Welcome to Costa Mesa, California, a dynamic city in the heart of Orange County that absolutely punches above its weight. Forget any sleepy suburban ideas you might have.
This place is a vibrant hub of creativity, cuisine, and cool experiences just waiting to be discovered. It is a destination that truly has its own unique flavor, blending artistic soul with urban energy.
You are in for a real treat. We have put together the ultimate insider’s guide to the very best things to do in Costa Mesa. We are talking about world-class shopping, jaw-dropping performance art, and food that will have you planning your next meal before you have finished the first one.
Get ready to explore the hidden gems and iconic spots that make this city so special. Your adventure starts right now.
1. South Coast Plaza – Best Overall Experience
Let’s just get this out of the way: South Coast Plaza isn’t just a mall; it’s a world-famous destination. Think of it as the theme park for shoppers, where the rides are elevators to more luxury and the main attraction is your credit card.
This is, without a doubt, one of the top things to do in Costa Mesa for anyone who appreciates the finer things in life.
With over 250 esteemed boutiques and department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Bloomingdale’s, you can find everything from everyday essentials to haute couture.
But it is so much more than shopping. The place is an experience. You will find stunning art installations, a concierge service that can snag you last-minute dinner reservations, and a vibe that feels more like a beautiful, sprawling town than a shopping center.
After you have worked up an appetite, the dining options are incredible. You can grab a quick, delicious bite or sit down for a meal at one of their acclaimed restaurants. It is the perfect spot to spend a whole day, rain or shine.
2. The LAB Anti-Mall – Best For Unique Finds
If South Coast Plaza is the establishment, then The LAB Anti-Mall is the cool, rebellious younger sibling. The name says it all – “Little American Business.” This open-air marketplace is a breath of fresh, funky air, built on a philosophy of supporting small, local entrepreneurs.
Walking through the lush, plant-filled pathways feels like discovering a secret garden of creativity. It is one of the most unique things to do in Costa Mesa for sure.
You will not find the same old chain stores here. Instead, you will discover an eclectic mix of boutique clothing shops, quirky gift stores, and wellness studios. The whole vibe is laid-back and bohemian, encouraging you to slow down and explore.
Make sure to grab a coffee from one of the local cafes and just soak in the atmosphere. It is a community hub for artists, dreamers, and anyone looking for something different from the typical mall experience.
3. Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Best For a Cultural Night Out
For a dose of high culture that will leave you spellbound, you must visit the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. This is not just a theater; it is a Southern California landmark that brings the world’s most breathtaking performances to Orange County.
From electrifying Broadway musicals and graceful ballet to soul-stirring classical music concerts, the lineup here is always top-tier. Checking their schedule is a must for any list of Costa Mesa activities.
The campus itself is stunning, with majestic architecture and a grand plaza that sets the stage for a memorable evening. The experience of seeing a show here is pure magic.
The acoustics in the concert hall are phenomenal, and the energy of a live performance is simply contagious.
Whether you are a seasoned theater-goer or a first-timer, a night at the Segerstrom Center is an unforgettable event. It is the perfect way to dress up, feel fancy, and be thoroughly entertained.
4. Orange County Fair & Event Center – Best For Seasonal Fun
The Orange County Fair & Event Center is the epicenter of fun, and its energy shifts with the seasons. This massive, 150-acre complex is most famous for hosting the annual OC Fair, a summer extravaganza that is a rite of passage for locals and visitors alike.
Imagine wild rides, outrageous fair food, live music, and agricultural exhibits all rolled into one fantastic, chaotic event. It is a quintessential Southern California experience.
But the fun does not stop when summer ends. Throughout the year, the center transforms to host a huge variety of events. You can find everything from a dazzling winter wonderland festival and a vibrant spring plant show to large-scale consumer expos and outdoor concerts.
There is almost always something exciting happening on these grounds. You will want to check their calendar online to see what is popping off during your visit.
5. The Camp – Best For Wellness & Eco-Conscious Folks
Right next door to The LAB, you will find its spiritual counterpart, The Camp. This eco-friendly marketplace is designed to look like a stylish, modern campground, complete with a fire pit and plenty of green space.
The focus here is squarely on wellness, sustainability, and an active lifestyle. It is a haven for health-conscious folks and anyone looking to recharge their batteries. This is one of the coolest Costa Mesa attractions for mindful living.
You can easily spend a few hours here. Start with a yoga class, then browse the curated selection of shops offering everything from outdoor gear to organic skincare. When you get hungry, you are in for a treat.
The Camp is home to some of the city’s best health-focused eateries, including a legendary vegan restaurant that will make you rethink plant-based food. The whole place has a calm, positive energy that is hard to leave.
6. Costa Mesa Civic Center – Best For Architecture Lovers
You might not normally think of a city hall as a tourist spot, but the Costa Mesa Civic Center will change your mind. This is not your average government building. It is a stunning piece of modern architecture, designed by the famous architect Charles Moore.
The colorful, postmodern design is playful, imaginative, and truly one-of-a-kind. It looks more like a whimsical castle from a storybook than a place for city council meetings.
