Travel Costa Mesa Blog
Your Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Travel, Dining, and Outdoor Adventures in Costa Mesa
Sustainable travel is all about exploring the world while being mindful of the environment, supporting local communities, and preserving beautiful destinations—think less carbon footprint, more local love.
Costa Mesa offers the perfect blend of eco-friendly travel, sustainable dining, and outdoor adventures. Ready to discover how? Let’s dive in!
Support Local & Sustainable Shopping
Start your trip at Amis de la Terre which means friends of the earth in French. This organic, plastic-free grocery store was created by a SoCal-local with a Master’s degree in Oceanography at the Sorbonne in France. Gluten free, keto, vegan, heirloom, and fair-trade—no matter what your grocery shopping looks like, Amis de la Terre has it.
Just a few doors down, you’ll find Fill Up Buttercup, a zero-waste refill shop offering non-toxic bath, body, and household products. Bring your own containers or purchase reusable ones to stock up on essentials without unnecessary packaging.
For more sustainable shopping explore Eco Now, Fermentation Farm, and The Water Brewery, each offering their own take on alternative shopping.
Thrifting is also an easy way to avoid fast fashion while also scoring one-of-a-kind pieces. You’ll have to leave room in your suitcase for all the unique finds from Costa Mesa’s thrift and vintage stores you’re bound to score. Check out Landers, 2nd Street, or Twice The Style.
Zero Waste & Plant-Based Dining
Many of Costa Mesa’s restaurants prioritize farm-to-table ingredients, composting, and other green practices to ensure every meal is mindful of the planet.
Step into a culinary adventure at The Plot, where every dish tells a story of flavor and sustainability. Their 100% plant-based menu has made its way from Oceanside to Orange County focusing on near-zero waste practices. From their delectable Beet Reuben Sando to irresistible Banana Creme Brulee, each dish uses locally sourced produce and ingredients harvested from their very own Plot Garden.
For more plant-based dining options in Costa Mesa check out: Seabirds Kitchen, Good Town Doughnuts, or Vegan by El Zamorano.
Eco-Friendly Activities
Ditch the gas! Costa Mesa is a walkable city, making it easy to explore without a car.
Where to Stay: The Westin South Coast Plaza, Avenue of the Arts, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel or Costa Mesa Marriott
Walking distance highlights: Catch a show at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, explore world-class shopping at South Coast Plaza, visit Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA), or find a peaceful moment at Noguchi Garden.
Where to Stay: Hilton, Crowne Plaza, or Residence Inn by Marriott
Walking distance highlights: Experience Costa Mesa’s eco-friendly shopping and dining hub at The CAMP, grab a coffee at The LAB, shop for authentic Japanese goods at Mitsuwa Market, and snap a vintage-inspired photo at Booth by Bryant.
Did you know The CAMP is one of the first eco-friendly retail campuses in the U.S.? It features a percolation system for stormwater treatment and 12 gardens supplying fresh ingredients to its restaurants.
Where to Stay: Best Western Plus, OC Hotel, or newly branded Hampton by Hilton
Walking distance highlights: Catch all the thrills at the OC Fair & Event Center, savor the flavors of authentic Mexican food at Mercado Gonzalez, sip craft cocktails at P10neer speakeasy, or go for a walk at Twinkle Park.
Explore Costa Mesa’s Green Spaces
Nature lovers will find plenty of ways to enjoy over 20 Costa Mesa local parks. Fairview Park, spanning 210 acres, is home to five different natural habitat environments, several protected species, and over 30 unique plant species. Hike through trails that lead to a scenic riverbed lined with oak trees and native California flora. For a longer adventure, take the 6.3-mile loop around Talbert Regional Park, a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Tip: Bring your own bike or rent one to cruise around Costa Mesa’s bike-friendly trails.
So, lace up those sneakers, bring your appetite, and get ready to shop, eat, and explore Costa Mesa in an eco-friendly way. It’s a win for you and the planet!
Comments Off on Your Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Travel, Dining, and Outdoor Adventures in Costa Mesa
Posted in Misc
Women’s History Month: Celebrating the Trailblazers of Costa Mesa
As we celebrate Women’s History Month this March, we’re spotlighting the incredible women shaping Costa Mesa. From city government to entertainment, shopping, and hospitality, these women are true trailblazers making a lasting impact on our community.
