Travel Costa Mesa Blog
The Ultimate Summer Destination for SoCal Travelers
If you’re looking for the ultimate location to plan a Southern California vacation, then Costa Mesa is the place to be! It’s the perfect home base if you want to explore Disneyland, Hollywood, and beyond. Experience our incredible dining options, shopping destinations, and exciting summer events —all in one trip.
The Perfect Location
Costa Mesa is located right in the middle of Southern California, which makes it super easy to hit up all your summer bucket list destinations.
Plus, if you’re all about spending as much time as you can at the beach, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, and Huntington Beach are all just a short drive away and we have plenty of beach-close hotels to choose from.
Foodie Paradise
Costa Mesa is the most flavorful destination in Southern California! With the only 2 Michelin Starred restaurants in Orange County plus 6 Michelin Recognized spots, it’s truly the perfect city to take an Eatcation®. Whether you’re craving artisan coffee, gourmet burgers, or exotic eats, our city has it all. Dive into our insane variety of restaurants and discover new flavors!
Boutique Bliss
Did you know the largest shopping center on the West Coast is located in Costa Mesa?
Experience designer shopping at South Coast Plaza where you can explore over 200 boutiques including a massive two-story Gucci store and the largest Balenciaga boutique in the Americas. But, if you are more into local finds, Costa Mesa has plenty of unique boutiques. Some of our favorites can be found at The LAB and The CAMP.
After Dark Adventures
The fun never ends in Costa Mesa. The nightlife here is lit with cool bars, craft breweries, and plenty of locations to enjoy live music. Whether you’re into dancing, enjoying craft cocktails, or catching a live band, Costa Mesa has you covered. We recommend visiting Mercado Gonzalez, a massive Mexican food hall offering a full cocktail bar and live mariachi music, or newly opened, Westwood Coast for country vibes and line dancing.
Events and Concerts
If you’re in town for the summer then you have to hit up the OC Fair which runs from July 19 – August 18th! It’s one of the top ten largest fairs in the U.S. and has no shortage of rides, carnival games, animals, arts and crafts, beer, food, and live music. Bonus tip: attend a concert at Pacific Amphitheater and get free fair admission. This year’s lineup includes UB40, Stray Cats, Big Time Rush and so many more, check out the full list.
Arts and Culture
Explore the artsy side of Costa Mesa at Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA). Don’t miss the chance to walk through their new Yves Saint Laurent: Line and Expression exhibit. For the first time in the United States, you can explore the designer’s groundbreaking work from the 1960s until 2002, his last show. Admission is FREE!
Segerstrom Center for the Arts is another great choice if you are looking to catch a Broadway show like Clue and Peter Pan. This summer, they’re also hosting free events like outdoor movies and dance classes—perfect for making the most of your summer nights!
Get Ready for an Unforgettable Summer
So what are you waiting for? Drop this blog in the group chat, book your hotel stay, and get ready to experience the best SoCal vacation you’ve ever had. We can’t wait to see you here!
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Posted in Events, Food, Hotels, Music & Art, Play, Shopping, Travel
Top 5 Must-Try Ice Cream Shops in Costa Mesa
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.
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Posted in Food
The 7 Best American Eats in Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa is home to some of the best stops for classic American eats this 4th of July. From brisket to burgers and beers, these top 7 spots serve up must-have foods and beverages for your Independence Day celebration.
Top 7 American Eats in Costa Mesa
Holé Smokes
The scents and flavors of barbecue are a long-time staple for the 4th of July, and Holé Smokes brings traditional, authentic Texas-style recipes to Costa Mesa. Their careful selection of pecan and oak logs was chosen for their distinct, balanced aromas that bring out the most complex flavors in their brisket, tri-tip, ribs, and more.
Bred Hot Chicken
Located at the LAB Anti-Mall, Bred Hot Chicken can fire up any July 4th celebration with sandwiches and sliders that bridge the gap between southern comfort food and mouth-watering spice. For larger parties, try ordering a family platter with something for everyone.