The plaza is open to the public and is a wonderful place for a peaceful stroll. You can admire the unique towers, the charming bridges, and the beautiful landscaping.
It is a fantastic spot for some unique photos that are a far cry from your typical vacation snapshots. For anyone with an eye for design, this is an absolute must-see. It proves that creativity in Costa Mesa extends to its very foundations.
7. Noguchi Garden – Best For a Quiet Moment
Tucked away between corporate buildings is a hidden oasis of art and tranquility: the Noguchi Garden, officially known as California Scenario. This is the work of the world-renowned artist Isamu Noguchi.
It is a brilliant, condensed sculpture garden that represents the diverse landscapes of California, from a flowing stream symbolizing the state’s water sources to a towering “spirit of the lima bean” sculpture that nods to the area’s agricultural past.
It is a place for quiet contemplation. You can sit on a bench and watch the water flow, or walk the paths and discover new perspectives on the art. The sound of the city just melts away here.
This is the perfect spot to take a breather during a busy day of exploring. It is free, open to the public, and offers a truly serene experience. Do not miss this secret gem.
8. Sherman Library & Gardens – Best For a Peaceful Stroll
A short drive from the heart of Costa Mesa, in nearby Corona del Mar, you will find the enchanting Sherman Library & Gardens. While it is technically just over the border, it is such a beloved local attraction that no Costa Mesa visit is complete without it.
This is a botanical garden with the soul of an artist. The gardens are meticulously maintained, with different sections like a stunning rose garden, a tropical conservatory, and a serene Japanese garden.
It is not a huge place, which makes it perfect for a leisurely one- to two-hour visit. You can wander the beautiful pathways, admire the vibrant flowers, and relax in the quiet courtyards.
They also have a lovely cafe nestled within the gardens, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful lunch. For a dose of natural beauty and absolute calm, Sherman Gardens is a winner.
9. Mesa Verde – Best For Foodie Exploration
Mesa Verde is not just a neighborhood; it is a culinary destination. This master-planned community within Costa Mesa is famous for its winding streets and, more importantly, its incredible concentration of top-tier restaurants.
The dining scene here is next-level, featuring celebrated eateries run by famous chefs. This is the place to go for a special night out or to simply indulge in an unforgettable meal.
You can find everything here. Think modern American cuisine, innovative Asian fusion spots, and fantastic steakhouses. Many of the restaurants feature beautiful patios and a sophisticated, yet welcoming, atmosphere.
The competition is fierce, which means every place is bringing its A-game. If you consider yourself a food lover, planning a trip to explore the restaurants of Mesa Verde is one of the best things to do in Costa Mesa, California.
10. Costa Mesa Tennis Center – Best For Active Travelers
Get your heart pumping and enjoy the beautiful Southern California weather at the Costa Mesa Tennis Center. This is a first-class public facility that is a total ace for anyone who loves to play.
With 18 well-maintained lighted courts, you can almost always find a time to get a match in. The center is buzzing with energy, hosting lessons, leagues, and casual play.
Even if you are not a pro, it is a fantastic place to be active. You can book a court with friends for a fun, social workout. They also offer clinics and private lessons if you are looking to improve your game.
It is a wonderful way to feel like a local and do something healthy during your vacation. The sound of tennis balls popping back and forth under the sun is the sound of a perfect Costa Mesa day.
11. SoBeCa District – Best For Art & Design Lovers
Venture into the SoBeCa District, which stands for South on Bristol Entertainment and Cultural Arts. This up-and-coming neighborhood is the city’s raw, creative engine.
It is an industrial area that has been transformed into a vibrant community of art galleries, antique shops, design showrooms, and cool eateries. This is where you go to see the artistic pulse of Costa Mesa.
You can spend a Saturday afternoon gallery hopping, discovering incredible local and international artists. The district is also known for its fantastic antique malls, where you can hunt for one-of-a-kind treasures. The vibe here is authentic and unpretentious.
It is a place for discovery. For anyone who wants to see the cutting edge of the local art scene, exploring SoBeCa is an essential Costa Mesa activity.
12. John Wayne Airport – Best For Plane Spotting
Okay, hear us out. We are not telling you to go to the airport to catch a flight. We are suggesting you visit the stunning new Observation Deck on the top level of Parking Structure B at John Wayne Airport.
It offers a panoramic, 360-degree view of the airfield and the surrounding area. It is a completely free and utterly captivating activity, especially for families or aviation geeks.
You can watch planes take off and land just a few hundred feet away. The deck has seating, telescopes, and educational displays about aviation.
It is a surprisingly peaceful and mesmerizing way to spend an hour, especially around sunset. It is a unique, budget-friendly, and totally cool thing to do that most tourists never even think about. Do not skip this unexpected gem.
Conclusion
Costa Mesa is a city that constantly surprises. It is a place where world-class art lives next to quirky boutiques, and where you can find a five-star meal or a life-changing vegan taco within a few blocks.
From the serene gardens to the electric energy of a live performance, this city offers an incredible depth of experiences.
Your adventure in this creative and vibrant corner of Orange County is calling. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip, book those tickets, and get ready to discover why Costa Mesa is one of the most dynamic destinations in California. You are going to love it.