East Side Costa Mesa blends upscale residential charm with artistic flair along the vibrant 17th Street corridor. Here, independent coffee roasters, vintage boutiques, and creative studios create a hip atmosphere away from touristy crowds. Mature trees line quiet streets where modern condos meet 1960s ranch homes. Fairview Park's 200+ acres offer extensive hiking trails and sports fields for outdoor enthusiasts. The nearby Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve provides excellent birdwatching and kayaking opportunities. Most local businesses maintain a relaxed schedule, perfect for travellers seeking authentic community experiences.
Westside Costa Mesa blends creative energy with a laid-back residential vibe just minutes from Orange County's famous beaches. The neighborhood's heart beats around The Lab Anti-Mall, where indie boutiques and craft breweries thrive in converted industrial spaces. Colourful murals brighten 17th Street as local artists reshape this evolving area. Budget-conscious travellers appreciate the affordable accommodation compared to nearby Newport Beach. Explore TeWinkle Park's green spaces, sample diverse cuisine from Vietnamese to Mexican eateries, or browse vintage shops and record stores. The OC Mix development showcases the area's growing artistic spirit.
City centre Costa Mesa buzzes with creative energy in this alternative urban playground. The LAB Anti-Mall's shipping container boutiques sit alongside The CAMP's outdoor village with cosy fire pits. Craft breweries, cocktail bars, and venues like The Wayfarer offer vibrant nightlife options for entertainment seekers. Browse local goods at the OC Mix or weekend farmers markets where artisanal foods tempt your taste buds. Industrial-chic buildings house independent designers and vintage finds, while colourful murals brighten the walkable streets. Just a short drive from Balboa Peninsula Beaches, this hip area balances tourist appeal with authentic local charm.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Costa Mesa
South Coast Plaza
9.0/10 (1,210 reviews)
South Coast Plaza houses over 275 boutiques and restaurants, making it the West Coast's largest shopping centre. Explore luxury brands like Hermès and Chanel, then dine at one of the Michelin-starred restaurants.
Orange County Fair and Events Center
8.2/10 (425 reviews)
The OC Fair & Event Centre hosts one of America's largest county fairs, drawing over a million visitors each summer. Experience thrilling rides, live concerts, and unique culinary creations in this Costa Mesa hub.
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
8.4/10 (407 reviews)
This world-class performing arts complex hosts Broadway shows, ballet, opera, and concerts in acoustically superior venues. Arrive early to explore the plaza before experiencing cultural excellence.
Photo by Michael Cruz
Open Photo by Michael Cruz
UC Irvine Langson Orange County Museum of Art
OCMA showcases modern and contemporary art with a focus on California artists in its striking architectural space. Explore rotating exhibitions and savour plant-forward cuisine at Verdant café during your free visit.
Pacific Amphitheatre
You can make plans for a show at Pacific Amphitheatre during your stay in Costa Mesa.
Costa Mesa Country Club
7.4/10 (176 reviews)
Two championship courses offer diverse challenges for golfers of all skill levels at Costa Mesa Country Club. Book early morning tee times on weekdays for the most serene experience on these well-maintained fairways.
The LAB Antimall
7.2/10 (77 reviews)
This anti-mall showcases local boutiques, art installations, and eclectic eateries in an open-air setting. Browse unique shops, savour cuisine at Hana Re, or enjoy this creative community hub.
Tewinkle Park
7.6/10 (112 reviews)
After visiting Tewinkle Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Costa Mesa. Discover the entertainment choices in this walkable area or seek out the local tours.
"OC Hotel is great I've stayed several times. Pool is small but hot tub is great. Always clean rooms and everything is in order and mini fridge is present in room. Some hotels make you request them. Front staff is understanding and attentive."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Offering excellent value package deals on Expedia, you'll be pleasantly surprised at how much a holiday to Costa Mesa costs! Our packages simplify travel planning and maximise your savings.
What are the cheapest months to go to Costa Mesa?
January, February and April are great times to search for cheap Costa Mesa holiday packages. Choosing to travel in less busy months means you can generally find reduced prices on flights and hotels.
How many days is enough for Costa Mesa?
We recommend booking a Costa Mesa holiday for a minimum of 2 days. This will give you time to tick off top sights such as Tewinkle Park and Fairview Park, as well as explore neighbourhoods like Irvine Business Complex and Airport Area. You might even be able to fit in a day trip or two from Costa Mesa.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Costa Mesa?