Rance’s Chicago Pizza
The Golden Foodie Winner for the best pizza in Orange County, Rance’s Chicago Pizza is where people discover (or rediscover) their love for deep-dish. Order one of their mouth-watering pizzas filled with the perfect amount of mozzarella cheese and topped off with their famous zesty tomato sauce. Don’t forget to order a side of their best-selling Rance’s chicken wings.
Westwood Coast
Westwood Coast is where good food meets good times. This country-inspired restaurant offers a mix of high-end dining with dishes like Short Rib Agnolotti and premium char-broiled steaks, paired with entertainment including line dancing, live music, and a fun mechanical bull. They even have a bourbon lover’s dream bar with over 100 bottles to choose from!
Nice Burger
Looking for some vegan-friendly dining options? We recommend trying Nice Burger. Their menu features a dozen burger and sandwich options, all mouth-watering and all 100% vegan-friendly. You can’t go wrong with their grilled mushroom burger or buffalo ranch chicken sandwich with a side of fries.
Try a Craft Pint at Costa Mesa’s Local Breweries
Costa Mesa boasts some of the freshest hand-crafted beers in all of Orange County. Stop by one of Costa Mesa’s breweries for a round or two of local brews made by people passionate about beer. Several of the breweries are within walking distance, making for the perfect 4th of July beer trail. Stops to try include:
- Green Cheek Beer Co.
- Salty Bear Brewing
- Gunwhale Ales
- Brewing Reserve of California
- Bootlegger’s Brewery
Strickland’s Ice Cream
Whether you need to cool off from the SoCal heat (or a Bred Hot Chicken sandwich), Strickland’s Ice Cream has been the place to go for almost 90 years. Their small-batch flavor of the day makes every trip a new experience, with unique flavors such as sweet red beans, red guava, Thai iced tea, taro, and lychee, all alongside familiar classics.
Book a Local Stay
Photo by Residence Inn by Marriott
The 4th of July weekend is the perfect time to extend your visit at one of Costa Mesa’s top hotels. After celebrating the 4th, continue exploring a city filled with unique shopping boutiques, award-winning eateries, and live entertainment, with the beach just a short drive away.
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Posted in Food
15 Ways to Celebrate Dad on Father’s Day in Costa Mesa
Spending Dad’s Day in Costa Mesa this year? We’ve rounded up 15 of the best things to do and restaurants to try for Father’s Day.
Where to Take Dad on Father’s Day in Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa Country Club
Got a golfer dad? The Costa Mesa Country Club includes two municipal courses, Mesa Linda and Los Lagos. Both offer just the right amount of difficulty—Los Lagos with gentle, rolling fairways and generous greens and Mesa Linda with doglegs and smaller sloping greens.
Slashers Axe Throwing & Ales
It’s all in the name. Slashers Axe Throwing & Ales serves themed drinks and quality beer while letting you live out post-apocalyptic thrills. Their horror movie themed atmosphere and special effects elevate the experience from (safely conducted) axe throwing into something eerie, exhilarating, and memorable.
Period Correct
Upgrade Dad’s wardrobe with attire and accessories inspired by classic motorsports culture with timeless designs from Period Correct. Give him a look that elicits the best of nostalgia and modern style.
Quiet Golf
Suit Dad up with clothing and golf accessories from Quiet Golf, known for an aesthetic that blends classic styles with a minimalist, sophisticated design. Stop by their Costa Mesa shop before a visit to the Costa Mesa Country Club so Dad can look his best for the next round of golf.
Jack Henry Studios
Wellness and self-care are for everyone, Dad included. Treat him to a hair, skincare, or wellness session at Jack Henry Studios. The studio stands out for their use of pure, organic, and sustainably harvested ingredients in all their haircare and skincare services.
South Coast Plaza
An international shopping destination, South Coast Plaza is home to hundreds of shops, including boutique designers from around the world. Make sure to check out their recently expanded two story Gucci boutique. The interior design has been revamped, and the extra space means you’ll be able to find a broader selection of the brand’s collections!
Where to Feed Dad on Father’s Day in Costa Mesa
Silver Trumpet
Treat your dad to a memorable dining experience at Silver Trumpet. This year they will be offering surf and turf with ribs and beer all day. Simply sit back, relax, and let them handle everything.
