Tag travel costa mesa

Orange County is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. More than fifty million people visit the area annually. Hot spots include beaches, fantastic golf courses, shopping, cultural attractions, cuisine, and theme parks. Home to some of the most popular theme parks in the world, Orange County attractions are unparalleled. This is why the area is a top travel destination for individuals and families. Below, you will find the must-visit theme parks in Orange County.

Must-Visit Theme Parks In Orange County

The beauty of Orange County is that the weather is mild and enjoyable all year round. You won’t find dreadfully hot summers or snowy winters. In fact, you can enjoy great weather all year round. This is why there are so many amazing theme parks to enjoy. Add the following must-visit theme parks in Orange County to your list of things to do on your next vacation.

Disneyland

Likely the most popular attraction in Orange County, Disneyland is a hotspot for fun, food, and rides. The world-famous park offers unforgettable experiences for individuals, couples, and families. The amusement park is divided into different lands that have unique themes. Each area includes food, characters, and attractions related to the theme of that land. The entire park is filled with new rides and classics for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to ride the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Indiana Jones Adventure. They have to be at the top of your list when you head to Disneyland.

To get the most out of your trip to Disneyland, arrive early! You can beat the crowds and get on popular rides without having to wait too long. If you want to invest a little extra cash into your ticket, add the Genie+ feature. It allows you to skip long lines at select attractions. If you have a family that needs food accommodations, check out the menus beforehand. Disneyland offers food for everyone, including those who are vegan, vegetarian, and even gluten-free.

California Adventure Park

Right across from Disneyland is the California Adventure Park. While it has the charm of Disneyland, it offers a completely different experience and is definitely one of the most exciting things to do in and around Costa Mesa. The park is filled with attractions related to Disney’s Pixar and Marvel characters. Characters like Spider-Man and Iron Man can be spotted there. Fun rides include Radiator Springs Racers and Guardians of the Galaxy’s Mission Breakout. You also do not want to miss the Ferris Wheel. It may look simple, but it is an adrenaline-filled ride with great views of the entire park.

As with Disneyland, make the most out of your day at California Adventure Park by arriving early. You can get into the rides you want and get the first seats at some of the Marvel experiences and Avengers Campus. If you have little ones with you, consider checking out the height requirements for the rides in advance. This can help you map out your day to get the most out of your trip.

Knott’s Berry Farm

Head over to Buena Park for some fun-filled action at Knott’s Berry Farm. The theme park is filled with a lot of thrills as it has some amazing roller coasters. If you are up for the thrills of crazy drops and loops, this is a must-see on your Southern California vacation list. The best attractions include GhostRider and Calico River Rapids. GhostRider is the longest, tallest, and fastest wooden coaster on the West Coast!

A day at Knott’s Berry Farm should start early, as is true for all theme parks. It allows you to beat the crowds and get on your favorite rides before the masses show up. There are a lot of great places to eat at Knott’s Berry Farm, so be sure to bring your appetite. Another pro tip is to visit in October when the theme park transforms into Knott’s Scary Farm. The thrills only increase at night!

Thrills Near Costa Mesa!

Test your courage at these incredible theme parks in Orange County and see what you add to your must-visit list!

Costa Mesa is one of California’s most vibrant cities. It is known as the City of the Arts as it is home to world-class performing arts companies and performance venues. The area is vibrant and welcoming. There is no shortage of spaces to visit and hold events at. From the Segerstrom Center for the Arts to the Orange County Museum of Art, the possibilities are endless. Below, you will find the top special event venues in Costa Mesa.

Special Event Venues in Costa Mesa

Hosting and planning a special event can be both exciting and overwhelming. One of the major decisions that you need to make is choosing the special event venue. Below, you will find some of the most notable special event venues in Costa Mesa. 

Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Segerstrom Center for the Arts is one of Costa Mesa’s most iconic locations. It is a multi-faceted space that includes a performing arts center and serves as a very unique event space. There are several options, as you can host a large-scale event or a more private affair. There are various places within the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, including Samueli Theater and the Concert Hall. It offers a cultural experience unlike any other, with stunning architecture, gorgeous lighting, and a classy ambiance.