Paulette Lombardi-Fries – President, Travel Costa Mesa
At the heart of Travel Costa Mesa (TCM) is Paulette Lombardi-Fries, leading an all-woman team that’s passionate about sharing Costa Mesa’s story. As the city’s official destination marketing organization, TCM showcases the best of Costa Mesa while highlighting the valuable impact tourism brings to the community. Under Paulette’s leadership, this powerhouse team has played a key role in supporting local businesses, promoting major events, and showcasing the incredible food, hotels, and arts scene that make Costa Mesa a must-visit travel destination.
Lori Ann Farrell Harrison – City Manager, Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa’s city government is proud to have several women in leadership roles, including Lori Ann Farrell Harrison, the city’s first female city manager. Since 2019, her contributions have helped drive the city forward, inspiring others to embrace leadership and make lasting change. Here her thoughts on women in leadership.
Michele Richards – CEO, OC Fair & Event Center
Michele Richards, CEO of the OC Fair & Event Center, has spent decades bringing year-round events to Costa Mesa. With over 150 events and 2 million visitors annually, her impact on the community is immeasurable. As Michele steps into retirement, we celebrate her incredible contributions and thank her for leaving a lasting mark on the OC Fair & Event Center and the people it serves.
Costa Mesa’s Hospitality Leaders
Leading Costa Mesa’s top hotels are six women general managers who are raising the bar on hospitality.
- Susan O’Brien Moore – Ayres Hotel
- Nimisha Solanki – OC Hotel Costa Mesa
- Annie Hsu – Crowne Plaza
- Jeannie Blue – Hampton by Hilton Costa Mesa Newport Beach
- Patricia Obert – Ramada
- Sue Cooke – Residence Inn by Marriott
Their unwavering commitment to service is a key reason Costa Mesa continues to attract visitors from all over. Thank you for your leadership, dedication, and for making Costa Mesa a standout destination for travelers!
Teresa Reynoso de Gonzalez – Northgate Market
Teresa Reynoso de Gonzalez, matriarch of Northgate Market, was the quiet force behind one of Southern California’s greatest immigrant success stories. While her family built their first Anaheim store in 1980, she raised 10 children alone in Mexico before reuniting with them. Her wisdom kept the family united as Northgate grew to 42 stores, including the beloved Mercado Gonzalez in Costa Mesa. A mother, mediator, and pillar of strength, Doña Teresa’s legacy lives on in every Northgate aisle and family meal it brings together.
Norma Hertzog – Former Mayor of Costa Mesa
Norma Hertzog made history as Costa Mesa’s first women mayor. Her dedication to public service is honored by the community center named in her memory, ensuring her legacy continues to inspire future generations of women leaders in the city.
Linda Sadeghi – Owner, The LAB
Linda Sadeghi is the visionary behind The LAB, Costa Mesa’s most unique retail and dining destination. With over 30 years in business, she transformed a former night-vision goggle factory into an artsy, urban space that challenges retail monotony and supports creativity. Today, The LAB stands as a beacon for female entrepreneurs and a must-visit stop on any Costa Mesa itinerary.
Molly Unger – General Manager, South Coast Plaza
For the first time in over 50 years, a woman is leading South Coast Plaza—Molly Unger. With years of experience managing high-profile retail destinations like Westfield Century City and Westfield UTC, she now oversees the West Coast’s largest shopping destination. Her deep knowledge of luxury retail and customer experience keeps South Coast Plaza at the top of its game.
Bessie Nell Lounsberry – Civic Leader
Bessie Nell Lounsberry was a dedicated civic leader in Costa Mesa, contributing to the city’s growth through her volunteer efforts. She played a key role in creating the city directory, promoting voter registration, and leading a beautification campaign that resulted in planting over 1,000 trees. Her tireless work earned her the Costa Mesa Historical Society’s Living Memorial Award in 1973.
Heidi Zuckerman – CEO & Director, Orange County Museum of Art
Heidi Zuckerman has been leading the Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) since its opening in October 2022. With her extensive experience in the arts, she continues the legacy of leadership set by the museum’s 13 female founders. Under her guidance, OCMA has broadened its impact, focusing on groundbreaking art while highlighting the vital contributions women have made to the art world.
The women shaping Costa Mesa are not only leading, but also redefining industries, inspiring change, and strengthening our community. Thank you for your passion, hard work, and the positive impact you bring to our city.
