Category Travel

Tourists who visit Costa Mesa often play it safe by sticking to the well-known attractions. Still, they often miss out on the authentic cultural experiences that make this Orange County city special. Big-name destinations are popular for a reason and have their own appeal, but the real character of Costa Mesa lies in its bones. How residents spend time in the community reveals a different side of the city. For those looking for things to do in OC that get to the heart of this cultural explosion of community, Costa Mesa has a wealth of diamonds in the rough for hot spots to visit during your trip. 

Local Coffee Spots

Local coffee shops, seemingly built into the city’s natural design, are a great way to start any Costa Mesa vacation. You can skip the chain shops in favor of independent cafes that roast their own beans and know regulars by name. Morning crowds can be found at some of the most unassuming establishments for a dose of quality espresso and a feel for life as a local. Outdoor seating areas at some local businesses create neighborhood gathering spots where social interactions occur naturally. Arriving early is always a good idea for these local treasures, as seating is limited. Grab a spot with your favorite coffee and pastry and post up while you watch the vibrant city wake up. 

Costa Mesa Shopping

Costa Mesa’s outdoor shopping centers are a staple of the city, featuring sustainability-minded retailers, a farmers market on Saturdays, and casual dining options. Shopping malls in Costa Mesa are frequented daily by locals for everyday essentials rather than an occasional destination spot. Other shopping venues offer alternatives ranging from vintage shops to record stores and unconventional boutiques. It wouldn’t be surprising to hear live music from the courtyard while residents swing by food shops for a quick lunch.

Arts District

Costa Mesa is famous for its footprint amongst the art and creative community. Small galleries, design studios, and showrooms occupy converted warehouses and industrial spaces. Locals survey furniture shops or check out art exhibitions without the crowd typical of more publicized gallery districts. Art walks motivate many galleries to stay open extended hours. These events attract a local crowd that mingles while enjoying new work. 

Dining

Upscale dining and local favorites alike can be found in Costa Mesa. Reservations are recommended for fine dining in the area, as seating can be hard to come by on a walk-in basis. More casual meals and creative craft cocktails can be found not too far away at a local eatery around the corner. Some restaurants are popular for their seasonal menus that often attract a lot of attention from locals. Open kitchen concepts, where diners can watch their meal preparation, and a wine list that features lesser-known labels but doesn’t compromise fine dining quality, are a hit for locals in the area. 

Travel Costa Mesa Like a Local

Experiencing Costa Mesa like a local means slowing down, venturing to unusual places, and prioritizing the authentic over the artificial. The city is a vibrant place to make unforgettable memories. Visiting the main attractions is always encouraged, but if you have some extra time during your visit, checking out a lesser-known spot may be the best part of your vacation. 

Planning a visit and want to learn more about how to experience Costa Mesa like a local? Learn more today. 

Most people drive through Costa Mesa on their way somewhere else, unaware of what this amazing city has to offer. This vibrant cultural city offers an impressive calendar of events that rivals cities twice its size. Longtime residents or first-time visitors to Costa Mesa can expect year-round entertainment that blends art, food, music, and culture. You can check out Summer’s legendary OC Fair or visit in the cooler months during the community’s beloved Costa Mesa Winter Fest. 

Winter Wonders

Just because Southern California isn’t known for its hills of white snow doesn’t mean the city doesn’t succeed in creating genuine holiday magic. The community works hard to curate decorative scenes at South Coast Plaza that attract individuals from across the region. Elaborate displays are thoughtfully designed, and holiday performances create a festive atmosphere unrivaled in Orange County. 

Costa Mesa’s Winter Fest is Southern California’s largest winter festival. Orange County’s holiday spirit is unparalleled, with special Santa events and holiday performances. You can find holiday programs such as the Nutcracker, seasonal concerts, and special theatre productions. You can be part of the community through tree-lighting ceremonies that bring holiday cheer and by dining on unique seasonal dishes. 

