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Three people relax on a sandy beach near the waterline, with gentle waves washing ashore and palm trees lining the background. A few other people are spaced along the wide, empty beach under a cloudy sky.

Sea You There: A Beach-Close Itinerary

Published Jun 20, 2026, 4:56pm

Culture in the morning, coast in the afternoon. Sounds like a dream, but it’s just the way of things in Costa Mesa. Thanks to its unbeatable location in Orange County, you have your pick of activities. You can start your day surrounded by world-class art and end it with your toes in the warm sand. If you’re craving ocean adventures or a dose of creativity, or a little of both, we’ve designed a fun, sunny itinerary that takes advantage of everything Costa Mesa has to offer.

We’re just minutes away from Southern California’s most iconic beaches. Costa Mesa’s sweet spot in Orange County, with Los Angeles to the north and San Diego to the south, means we’re only minutes away from John Wayne Airport (SNA). If you’ve travelled in SoCal and haven’t flown into or out of SNA, take it from us: nothing beats the ease of this airport.

Start With Culture

Ease into the day with a stroll through UCI Langson Orange County Museum of Art (formerly known as OCMA), where thought-provoking galleries and rotating exhibitions set the tone moving forward. This is a perfect way to warm up before the waves: this itinerary is designed to nourish your mind, spirit, and body.

Four young adults walk down wide, modern indoor stairs surrounded by glass walls and white architecture. One person in a red jacket leads, followed by two others talking and one looking around. A city building is visible outside.

This is the stage where you want to swipe on some sunscreen. The next stop is exploring Noguchi Garden, a serene, sculptural landscape that feels like a hidden gem and highlights California’s ecosystems.

A geometric structure with tan stone tiles sits beside a desert garden featuring sand, rocks, and various cacti and succulents, with a white wall and sparse trees in the background.

Pair the garden exploration with a wander through the Costa Mesa ArtWalk to experience the city’s public art scene. This is your final refreshing contrast before your coastal afternoon.

Head to the Coast

Now that you’re ready to get your beach on, we recommend starting with whale-watching at Newport Landing. You get out on the water in a cruise where you’ll get up close and personal with marine giants. It’s a memory that lasts a lifetime for sure.

Three people smile and laugh while standing among colorful surfboards in a shop. A woman in the foreground holds a red surfboard, with two others happily chatting in the background.

Next, you can either rent a boat, swim, ski, or surf, depending on your comfort with water adventures. Newport Beach’s calm harbor is a great place for beginners and seasoned pros alike.

If you’re hungry and don’t want to hit up a restaurant while you’re sandy and salty, the great news is you can bring a picnic to the beach. It’s a vibe. Pack snacks, bring a blanket, and turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary moment.

Wind Down in Costa Mesa

After your coastal adventures, return to Costa Mesa for dinner, drinks, or a relaxing evening exploring local shops and cafes. It’s the best way to balance a beach day with the city’s signature cultural energy.

A woman in a blue dress holds a glass of orange-colored cocktail with ice and a lemon slice, sitting outdoors. Her arm and hand tattoos, jewelry, and long hair are visible, with a blurred background.

Don’t let our suggestions box you in, either: If you’re a beach-first kind of person, then do what makes you happy. Just don’t forget to check out all the other activities the city has in store.

Where to Stay

Destress by staying in a beach‑close Costa Mesa hotel. You’ll be minutes from the water, the arts, and all the sunny SoCal moments in between. Great options include Best Western, Ramada, Hampton by Hilton, and OC Hotel. Staying local keeps you close to everything you need for a sunny summer trip.

Start Planning Now!

Plan Your Visit
Four young adults smiling and walking together outside a modern building; one woman in a red hat leads the group, while the others chat and follow, carrying shopping bags.

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