Things to do in Costa Mesa
South Coast Plaza & Ice Rink
Window-shop the famous mall, watch koi in the carousel court, then lace up at the year-round ice rink for a treat-day combo.
Skating ~$17 + rentalsAnimals & NatureCentennial Farm
A free working farm at the OC fairgrounds with pigs, goats, chickens, and crop rows — a quick, easy animal fix for little ones.
FreeShopping & TreatsThe Camp & The Lab
Two laid-back open-air courtyards of indie cafes, bookshops, and string-lit patios — an easy, free hangout with great snacks.
Free to wanderFarmers markets in Costa Mesa
SOCO Farmers' Market
Foodie-favorite market at SOCO & The OC Mix with live music, local meats, fresh breads, and ready-to-eat food; CalFresh/EBT accepted.
OC Fair & Event Center Farmers Market
Large market at the fairgrounds with free admission and parking, plenty of produce and prepared food, and room for kids to roam.
SOCO Farmers Market (Costa Mesa)
A foodie-favorite Saturday market with chef demos and artisan bites next to design shops.
Local restaurants in Costa Mesa
Eat Chow
Locally-loved eclectic American spot with a 'Kids Chow' menu, dog-friendly patios, and crowd-pleasing comfort food.
Beach Pit BBQ
Casual, locally-owned Texas-style BBQ with a laid-back beach vibe — easy for groups and quick for takeout.
TK Burgers
A SoCal charbroiled-burger staple since 1986 — fast, cheap, beach-casual, and easy with hungry kids.
Palms N Patties
Small-batch smash burgers cooked in beef tallow at a beloved stand.
Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee
Small-batch doughnuts fried fresh hourly — a fun weekend treat.
Que Vida Tacos
Made-from-scratch tacos and bowls with house tortillas at a family counter.
Local shops in Costa Mesa
Creme Tangerine Records
Vinyl shop in an Airstream trailer with 6,000+ records, heavy on classic rock.
Red & Blue Vintage
Curated vintage clothing and home goods owned by Yoshi of Good Town Doughnuts.
The Inconvenience Store
Tiny quirky gift shop with sweatshirts, bike parts, and dried flowers.
2nd Street Costa Mesa
Second-hand clothing store with a deep curated rack of recycled fashion.
Factory Records
Eastside vinyl shop stocking thousands of LPs, 12-inch singles, 45s, and CDs.
Port of Sound Record Shoppe
Independent E 17th St record shop spanning rock, jazz, soul, punk, and global pressings.
Listings are curated and may change — confirm hours and details before you go.