Spring Season

As temperatures rise, so does the excitement for Costa Mesa’s spring event and festivals. When you plan a trip to Costa Mesa during the spring season, you can visit monthly markets that feature vendors from all over Southern California. Event centers offer spring shows, home and garden expos, and gem and mineral exhibitions. You can even be part of free community events, which is great for families seeking affordable entertainment during their trip. Cinco de Mayo brings a wave of festive energy to local restaurants and venues. You can expect to witness live mariachi music, special menus, and celebrations that honor cultural diversity. 

Summers Main Event

Drawing over a million visitors annually, Costa Mesa’s OC Fair is the crown jewel of events. Visitors step into a wonderworld of deep-fried indulgence, carnival rides, livestock shows, and competitive displays. Each year, vendors outdo themselves, concocting creative fried delights alongside classic turkey legs, funnel cakes, and fried Oreos. Beyond their signature fair, Costa Mesa offers Fourth of July celebrations, outdoor movie screenings, and concert performances.

Fall Festivities

Autumn keeps the momentum going with Oktoberfest celebrations at local breweries. German food, imported beers, and live polka music create an authentic atmosphere without a passport. Let’s not forget about Halloween entertainment in Costa Mesa. Pumpkin patches, costume contests, and harvest activities are great for younger visitors, making Halloween in Costa Mesa a family-friendly season. 

With fall comes the nation’s premier shopping season, and Costa Mesa doesn’t disappoint. See jaw-dropping decorations and participate in Turkey Trot or Dia de los Muertos celebrations. There is something for everyone in Costa Mesa. 

Year-Round Fun

Some Costa Mesa experiences extend beyond the seasons. The weekly farmers’ markets operate continuously and adjust their supplies to match seasonal harvests. World-class performances can be attended throughout the year. The restaurant scene provides constant culinary exploration. There is plenty to do in Costa Mesa, even if you are planning your trip during a slower season. 

Plan Your Visit

Costa Mesa is a cultural powerhouse and draws regional crowds and locals alike. The calendar is never empty, so plan for events you don’t want to miss. Just be sure to leave room for spontaneous adventure, too. Costa Mesa may often go overlooked, but this diamond in the rough is worth the trip. 

Check out our events calendar and start planning your visit today!

A staycation is the perfect chance to discover hidden attractions and recharge without the chaos of planning a lengthy getaway or paying for expensive airfare. Many don’t think to visit Costa Mesa, even though it offers a rich diversity of entertainment, dining, and culture. Staycationers can take advantage of competitive hotel specials, dine on diverse cuisine, and experience a side of Costa Mesa they’ve never seen without breaking the bank. You can enjoy luxury accommodations in your area for less and support local business owners. Staycations originally became popular for their affordability, but the hobby has grown as more people want to travel while working under restrictions that make traditional vacationing impossible. This alternative approach encourages travellers and locals alike to explore their community with fresh eyes and embrace the mindset of a tourist. The right staycation can deliver just as much relaxation and adventure as distant getaways, while remaining budget-friendly and minimizing travel fatigue. 

Planning Your Staycation

Not dissimilar to traditional getaways, staycations still require strategic planning to maximize your enjoyment and relaxation. Approach planning your staycation like you would if you were traveling hundreds of miles. Research like a tourist and prioritize activities. Get acquainted with local attractions, events, and new experiences. Even if you are a local, consider lodging elsewhere to really get the most out of your staycation; changing environments can amplify that vacation vibe. Try to pre-plan the priorities to avoid disappointment and eliminate the irritation of impromptu decision-making. 

Setting Limits and Boundaries

For any type of vacation, staycation included, to be successful, setting clear and unshakable limits and boundaries is a must. Otherwise, instead of returning relaxed and renewed, you could leave anxious and defeated. Minimize interruptions by letting family and friends know of your plans. Avoid household tasks or running routine errands; these activities undermine the vacation mentality. Setting intentional boundaries allows you to relax, disconnect from daily routines, and fully immerse yourself in your staycation. 

Local Attractions

Do your homework on local attractions as a tourist; this gives you a fresh perspective and opens the door to new experiences in your area. See what museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks are right in your backyard that you didn’t know existed. Reference community calendars and event pages for local festivals, concerts, farmers’ markets, and seasonal events to prioritize your staycation. 

