Attractions and Places To See around Costa Mesa - Top 20

Costa Mesa and its surroundings offer several natural havens. You can visit Talbert Regional Park, a nearly 200-acre preserve with scenic trails and six distinct botanical areas. Another excellent option is Back Bay Drive – Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve, which features a low-traffic road for cycling and walking through a significant natural area. Fairview Park, one of Costa Mesa's largest open spaces, also provides over 200 acres for hiking, biking, and birdwatching, with trails that can even lead to the beach.

Yes, Costa Mesa offers various trails for hiking and running. For instance, Talbert Regional Park has scenic trails for both activities. The Running Trails around Costa Mesa guide features routes like the Santa Ana River Trail and Fairview Park Loop, and Canyon Park and Talbert Regional Park. For hikers, the Hiking around Costa Mesa guide includes trails such as Talbert Nature Preserve and the Santa Ana River and Huntington Beach Trail Loop.

If you're looking for easier walks, the Easy hikes around Costa Mesa guide highlights several options. These include the Talbert Nature Preserve, Trail C and D Loop, Canyon Park and North Loop, Sunset Ridge Loop, and TeWinkle Loop, all offering manageable distances and terrain.

Costa Mesa is conveniently located near several iconic coastal spots. You can visit the Huntington Beach Pier, a famous landmark known for surfing and stunning ocean views. Balboa Island in Newport Bay offers a charming island community experience with shops and restaurants. The Newport Oceanfront Trail provides a scenic path along the beach, and the Upper Newport Bay is ideal for aquatic activities and birdwatching.

Yes, the Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve is a prime location for wildlife viewing, especially birdwatching. This significant natural area is home to various bird species and other local wildlife, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts.

Costa Mesa is rich in cultural and historical sites. The Segerstrom Center for the Arts is a premier venue for performing arts. You can explore the Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) for modern and contemporary art, or visit the Noguchi Garden (California Scenario), a unique blend of art and nature. For history buffs, the Heroes Hall Museum at the OC Fair & Event Center honors veterans, and the Costa Mesa Historical Society Museum and Archives delves into local history. The Diego Sepulveda Adobe, one of Orange County's oldest buildings, also offers a glimpse into California's heritage.

Many attractions in Costa Mesa are suitable for families. Parks like TeWinkle Park offer playgrounds, picnic areas, and a lake with a waterfall. Talbert Regional Park and Fairview Park provide open spaces and trails for outdoor family activities. Coastal spots like Huntington Beach Pier and Balboa Island are also popular with families, offering strolls, beach access, and dining.

Absolutely. The Newport Oceanfront Trail provides an excellent path for cycling along the beach. Additionally, Back Bay Drive – Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve offers a very pleasant low-traffic road perfect for bike rides through a natural setting.

Costa Mesa is known for its distinctive shopping and dining. South Coast Plaza is a luxurious destination with over 250 boutiques and restaurants. For a more eclectic experience, The LAB Anti-Mall and The Camp offer unique boutiques, creative spaces, and sustainable, organic dining options, catering to a vibrant, artsy atmosphere.

Yes, Costa Mesa has options for visitors with dogs. TeWinkle Park includes the Costa Mesa Bark Park, a dedicated area for dogs. Many of the trails in parks like Fairview Park and Talbert Regional Park are also dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors with your canine companion.

Costa Mesa enjoys a mild climate year-round, making it suitable for outdoor activities almost any time. Spring and fall generally offer pleasant temperatures, ideal for hiking, cycling, and exploring parks without the peak summer heat. Winter is also mild, providing a comfortable environment for outdoor pursuits, while summer is perfect for enjoying the nearby beaches and coastal attractions.

The Orange County Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa hosts the annual OC Fair, a major event featuring carnival rides, concerts, and food. Beyond the fair, the center holds various year-round events, trade shows, and exhibitions. The Segerstrom Center for the Arts also presents a diverse calendar of world-class performances throughout the year.