Costa Mesa is your SoCal hub for culture, recreation, dining, nature, shopping, and everything in between. The holiday season brings ever-perfect weather, and an endless choice of food, fun, and festivities from downtown to the coast. Host a holiday gathering in Costa Mesa and you (and your guests) might never want to leave, and no one would blame you.
Here’s some of our favorite hotels, venues, and community spaces to host an unforgettable holiday experience.
Crowne Plaza Costa Mesa
You’d be hard pressed to choose a more central option than Crowne Plaza Costa Mesa. Easy freeway access, a stone’s throw from the massive South Coast Plaza shopping destination, and within walking distance to some of the city’s best dining options—it perfectly bridges convenience and luxury.
Why we think you’ll love it…
- Highly versatile event spaces to accommodate a get-together of any size, from a Promenade Ballroom to the more intimate Wine Room
- Cozy Fireside Tavern with American cuisine, signature cocktails, and craft beer
- Year-round outdoor pool
- Forgot to print the guest list? On-site Business Center for any last-minute needs
Ayres Hotel Costa Mesa
Ayres Hotel Costa Mesa envelops guests in old-world luxury with spacious boutique-style rooms and suites. Both the indoor and outdoor spaces evoke a timeless aesthetic centered around guest comfort. Guests and locals routinely praise the onsite, award-winning restaurant, Le Chateau Garden Bistro.
Why we think you’ll love it…
- Flexible event spaces with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment
- Experience meeting planners available to help with organizing your gathering
- Complimentary hotel shuttle service to ensure everyone arrives on time
- The whole family can come–pets are welcome (with an additional cleaning fee)
Costa Mesa Marriott
Newly renovated, Costa Mesa Marriott places guests in the heart of the arts district, easily walkable to cultural hotspots like OCMA and Segerstrom Center for the Arts. The hotel’s bar and restaurant, aMuse, is a popular dining spot for guests and locals alike and is known for its artful cuisine and inspiring environment.
Why we think you’ll love it…
- Striking lakeside view for outdoor gatherings
- No need for a car–just minutes away from John Wayne Airport and easily walkable to world-class dining and art
- An on-site catering team for creating custom menus for your gathering
- Variety of suite options, including deluxe city-view suites
FLDWRK
Image credit FLDWORK
FLDWRK is known for its coworking spaces, but it also has a nearly 3,000 square foot space where you can host your holiday gathering. An open floor plan and large windows make the space feel even larger.
Why we think you’ll love it…
- Flexible layout with access to FLDWRK furniture
- Neutral space that allows for better personalization
- Free (and copious) on-site parking for all attendees
- Ideal location within minutes of John Wayne Airport
2145 Eats
Image credit 2145 Eats
Earthy tones and cozy lighting choices set 2145 Eats apart. Day-to-day, they are a top-rated restaurant, but they also rent out their space for gatherings and events. Not every holiday gathering needs to be over the top. Sometimes, a quiet, tasteful space is all you need.
Why we think you’ll love it…
- Intimate, cozy setting for small to medium gatherings
- An individualized menu with special event pricing
- Outdoor space ideal for enjoying Costa Mesa’s weather
- Designed with a distinctly SoCal feel
Sunsation Venue
Image credit Sunsation Venue
Budget-friendly and fun, Sunsation Venue offers a kid-friendly outdoor space with a neighborhood block party feel. The venue is packed with games and interactive stations, perfect for keeping little ones happy and busy.
Why we think you’ll love it…
- No-fuss event space with a focus on fun
- Numerous on-site games, from classics like ping pong to ax-throwing
- 10-minute drive to the beach
- RV and tent options to make it an adventurous overnight gathering
The Shindy
Image credit The Shindy
Curated, chic, or cozy? Pick your vibe at the OC’s trendiest event space. The room has a unique feel, and you can see how much thought went into the design. The founders started the venue out of a love for celebration, and they bring that passion to preparing every event.
Why we think you’ll love it…
- Flawlessly designed space featuring mid-century furniture and a modernist feel
- Partner with an experienced event planner to ensure a smooth event
- Budget management services to fit your spending framework
- Use their partnered vendors for a quick turnaround or bring your own favorites
Your Perfect Holiday Celebration Awaits
With a mix of stunning venues, white-glove service, and a festive SoCal atmosphere, Costa Mesa is the ultimate holiday gathering destination. From the versatile spaces of Crowne Plaza and Ayres Hotel to the trendy vibe of FLDWRK and The Shindy, every option offers something special to make your event memorable.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy family get-together, an elegant celebration, or a lively cocktail hour, Costa Mesa has just the right spot to create an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the season surrounded by California charm and warmth.