Holé Smokes BBQ
Take Dad out for bold, authentic Texas-style barbecue at Holé Smokes. Choose from a menu of traditional barbecue favorites like brisket, ribs, and tri-tip. All meats are smoked long, low, and slow with logs imported from Texas and Oklahoma.
The Country Club
Make a dinner reservation at The Country Club on 17th Street. The restaurant brings an elevated approach to classic American dishes and craft cocktails. Enjoy an old fashioned and try the 16 oz dry aged bone-in ribeye or the Scottish salmon before diving into their sweet potato beignets for dessert.
Mastro’s Steakhouse
Perhaps the most classic Father’s Day restaurant in Costa Mesa. Mastro’s is the ultimate steakhouse offering some of the finest hand-cut prime steaks and fresh seafood. The restaurant also regularly hosts live music to match its distinctively sophisticated ambiance.
Water Grill
If you’ve got a seafood lover on your hands, try Water Grill across South Coast Plaza. The restaurant exudes nautical charm with its locally sourced wood and rustic iron finishes. The restaurant’s menu changes daily based on the fresh seafood available that day, but their iced shellfish platters are not to be missed!
OC 626 Night Market
It may not technically be a Father’s Day restaurant, but the OC 626 Night Market shouldn’t be missed if he’s a foodie. The market brings hundreds of vendors together for a foodie fest with all sorts of unique eats. Admission is $5 per person, and rest assured you’ll find plenty of dining options! Stop by June 7th – 9th.
Crawl Costa Mesa’s Local Breweries
Looking for a place to enjoy a round of beers? Check out our Costa Mesa Beer Trail spanning five local breweries, each with their own hand-crafted brews, unique interiors, patio seating, entertainment, and food.
Make It a Weekend Getaway
Turn Father’s Day into Father’s Weekend by booking a stay at one of Costa Mesa’s top hotels. Known for their comfort, class, and amenities, these hotels are perfect for extending your stay and spending more quality time with Dad.
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Posted in Food
14 Date Ideas for Valentine’s (or Galentine’s) Day
There’s nothing wrong with a box of chocolates and a quiet evening staying in on Valentine’s Day. But with the sheer number of things to do in Costa Mesa, why not make it a day or night out on the town. Now, choosing from among the spectrum of activities is a different issue, which is why we put together a curated list of our top 14 date ideas for Valentine’s (or Galentine’s) Day in Costa Mesa.
All of these options are great whether you are out with your partner or a group of friends. Whomever you plan to spend Valentine’s (or Galentine’s) day with, you can count on making memories.
1. Loosen Up With Inspired Art Wine
Photo by Inspired Art Wine
Art and wine have gone together for centuries, and the rise of painting classes with wine is a testament to this fact. Inspired Art Wine uniquely merges an art studio with a wine bar. They offer painting classes (with wine), as well as wine-focused sessions where you can learn about tasting profiles and create custom labels. For Valentine’s Day, they’re hosting a painting class featuring the scene “London Walk,” perfect for the romantic occasion! Seats are limited, though, so we recommend booking your spot sooner rather than later.
2. Feast at the Mercado González Food Hall at Northgate Market
Can’t settle on a single place to eat? The new Mercado González food hall features 20+ stalls, including a well-stocked bar, ensuring you, your date, or your friends will all find something to enjoy. What turns this into a really lively date night is the live music, featuring local artists who know how to add some flair to a night of gastronomic enjoyment. Don’t forget to try their limited edition heart shaped churros and sweet bread conchas while you are there!
3. Get Crafty at Lovely Curated Things
Photo by Lovely Curated Things
Boutique store, Lovely Curated Things is hosting a special Galentine’s Candle-Making Workshop on February 10th. This event comes with some extra perks, including in-store discounts, drinks and a light appetizer, and personal instruction. Tickets are sold beforehand, so be sure to book yours in advance.
