Travel Costa Mesa Blog
Hands-On Adventures in Costa Mesa: Get Out and Make Things
If you love getting your hands dirty in the best way—think flour, paint splatters, or clay—then Costa Mesa is the place to be. Ever wanted to pretend you’re on The Great Pottery Throw Down? Yeah, us too, and we get to live out our pottery wheel fantasies whenever we want. Depending on your desires, whether it’s painting, learning about building your own hydroponics system, or even picking up some new dance moves, Costa Mesa has a workshop, class, or studio ready for you to dive in.
If you’re a SoCal native, just point your GPS to Orange County, in between Los Angeles and San Diego. If you’re not a local, fly into John Wayne Airport (SNA) and skip the hassle of LAX.
Meet Your Inner Maker
If you’re itching to start making things but don’t know where to start (or require supervision), we can’t recommend Urban Workshop highly enough. It’s a makerspace with courses, project classes, and 1:1 mentoring—they’ve got options for everything from textiles to photography and blacksmithing. There’s membership options too if you’re excited to get your make on.
Photo by @urbanworkshop
Canvas Worker has workshops to teach you how to sew a bag of your own. If you’re afraid of sewing machines, don’t be! The instructor walks you through safety and procedure and is there to make things keep running smoothly. At the end of it, you get a gorgeous bag you put together yourself.
Photo by @canvasworker
Sculpt, Glaze, Repeat
Regardless of if you’re a novice potter or a pro, there are options in Costa Mesa for everyone. ARTime Barro has workshops, an online basics course, and classes for adults as well as teens and kids. They also have the option to rent studio time, for experienced artists. Costa Mesa Ceramics has youth and adult classes, as well as the option for booking private classes, including for large groups, so you can bring the whole squad and throw down!
Photo by @costamesaceramics
Craft, Create, Innovate
Inspired Art & Wine has the perfect sip and paint experience—we’re obsessed with their Bob Ross-Inspired Oil Workshop, because who doesn’t love a happy little tree? There’s also a workshop option for wine bottle and glass painting. You can book time for private events, including for offsite and mobile painting.
Photo by @inspiredartwine
Stretch, Breathe, and Slither
Snake Yoga at YXRYOGA isn’t so much a hands-on experience as it is a whole-body-on experience. You can book a private yoga sesh (with up to four guests) and learn how to ground yourself in your body with the help of calm, slithering friends. Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it, either; we’ve brought nervous folks who ended up besties with their assigned snakes by the end.
Photo by @lxrpythons
Farm-Fresh Fun
The OC Fair & Events Center isn’t just an annual fried-food-and-rides extravaganza; there are workshops held year-round, including at Centennial Farm, a three-acre working farm that offers tours as well as farm and gardening classes. Check the schedule to see what’s coming to the event center; there’s Farmers Markets, bridal expos, and plenty of opportunities to plunge your hands into some soil.
Up Your Food & Bev Game
Sur La Table has an incredible roster of cooking classes, so you can show off everything from French pastry skills to pasta-making and intimate date-night dinners. There are options for basically every palate, and you’ll want to bring home half the store’s worth of kitchenware if you’re not careful.
Photo by @surlatable
The Mixing Glass is the home for all things beer, spirits, wine, and cider, but don’t overlook their classes! Learn about Modern Tiki or Bourbon vs Rye, as well as Mixology 101 and 201 options. And when you’re done learning, you can buy gourmet snacks and bites for your own setup, as well as high-quality provisions, to make perfect cocktails at home.
Feel the Rhythm
Ready to work up a sweat? Head to Sevilla, a nightclub with salsa and bachata dance classes (provided by OC Salsa) every Wednesday that you can attend for a modest fee. It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner, intermediate, or expert; they’ve got a class for you, and you don’t even need to bring a partner.
Photo by @sevillanightcluboc
Stay and Play in Costa Mesa
After a full day of hands-on fun, it’s imperative you have a place to chill and recharge. That’s where our incredible Costa Mesa hotels come in. If you’re ready to plan your creative getaway, remember to book a room to relax.