Avenue of the Arts

Avenue of the Arts offers sophistication and elegance. It is a boutique hotel that offers event spaces for everything from corporate meetings to wedding receptions. Not only is the space posh, but events also come with top-tier service. The decor of the space is modern and artistic, so you can show off your style no matter what type of event you are hosting. It is located in the heart of Costa Mesa, making it a great location for both locals and out-of-towners alike.

The Harper

The Harper is a top location if you want a trendy and modern venue. It is chic and elegant, so you can host anything from a wedding to a birthday party. The venue can be customized to meet your unique needs. It offers a blank canvas for you to create what you want, both indoors and outdoors. In fact, many event planners opt to use both the indoor and outdoor areas. The outdoor area offers an elegant courtyard for cocktail hour. The indoor area includes a ballroom great for hosting receptions and dinners. The team of on-site staff can help you create the event of your dreams at The Harper. 

Orange County Museum of Art

For those who love art, there is no other venue like the Orange County Museum of Art in Costa Mesa. The venue is unique and contemporary as it is filled with amazing modern art exhibits. Close to these exhibits are several spaces that can be used for private events. The space is ideal for social galas, corporate receptions, and major dinner banquets. It is one of the best event venues in Orange County if you have a celebration focused on the arts. This is because you are surrounded by art and creativity.

The OC Fair & Event Center

If you need a large venue for your event, consider The OC Fair & Event Center. It is a great option as it is a highly versatile space. There are both indoor and outdoor event areas for festivals, trade shows, or corporate events. It is a fun atmosphere that can be customized to meet your event needs. It is especially fun in the summertime when the OC Fair is in full swing. You will have more than enough space to achieve any of your event goals at The OC Fair & Event Center.

Eating and experiencing new foods is one of the best parts of vacationing. For this reason, many tourist-heavy destinations offer top-tier dining for visitors and locals alike. One such destination is Costa Mesa, California. Costa Mesa is a city filled with outdoor activities, shopping, and excellent restaurants. From seafood and steak to tacos and Asian fusion, there are so many options to choose from. Below, you will find tips for planning the perfect eatcation in Costa Mesa. 

Planning the Perfect Eatcation

If you want to get the most out of your eatcation, plan your trip in advance. Adequate preparation can save you precious time when you are at your destination. Look at various online resources to determine where you want to go, including Reddit, Yelp, the Michelin Guide, TripAdvisor, and Chowhound. Choose restaurants that have good reviews across the board. This can help guide your choices, so you can have the exact experience you want on your eatcation.

Do Your Research

Before you head out, it is helpful to research the local destinations’ food culture. Beach towns often have great seafood, while larger cities often have more variety. Check out the local area and be sure to cater your meals around what the area does best so you can ensure that you have the best experience. For example, sushi in Nebraska may not be the best of the best as they are landlocked and away from fresh seafood. It is also important to consider local customs and culture. Consider going to spots favored by locals rather than tourists so that you can have an authentic eatcation experience. 

Create and Customize Your Dining Map

Once you have done your research and have your desired locations in mind, it is time to plan your trip. To make the most of your time, map out your schedule in advance. Determine each place you would like to visit and create the most effective route. Be sure to check with each location to make sure you know their hours. Some places only serve certain meals at certain times. Get all of the necessary information about each location in advance to ensure you can stay on schedule and experience everything you want.

Food Scene in Costa Mesa

If your trip is in southern California, visiting the food scene in Costa Mesa is a must. There are a variety of options depending on the type of cuisine you enjoy. In fact, no matter how specific their preferences are, there is likely something for everyone in Costa Mesa. From vegetarian to gluten-free options, your whole family can enjoy eating out in the area. Consider checking out the following restaurants in Costa Mesa during your eatcation.

Knife Pleat

Knife Pleat is one of the best Michelin-starred restaurants in the area. It offers a contemporary take on classic French cuisine. The restaurant’s chefs are skilled in several classic French dishes and offer amazing dessert options. The restaurant is elegant yet approachable and draws people from all over the world. Located in Costa Mesa’s South Coast Plaza, you can conveniently enjoy an afternoon of shopping and dining.

Din Tai Fung

Din Tai Fung is a must-visit restaurant in Costa Mesa. It serves Chinese food specifically focused on Shanghai cuisine. From its dumplings to perfectly seasoned vegetables, the menu has something for everyone. Unfortunately, because the dishes are so delicious, the restaurant is often busy, so it is important to reserve your table at Din Tai Fung in advance.

