Tag travel costa mesa

For dedicated bikers, biking is not just a way to get from point A to point B. It is a lifestyle, a workout, and the answer to some of the biggest challenges in the world today. In Costa Mesa, it is a fun and easy way of exploring the city’s landmarks and scenic trails. Whether you are a Costa Mesa resident who looks at biking as a no-expense means of transportation or a tourist thinking of things to do in Costa Mesa, you can enjoy the best of the city by biking. Here are eight reasons to start biking today.

8 Reasons to Start Biking 

1. Discover Costa Mesa’s Scenic Beauty

Biking enables you to enjoy the city’s scenic landscapes. What better way to enjoy its beautiful parks and tree-lined neighborhoods? While biking, you can lose yourself in the beauty of your surroundings and connect with nature.

2. Stay Active and Healthy

Costa Mesa’s mild climate makes it easy for residents and tourists alike to enjoy the outdoors all year round. Biking in this city is a great way to stay active, healthy, and fit. It strengthens your muscles, lubricates joints, and improves cardiovascular health. In addition, it helps release endorphins. With better mood, lessened anxiety, and lower risk of depression, you will be able to think clearer and better focus on your goals.

3. Explore Local Attractions

It is much easier to explore local attractions on a bike rather than in a car or on a bus. You will also avoid the complications of finding parking. It costs nothing to run a bike, so you will have more money to enjoy food and other attractions that do require spending.

4. Support a Greener Costa Mesa

Costa Mesa has many environmental and sustainability initiatives in place. By choosing to bike instead of drive, you are supporting these environmental and sustainability efforts. Biking will also help reduce your carbon footprint, a simple environmental goal everyone should strive for.

5. Connect with the Community

Want to meet fellow locals? Bike. Biking is a great way to meet other residents in your city. By joining a biking group, participating in local biking events, or just riding along a Costa Mesa bike route, you will be able to connect with other individuals who share your adventurous spirit and your passion for health and fitness.

6. Enjoy Easy Access to Trails

When you are in Costa Mesa, you will have easy access to biking trails. Costa Mesa is located near several biking trails that cater to all skill levels. Whether you prefer a leisurely ride or a challenging workout, you are bound to be just a short distance from a trail that suits your skill level and purpose.

7. Make Commuting Fun

Level up your daily commute by biking or to work or school. Costa Mesa’s bike lanes and pathways will allow you to have a safe, stress-free, and enjoyable ride to wherever you need to go. You are bound to arrive at your destination fully energized and ready to face the day.

8. Strengthen Family Bond

Biking is a fun and free activity that everyone can enjoy, which means that it is an excellent way for you to bond with your spouse or children. Costa Mesa has safe and scenic bike paths that are well-suited to family outings. By biking, you can enjoy quality time with your family and stay active and fit at the same time.

How to Start Biking

Are you convinced that you should start biking but not sure where to start? Start by purchasing a bike that aligns with your needs. Do you need a road bike, a mountain bike, or a cruiser? You can research more about each type online and visit a retailer to see firsthand which type would be practical for your intended purpose. Make sure that you also purchase a helmet, lights, and a bike lock. When you have everything you need, start by taking short rides to build your biking confidence.

Explore Costa Mesa

Biking is more than a way to get around. It can strengthen family bonds, foster community connection, and support sustainability and environmental efforts, among many other benefits. Whether you are a resident of Costa Mesa or a tourist, biking is the perfect way to experience the best of the town. Visit our website to discover your new favorite spot in Costa Mesa and get ready to bike there in style.

Horseback riding is a fun activity that offers so many benefits. It allows you to see new areas, boost your mood, and relax. However, there are even more health benefits. It is a great form of exercise. You may wonder, does horseback riding burn calories? Below, you will find helpful information that will help you better understand the benefits of horseback riding.

Does Horseback Riding Burn Calories?

Most people do not often think about horseback riding as a form of exercise. However, it is a great form of exercise and is actually a full-body workout. Because it is a full-body workout, you can burn quite a few calories on a ride. Horseback riding in Orange County can burn between 150 to 700 calories per hour. These numbers are based on a rider that is around 150 pounds. You will burn less calories if you are lighter and more calories if you are heavier. These numbers are dependent on several factors, so calories can vary.

There are several factors that impact how many calories you burn during a horseback riding session. The type and intensity of the ride can impact calorie burn. For example, a leisurely trail ride is much less intense than jumping or dressage. The weight of the rider is also impactful as you will burn more calories the heavier you are. Lastly, the pre and post-ride activities can also help you burn more calories. This is because saddling up the horse can burn a few hundred calories in addition to the ride.

