Everyone’s invited

A wide sandy beach with few people, gentle waves, and a distant row of palm trees creates a peaceful setting reminiscent of costa mesa attractions. Three people sit on beach towels near the water, enjoying the calm, sunny atmosphere.

Family trips come with a lot to figure out. This one doesn’t have to.

Costa Mesa puts you right in the middle of Orange County, close to Disneyland, the ocean, and everything in between. From open parks and nearby beaches to laid-back places to eat and explore, it’s easy to build a day that works for everyone.

Start early, take your time, and see where the day takes you. There’s plenty to do, and even more ways to make it your own.

A full day, your way.

It’s easy to mix it up here. At Fairview Park, trails wind through wetlands, over bridges, and all the way toward the coast if you’re up for it. For something more central, Triangle Square adds an easy mix of photo spots, food, and bowling.

A paved path curves through a grassy park area in Costa Mesa with trees providing shade. Bushes and open fields stretch into the distance under a partly cloudy sky, reminiscent of the serene landscapes of Mesa Verde.

Fairview Park

Triangle Square

A woman in a white t-shirt, pink gingham skirt, blue sandals, and white sunglasses stands in front of a colorful mural with large flowers, leaves, and palm trees. She holds a round blue bag and looks to the side, smiling.

Costa Mesa Bloom

A person is silhouetted in the foreground while bowling in a glowing bowling alley with neon blue lighting and pins set up at the end of the lane.

Tavern + Bowl

Full plates, no debates.

Meals here are easy to figure out. The Crack Shack keeps things fun with space to play while you wait, and Pitfire Artisan Pizza is a safe bet for just about everyone. Add in local favorites like Wahoo’s Fish Tacos and The Straw’s over-the-top shakes for a sweet finish.

A stacked burger with bacon, grilled chicken, lettuce, a large fried onion ring, and melted cheese on a seeded bun, served on a metal tray with parchment paper.

The Crack Shack

Two women sit at a table in Costa Mesa, enjoying tacos and drinks, smiling and laughing. Various food trays and beverages are spread before them. The background features a decorative wall with green leaves and large white hibiscus flowers.

Playa Mesa Mexican Kitchen

Walk. Browse. Repeat.

The LAB Anti-Mall and The CAMP keep things relaxed with open-air spaces, local shops, and spots to sit while the kids reset. There’s always something to look at, including a few photo-worthy corners along the way.

The LAB

The CAMP

Room for everyone.

Ramada by Wyndham Costa Mesa/Newport Beach keeps you close to the beach with practical extras like kitchenettes and a pool. For more space, Residence Inn by Marriott Costa Mesa adds full kitchens, breakfast, and room to spread out.

A swimming pool at dusk at Ramada Costa Mesa, surrounded by lounge chairs and a white fence, with palm trees and illuminated hotel buildings in the background under a deep blue sky.

Ramada Inn & Suites

A tan, two-story building with a sloped roof and palm trees sits under a blue sky, its sign reading Residence Inn Costa Mesa by Marriott on the exterior.

Residence Inn by Marriott

Explore what’s happening around town.

A smiling woman holds a large pink cotton candy at a fair. Text reads: OC Fair. Your adventure awaits. July 17 - Aug 16. Tickets on sale now! The background is lively with festive decorations.

July 17, 2026–August 16, 2026

2026 OC Fair – Your Adventure Awaits

Two men are in front of a blurred cityscape at night. Large white text above them reads NELLY and TOO $HORT, with a dollar sign replacing the S in SHORT.

August 2, 2026

Nelly at Pacific Amphitheatre

Seven actors in elaborate period costumes stand in a line singing on stage, under a large, gold, draped theatre curtain with a dramatic black backdrop.

August 12, 2026–August 30, 2026

Phantom of the Opera at Segerstrom Hall

Three men stand in front of a golden background with glowing light beams radiating outward. The man in the center faces forward, wearing a COLUMBIA sweatshirt. The other two look away in opposite directions.

August 12, 2026

AJR at Pacific Amphitheatre

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