Here's Why Costa Mesa Should Be Your Next Day Trip From LA
A blend of trendy coffee shops, breweries, vintage shops, and more makes Costa Mesa a more than worthwhile destination
As a girl who spent her college years in Orange County, let me be the first to tell you - beyond the beautiful beaches, OC has always been a *little* lackluster when it comes to entertainment value. Until now! In some of my most recent visits, I’ve been pleasantly surprised to find a plethora of bright, airy coffee shops, casual breweries with live music, and curated vintage shops. And though there are gems now popping up in every pocket of OC, there’s one particular area getting the most love: Costa Mesa!
For those who are unfamiliar with the area overall, Costa Mesa is just about an hour South of Los Angeles, sitting right in the heart of Orange County. Neighboring towns include Newport and Huntington Beach. Below, you’ll find my master list of spots to hit in Costa Mesa - there’s something for everyone! I hope this inspires you to take a day trip and explore :)
Work in Progress - “Coffee, wine and provisions” This shop might just be my favorite! The coffee, food and wine are all excellent. You can even pick up a bottle of natural wine to go! Also great for working. Check their IG for a rotation of fun food pop ups.
Freelance Coffee Project - Coffee is an art form at this roastery & tasting room. Expect dark, moody interiors, and a glimpse into the roasting process through the large windows next to FCP’s seating area.
Daydream Surf Shop - A modern, bright surf & coffee shop hybrid selling curated clothing and home goods. Whether you’re looking to get caffeinated or find a unique gift for a friend, this is the spot!
Landers Supply House - Curated vintage shop with a focus on western apparel.
The CAMP - A hip outdoor dining and shopping complex that is - you guessed it - camp themed :)
The Lab Anti-Mall - The CAMP’s older cousin across the street - with equally great shopping and dining options!
Semi Tropic Wines - Natural wine bar hosting a rotation of DJ events and food pop ups - keep tabs on their IG to stay in the know
Salty Bear Brewing - Laid back brewery with a lovely back patio that feels like Lake Tahoe! Live music on weekends too.
Cowboys & Poodles - A Western-inspired speakeasy with craft cocktails, featuring an oversized sparkly cowboy hat chandelier and a covered wagon bar. Arrive early - the space is small and a line forms quickly! This spot can be found right next door to Salty Bear, so you can easily spend your afternoon in this little pocket behind The CAMP.
Green Cheek Brewing - Another fun brewery living just across the street from Salty Bear!
Gunwhale Ales - This brewery completes the trifecta of beer options behind The CAMP! Brewery hopping is made easy in this little hub.
OCMA - OC’s modern art museum that just opened last year! It’s a small gallery so it won’t take you long - but 100% worth the visit for modern art lovers.
Less is More - An occasional curated vintage pop up market, hosting a variety of clothing and food vendors. Keep your eye on their IG for news on their next market!
That’s all for today, folks - thanks for taking a 1 hour trip down to OC with me! More to come… and as always, you can follow more of my adventures on TikTok! See you next week!