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Posted in Events, Music & Art, Play, Travel
Feasts, Treats, and Decadent Eats in Costa Mesa
Life’s too short for boring meals. Remember that first unforgettable bite, or the joy of dining out with our favorite people, or even channeling a Roman emperor with an extravagant, over-the-top feast? Costa Mesa’s dining scene delivers big on decadence, and this list of standouts is unapologetically indulgent. These are the kinds of food experiences you talk about, and show off in your photo gallery, for years to come.
Getting to Costa Mesa for your day of indulgence is a breeze, since it’s conveniently situated between L.A. and San Diego. Not driving? Here’s a local tip: fly into OC’s John Wayne Airport (SNA) and beat the stress of LAX.
Destination Decadence
We’re starting strong with a luxurious experience from the Michelin-starred French restaurant Knife Pleat. There’s three caviar options for caviar service, each of them more decadent than the last. Savor your buttery, popping bites with a chilled cocktail. We love the Iris Van Herpen for the shiso and plum notes.
Photo by @knifepleat
Epic Bites
Some burgers just hit different. That’s the case at Matty’s Patty’s Burger Club, a Toronto fave with a Costa Mesa location (lucky us!), owned and operated by actor-chef Matty Matheson of The Bear fame. Ooey-gooey poutine is always a solid pick, but the burgers are the superstar of the show here: get yours with Matty’s Patty’s Sauce or Pickled Jalapeño Mayo.
Photo by @mattyspattysburgerclub
The tapas at Top Chef alum Chef Amar Santana’s Vaca is beyond. This Michelin Guide–rated spot serves Erizos Con Huevos are scrambled eggs and fresh sea urchin with miso butter toast, an ingenious combo of buttery, salty, umami flavor. Savor a plate of Canelon de Pollo Ahumado, or smoked chicken cannelloni, especially the duck liver sauce and sherry reduction. And if you’ve never had the chance to try Ibérian ham, save room for some of the most complex morsels of your life.
Photo by @vaca_costamesa
No Holding Back
We have one word for you: omakase. The “chef’s table” sushi experience at Michelin-starred Hana re, led by Chef Atsushi Yokoyama, is about as intimate an indulgence as you can get, given the limited seating and serene atmosphere. Settle in for fifteen courses of hand-selected fresh seafood.
Photo by @hana_re_sushi
Locals know about Costa Mesa’s Ramen Row, or the plethora of ramen shops in a three-block radius around Baker Street. Take yourself on a ramen crawl and hit up Hakata Ikkousha for the definitive standard of tonkotsu-style, Kashiwa Ramen for Black Garlic Ramen with roasted garlic oil chicken, Kitakata Ramen Ban Nai for Green Chili Shio Ramen, and Mogumogu for soupless noodles for a novel finish.
Photo by @kashiwaramen_oc
Sweet Escapes
The two-pound Giant Cinnamon Roll at Plums Cafe is worth a photo opp for sure—how often do we get to try baked goods as big as our heads? But don’t order this scrumptious baked good just for the novelty; it’s unbelievably delicious. We do advise bringing some friends to share the love or asking for a take-home container, so no bite goes to waste.
Photo by @plumscafe
The Straw makes milkshakes that push the boundaries of flavor while respecting nostalgia. Saigon Sin is a Vietnamese-inspired coconut cream and durian treat, and it’s a flavor exclusive to their OC location. If you want something a little more traditional, try La Bella Donna, an espresso milkshake with tiramisu. (Also, vegans, you can substitute with vegan ice cream!)
Photo by @thestrawmilkshakes
Indulge your imagination and your taste buds at Elixir, which serves up whimsy alongside boba and ice cream. Creative drinks (like Labyrinth, a green tea latte with dragon honey and boba), fantasy decor that demands you get your pose on, and magical staff take the vibes from great to extraordinary. Every single drink is alcohol free, so it’s a great spot to hit up if you’re sober or just sober curious.
Photo by @katielovesboba
Ever dipped a piping-hot, crispy churro into rich, velvety hot chocolate? That double hit of crunch and smooth is worthy of closing your eyes and sighing. Hit up Mexico City–based legend Churreria El Moro (at Mercado Gonzalez) for the best churros and ice cream you can imagine, and count yourself lucky that Costa Mesa is the first El Moro location outside of Mexico.
