny
Valentine’s Day falls on a Friday this year— perfect for turning it into a three-day weekend celebration! The Westin South Coast Plaza is offering a romantic getaway designed for relaxation and indulgence.
Package Includes:
- Overnight accommodations
- Complimentary Breakfast for two (2) at The Great Room
- Complimentary self-parking for one (1) vehicle
- Chocolate Covered Strawberries
- One (1) bottle of Champagne or Sparkling Cider
Whether you’re celebrating with your partner or your best friends, a luxurious overnight stay at a Costa Mesa Hotel is the best way to cap off an unforgettable night. Enjoy comfort, privacy, and a little extra love this weekend.
Comments Off on 14 Date Ideas for Valentine’s (or Galentine’s) Day
Posted in Events, Food, Hotels, Music & Art, Shopping