Costa Mesa is a good holiday destination with attractions like Orange County Fairgrounds among the many things to keep you entertained. Whether you're travelling with the family or getting away with friends, a Costa Mesa holiday promises fun for everyone.
How to find the best Costa Mesa package deals?
Begin your search for a Costa Mesa package deal by entering your destination and travel dates under our "Packages" tab. Then apply a few filters, like "Property type" and "Popular locations," to fine-tune the results to your exact style. You can also sort by "Package discount" and browse offers that come with huge savings. If you don't find the perfect Costa Mesa package deal right away, simply change your dates and search again. Remember that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Costa Mesa escape underway.
Is it cheaper to book a Costa Mesa holiday as a package?
An Expedia holiday package could score you significant savings when compared to arranging flights and accommodation individually. Better still, you can customise your Costa Mesa escape to fit your exact style. Choose your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a car rental. Browse our bundle deals and find out how much you can save.
When to book a holiday package to Costa Mesa?
Land fantastic discounts by booking your flights early with Expedia. If spontaneity is more your thing, take advantage of our last-minute deals for an impromptu Costa Mesa break.
How to plan a trip to Costa Mesa?
Choose when to get away: Check your calendar and pack your bags. Your favourite season and the available activities will also help you decide when to visit Costa Mesa.
Set a budget: Factor in expenses such as flights, transportation and food when working out how much to put aside for your trip to Costa Mesa. Then, pick a property that fits your budget, whether that's a wallet-friendly stay or a deluxe getaway.
Decide how long to go away for: Now that you're up to speed on Costa Mesa, you can work out the right length of your holiday. Put together a draft plan and allocate enough time to get through everything on your must-do list.
Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in place, you can combine your flights, car rental, hotels and more into a personalised Costa Mesa holiday package.
Costa Mesa offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities, urban exploration, and business-oriented attractions. Visitors can enjoy shopping at various centres and malls, catch a film at the local movie theatre, and partake in educational experiences. For those seeking adventure, Costa Mesa serves as a great base for engaging day trips and exploring the vibrant local culture.
Shopping
In Costa Mesa, you can shop at South Coast Plaza, a vibrant mall with a mix of luxury and high-street brands. Pacific City, located 8.0km away, offers a lively atmosphere by the beach. For fresh produce, visit the Costa Mesa Farmers' Market, brimming with local goods and family-friendly vibes.
Recreation
Experience the vibrant performances at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, where culture and entertainment intertwine. Enjoy a round of golf at the scenic Pelican Hill Golf Course, surrounded by stunning landscapes. Unwind at Skinsations Spa, indulging in rejuvenating treatments that enhance wellness and relaxation.
Adventure
Explore Balboa Fun Zone, an arcade adventure zone with a family-friendly atmosphere, offering various exciting games and activities. At Great Wolf Lodge Water Park, dive into thrilling water slides and attractions, perfect for all ages. Don't miss the Costa Mesa Tennis Center, where you can enjoy a fantastic tennis experience.
Nightlife
Costa Mesa’s nightlife is vibrant and diverse. Begin your evening at Bowlmor Lanes, where you can enjoy bowling with a twist, alongside cocktails and delicious bites. For a lively atmosphere, explore nearby bars offering craft beers and live music, creating an unforgettable night out.
Find the best attractions near Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa is an ideal destination for family, city, and business-themed holidays, offering a variety of attractions. Explore the stunning beaches, modern colleges, and picturesque jetties that cater to those seeking culture, outdoor experiences, and coastal relaxation. Whether you're interested in soaking up the sun or immersing yourself in the local culture, Costa Mesa provides a delightful getaway for all types of travellers.
Crystal Cove State Park: Discover stunning coastal scenery and indulge in outdoor adventures at this picturesque state park. With miles of hiking trails and pristine beaches, it’s perfect for nature lovers and those seeking adventure.
Lyon Air Museum: Immerse yourself in aviation history at this fascinating museum, showcasing vintage aircraft and memorabilia. The museum's cultural vibe offers a unique glimpse into the artistry of flight and the evolution of aviation.
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve: Experience family-friendly excursions in this serene nature reserve. Enjoy scenic trails and the chance to connect with friendly locals while exploring diverse wildlife and beautiful bay views.
Best time to go to Costa Mesa
The best time to visit Costa Mesa can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Costa Mesa falls in August and September. September has average visitor numbers and sunny weather. The coolest average temperature in Costa Mesa falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Costa Mesa
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically January to February and November) for more affordable package holidays to Costa Mesa.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.