Immersive Arts Exploration
Costa Mesa pulses with artistic energy, prominently showcased at the Orange County Museum of Art. Housed in a striking 53,000-square-foot building designed
by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Thom Mayne, this institution, with a history dating back to 1962, opened its new doors in 2022. Beyond its captivating exhibitions, the museum offers enriching artist lectures, hands-on art workshops for all ages, and guided public tours. Notably, entry remains free for visitors until 2032, making it an accessible cultural hub. Adjacent to the museum stands the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, the cornerstone of the local arts community. Its mission is to captivate, educate, and involve the public through a diverse array of performances. The campus boasts six distinct venues that host everything from major Broadway spectacles and symphony orchestras to ballet productions and emerging student works. For those seeking a more intimate experience, the Julianne and George Argyros Stage is particularly appealing, presenting new and innovative performances in a cozy setting. The city's artistic footprint extends outdoors as well, with the 'Artwalk,' a self-guided exploration of 20 public art installations accessible via a free smartphone audio guide. One notable stop on this route is the tranquil 'Noguchi Garden,' a serene landscape art piece created by the renowned Japanese American sculptor, designer, and landscape architect Isamu Noguchi. Furthermore, the realm of fashion finds its ultimate expression at South Coast Plaza, a shopping paradise featuring an expansive 17,500-square-foot Gucci boutique, an 8,000-square-foot Cartier store, and the largest Dior Beauty outlet in the United States. This destination offers added conveniences such as valet parking and access to personal stylists.
A Gastronomic Journey
Costa Mesa distinguishes itself as a truly flavorful destination, boasting an extraordinary culinary landscape that consistently impresses. Renowned chef Amar Santana's restaurant, Vaca, specializing in Spanish cuisine, stands out as a particularly celebrated establishment within the city's dining scene. South Coast Plaza itself has evolved into a sophisticated gourmet dining hub. Among its popular culinary spots is Din Tai Fung, famous for its delectable handmade soup dumplings; their warm, gooey chocolate and mochi variations are highly recommended. For a refined dining experience, Montage Laguna Beach's Studio offers contemporary French cuisine crafted by chef Tony Esnault, presenting a Michelin-starred option. When sweet cravings strike, Costa Mesa offers a delightful array of craft donut shops. Within South Coast Plaza, visitors can enjoy the unique texture of mochi donuts at The Donut Wife. For those venturing to 17th Street, the city's vibrant epicurean corridor, The Dirty Cookie provides creative donut flavors such as Saigon cinnamon crumb and maple bacon. Alternatively, the iconic rooftop donut sign of Randy's Donuts, a classic Los Angeles original, beckons with its traditional raised and cake varieties. For plant-based indulgence, Sidecar Doughnuts offers delicious brioche donuts with ever-changing flavors like raspberry pistachio and banana brulee. The Lab Anti-mall is also a haven for Cuban culinary delights at Empanada Republic. Nearby, at The Ecology Center, which champions healthy living in an eco-friendly outdoor shopping environment, you can savor fresh Mediterranean dishes with a California flair, including harissa toast, cauliflower hash, and the delightful whipped feta served with sourdough bread. Mexican cuisine enthusiasts will find numerous excellent options; the South Coast Plaza food court presents a wide variety of authentic flavors, offering tacos, tamales, burritos, and tortas, alongside refreshing aguas frescas, pan dulce, and freshly made tortillas. For a sweet finale, Pan Dulce Mexican Bakery offers artisanal vegan churros with dipping sauces and organic Mexican hot chocolates, alongside Mexican groceries and crafts. In addition, Churros Locos at South Coast Plaza serves custom mini Brazilian churros paired with ice cream.
Elegant Stays
For accommodations that perfectly complement Costa Mesa's upscale atmosphere, several hotels offer exceptional experiences. The Westin South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa, positions guests mere steps from the renowned South Coast Plaza shopping center. This hotel provides a relaxing ambiance with a terrace featuring a cascading waterfall, a refreshing heated outdoor pool, and recreational pickleball courts. Guests can also enjoy unparalleled comfort on the signature Heavenly Bed. For an elevated experience, booking the Westin Executive Suite grants access to special privileges, including a pass to South Coast Plaza’s Access VIP Suite, complete with private styling rooms and complimentary beverages, including champagne. Another distinguished option is The Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel. This AAA Four Diamond establishment is conveniently located across the street from the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. As an eco-conscious and dog-friendly boutique hotel, it offers serene views of a man-made lake, features inspiring artwork throughout its premises, and houses an exquisite indoor-outdoor fine dining restaurant. For those seeking a more intimate and charming retreat, the Bristol Hotel is a boutique hotel featuring a picturesque cobblestone courtyard with a tranquil fountain. Here, guests can unwind by a crackling fire, partake in the daily happy hour at the Le Chateau Garden Bistro, or conveniently arrange transportation to the nearby beach.