Hana re

Hana Re is a sushi bar with unmatched dishes. They carefully select their seafood and meat to ensure pure perfection when served. In fact, the kitchen is open so you can see exactly how your dish is created. Hana Re is a Michelin-starred restaurant that consistently leaves patrons coming back for more.

Plan Your Eatcation Today!

Costa Mesa has a plethora of incredible restaurants to try and enjoy. If you love trying new foods, make sure to visit its delectable food scene.

Southern California and the Los Angeles area are widely known for their contributions to the global media market and the film industry. Some of the world’s most iconic venues for music, visual arts, and more are located in this region. Even among this vibrant artistic ecosystem, Costa Mesa stands out as one of the epicenters of creativity and cultural expression. Fans of the arts who take a visit can expect to find many sites of interest. If you want to understand why Costa Mesa is called “The City of the Arts,” this guide will share some of the best offerings in Costa Mesa.

Costa Mesa: A Center for Creativity

Costa Mesa is located in the greater Los Angeles area and is one of the world’s most vibrant creative centers. Even within this larger cultural complex, the community of Costa Mesa stands out as a creative hub.

Costa Mesa has many world-renowned cultural hubs for the performing arts, public sculpture, and installations. One can easily lose themselves exploring these venues and the high-quality creativity that they represent.

Why is Costa Mesa Called “The City of the Arts”?

Costa Mesa expresses its dedication to the arts through many different avenues, which are quite apparent in the high level of everyday support that artists experience in the city. Whether one views a Tony-award-winning play or visits the world-renowned Segerstrom Hall, there is much to admire in terms of the amount of art to explore.

Familiarizing yourself with some of the cultural mainstays of Costa Mesa is a good first step to setting yourself up for experiencing all that it has to offer. Some of the central artistic attractions of the Costa Mesa area include the following:

The Segerstrom Center for the Arts

The Segerstrom Center for the Arts is one of the most fully formulated arts centers in the United States. Consequently, it is one of the best venues to see art in Southern California. Some of the other venues on this list are actually located within the capacious Segerstrom Center, including Segerstrom Hall and the Orange County Museum of the Arts.

The Orange County Museum of the Arts

Art lovers know the Orange County Museum of the Arts as one of the most widely regarded art centers in the United States. Some of the world’s most celebrated visual artists have held exhibitions within its walls, and the Museum offers community events such as art classes and wine tastings.

The South Coast Repertory

The South Coast Repertory is one of the country’s most prestigious theatrical production centers and has produced many different award-winning productions.

Noguchi Garden

Isamu Noguchi is one of the world’s premiere interior designers and architects. His influence permeates many different areas of our daily lives. Several different Noguchi Gardens exist in Costa Mesa, offering visitors a plethora of entertainment options. Accordingly, a visit to the gardens can give Noguchi enthusiasts a lot to talk about on their trip home.

Pacific Amphitheater

The Pacific Amphitheater is one of the premiere concert halls on the West Coast and regularly hosts many prestigious national and international acts. The venue offers individuals a chance to listen to beautiful music. At the same time, they can enjoy the natural scenery of coastal California. It is regularly rated as one of the most beautiful ecosystems in the world.

Murals and More

In addition to the more official creative centers in Costa Mesa, the city itself is almost an art piece. This is because the city has many vivacious murals that paint the nooks and corners of its streets.

Renowned artists, including the painting luminary Shepard Fairey, have painted some of Costa Mesa’s murals. In contrast, others pay tribute to the cultural and historic legacy of Southern Californian legends like Kobe Bryant.

If you are en route to a full-fledged mural tour, you might find something else to enjoy on the way. Many of the murals share space with some of the best restaurants in Southern California. In this way, you can experience both Costa Mesa’s art and culinary scenes.

Everything You Need to Travel

Travel Costa Mesa is one of the most highly regarded travel agencies for arranging a fantastic trip to the community. If you want to visit the museums in Costa Mesa, contact us today to discuss what is in store.

Costa Mesa is located in one of the most beautiful parts of the California coast and is situated in one of the most vibrant urban areas of the country, the greater Los Angeles area. Following this, there’s plenty to love both for those who are seeking surf and sun, as well as cultural activities to try in Costa Mesa.