Impact of Horseback Riding on Your Physical Health

There are several different types of horse riding styles. The differences in styles have varying degrees of physical intensity. In addition to calories, horseback riding has a great impact on your physical health. Consider the following ways horseback riding can improve your physical health.

Increased Muscle Development

Riding a horse requires engaging your muscles at all times. This includes your core and leg muscles. Your core is what helps your upper body balance on top of the horse. Additionally, your legs grip the horse to ensure you stay in control of your body. This includes your calves, thighs, and glutes. Engaging your muscles for extended periods of time improves muscle strength over time.

Improved Balance and Coordination

Horseback riding involves several moving parts. You have to maintain control of the horse through controlling the reins. You communicate with the horse using your legs. This requires both strength and balance. Lastly, staying on top of the horse requires balance. Combining all of these together requires coordination. Horseback riding improves your balance and coordination due to the actions that simultaneously occur.

Enhanced Cardiovascular Health 

Depending on the intensity of your horseback riding session, it can improve your cardiovascular health. This is especially true if you ride at higher speeds, such as jogging, cantering, or galloping. Riding styles like dressage and barrel racing can easily raise your heart rate. This movement also improves circulation. Promoting blood flow has a positive impact on your heart health. Riding regularly can also help you manage your weight due to the cardiovascular benefits.

Things To Do In Costa Mesa

There are several areas where you can horseback ride in Costa Mesa. Fairview Park, Huntington Central Park Equestrian Center, and the Back Bay Loop Trail are great areas to ride at. Because it is sunny almost all year round in Orange County, you can hit the trails and enjoy your ride almost any day. 

If you are looking for things to do in Costa Mesa, consider horseback riding at one of the various locations in the area!

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!

Getting your heart pumping on a good run is amazing. It can improve your cardiovascular health and muscle strength and boost your mood. Running at the gym is great, but trail running is even more exciting. You can get fresh air and scenic views and enjoy the great outdoors. No matter if you are new or experienced at running, there are several running trails you can visit in Costa Mesa. Below, you will find the best running trails in Costa Mesa. 

Best Running Trails in Costa Mesa

Southern California has some of the most beautiful scenery. From the scenic ocean views to wooded areas, there is something for everyone. Consider the following trails from the running trail guide to find a trail that’s right for you. In fact, try them all if you can to enjoy all of what Costa Mesa has to offer. 

Talbert Regional Park

Talbert Regional Park is separated into two parts, Upper Talbert and Lower Talbert. The trail you choose depends on what you are looking for in a running trail. Upper Talbert has easier, flat trails. This is a great option for beginners or if you are with small children. Lower Talbert has more rugged terrain and is great for moderate to advanced trail runners. The area is quiet and you will pass through woodland areas, coastal scrub, and the Santa Ana River. 

Canyon Park

Canyon Park is a great running trail if you have been running for a while. The park is smaller than other parks in Costa Mesa. However, it is more challenging due to the steep hills and winding trails. You will definitely get a workout if you plan a trip to Canyon Park. The view is nice too as you will pass through wooded areas. It feels like an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Keep a lookout, as some even see wildlife when they pass through the trail. 

Fairview Park

Fairview Park is one of the more popular spots in Costa Mesa. It has a number of dirt paths that wind through the park. It’s considered to be more of an easy or moderate running trail. The area is a more traditional style park with open spaces, play areas, and slight hills. You can see the Santa Ana River and get a good workout while you are at it. If you have children with you, this is also a great option as it is an open area and easy to navigate.

Banning Ranch

Banning Ranch is another great trail to run in Costa Mesa that is considered to be easy to moderate. The area has a number of trails through fields with scenic views of the ocean. There are some gentle hills that will help elevate your workout. While it is not as developed as other trails in the area, it is a great spot for trail runners who want a change of scenery as it is adjacent to Newport Beach.

Back Bay Loop Trail

Located just outside of Costa Mesa in Newport Beach is the Back Bay Loop Trail. This is a massive 10.5-mile loop with several exit and entry points along the way. While most of the terrain is relatively flat, there are some slight hills throughout. The scenery is stunning as you pass through areas with views of marshlands and the bay. You will likely see some wildlife throughout the trail. The sunrise and sunset are beautiful if you want some added beauty on your trail run.

Run in Costa Mesa

If you want more information about the running trails in Costa Mesa, check out the running trail guide from Travel Costa Mesa! 

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.