Photo by @elmoro_usa
Meals like the ones we’ve included in this roundup of decadence deserved to be savored. Why rush home after a long, flavorful day? Stay the night in one of Costa Mesa’s top hotels and make it an Eatcation® instead of a one-day indulgence.
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Get Taste Buzzed: The Best Eats in Costa Mesa
Are you ready to take your taste buds on an Eatcation®? Come to Costa Mesa, the foodie capital of Orange County, where you don’t need a cocktail to get taste buzzed. From hidden gems to emerging hotspots, we’ve collected all the must-try restaurants in Costa Mesa for all appetites—all of them are must-tries, no skips!
Getting to Costa Mesa is a breeze; it’s nestled between L.A. and San Diego. If you’re not close enough to drive, here’s a local tip: fly into O.C.’s beloved John Wayne Airport (SNA) and beat the stress of LAX. You’ll thank us later
Where Flavor Meets Fun
Mercado Gonzalez is 70,000 square feet of authentic, family-owned goodness inspired by the famous food markets of Mexico. Any craving you have, they’ve got it covered—birrieria, carnitas, seasonal fruit, and even fresh seafood? All of it and more is available in one space (FYI, it’s great for groups!).
Photo by @northgatemarket
Small but mighty, Folks Pizzeria has some of the best pizza we’ve ever tried, and they’ve got indoor and outdoor seating depending on how much sunshine you want with your ‘za. Get the Beef Tallow French Fries if you’re a fry aficionado, and pair it with the Soppressata white pie. Sooo good.
Photo by @folkspizzeria
Vaca brings Spain to SoCal via three-time Top Chef competitor chef Amar Santana. We’re big fans of the Bocadillos, or Spanish sandwiches, with vegetables or tuna. It’s our mission to get through the entire tapas menu someday, but it’s hard when we absolutely have to save room for the paella.
Photo by @vaca_costamesa
No Meat, No Problem!
Seabirds Kitchen is a staple of California vegan cuisine, and Costa Mesa is lucky enough to be its home. There’s no going wrong with the Seabirds menu, but we specifically rec the Beer Battered Avo Taco and Purple Potato Taquitos. Yum.
Photo by @a_fit_bird
Head to The CAMP for The Plot, serving up shareables like the Chronic Sushi Roll and hearty, plant-based comfort food like Shepherd’s Pie. Try the Mango Crème Brûlée for a perfect finish!
Photo by @theplotrestaurant
A Taste of Asia
If you haven’t stopped by South Coast Plaza, you’re missing out on some of the best Asian cuisine in the city. There are two soup dumpling heavy hitters: Din Tai Fung (we’re always down to DTF here, and we can’t get enough of their stir-fried veg), and Paradise Dynasty, with eight-spice soup dumplings pushing the bounds with flavor (you have to try the Crab Meat with Roe Xiao Long Bao). AnQi Bistro has a noods and dumpling bar, but don’t overlook the small plates or the steaks. The large plate of Peking Roasted Chicken with Truffle Hainan Rice is our favorite.
Photo by @anqibistro
Mesa Munchies
If you’re craving something simple, fresh, and with tasty options for the whole crew, try one of the two Mendocino Farms locations in Costa Mesa. You can’t go wrong with the half-sandwich combo (we rec the “Not So Fried” Chicken) with a cup of Thai Sweet Potato Soup.
The Collage is another great solution if you’re feeding a group: it’s a two-story dining collective at South Coast Plaza with lots of choices. One person might be feeling a gourmet waffle sandwich at Bruxie, but another might want to get drinks on the patio at Blossoms & Brass. Everybody wins.
Photo by @blossomsandbrass
For spice lovers, Bred Hot Chicken serves up hot chicken in basically every variety you can think of. Share a crispy and juicy chicken platter with friends, or snack on a Big O’ Sandwich by yourself; just don’t skimp on sauce or sides.
Photo by @bredhotchicken
New to the Scene
Ospi is a winning mashup of Italy and California, led by another Top Chef alum, chef Jackson Kalb. The Persian Cucumber salad followed by Ceci e Tria pasta and Sole Milanese as a main is, at least to us, a meal for the history books. Come check Ospi out at Paseo 17, a newly revitalized corner of Costa Mesa’s must-visit 17th Street.