It can be challenging to determine exactly where to start in places like these. That is why we created this guide: to help you get your bearings in one of the nicest places in America and provide you with ten activities to try in Costa Mesa.

1.  Go to the Segerstrom Center for the Arts

The Segerstrom Center for the Arts is a cultural institution that seeks to serve Orange County by providing a venue for the arts. The centerpiece of the compound is the Segerstrom Theater, which provides 1,800 seats for viewers interested in seeing the programming.

The building itself also constitutes a sight to see. Designed by Cesar Pelli, one of the world’s most celebrated modern architects, the compound boasts inventive design and sleek features that make it an attraction in its own right.

2.  Find the Noguchi Gardens

Isamu Noguchi was a Japanese-American designer and architect who set up installations all over the country, including in Costa Mesa. You can visit one of his famous Gardens in Costa Mesa and explore the interactive work of this beloved artist.

3.  Hit the Beach

Located in Southern California, Costa Mesa is home to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches. Beaches like Newport Beach boast some of the beautiful views and interesting people-watching that California beaches are famed for.

4.  Visit the Orange County Museum of Art

The Orange County Museum of Art is located inside the previously mentioned Segerstrom Center for the Arts. As the newest addition to the Center, the museum is one of the most beautiful buildings in Southern California and boasts one of the most impressive collections of art in the region.

5.  Go Golfing

Southern California is one of the premier golf destinations in the United States, and Costa Mesa has some of the finer courses available in this region. Try your hand at 18 holes at the famous Costa Mesa Country Club, or try going to the Los Lagos Golf Course for additional fun.

6.  Listen to the Pacific Symphony

The Pacific Symphony is a full orchestra that operates out of Costa Mesa and is one of the larger symphonies performing on the West Coast today. Music lovers can enjoy some of the classics while they bask in the beautiful scenery of coastal California.

7.  Visit the Anti-Mall

The Anti-Mall is not your typical mall. The collection of quirky and off-the-beaten-path types of vendors might charm those who do not normally enjoy shopping. The Anti-mall was conceived as a place where locals could share and consume local goods and meet other members of their community.

8.  Eat to your Heart’s Content

Costa Mesa boasts a reputable dining scene with emissaries of many different types of cuisine from which to sample. It has one of the healthiest and most vibrant dining scenes in California. Some of the venues of note include Water Grill, Habana, and Tableau Kitchen and Bar.

9.  Follow the Costa Mesa Beer Trail

In addition to having stellar restaurants, Costa Mesa is also known for the plethora of breweries that have opened their doors in the past several years. If you like to have a couple of laughs with friends over pints, then you would likely find some kindred spirits on the Costa Mesa Beer Trail.

10.  Take a Hike

Costa Mesa is adjacent to some extensive hiking trails that constitute the Orange County Trail System. This trail system offers hours and hours of outdoor fun. It has fabulous views and camaraderie from connecting with your fellow hikers. The hiking system covers much of the interconnecting cities of Orange County.

For All of Your Travel Ideas

Travel Costa Mesa exists to help people access all of the great things about Costa Mesa. If you are interested in exploring the hidden gems in the city, contact us today so we can help you create travel plans and choose which activities to try in Costa Mesa, Orange County.

South Coast Plaza is one of the largest shopping destinations in the country. People travel from all over to experience the opulence and luxury that exist at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa. The mall has everything from fashion apparel and accessories to jewelry and beauty. There is truly something for everyone. Before you head over, consider the following guide to shopping at South Coast Plaza.

Guide to Shopping at South Coast Plaza

Planning your visit to South Coast Plaza can help you optimize your time there. Read on for our insider tips and tricks for having an amazing experience.

Consider Must-Visit Stores

If you want to stroll around South Coast Plaza and see what looks fun at the moment, that is no problem! However, there is a lot of ground to cover, and you may want to list your must-visit stores before you get there. You can check out the mall website and look at the directory to see where each of the boutiques or shops you want to go to are. This can help you effectively use your time as you shop so you do not waste time looking for what you need. Download the South Coast Plaza app before you head over whether you plan your trip or not.

