Hotels in Costa Mesa

Coastal Canvas: Experience the Vibrant Soul of Costa Mesa

Nestled in the heart of Orange County, Costa Mesa, California, is a vibrant blend of culture and coastal charm. Known for its stunning beaches and artistic flair, this city offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Explore the renowned South Coast Plaza for premier shopping and world-class dining, or unwind at the nearby pristine shores of Newport Beach. Art lovers will revel in the eclectic galleries and the vibrant theater scene at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. With its sunny climate, dynamic lifestyle, and welcoming atmosphere, Costa Mesa is the perfect getaway for beach lovers and culture seekers alike. For the best hotel rates in Costa Mesa and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Costa Mesa

Some of the best places to stay in Costa Mesa are Anaheim Resort, Balboa Peninsula and Balboa Island. Costa Mesa is a vibrant destination with diverse attractions. Anaheim Resort offers proximity to Disneyland and entertainment, making it ideal for families. Balboa Peninsula features beautiful beaches and a lively boardwalk, perfect for relaxation and fun. Balboa Island, with its charming shops and picturesque views, provides a quaint escape. Accommodation options range from budget motels to luxury hotels, accommodating various preferences and budgets. For first-time visitors, Anaheim Resort is a top choice for its iconic attractions. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Costa Mesa:

1. Anaheim ResortOpens in a new window: If you're looking for family-friendly fun, Anaheim Resort is your go-to destination, home to iconic attractions like Disneyland® Resort and Disney California Adventure® Park. This area caters to both entertainment and business travelers. For accommodation, consider The Viv Hotel, Anaheim, a Tribute Portfolio HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel offering a blend of business and family amenities, including meeting rooms and child-friendly services. You can also enjoy romantic experiences by the pool. Another great option is The Westin Anaheim ResortOpens in a new window, centrally located and ideal for luxury seekers, featuring a 24-hour business center. Lastly, JW Marriott Anaheim ResortOpens in a new window provides direct beach access and adventure sports, making it perfect for those seeking both business facilities and outdoor activities.
2. Balboa PeninsulaOpens in a new window: Known for its outdoor charm, Balboa Peninsula is a fantastic spot for sun, sand, and surf, complemented by shopping at nearby Fashion Island. This area is ideal for adventure enthusiasts and families alike. Lido House, Autograph CollectionOpens in a new window is a luxurious 4.5-star hotel with a full spa and pool services for ultimate relaxation. For beach lovers, Paséa Hotel & SpaOpens in a new window offers direct beach access alongside business amenities, while Balboa Bay ResortOpens in a new window caters to those wanting a mix of adventure and luxury, featuring various water sports activities.
3. Balboa IslandOpens in a new window: Balboa Island offers a picturesque and charming atmosphere, perfect for outdoor activities and leisurely strolls. Nearby attractions include Disneyland® Resort and Fashion Island, making it a convenient location for families. Newport Beach Marriott BayviewOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel with direct beach access and business amenities, excellent for adventure seekers. Ayres Hotel Costa Mesa/Newport BeachOpens in a new window, also a 4.0-star hotel, welcomes pets and provides various adventure sports options nearby. Another great choice is Hyatt Regency Newport BeachOpens in a new window, featuring business facilities and easy access to sailing and surfing opportunities.

Things to do in Costa Mesa for first time

Three days in Costa Mesa offers a delightful blend of sandy beaches, lush parks, and scenic trails. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and exploring vibrant shopping areas. With lively festivals and live music, it’s a perfect destination for those seeking both relaxation and entertainment. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Costa Mesa:

• Day 1: Begin your Costa Mesa adventure at the iconic Huntington Beach Pier, where you can take in stunning ocean views and watch surfers ride the waves. After your pier stroll, make your way to Huntington City Beach for some sunbathing and beach volleyball. Don’t forget to explore the Huntington Beach Art Center nearby, where you can appreciate local art exhibits and cultural events that showcase the vibrant artistic community of the area.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at Newport Pier, a perfect spot for a morning walk while enjoying the fresh ocean air. Afterward, head to the Balboa Peninsula Beaches, where you can relax on the sandy shores or try out some water sports. Make sure to visit Mother’s Beach, ideal for families with calm waters, where you can unwind or enjoy a picnic with beautiful views of the bay.
• Day 3: Start your day at Huntington State Beach, known for its expansive sandy stretches and excellent surf conditions. Next, make your way to Balboa Pier for more scenic views and perhaps grab a bite to eat at one of the nearby eateries. Conclude your trip by spending the afternoon at Huntington Beach Beaches, where you can soak up the sun, take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk, or enjoy the vibrant beach culture before heading back.

5 tips to find a great Costa Mesa hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: If you're looking for an affordable getaway, Costa Mesa is best visited in January, November, and December, when hotel rates are more budget-friendly. For international travelers, it's wise to book your flight at least three months in advance to secure cheaper fares. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the area's main attractions, including the beautiful beaches. This makes Costa Mesa a great value for money destination for those wanting to explore without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute hotel deals in Costa Mesa, exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com could be a great starting point. You might find competitive rates on accommodations with good availability close to your travel date. Additionally, consider activating email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and unique promotions, which can help you secure the best value for your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate based on factors like the location, star rating, and season. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could mean you may save on hotel expenses in Costa Mesa.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and local attractions in Costa Mesa usually tends to be more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further away from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like a car, taxi, or bus to explore the area while potentially saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Costa Mesa and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in Costa Mesa

Here are some top-rated dishes in Costa Mesa, California, United States of America:

• Fish Tacos: A quintessential Southern California dish, fish tacos are typically made with battered and fried fish, served in soft corn tortillas and topped with fresh cabbage, salsa, and a drizzle of creamy dressing. Often enjoyed at beachside stands, these tacos reflect the region’s coastal heritage, encapsulating the vibrant flavors of the Pacific.
• Avocado Toast: This trendy brunch staple takes advantage of California's abundant avocados. Served on toasted artisan bread, it can be personalized with toppings like poached eggs, radishes, or heirloom tomatoes. This dish highlights the area's focus on fresh, local ingredients and is a popular choice for those seeking a healthy yet delicious meal.
• Poke Bowl: Originating from Hawaii, poke bowls have found a home in Costa Mesa’s diverse food scene. Typically featuring marinated raw fish served over rice and topped with a variety of fresh vegetables and sauces, they offer a customizable dining experience that reflects the local love for seafood and vibrant flavors.

Best time to go to Costa Mesa

Costa Mesa experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 57.9°F (14.4°C), while August and September are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 72.5°F (22.5°C). December is usually the wettest month. March, April, and July are the peak travel months in Costa Mesa, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, with dry rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.