Photo by @ospi
Get Your Buzz On in Costa Mesa
Whether you’re craving casual or fine dining, Costa Mesa satisfies any appetite. Remember: take it easy and don’t rush the experience of getting your taste buzz on. If you want to try everything the city has to offer, turn your foodie trip into a weekend Eatcation® at one of our favorite hotels.
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Costa Mesa’s Best Food, Shopping, and Experiences in 2024
Meet your next Eatcation®, Shopcation, or Vibecation.
We’re thrilled to share our end-of-year guide to the best Costa Mesa has to offer. From mouthwatering meals to one-of-a-kind shopping and unforgettable experiences, we’re celebrating the highlights from each of Costa Mesa’s diverse neighborhoods.
How did we choose the best? We tapped into staff and community favorites, kept our finger on the pulse of everything new, and thrilled with every viral video. The result is a curated list of what captured the heart and soul of Costa Mesa in 2024.
We couldn’t include every stop we loved, so we recommend you use this to kick off your ‘cation and discover—or rediscover—everything that makes Costa Mesa an unexpected favorite. Let’s dive in and celebrate the best of this year!
This summer, Mercado González featured a Lucha Libre pop-up experience, celebrating the beloved Mexican sport. Look for more pop-ups in 2025!
Central Costa Mesa
Eat: Prince St. Pizza
What makes it special: Coming in hot from New York City to Orange County, Prince Street Pizza burst onto the Costa Mesa food scene this year and hasn’t slowed down. Lines were out the door to try the authentic NYC pizza served in Sicilian-style squares and slices. Prince Street Pizza is serious about their pies, even using a special water filtration system to match the pH of NYC, so that the dough comes out just right, every time.
Shop: Mercado Gonzalez
What makes it special: Mercado González is the first concept of its kind from the multi-generational González family, responsible for the 60+ Northgate Markets across SoCal, and Costa Mesa is the only place in the world you can experience it. This wonderland of Mexican food, drink, and culture features churros, tortillas, mole, agua fresca, and so much more—all created right in front of you.
Experience: Westwood Coast
What makes it special: Do you have what it takes to be a rodeo star? Hop on the mechanical bull and find out at Triangle Square’s newest destination, Westwood Coast. If you prefer to put on your boots and boogie instead of ride, Westwood has line dancing and live music that is sure to get your toes tapping and your heels clapping.
Not ready to let the night end? Party Vegas-style at Time Nightclub or do as the locals do and try out Goat Hill Tavern where the beer is plentiful, and the vibes are always juuuust right.
Costa Mesa-based Lxryoga combines mindful fitness with snakes in small, group classes
Eastside Costa Mesa
Eat: Plums Café
What makes it special: Breakfast at Plums Cafe comes with a sweet twist: their Instagram famous two-pound cinnamon roll! Fluffy, gooey, and dripping in icing, this giant pastry is big enough to share—but if you’re feeling bold, you can take the 20-minute challenge to finish it solo and win a t-shirt that says,“Cinnamon challenges at Plums – I ate the whole thing.”
Looking for more tasty eats in the area? Tres Muchachos is serving up a delicious mashup of Mediterranean and Mexican cuisine.
Shop: Covry
What makes it special: Inclusive, fun, and stylish – that’s Covry. This women-owned, Asian-owned brand specializes in eyewear designed for diverse face shapes so you’ll never have to worry about glasses slipping or digging into your cheeks again! Swing by their flagship location, where they host a monthly nature and meditation walk to help you unplug and reset.
Experience: Snake Yoga
What makes it special: Only in Costa Mesa! What started as a passion project quickly became a viral sensation this year at LXRYOGA. As seen in People Magazine, this snake yoga experience pairs you with friendly, non-venomous ball pythons for a unique class that’s both calming and exciting. In small-group sessions, yogis first learn how to hold the snakes, then are paired with their own snake for the duration of the class. It’s the perfect way to conquer your fears—or just add a unique twist to your yoga routine.