Check South Coast Plaza Hours of Operation

Before you head over, consider the time you want to visit. South Coast Plaza often has different hours on Sundays, so be sure to check when they are open before you head over. Additionally, South Coast Plaza has extended hours during the holidays. While it will be busy, Costa Mesa shopping is great during the holidays. There are so many boutiques you are bound to find a gift for everyone.

Consider Parking

There is ample parking most of the year, as there are several lots to choose from. South Coast Plaza has self-parking structures and lots, valet parking, and electric vehicle charging. If you opt for valet parking, be sure to check their hours in advance. Parking is typically available, but it is important to note that the holidays bring in a lot of shoppers. Opt to head to South Coast Plaza early during the holidays to bypass the afternoon rush. 

Dining At South Coast Plaza

One of the best parts of South Coast Plaza is the dining options. They have several fine and casual dining options. The famous Din Tai Fung is a fan favorite that attracts people from all over the world. If you do not have time to sit down, consider quick bites found all over the mall. There are several options that accommodate dietary restrictions, so there is something for everyone.

Schedule Appointments

Many of the luxury boutiques require an appointment before you can shop. This is to ensure you have the very best Costa Mesa travel experience. The boutiques at South Coast Plaza are focused on providing you with the best customer service experience so you are comfortable and can take your time. When you decide on your must-visit shops, contact them to see if you need to schedule an appointment. They can happily accommodate your schedule when you visit.

Entertainment Options

If you want to experience some entertainment after you shop and dine, South Coast Plaza has options. Segerstrom Center for the Arts and South Coast Repertory are popular entertainment venues. Check out their schedule beforehand to ensure you can secure tickets. There are also child-friendly attractions to schedule throughout your day if the whole family is coming. Consider stopping by the Carousel Court and designated play areas for some fun. 

Travel Costa Mesa

Costa Mesa is an oasis for the whole family. South Coast Plaza is a great place to spend time, whether you are a local or a tourist. Consider adding South Coast Plaza to your itinerary for some great shopping, food, and fun!

Traveling is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in a different culture, meet new people, and see for yourself the places that you have only seen in the movies or on the internet and read about in books. However, aside from planning your itinerary and trying to fit all the places you want to see in the limited number of days you’ll be staying in a particular place, another thing that can be overwhelming and time-consuming is choosing the right accommodation. With all the options available to you, you are left with the question: How do you choose a hotel in 2024?

First, you need to determine what you consider the most important.

What are your non-negotiables? Define your priorities and start from there. After you have decided what you really need and cannot do without, then you can start thinking of what you want.

How to Choose a Hotel in 2024

Location 

Where do you need to be close to? Do you need a place near the airport, near the financial district, or near the tourist attractions? Or perhaps you want to be close to the train station or bus stations so that it will be easier for you to navigate the city.

Some travelers want to be close to supermarkets, malls, dining options, or interesting nightlife. Whatever kind of traveler you are, there’s always a good hotel that will satisfy your requirements.

Hotel Reviews

Hotel reviews can be very helpful, especially when there are more than just a handful of guest reviews. However, you also have to take into consideration that some reviews may be biased. Look at the reviews and try to see if the same issue comes up again and again for the same hotel. You might also want to check the dates the reviews were written. Look for reviews that were written within the past 365 calendar days. The more recent the review is, the better. What was true for a hotel years ago may no longer be true today.

Hotel Amenities 

Do you plan on using hotel facilities like the pool, gym, salon or spa? If you are, better reach out to the hotel before you make your booking and make sure that these facilities will be available on your planned visit.  

Budget

Budget is very important for a lot of travelers. But some do not concern themselves too much with it. Whether you are a budget traveler or not, Costa Mesa can give you great hotel options.

Hotel Reputation

You would want to know what the hotel is known for. If you would like to have some peace and quiet during your stay, or if you plan to use the pool without the company of small children, it would be wise to look for a hotel that’s not frequented by families.  

Hotels that cater to business travelers are good options if you are looking for a quiet place.

Hotel Room

Consider the size of the hotel room. Even if you are traveling for business, you are not expected to stay in your room for longer than necessary. You will just need a room to sleep in. After all, you would be out exploring the city, getting to know its people, and trying out new food. However, some rooms can be too small to be comfortable, and there are times when closed or small spaces can make people feel claustrophobic. 