Comments Off on Women’s History Month: Celebrating the Trailblazers of Costa Mesa
Posted in Misc
The Best Liquor Stores in Costa Mesa to Pick Up Your Holiday Booze
Cozy cocktails, cold beers, or crisp wines—there is no wrong choice for a holiday celebration. Instead of grabbing the same old ingredients from the same old stores, try one of these local Costa Mesa liquor stores. These small businesses each offer a unique selection of drinks and cocktail essentials that’ll make your holiday celebrations cheers-worthy!
Here’s the Top 5 Liquor Stores in Costa Mesa to Toast the Season
Image via Hi-Time Wine Cellars
Hi-Time Wine Cellars
Address: 250 Ogle St, Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Voted one of the top 10 wine shops in the US, Hi-Time Wine Cellars stocks everything. From domestic brews to exotic whiskeys and exquisitely rare wines, their broad selection has something to match the vibe of any holiday celebration. After over six decades of business, this family-run shop knows a thing or two about fueling Costa Mesa holiday celebrations.
Why it’s worth stopping by:
- Top-tier underground temperature-controlled wine cellar
- Walk-in beer refrigerator with 1,200+ varieties of beer
- Classic-style wine bar to sample featured vintages before buying
Image via Mixing Glass and Market
Mixing Glass and Market
Address: 1500 Adams Ave, 104A, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Pick up cocktail ingredients, gift basket supplies, and quirky items for last-minute gifts all in one place. Better yet, stop by for a holiday cocktail class so you can put those ingredients to use and impress your friends and family. Their carefully curated selection ensures that you and your guests’ taste buds will appreciate whatever you pick up for the holidays.
Why it’s worth stopping by:
- Everything you need to stock a home bar and mix memory-making cocktails
- Specialty gourmet pantry items that will brighten any celebration
Ranch Spirits
Address: 2651 Irvine Avenue, Suite 1, Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Ranch Spirits balances a unique small business vibe with a big-time selection of beverages. As another family-owned business, they have made a name for themselves in the Back Bay with a quality stock of products. They’re constantly pouring up tastings of new arrivals, so there’s always something new to experience.
Why it’s worth stopping by:
- Classy interior with a curated selection of beverages
- Family-run, pet-friendly space with a laid-back atmosphere
- Easily swing by Irvine Ranch Market next door for last-minute charcuterie goods or a quick side for a potluck.
Image via Hi-Lo Liquor
Hi-Lo Liquor Market
Address: 2981 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
The trendiest liquor market in the trendiest part of Costa Mesa, Hi-Lo has set out to make shopping for drinks a social experience again. With weekly tastings, regular events, and an eclectic selection, they make a visit a chance to broaden your beverage horizons. Their shelves have recognizable brands, but they also always stock something new that can make a holiday celebration worth remembering.
Why it’s worth stopping by:
- 1-hour delivery with no order minimum for all of Costa Mesa
- Off-grid and hard-to-find beers, wines, and spirits
- Located in The CAMP, a perfect spot for snagging last-minute gifts that are as thoughtful as they are eco-friendly!
Minute King Liquor
Address: 2052 Newport Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92647
The classic liquor store experience at Minute King cannot be beaten. Stock up for your holiday celebration with ice-cold options from the beer cave with a surprisingly deep selection of craft brews, or find staple brands and party snacks in their neatly organized interior.
Why it’s worth stopping by:
- Broad selection and morning-to-midnight hours of operation make it perfect for grabbing last-minute essentials
- Within easy walking distance for anyone staying at Hampton by Hilton Costa Mesa Newport Beach
Comments Off on The Best Liquor Stores in Costa Mesa to Pick Up Your Holiday Booze
Costa Mesa: An Easy Weekend Getaway From the Inland Empire
Need some end-of-year travel inspiration? It’s time for a reset and Costa Mesa is here to deliver. It’s just a quick drive away from the IE which means no long flights and no overcomplicated itineraries. This Orange County hidden gem is easy to get to but far enough to switch things up!
Retail Therapy
Holiday shopping at South Coast Plaza will have you knocking out that gift list (or treating yourself—we don’t judge). This shopping paradise is packed with hundreds of luxury shops and your go-to brands. Where else can you strut through a two-story Gucci store and then do the same at a two-story Balenciaga?