4. Break a Sweat at Rockreation
Photo by Rockreation
Beginners and experienced climbers alike are welcome at Rockreation, a Costa Mesa climbing center with a focus on health, fitness, inclusion, and community. Book a climbing class matched to your level and goals (fitness, speed, or technique), or even set up a private instruction session for you and your partner. Nothing strengthens bonds more than a little healthy competition!
5. Stay Classy with Dinner and a Show
Photo by Silver Trumpet
No date is more iconic than dinner and a show! Start with a Valentine’s Day dinner at Silver Trumpet, treating you and your partner to a 4-course prix-fixe meal. Dishes include saffron lobster risotto, wild mushroom bisque, hand-crafted desserts, and more. Then take a two-minute stroll across the street for a striking live performance of Disney’s The Lion King at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. This award-winning spectacle features breathtaking music by Elton John, dazzling visuals, and a classic story of courage.
6. Make Something Special at Color Me Mine
Color Me Mine is always ready to provide a calm and creative night out! On February 14th they have planned a special Valentine’s Day celebration with the unique feature of BYO (bring your own) champagne, wine, or other drink. Bookings are made for two people at a time, and spaces are limited. So don’t hesitate to lock in your reservation for a night of painting ceramic artworks that you get to keep.
7. Treat Yourselves at South Coast Plaza
Photo by South Coast Plaza
Shopping at South Coast Plaza is not your usual shopping experience. The extensive list of luxury brands, flagship stores, boutique shops, unique eateries, and striking architecture make a visit to this shopping destination an experience in itself. Treat yourself or your partner to something new to remember the day by, and don’t forget to stop by Laderach while you are there for artisanal chocolate that will have you melting.
8. Be Inspired at OCMA
Photo by Jeff Gritchen
A visit to the Orange County Museum of Art might not be your first thought for a date night, but there is something special about meandering through halls of impactful artwork with a partner or friends. Walk hand in hand as you treat your eyes to works by California-based artists, as well as a growing collection of international works. Did we mention that admission to OCMA is free?
9. Learn Some Moves at Café Sevilla
Photo by Café Sevilla
Take a Salsa & Bachata dance class at Café Sevilla this Valentine’s Day to learn some impressive moves and dance the night away with someone special. No reservation is needed. Just show up with a readiness for fun (and maybe a pair of comfortable shoes) and let the music sweep you away. The night first features a salsa class followed by a bachata class, and then you can put your new skills to work for the next four hours, with the dancing wrapping up at 1:30 am.
10. Axe Your Ex at Slashers Axe Throwing & Ales
Photo by Slashers Axe Throwing & Ales
Break free from Valentine’s clichés and axe your ex this February 14th at Slashers Axe Throwing & Ales! You read that right. Bring a printed or digital picture of your ex and let out your frustrations by throwing some axes. Make sure to enjoy their wide selection of craft beers while you are there.
11. Get Rustic at ARTime Barro
Photo by ARTime Barro
For a couple that likes a hands-on approach, we recommend taking a wheel-throwing class at ARTime Barro. Learn core techniques for using a pottery wheel alongside your favorite people with lessons for all levels given by lifelong ceramic experts.
12. Unwind at Facial Lounge
Photo by Facial Lounge
The first few months of the year can be a stressful time, so unwinding on Valentine’s Day is as valid as any date. We recommend booking organic vegan facials at Facial Lounge in Costa Mesa, a spa and lounge where even a few hours can feel like days of relaxation.
13. Reward Your Skin at ECO Now
Photo by ECO Now
The Valentine’s Day Lotion Bar Making Workshop at ECO Now is your chance to make beautiful, luxurious lotion bars with custom fragrances. Control the ingredients that go into your bar for a blend that suits your skin’s needs perfectly. Take home your creations for yourself, or use them as gifts. Tickets are sold in advance, with a discount available when you purchase two tickets at a time.
14. End the Night Right with an Overnight Stay
Photo by Ayres Hotel
Having a breathtaking night out is well and good. But wrapping up the night in luxury and privacy is what creates something truly memorable. Booking an overnight stay at a Costa Mesa Hotel gives you and your partner a space of your own for a night of well-deserved comfort.
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Posted in Events, Food, Hotels, Music & Art, Shopping