Hotels outside the city center can offer guests a much larger room for the same price as a small hotel room in the city center. If you find such a listing and accessibility is not a problem, that can be a good option. Again, it all depends on your priorities.

Room Amenities

What do you want to have in your room? Do you want to be able to take a warm bubble bath after a long day? Then a bathtub would be a must.

Are you a vlogger or a business traveler? You will need strong and stable wifi access inside your room.

Make sure to check what the room offers. Iron, hair dryer, desk, safe, etc. 

Hotel Size

Who would have thought that this would matter? Unfortunately, some travelers learn this the hard way. Some hotels are just too large; it would take a good amount of walking from your room to the hotel exit. You would be tired even before starting your day. If you plan on doing a lot of walking or city exploration from morning until evening or late afternoon, your feet will be killing you by late afternoon, and burdening them with more than just a few extra steps to get to your room will surely make them take their revenge on you the next day, preventing you from enjoying everything you have planned.

Breakfast

A buffet breakfast that’s already included in the cost of your room is a big deal. The buffet will give you plenty of options, especially if you are not familiar with the cuisine of the country you are traveling to. It will also provide you with the energy you need for an exciting and adventure-filled day. The buffet breakfast, especially if not eaten too early, can also help you save money that you would otherwise spend for lunch.

Take note, however, that sometimes the room just comes with a simple plated breakfast. You need to be sure of what you’re getting before you make the final booking.

Fine Print

Make sure to read the fine print before you book your hotel. Check if the amenities you are planning on using have an extra cost. If you intend to rent a car, ensure that you won’t be charged an arm and a leg for parking. 

In conclusion, aside from your overall budget, the way you choose your hotel will depend on the kind of traveler you are, the things you plan to do, and the places you want to visit. Check the hotel website for general information and pictures, but remember to check different booking sites, too. Booking sites can offer better deals, and prices vary on different booking sites as well. To get the most out of your money, start by checking Costa Mesa hotels.

If you appreciate human history and culture, you will have a breathtaking experience as you tour Orange County. With many museums, exhibits, botanical gardens, and other works of art to look at, you are bound to learn something new every day during your vacation. 

The best part? Many of these art exhibits are free!

Visit the OC Museum of Art for Free!

Costa Mesa is one of the beautiful Orange County cities you can visit if you want to see some really unique and valuable art. The OC Museum of Art, also known as OCMA, encourages people from all over the globe to experience the arts. One way they are able to make this space open to everyone is by offering free admission. Today, our Costa Mesa travel experts will tell you everything there is to know about how you can visit the OC Museum of Art for free on almost any day of the week! 

What Is the OC Museum of Art? 

OCMA holds a special place in the hearts of Orange County residents – and everyone else in California, for that matter. This is because the permanent art collection housed at OCMA is completely comprised of artists who have a connection with the Golden State. With over 4500 paintings, sketches, photographs, and other forms of fine art, you will never get bored discovering all of the local history. 

The OC Museum of Art also hosts rotating exhibitions that feature a wide range of themes and artists. For example, a current exhibition is titled Tony Lewis: CASUAL T and it blurs the lines between visual art and writing. Visitors can also see expert photography, photomanipulation, mixed media art, film, and everything in between. 

When and How to Visit the Museum for Free

OCMA offers free admission. Guests will never have to pay for entry into the museum, which supports the principle that art should be free and accessible to all. You can stop by whenever you want, though it is still best to plan it into your schedule. The museum is always closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so you will want to make sure you visit OCMA on a different day of the week. Typical hours are between 11 AM and 6 PM, giving you all day to browse the astounding collections. 

Stay in Costa Mesa for the Ultimate Vacation

The Orange County Museum of Art is located right here in Costa Mesa, making it one of the best museums in the heart of Orange County. In fact, you can plan an all-day free excursion around the city of Costa Mesa while you have experiences that you will not find anywhere else. Aside from the art museums and exhibits that you can find all around the area, there are huge opportunities for non-stop entertainment. The Segerstrom Center for the Arts, a huge performing arts center, is also located nearby in Costa Mesa. 

