During SoCal summers, ice cream is a staple for staying cool. We challenge you to try these 5 ice cream spots in Costa Mesa that are serving up the most Insta-worthy twists on this classic summer treat.

Top 5 Ice Cream Spots in Costa Mesa

1. Stella Jean’s Ice Cream

Globally inspired and hand-crafted, the recipes at Stella Jean’s Ice Cream are packed with unique flavors. You will find the classics on the menu (like vanilla and double chocolate), but there will also always be opportunities for venturing into new territory. Flavors like ube + pandesal toffee, mango sticky rice, and strawberry oat crumble are a few honorable mentions. 

2. The Straw

Ranked #1 for the best milkshakes in the USA by Travel + Leisure, The Straw  is where it’s at for the most flavorful and creative shakes around. Taking inspiration from the 1950s, The Straw’s flavors, style, and vibe work together to capture local OC soul in every sip. If you are 21+, try making any shake boozy for an extra $3.

3. Strickland’s Ice Cream

For nearly 90 years, Strickland’s Ice Cream has been perfecting their recipes and producing award-winning ice cream. Order classic flavors like mint chocolate chip or rocky road. Or discover one of their small-batch flavors of the day— such as taro, red velvet chip, Thai tea, and lychee.

4. El Morro

Located at the new trendy El Mercado Gonzalez in Costa Mesa, El Moro started making churros almost 90 years ago. At their latest location, they have made their mark by serving consuelos, or ice cream churro sandwiches. Each bite brings out the best in the crunchy churro and the creamy-sweet ice cream for what is quickly becoming a local favorite.

5. Vitaly

Nestled inside Costa Mesa’s trendy retail campus The CAMP, Vitaly brightens the space with their courtyard seating where you can enjoy premium gelato (and fresh Italian food, beer, and wine). Whether you are starting a summer day or ending one, stopping by Vitaly for a refreshing treat will never disappoint.