Birds of a feather flock together at the cozy, cocktail-forward Birdcage Lounge
Westside Costa Mesa
Eat: Nudae Coffee
What makes it special: Nudae Coffee celebrated their first anniversary in 2024, and we know they’ll have many more to come. Nudae pairs their coffee with a cozy, colorful, and creative space that locals love. Their sandwiches are made fresh, and we love their seasonal drink creations. Kids and non-coffee drinkers won’t feel left out of their menu.
Shop: Amis de la Terre Zero-Waste Market
What makes it special: Amis de la Terre means friends of the earth in French, and as soon as you step in their Westside market, you become part of their community. This organic, plastic-free grocery store was created by a SoCal-local with a Master’s degree in Oceanography at the Sorbonne in France. Gluten free, keto, vegan, heirloom, and fair-trade—no matter what your grocery shopping looks like, Amis de la Terre has it.
While you’re there, stop by Fill Up Buttercup, just a few doors down from Amis de la Terre. Fill Up Buttercup is a zero-waste refill shop with thoughtful, non-toxic bath, body, and household products.
Experience: Birdcage Lounge
What makes it special: Not only is Birdcage Lounge guaranteed to give you your best Instagram pic of the night, you’re also likely to meet your new best friends. An intimate, LGBT+ space within Costa Mesa’s Strut Bar & Club, Birdcage Lounge is as beautiful as it is welcoming. Try one of their signature flocktails or attend one of their many themed nights.
We would be remiss not to mention The Wayfarer, Costa Mesa’s live music venue and gastropub, that celebrated their ten-year anniversary this year. Every style of music has a home at The Wayfarer, and everyone is welcome. Drop by and you might discover your next favorite band.
Yubuya specializes in inari sushi, replacing the nori with sweet tofu
Mesa Verde
Eat: Yubuya
What makes it special: All the likes, meet the hype! Yubuya, a father-daughter-owned hidden gem, is where Korean and Japanese flavors come together in perfect harmony. If you like sushi, you will definitely love yubuchobap, delicious crispy rice pockets packed with unbelievable flavor. Their soy-marinated and creamy onion salmon yubu are a crowd favorite but if you’re looking for something with a kick, try their spicy yellow tail yubu.
Shop: SOCO and The OC Mix
What makes it special: SOCO and The OC Mix is a top SoCal design destination where designers, decorators, trend setters, and creative minds come to get inspired. From flooring that’ll make your home pop to the perfect light fixture that brings it all together, you are sure to find it here. With over 70 handpicked shops to choose from including Bang & Olufsen, Coco Republic, BoConcept, Design Within Reach, and Modani Furniture, it’s no surprise people travel from all over to discover statement-making pieces.
When hunger strikes, fuel up with delicious oven-to-table eats at Michelin-rated Arc Food & Liberations.
Experience: Inspired Art Wine
What makes it special: Inspired Art Wine takes paint and sip to whole new level! Did you know it is the only art studio wine bar in the US certified to teach Bob Ross-techniques? That’s right—come channel your inner Ross, paint some happy little trees, and sip on Napa Valley’s finest art-inspired wines. The pet portrait classes are a must-try: using a reference photo, they hand-sketch every detail of your pet onto a canvas and then help you paint stunning portraits of your fur (or feathered) friends. Whether it’s a dog, cat, pig, parrot, turtle, or horse, they’ve captured it all—with over 2,500 pet portraits and counting they are masters at capturing your pet’s unique personality.
Swarovski is one of the many luxury boutiques that has recently opened at South Coast Plaza
South Coast Metro
Food: Ramen Row
What makes it special: No Eatcation®is truly complete without a slurp-worthy stop at Costa Mesa’s famous Ramen Row! This noodle nirvana is where locals—and now lucky visitors—find bowls of soul-soothing broth brimming with umami-packed flavor. Don’t miss local favorites like Mogu Mogu, Slurpin’ Ramen Bar, Hakata Ikkousha Ramen, and Kashiwa Ramen. Trust us, one slurp, and you’ll understand why this is the ultimate comfort food row!
Shop: South Coast Plaza
What makes it special: In the shopping Olympics, South Coast Plaza takes gold. It has the highest concentration of luxury brands in the United States, and this year brought the addition of new boutiques for Zegna, Maison Margiela, Palm Angels, Marni, and so many more. It’s the exclusive West Coast location for designers like Alexander Wang, Chopard, and Missoni. In 2025, keep an eye out for Dior Parfums, Delvaux, and Acne.