 During the summer months, you can come and visit us at the OC Fair. Costa Mesa’s historic fairgrounds have hosted decades of traditions with family-friendly activities and entertainment that celebrate the importance of farming. There are plenty of photo opportunities, tasty snacks, unique art, and lots of animals to get familiar with. 

Visit Costa Mesa Today!

Whether you are a California resident or you are traveling from far away to see sunny Costa Mesa, you can make the most out of your trip when you use our all-inclusive travel guide. We offer plenty of information about Costa Mesa recreation and entertainment, which is bound to get you excited about your upcoming visit. You always have the opportunity to see the OC Museum of Art free of charge, and we highly recommend seeing this gem of Costa Mesa culture. Get in touch with us today to start your vacation plans the right way!

Costa Mesa is often referred to as the heart of Orange County, but where exactly is it located? What is it most well-known for? Is Costa Mesa near any beaches in California? 

Is Costa Mesa Near Any Beaches?

Our travel agents get this question a lot, and we understand that there is a lot of hype surrounding Costa Mesa and all of OC. Costa Mesa is an incredible city that is very close to well-known beach towns such as Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, and even Laguna Beach. Plus, Costa Mesa is home to one of the largest and most famous malls in the world. Whether you are in the mood for some beach relaxation or you want to score big with some unique shopping, Costa Mesa is certainly the place to be. 

Newport Beach

As a stunning and world-renowned beach location, Newport Beach offers a unique opportunity to see the Pacific Ocean. Its beaches are known for being clean, pristine, and beautiful during the day and the night. Walk along the boardwalk and witness the sunset while making your way to an amazing seafood dining location. The next day, get yourself over to Fashion Island, which is a huge shopping center located near the ocean in Newport Beach. You will find a new selection and outlet pricing all in one shopping experience. 

Huntington Beach

In addition to sprawling beaches and plenty of opportunities to camp out, Huntington Beach has a fun beach town that just feels like home. You and your family can make an entire day out of going to the beach as there are plenty of games to play and food to try. Make sure to arrive early so you can claim one of the fire pits, which you can use to cook burgers and s’mores while playing in the ocean. 

Laguna Beach

Though tucked away a bit further south, Laguna Beach is still very close by. This is a quaint artistic town with plenty of great California history to discover. You can find plenty of sandy beaches to sprawl out on if you prefer to spend the day listening to the sounds of the Pacific. You can also stroll through the town and visit one of the many art museums or seafood restaurants along your path.

Costa Mesa

Of course, Costa Mesa is the hub of all of these entertainment options. You can spend all day at the beach while also visiting famous theme parks and dining at five-star restaurants. From Costa Mesa, you can reach just about any activity in Orange County due to our convenient and centralized location. 

Not to mention, we proudly boast the home of South Coast Plaza, one of the most acclaimed shopping locations in the world. With hundreds of different shops, markets, restaurants, and experiences to try out, you will have a shopping trip like no other. Costa Mesa is home to many great hotels and hospitality locations for this exact reason, as we are so close to everything you could ever want in the perfect vacation.

Plan Your Costa Mesa Vacation Today!

At Travel Costa Mesa, we can give you plenty of reasons to visit. But we like to let our city speak for itself. Just a quick trip to our website will give you endless opportunities for Costa Mesa recreation, fun, beach access, museum spots, and so much more. If you are looking to access a bunch of different attractions in Orange County and you don’t know where to go first, choose Costa Mesa. It is close to everything and you will find it easy to travel from place to place while staying in some of the best accommodations. Visit us soon and have an incredible vacation!

The LAB Anti-Mall in Costa Mesa was established in 1993 and is a creative space full of a vibrant assortment of cafes, restaurants, and shops. The LAB stands for Little American Businesses, and this is precisely what is so special about the place. The Lab Anti-Mall, first and foremost, focuses on supporting small businesses as well as artists, musicians, local culture, and fashion. Moreover, this creative space takes pride in being a harbor for free thinking, originality, fun, and funkiness.

Now, the Lab Anti-Mall is a unique center with indoor space and an outdoor courtyard for all who love art, culture, and good food. The three-decade history of the Anti-Mall began when a Costa Mesa night-vision goggle factory was reborn as a creative space with the help of The LAB Team in 1993.

