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Costa Mesa
109,960 people
Costa Mesa punches well above its size with a remarkable dining scene anchored by the South Coast Plaza corridor and a cluster of chef-driven restaurants that rivals much larger California cities. It's a savvy base for exploring Orange County, blending upscale shopping, live theater at Segerstrom Center, and some of SoCal's most underrated culinary finds.
Written by our AI
FoodieWeekend getawayFamily-friendlyHidden gems
Our AI's themes
How long
1–3 days
Our AI's estimate of a typical stay.
Sightseeing weather
June, July, August, September and October
Weather only, worked out from the town's records.
On the map
Where it is, and the other places we have mapped around it.
Skip the map- This place
- Places to stay
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Tiles by OpenFreeMap.
Things to do in Costa Mesa
25 of the 49 we list here
Written by our AI
1South Coast PlazaShopping & markets·About 2h·Easy·Any timeSouth Coast Plaza boasts over 250 luxury and fashion boutiques along with a variety of dining options, making it a premier shopping destination.
2Orange County Museum of ArtMuseums & galleries·About 2h·Easy·Any timeThe Orange County Museum of Art showcases contemporary works from local and international artists, providing a space for exploration and education in the realm of art.
3TeWinkle ParkOutdoor adventure·About 1h·Easy·Any timeTewinkle Park offers lush greenery and recreational facilities perfect for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic.
4Fairview ParkOutdoor adventure·About 2h·Easy·Any timeFairview Park is a sprawling natural retreat with scenic trails, open spaces, and stunning views, ideal for hiking or simply taking in nature.
5The Reptile ZooWildlife & natureThe Reptile Zoo offers an educational experience with a variety of reptiles and interactive exhibits.
6Costa Mesa Country ClubAbout 3h·Moderate·Any timeCosta Mesa Country Club features two 18-hole championship golf courses, providing a challenging and enjoyable experience for golfers of varying skill levels.
7Lyon Air MuseumMuseums & galleriesThis museum showcases vintage aircraft and military memorabilia, making it a great destination for aviation enthusiasts.
8Harper ParkOutdoor adventureHarper Park is a lovely community park with playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas, making it a great spot for families to relax and play.
9The Shops at Mission ViejoShopping & markets·About 1h 30m·Easy·Any timeThe Shops at Mission Viejo features a variety of retail stores, dining choices, and a movie theater, making it a popular spot for leisurely shopping and entertainment.
10Randall PreserveWildlife & natureThis wildlife preserve is ideal for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts, featuring beautiful trails and diverse ecosystems.
11Newport Beach Golf CourseOutdoor adventureKnown for its stunning views and well-maintained greens, this public golf course attracts golfers of all skill levels.
12The BoxArts, music & nightlifeAn innovative arts space, The Box promotes contemporary art and performance in a unique environment.
13Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive CenterAttractions & monumentsThis center provides insights into the local ecosystems with interactive displays and engaging educational programs.
14Cliff Drive ParkOutdoor adventureFeaturing beautiful coastal views and scenic walking paths, Cliff Drive Park is perfect for those looking to enjoy the outdoors.
15Wilson ParkOutdoor adventureWilson Park is a wonderful outdoor space that offers playgrounds, sports courts, and picnic areas.
16Dennis Kelly Public AquariumWildlife & natureThis aquarium offers an engaging experience with diverse marine life and educational exhibits.
17Santa Ana Country ClubOutdoor adventureA well-known golf course that provides a challenging experience for golfers of all skill levels.
18Triangle SquareShopping & marketsTriangle Square is a shopping area with various retail and dining options, providing a local shopping experience.
19Showcase GalleryArts, music & nightlifeShowcase Gallery features rotating exhibitions of local artists and hosts community art events.
20Martin Lawrence GalleriesArts, music & nightlifeMartin Lawrence Galleries showcases an impressive collection of fine art from renowned artists.
21Bear Street GalleryArts, music & nightlifeBear Street Gallery showcases local and regional art, providing a platform for emerging artists.
22Lindbergh School ParkOutdoor adventureThis community park offers playground equipment and sports facilities, making it a popular local spot for families.
23Mesa Verde Country ClubOutdoor adventureMesa Verde Country Club offers a private golf experience with beautiful views and excellent dining options.
24Jordan ParkOutdoor adventureJordan Park is known for its playgrounds and sports areas, making it perfect for family visits.
25Costa Mesa Historical SocietyMuseums & galleriesThis museum showcases local history and artifacts, providing insights into Costa Mesa’s past.
Durations, effort and best times are our AI's estimates.
Places to eat in Costa Mesa
25 of the 257 we list here
Written by our AI
1A RestaurantSuits dinner·$$$Long‑standing steak and seafood institution with a relaxed but elegant vibe — a Newport native favorite.
2Fuji YamaSushi, Asian·Suits lunch, dinner·$$Simple Japanese spot offering sushi and teriyaki in a casual, moderately priced setting.
3Din Tai FungTaiwanese·Suits lunch, dinner·$$$A renowned Taiwanese restaurant famous for its soup dumplings and efficient service, located inside South Coast Plaza.
4Water GrillSuits dinner·$$$$Water Grill is celebrated for its exceptional seafood and elegant dining experience, often regarded as a top culinary destination.
