Picture this: It’s golden hour, and every photo you take has a perfect sun-kissed radiance. You can soak it up at the pool, or you can grab beach gear and chase ocean waves. And when the sun’s dipping behind the horizon, photos take on a dreamlike pink-and-orange hue. Sounds divine, right? It’s more than a daydream, though—the reality is that every hour feels like golden hour in Costa Mesa, California.

Photo by @theparkclubca

Getting to this gem of Orange County, nestled between L.A. and San Diego, is a breeze. If you’re not close enough to drive, here’s a local tip: fly into O.C.’s beloved John Wayne Airport (SNA) and beat the stress of LAX. You’ll thank us later.

76 and Sunny? Sounds Like Another Day in Costa Mesa

A typical day in Costa Mesa requires you to drive with the windows open and drop top down. The perpetually sunny weather makes it the perfect destination for a road trip. Turn the music up and sing along with friends as you cruise the 55 or 405. Pack your favorite shorts and sandals, buy extra sunscreen, get a fresh pedicure, and when you arrive, take a minute to breathe. You’re invited to be part of everything Costa Mesa has to offer, including our laid-back, fun-seeking spirit that’s the antidote to work burnout.

Once you’re in the city, you’re only ever eleven minutes away from slipping your toes into the water of the Pacific Ocean. If you’re not a swimmer, how about some up-close-and-personal whale watching? For the saltwater souls, Costa Mesa is just a twenty-minute trip to some of the best shore diving and snorkeling in the entire state at Laguna Beach.

Photo by @derekrliang

Costa Mesa’s a coastal getaway without the beachfront markup. Soak up the best of California’s shopping, dining, and art with quick access to the waves and less of a hit to your bank account

Check In to Cool Off

Costa Mesa is swimming in access to beaches (forgive us the pun!), but that’s not the only water you can make a splash in. In this city, we consider access to a pool to be a year-long essential. Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa, Ayres Hotel Costa Mesa/Newport Beach, OC Hotel Costa Mesa, The Westin South Coast Plaza, and Costa Mesa Marriott have some of our favorite pools and jacuzzis.   

Photo by @ayreshotels

Have you ever woken up and gone for a swim first thing? It’s a better boost than coffee, and you’ll be revved up and ready to hit the town and go exploring

Sun’s Out, Fun’s Out

Of course, it isn’t just about water in Costa Mesa. There are tons of outdoor options for catching rays and enjoying your day. 

Whether you’re a Pickleball newbie or a seasoned Picklehead, there’s not a better time or place to play one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S. If “free” is your favorite word, try the outdoor courts at Tanager Park. If you’re planning on staying at The Westin South Coast Plaza, there are gorgeous, newly added pickleball and tennis courts you can rent. For a small fee, the Downtown Recreation Center has three indoor wooden pickleball courts.

Photo by @westinsouthcoastplaza

Like we’d ever forget about golfers! With two municipal golf courses available, Costa Mesa Country Club is teeming with tee times. It’s easy to book some hours on the beautiful greens. Just remember that extra sunscreen you packed

Photo by @meahmondul

Come for the Sun, Stay for the Party

The fun doesn’t end in Costa Mesa when it’s dark out. Try late-night eats or dance the night away; whatever your taste, Costa Mesa will match the flavor. 

There’s so much to do, and only so many hours of daylight—so why try to cram everything into one day? Book a stay in one of Costa Mesa’s incredible hotels to extend your fun in the sun (and after dark).