Travel Costa Mesa Blog
11 Must-Visit Small Businesses in Costa Mesa
Small Business Saturday is coming up on November 30th and we are here to support the independent businesses that make Costa Mesa the most unexpected ultimate shop small destination.
Check out our list of locally owned boutiques, shops, and restaurants that are so one-of-a-kind, your friends will be asking where you found them.
1. Slow Goods
Slow Goods is a love letter to artisans around the world. Located inside Paseo 17, you’ll find everything from hand-woven Bali bags to Australian letter press stationary inspired by the owner’s experiences traveling and living abroad!
While you are there check out: Purre Boutique, Milligram, and Mercado Mesa.
2. Period Correct
If someone on your list is a self-described “car guy,” you can’t miss Period Correct. Their high-quality hats, shirts, and accessories are influenced by race culture and architecture. It’s all about premium materials, unique style, and exclusive collabs.
While you are there check out: Mellowist Plant Shop, Quiet Golf, and Gunwhale Ales all located on the same “almost famous” Randolph Street.
3. Fill Up Buttercup
Looking to shop more sustainably this holiday season? Fill Up Buttercup is your one stop-shop for home and body essentials that are biodegradable, compostable or can be easily recycled!
This shopping center on the bluffs of Costa Mesa, has some other gems worth checking out. While you are there stop by: Fermentation Farm, The Water Brewery, and Amis De la Terre.
4. The Inconvenience Store
At The CAMP, you’ll find The Inconvenience Store which is anything but an inconvenience! This little shop is packed with one-of-a-kind finds and so many unexpected knick-knacks. You’ll discover unique Japanese shirts and accessories, miniature ceramics, handmade colorful dried flower bouquets, and even fun Garfield memorabilia (not for sale).
While you are there check out: Work in Progress, Booth, and MadeWithLoveByJAX.
5. Saltwater Leather
Shop handcrafted leather goods in Costa Mesa at Saltwater Leather. Family-owned and family-made since 2019, they believe quality is in the details! Their leather duffle bags and passport holders make great gifts for someone who is always on the go.
Other shops we love on 17th street: Fleur De Lys, Rococo Boutique, Tres Muchachos, and Goodies.
5. Inspired Art Wine
If you are looking for a fun group night out or memorable date night, we recommend booking a class at Inspired Art Wine. Take a step-by-step painting class while sipping on your favorite glass of wine! This relaxed space is a great way to tap into your inner artist and take a break from the holiday stress.
This unexpected Costa Mesa strip-mall is jampacked with indie stores. While you are there check out: Port of Sound Record Shoppe, YUBUYA, and Mixing Glass & Market.
6. Landers Supply House
Landers Supply House is a must-visit unique hidden gem for any slow fashion or vintage shopper. Their wide range of vintage denim, jackets, and jewelry with an americana twist is the perfect place to find a gift for someone who appreciates a unique, timeless piece.
Other thrift shops we love: Twice The Style and SoLo Consignment.
8. NEAT
Nestled in the heart of a local neighborhood , NEAT is a top choice for anyone looking for freshly brewed coffee and a warm welcoming vibe. If you need stocking stuffers, they have coffee bags from around the world, available for purchase!
Other local coffee shops we love: Coffee Nature, Original Barista, Lion & Lamb Coffee, and Moongoat.
9. Plant Matter
Plant Matter is ready to turn you into the ultimate plant parent! Shop a gorgeous selection of plants inside a retro airstream at The LAB and walk out with all the plant-care tips you’ll need to make sure your new family member thrives.
At The LAB (Little American Business) all the stores are worth a visit, but here are a few of our favorites! While you are there check out: Bred Hot Chicken, Good Town Doughnuts, and Things Between.
10. SISU
If you need a gift for someone who loves exploring the outdoors, you have to check out SISU at the SOCO & The OC Mix. This sibling-owned shop carries sustainable camping gear and home goods from Asian brands you won’t be able to find anywhere else! Check out our viral reel about their store to learn more.
While you are there check out: Balboa Gold, Hadley & Ren, and Local Fare.
11. Costa Mesa Ceramics Studio
Book a wheel-throwing class at Costa Mesa Ceramics Studio, where you can mold and shape clay into unique pottery pieces. Not much of an artist? Don’t worry, they have a lovely selection of handcrafted dinnerware and vases ready for purchase!
Other studios we love as the “City of the Arts”: ARTime Barro, The Pottery Studio, Location 1980
Take a Shopcation
With so many small businesses in the city to explore, why not turn your visit into a Shopcation? Find one-of-a kind gifts for everyone on your list, including yourself! At one of our eleven hotels, we have something for everyone! Plan your stay.
What’s your favorite small business in Costa Mesa? Be sure to tag us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok!
Comments Off on 11 Must-Visit Small Businesses in Costa Mesa
Posted in Shopping
Orange County’s Best Black Friday and Small Business Saturday Shopping in Costa Mesa
There is no rest for the weary during the holidays. Between family gatherings, home-cooked meals and holiday parties, there isn’t much free time for shopping. Holiday decor hangs in stores earlier each year. While the scent of your Thanksgiving meal still lingers in the kitchen, it’s already time to focus on holiday shopping. Whether your list is for one or one-hundred, there is a good chance shopping is on the agenda for the long Thanksgiving weekend. With many big-brands offering large discounts on Black Friday, fighting through the crowds may be worth the savings. If leaving the house seems like too much to ask, there is Cyber Monday, where online retailers and e-commerce sites offer savings on products and shipping with one-day-only deals. In between the Black Friday swarm and the Cyber Monday searches is Shop Small Saturday, a national movement that promotes shopping at locally owned businesses. Read More
Comments Off on Orange County’s Best Black Friday and Small Business Saturday Shopping in Costa Mesa