For a shopping adventure that’s a bit more eclectic and artsy, head over to The Lab! Explore one-of-a-kind shops like Plant Matter, May Martin, and 1978—all creatively housed in retro Airstreams. And for a cool keepsake, walk across the street to The CAMP and take some pictures at Booth. This viral, celeb-loved vintage photo booth gives you an iconic black-and-white photo strip for just $5!
Deliciously Instagrammable
Photo by Calo Kitchen + Tequila
Love food? The foodie scene here is chef’s kiss with eateries that are basically begging for a photo op! Here’s a list of the most aesthetic and tasty spots in Costa Mesa:
- The Plot – Best known for their Beet Reuben sandwich
- Ahba – Best known for their double smashed wagyu Ahba Burger
- Calo Kitchen + Tequila – Best known for their Short Rib Enchiladas
- Maizano – Best known for their grilled octopus Encacahuatado
But really, the list could go on forever! Click here to start planning your Eatcation® adventure and discover even more of our top recommendations.
Relax, Relax, Relax
Photo by Costa Mesa Ceramics
For some well-deserved “me time,” Costa Mesa perfectly blends relaxation with one-of-a-kind experiences, creating the ultimate self-care getaway. Start by giving your skin some much-needed love with a custom facial at Facial Lounge. Next, take your zen to the next level with snake yoga at LXRYOGA—yes, snakes! It’s the perfect mix of relaxation and adrenaline, with ball pythons. Want to round out your wellness escape with a little creativity? Pop over to Costa Mesa Ceramics and roll up your sleeves—there’s something incredibly calming about crafting your own pottery masterpiece.
Sips and Shenanigans
Photo by Pie Society
Let’s be real: no staycation is complete without a few fabulous drinks! Check out Ruin Bar, a hidden gem that feels like your hip friend’s secret speakeasy. For an aura of mystery enjoy a round of creatively crafted cocktails at P10neer hidden inside Dick Church’s restaurant.
For a quirky twist, swing by Pie Society, where pizza meets prohibition, and your cravings for carbs and cocktails are both satisfied. And if you’re in the mood for a cozy vibe, Oak & Coal has your back with some killer sake and mouthwatering yakitori.
But wait, there’s more! If a round of drinks leaves you itching to hit the dance floor, Costa Mesa has plenty of spots where you can bust a move. Check out these top places to dance.
Recharge and Repeat
After a day of shopping, dining, and unwinding, why not treat yourself to a comfy stay in one of Costa Mesa’s hotels? Booking a hotel not only means you won’t have to worry about the drive home (hello, no designated driver drama), but it also gives you a cozy spot to recharge for another day of adventure. So go ahead, treat yourself—you’ve earned it!
Heading here during the fall? Be sure to check out our blog for all things fun and fall in Costa Mesa!
Comments Off on Costa Mesa: An Easy Weekend Getaway From the Inland Empire
Posted in Food, Hotels, Locals, Misc, Music & Art, Play, Shopping, Travel
5 Reasons Why Senior Travelers Will Love Costa Mesa
#1 – It’s an Eatcation®
Costa Mesa has the most Michelin-starred restaurants in Orange County, including six recognized Michelin guide stand-outs, and that’s just the beginning. Costa Mesa’s culinary landscape is a mix of upscale dining, local favorites, and craveable bites.
Discover Mercado González, the first concept of its kind from the multi-generational González family, responsible for the 40+ Northgate Markets across SoCal. This wonderland of Mexican food, drink, and culture features churros, tortillas, mole, agua fresca, and so much more created right in front of you.
For carnivores, visit Butcher’s House Brasserie, where they practice the craft of butchery, with a menu anchored by dry-aged steaks and chops. New this fall is Ospi, modern Italian meets classic, with a twist of Brooklyn counterculture.
Vaca, located in Costa Mesa’s Arts Plaza, is a Michelin recognized tapas restaurant, helmed by Bravo TV’s Top Chef alumus Executive Chef Amar Santana. Try their exceptional Spanish cocktails paired with an atmosphere of California comfort.
#2 – Relax and take in the arts
Broadway? You’ve been there, done that, and you don’t want to fight crowds for a ticket or a cab—but you still love the shows. Segerstrom Center for the Arts brings Broadway shows and beloved musical classics to Costa Mesa, without the price tag, traffic, or hassle of Los Angeles or Manhattan.