The array of events hosted by the LAB Anti-Mall truly speaks for itself and illustrates the goals and vision of its team. Except for various art shows and pop-up and artisan markets, there are such events as book and poetry readings, creative classes, sustainable wardrobe clothing swaps, and even animal adoption pop-ups.

What Is the LAB Anti-Mall in Costa Mesa?

The LAB Anti-Mall is not just another creative space, but it is a welcoming community with projects like a wishing tree messaging installation, “The living room” community seating, a walk-through gallery, and rotating murals. The LAB Anti-Mall takes pride in promoting creative evolution in the area, giving space to local artists for art and musical events, and bringing together a diverse mix of cultures.

Don’t forget to admire projects such as:

Community Tile Wall Project: the mosaic tile wall is one of the oldest pieces of art on the territory of the LAB. Volunteers from Orange County have been helping to build the wall throughout the years, and this is a good case in point for the community surrounding the LAB Anti-Mall.

• Here, you can find the list of the various events constantly curated and hosted by the LAB.

Memorable Eats from Affordable to Luxurious

Apart from art, the LAB is known for its abundant choice of:

• Unique cafes and restaurants with seasonal vegan cuisine
• Hand-crafted gourmet pizza
• Instagram-worthy lattes
• Organic teas
• Plant-based ice cream
• Craft beer
• Trivia
• And more

You can find here such gastronomic gems as Lebanese and Cuban cuisines, traditional Southern food, and a sushi bar crowned with one MICHELIN star. You can also go on a dream adventure of searching for a hidden speakeasy bar. In addition, the LAB Anti-Mall is a home for shops with locally sourced eco-friendly goods.

Key Restaurants to Try

Here are a couple of eateries that can be thrilling destinations with the trip to the LAB in Costa Mesa: 

• Barbonzai is a restaurant of unique Lebanese cuisine with a modern Mediterranean twist. The food is not only flavorful but healthy as well. The business is local and family-owned.
• Hana Re is a Michelin-star sushi bar known for its intimate atmosphere and exceptional omakase experience curated by Chef Atsushi Yokoyama, a true master of his craft. Keep in mind that you need to have a reservation. 
• Ruin Bar will take you on a true speakeasy adventure. This cozy bar is hidden behind white shuttered doors and consists of indoor and outdoor space. The atmosphere is quirky, and the craft cocktails are delicious. Moreover, on Fridays and Saturdays, the air is spiced up by DJ performances, and guests can enjoy Live Music on Thursdays.
• Seabirds Kitchen has an outstanding vegan menu carefully crafted using seasonal products.

Another exciting part of the LAB is a variety of one-of-a-kind fashion boutiques and clothing shops. These promote the “anti-mall” atmosphere. Staying true to its nature and mindset, the LAB hosts shops with:

• Vintage clothing
• Handmade jewelry
• High-quality minimalist designs
• Streetwear
• Children’s clothing
• And more

LAB Anti-Mall Shops Where You Can Treat Yourself

• Red and Blue Vintage is part of a doughnut shop and is the personal passion project of its owner. Apart from a curated collection of clothing, visitors can find unique vintage decor pieces. Take notice that the shop is closed on Tuesdays.
• Buffalo Exchange began its history in 1974 and keeps an affordable and curated collection of vintage clothing. This thrift shop also buys clothes and has a trade-on-the-spot program.
• Mod Ref | Common Market is a quality clothing and lifestyle accessories brand aiming to provide customers with affordable and timeless clothing inspired by minimal architecture, art, music, and nature. The store is closed on Mondays.

Smaller Shops That Make a Big Difference

• Eco Now is a refill shop that promotes sustainable living and features eco-friendly and locally sourced goods.
• Plant Matter. Is there a nicer reason for having a day out in Costa Mesa than adopting a new plant under the attentive guidance of the knowledgeable team of this plant shop? Come and choose your new green companion. The shop is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
• Creme Tangerine is putting its efforts into keeping the vinyl culture alive and has a superb collection of records.

The LAB: A Place to Experience a Different Side to Commerce

The LAB Anti-Mall in Costa Mesa is about more than spending your hard-earned cash. It’s a place to support your community and reward the efforts of creators, chefs, designers, and more. To learn more about the LAB Anti-Mall in Costa Mesa (and about visiting this city in general), pop by Travel Costa Mesa.