Budget-Friendly Tips

You don’t have to save thousands to enjoy a memorable staycation. Look for hotel specials and package deals to give you a good bang for your buck. Use social media to find low-cost or even free entertainment options in the area. Many social media groups post information about local promotional offers, happy hour specials, and seasonal discounts. Approaching your staycation strategically can help you have a memorable vacation without your budget throwing up red flags at every turn. 

Staycation For the Win

Staycations are a remarkable opportunity to relax and explore without going too far or having to save for months to afford it, without going into debt. Even your local area is full of hidden adventures ready to be experienced. Whether you choose to visit the vibrancy of Costa Mesa or take a break while staying local, the secret to a truly successful staycation is disconnecting from everyday life and creating memories you can look back on and smile. Staycations offer a unique advantage in their flexibility and affordability, without compromising quality or fun. 

Considering a staycation? Visit Costa Mesa and experience your vacation like never before.                                                                                                     

Nothing beats that Friday feeling before a weekend getaway. Unlike extended vacations, weekend getaways spare you from lengthy flights and jet lag. Instead, you get a manageable drive and two days of adventures. The key to a successful short trip isn’t complicated itineraries or deep pockets. What matters is choosing a destination close enough to make the most of your time and interesting enough to make the drive worth it. Southern California has plenty of options for a quick escape, though many don’t think to visit Costa Mesa when planning their trips. It’s an unfortunate truth: this city offers close access to the beach, outstanding restaurants, and a fantastic art scene without the congestion that plagues other nearby coastal spots. You’ll find a variety of Costa Mesa hotels, from boutique properties with character to straightforward family accommodations, offering options beyond generic chains. A successful weekend getaway is more than just the destination. Thoughtful planning is required so you aren’t sleeping in the street or stuck in three hours of traffic. 

Choosing Your Destination

The perfect destination for a weekend getaway doesn’t require loads of bells and whistles. But it should have sufficient options for entertainment and food. Driving distance should be a significant influencing factor. The ideal weekend getaway is 2-4 hours away. 

Before finalizing a destination, do your research. Find out what local attractions and activities each potential destination offers. Costa Mesa is an excellent option in California with its beach access, dining scene, and arts and culture. It is also less crowded than neighboring cities. 

Selecting Accommodations

Booking the proper accommodations can set the tone for your whole trip. Many destinations have countless options to choose from, but Costa Mesa offers:

• Boutique hotels
• Family-friendly options
• Luxury properties
• Budget-conscious choices

When booking your hotel, consider its proximity to attractions you want to visit. This can go a long way in optimizing your time. You might also read reviews from previous guests to get an idea of how satisfied the average traveler is with the accommodations. 

Creating a Flexible Itinerary

The most common mistake people make when planning a weekend trip is cramming every waking hour with activities. Many seasoned travelers follow the 70/30 rule. This means planning approximately 70% of your time and leaving 30% open for unscheduled activities. 

Start by identifying the one or two things you can’t miss, and build your schedule around them. Be sure to give yourself buffer time between activities; this can help eliminate those feelings of anxiety and being rushed. No weekend getaway goes precisely according to plan, so making arrangements to account for surprises is always a good idea. 

Making the Most of Limited Time

Planning the perfect weekend getaway doesn’t require overwhelming preparation. A destination within a few hours’ drive, accommodations and attractions that fit your budget, and an itinerary that provides structure without constricting your schedule too much. Implementing the 70/30 rule will help you prevent overscheduling while still making the most of your time. Costa Mesa offers everything you could want from a weekend destination, with nearby beaches, diverse dining, cultural attractions, and hotel options to suit any needs. It will be your go-to spot for regular weekend getaways. Your Sunday evening drive home is relaxing since you didn’t try to do everything in a single weekend. Do your research on where you want to go and where you want to stay, but make sure to leave gaps in your schedule for unplanned events and spontaneity. 

CTA: Discover hotels and attractions in Costa Mesa. 

Reference: Kellog, K. (2024). Weekend Getaway Planning: Tips for an Amazing Trip.