While South Coast Plaza wins our “shop” category, the food also deserves a mention. You have to taste it to believe it. We’ll leave this right here… Yu Cake.
Experience: Orange Coast College Planetarium
What makes it special: The Planetarium is your all-access pass to the stars—and beyond! This spiral galaxy-shaped dome is where you can embark on a journey through space with 360° projections, immersive audio-visual magic, and stunning 3D animations. But that’s not all! Music lovers, get ready for LAZERDOME. Let dazzling laser lights ignite your senses as you rock out to epic anthems from Taylor Swift, Led Zeppelin, Metallica, and Pink Floyd. Prefer a more tranquil escape? Enter Mesmerica—an awe-inspiring journey through imaginary landscapes designed to relax your mind and stimulate your senses.
Due to a generous donation, admission to OCMA (Orange County Museum of Art) is free to all guests for ten years
Theater and Arts District
Food: Vaca
What makes it special: Led by Executive Chef Amar Santana, Vaca brings the best of Spain to Orange County. Already known as a two-time contestant on Bravo’s Top Chef, Santana was named to 2024 Latino Leaders by TIME. Santana was one of only seventeen individuals recognized, alongside George Lopez and Aubrey Plaza. Vaca is a community favorite and Michelin-rated, best known for its paella and vast selection of meat cuts.
Shop: OCMA’s Shop
What makes it special: Orange County Museum of Art featured eleven exhibits this year, from Yves Saint Laurent: Line and Expression, which received accolades from W Magazine and Los Angeles Times, to Martin Creed’s Work No. 3868 Half the air in a given space, which was an instant viral hit.
OCMA’s Shop followed suit with a well-curated rotation of artsy knick-knacks from small businesses, local Orange County creators, and organizations giving back to the community. Some of the pop-up shops featured include: People’s Pottery Project, supporting formerly incarcerated women, trans, and non-binary individuals through their collaborative studio; and Funday Collective, a husband-and-wife duo blending creativity, realism, vintage, and most importantly, fun.
Experience: Docent Tour at Segerstrom Center for the Arts
What makes it special: The magic of experiencing the performing arts is created in two ways: the preparation behind the scenes, and the performance on stage. SCFTA’s docent-led tour lets you step behind the curtain (literally!) and take a deep dive into everything that happens backstage. Learn the history of the Segerstrom family and their impact on Costa Mesa and the entire Orange County region, while walking through rehearsal spaces and VIP rooms like you’re a part of the cast.
The Mellowist connects art and nature with people, both artists and collectors alike, resulting in a thriving community
Sobeca District
Food: The Plot
What makes it special: Sustainable, zero-waste, and proudly plant-based: that’s The Plot, new to Costa Mesa this year. With a successful San Diego-based dining concepts already under their belt, Davin and Jessica Waite chose the conscious living campus, The Camp, for their next endeavor. Their produce is sourced as locally as possible, with no single-use plastic. Having a meal at The Plot is an invitation to taste and think about vegetables, sustainability, and the impact of our choices in a new way.
For other vegan-friendly options, stop by Blackmarket Bakery, also at The Camp, for freshly baked bread and pastries.
Shop: Mellowist
What makes it special: As seen in our summer “We’ve Got Good Taste” video, Mellowist is a locally-owned and operated gem located on Randolph Street, where you’ll find an exquisite collection of rare cacti and handmade pottery. This mini oasis offers a unique shopping experience, perfect for both plant enthusiasts and those looking for unique one-of-a-kind gifts.
While you’re there, make a pit stop at Period Correct for automotive-inspired streetwear, and swing by Quiet Golf for modern golf gear and accessories.
Experience: Booth by Bryant
What makes it special: You’ll find the coolest travel keepsake at Booth By Bryant! These celeb-approved, TikTok viral vintage photo booths snap iconic black-and-white photo strips for just $5. It’s a throwback moment with a modern twist and a timeless way to capture your Costa Mesa memories.
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Posted in Events, Food, Locals, Music & Art, Play, Shopping, Travel
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:
- 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
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