SCFTA’s 2024-2025 calendar includes Hadestown, Annie, Hamilton, and Mamma Mia! Arrive early and grab dinner or a cocktail at Silver Trumpet, just steps away from the theatre. Silver Trumpet, inside Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, creates themed cocktails for the Broadway season, like “The Hamilton’s Temptation,” a blend of Templeton’s Rye and blood orange-infused liqueur that harkens to the Caribbean origins of Alexander Hamilton.
Segerstrom Hall has many accessibility features, like opened captions, wheelchair locations, easy access to elevators, ASL interpreters, and audio description. You can request a large print program or binoculars.
Visit the Samueli Theater for intimate conversations or small-format jazz or cabaret. This fall, Tony Kushner, Pulitzer and Emmy-winning playwright and creator of Angels in America: A Gay Fantasia on National Themes takes the stage with Frank Rich, television producer of Succession and Veep. The conversation between Kushner and Rich is once in a lifetime and one of kind, a dream evening for purveyors and patrons of art, drama, and great conversation.
Click here to check for available tickets.
#3 – You can drive, but you don’t have to
Vacation should be for relaxing and exploring, not hopscotching your way through Southern California’s endless circuit of freeways.
Costa Mesa is located just a few miles away from John Wayne Airport, and it’s easy to pick up a rental car at the airport or schedule a shuttle from one of Costa Mesa’s many excellent hotels.
Skip the chaos and confusion of LAX and fly in direct to Orange County. John Wayne Airport offers many non-stop flights from all over the United States. From Atlanta to Newark, or even to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, there’s over 35 non-stop destinations that connect directly with Orange County, and even more seasonal destinations.
Stay near the beach to soak in the sun or stay in the Arts Plaza for shopping and theater. Both are easily walkable. If you prefer to drive, Costa Mesa is the perfect gateway to your SoCal adventure.
#4 – Budget-friendly travel
Can Southern California be budget-friendly? Yes, and you don’t have to sacrifice high quality accommodations to stay within your travel budget. Costa Mesa has excellent hotels at a range of prices, from select-service and wallet-friendly, to full-service with all the bells and whistles. Staying in Costa Mesa puts you right in the middle of everything Orange County has to offer.
There’s plenty to do and see at no cost. Take in the arts and culture that Costa Mesa is known for at the self-guided Art Walk tour or Isamu Noguchi’s California Scenario. Both are free and can be experienced at your own pace. At Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA), all visitors receive free entry for ten years due to a generous grant. OCMA hosts several exhibits at a time, indoors and well-curated to fill an afternoon without overwhelming a day. Recently, OCMA has welcomed “Yves Saint Laurent: Line and Expression,” an exhibit of original drawings and dresses from the famed fashion designer.
#5 – Or live large with luxury
South Coast Plaza brings luxury to Costa Mesa—as well as spacious parking lots, many spots to sit and rest, and air conditioning. It’s the little things, right?
New to the international shopping destination’s designer roster is a 5,000 sq ft Giorgio Armani boutique and adjacent Armani Caffè, bringing together style and culinary excellence. Don’t shop till you drop. Instead, make a pit stop for cold brew and a pastry to recharge.
Bvlgari is also fusing fashion and food, introducing the first-ever Bvlgari Lounge in North America. It’s described as a chic bar and café with light refreshments. The lounge opened at South Coast Plaza in the summer of 2024.
The CEO of Bvlgari North America, Herve Perrot, reflected on the new boutique: “I think there is a Bvlgari before and a Bvlgari after South Coast Plaza. “You will see that when you visit the store. This is quite impressive.”
If you’re a fan of the classics, Gucci has a recently remodeled, two-story footprint with exclusives available only at South Coast Plaza.
South Coast Plaza has multiple concierge locations equipped with strollers, wheelchairs, bottled water, and anything else you might need for your Shopcation.
Whether you’re retired and looking to make the most out of a fixed income or looking to live it up with kids and grandkids, Costa Mesa represents the heart of Southern California, without all the fuss of bigger cities.
Make it an Eatcation®, Artcation, Shopcation, or little-bit-of-everything-Cation. Ready when you are!
Comments Off on 5 Reasons Why Senior Travelers Will Love Costa Mesa
Posted in Misc