5The Winery RestaurantItalian·Suits dinner·$$$$The Winery Restaurant offers a fine dining experience with stunning views of the ocean and an extensive wine list.
6Crack ShackChicken·Suits lunch, dinner·$$$This innovative eatery specializes in fried chicken and egg dishes, all served in a casual, outdoor setting.
7Baja Fish TacosSuits lunch, dinner·$Baja Fish Tacos serves some of the best fish tacos around, known for their freshness and flavor.
8Mastro's SteakhouseSteak house·Suits dinner·$$$$A classic steakhouse offering prime cuts of beef in an elegant atmosphere.
9The Capital GrilleSuits dinner·$$$$A polished steakhouse known for its dry-aged steaks and extensive wine list, offering a classic dining experience perfect for special occasions.
10Breakfast RepublicBreakfast·Suits breakfast, brunch·$$Breakfast Republic is a trendy spot known for its creative breakfast dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
11Catalina Fish KitchenSuits lunch, dinner·$$$Renowned for its fresh seafood dishes and casual beachside vibe, this restaurant is a must-visit for seafood lovers.
12Inka Mama'sPeruvian·Suits lunch, dinner·$$$Inka Mama's is known for its authentic Peruvian dishes, including ceviche and lomo saltado.
13Tacos MadreMexican·Suits lunch, dinner·$$Tacos Madre serves authentic Mexican street food with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
14Wang Cho Korean BBQKorean·Suits dinner·$$$$Wang Cho offers an interactive dining experience where guests can grill their own meats at the table.
15Seabirds KitchenAmerican·Suits lunch, dinner·$$$A pioneer in vegan cuisine, Seabirds Kitchen offers creative, plant-based dishes that are both flavorful and satisfying.
16Broken YolkBreakfast·Suits breakfast, brunch·$$Known for its hearty breakfast and brunch options, the Broken Yolk is a laid-back spot with a diverse menu.
17Cancun Fresh Mexican GrillMexican·Suits lunch, dinner·$$Cancun Fresh Mexican Grill is well-regarded for its fresh and flavorful Mexican dishes, especially the burritos and tacos.
18Izakaya HachiJapanese·Suits dinner·$$$Izakaya Hachi delivers an authentic Japanese izakaya experience with a variety of small plates and drinks.
19Juicy Dumpling FactorySuits lunch, dinner·$$Known for its flavorful dumplings, Juicy Dumpling Factory offers a delightful range of Chinese steamed dumplings in a casual setting.
20Bear Flag Fish Co.Suits lunch, dinner·$$Recognized for its fresh seafood and poke bowls, Bear Flag Fish Co.
21DK's DonutsDonut·Suits breakfast, snack·$DK's Donuts is beloved for its variety of fresh, delicious donuts made daily.
22AnQi BistroVietnamese·Suits lunch, dinner·$$$AnQi Bistro presents a unique blend of Vietnamese and Asian fusion cuisine within a chic setting.
23Coffee DoseCoffee shop, Latte, Tea·Suits breakfast, brunch·$$This cafe is a local favorite for its artisanal coffee and cozy atmosphere.
24CalipokeSushi·Suits lunch, dinner·$$Calipoke specializes in customizable poke bowls with a variety of fresh fish and toppings.
25La Cave RestaurantSuits dinner·$$$$A hidden gem featuring French and American cuisine with a cozy, romantic setting.
Cuisine from OpenStreetMap. "Suits" and price bands are our AI's estimates.
Places to stay in Costa Mesa
20 we list here
Written by our AI
Type of stay from OpenStreetMap. "Good for" and price bands are our AI's estimates.
Each place opens our booking partner, where you can check prices and book. We may earn a commission if you book.
The weather you'd get
Typical daily high and low, and the share of days with rain, from historical records (2011-2025). Average weather for Costa Mesa, not a forecast.
January high 64°
low 48°
rain on 16%
February high 64°
low 49°
rain on 18%
March high 64°
low 51°
rain on 21%
April high 67°
low 54°
rain on 10%
May high 68°
low 57°
rain on 7%
June high 72°
low 60°
rain on 2%
July high 76°
low 64°
rain on 1%
August high 78°
low 65°
rain on 2%
September high 78°
low 64°
rain on 5%
October high 74°
low 60°
rain on 7%
November high 69°
low 53°
rain on 9%
December high 64°
low 49°
rain on 17%
Warmest month: August, highs around 78°F, 25°C. Wettest: March, rain on about 21% of days. Driest: July.
Sightseeing weather. The mildest, driest and calmest months for sightseeing are June, July, August, September and October. That is weather only. It says nothing about ski seasons, beach days or festivals, which is often why people go.
Nearby towns
From Wikipedia
Costa Mesa is a city in Orange County, California, United States. Since its incorporation in 1953, the city has grown from a semi-rural farming community of 16,840 to an urban area including part of the South Coast Plaza–John Wayne Airport edge city, one of the region's largest commercial clusters, with an economy based on retail, commerce, and light manufacturing. The population was 111,918 at the 2020 census.
Text: Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
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Sources and credits
Names, place details, opening times and addresses © OpenStreetMap contributors, available under the Open Database Licence.
Text: Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Weather: Open-Meteo historical weather data.
Airports: OurAirports, public domain.
Photo: Costa Mesa 01 Photo Don Ramey Logan by Don Ramey Logan, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Descriptions, themes and estimates are written by Journey Builder's AI.