Is Costa Mesa the most queer-friendly city in Orange County? After spending a weekend there with my girlfriend, we’re ready to say yes. This artsy, creative little city surprised us with how welcoming, queer-inclusive, and full of charm it really is. From anti-malls to metaphysical shops to not one but two queer bars, this itinerary is 100% lesbian-approved.
Local Love: Queer & Woman-Owned Shops
Costa Mesa is all about local. Skip the chains—this city’s coolest spots are all indie, often queer-owned, and full of community vibes. Our weekend started with some retail therapy at The CAMP and The LAB Anti-Mall.. These retail spaces are totally unique—designed for small businesses and creativity, not your average mall.
A favorite stop was House of Intuition, a queer-owned metaphysical shop filled with crystals, candles, tarot decks, and all the good witchy energy you could want. Right next door? Eco Now, a refill store perfect for any sustainable lesbian who’s ever packed solid shampoo bars for a weekend trip (just us?).
We also popped into Penpals Stationery and The Inconvenience Store for adorable cards and gifts, and had to check out the vintage photo booth installation at Booth by Bryant for some very cute couple pics. 10/10 cheesy, 10/10 worth it.
Sapphic Nightlife: Two Queer Bars, One City
OC is not exactly known for a booming queer nightlife scene, which is why Costa Mesa stood out. This little city has not one but two legit queer bars.
First up was Tin Lizzie Saloon, where we were immediately welcomed by the friendliest crowd. It’s casual, fun, and full of people who made us feel right at home (shoutout to the lesbians who fully convinced us to get Angel City FC season tickets—we’ll be seeing you two next season!).
We didn’t get to hit STRUT this time, but it’s next on our list. It’s more of a nightclub vibe—music, dancing, queer people everywhere. (Update: STRUT has unfortunately closed since this article was written).
Foodie Finds
Let’s talk food. Costa Mesa hits that sweet spot of SoCal freshness—think vegan-friendly, health-forward, but amazing Latin and Asian food. Our favorites were Salty Horse for brunch and Salt & Lime tacos. We also heard great things about the LGBT-owned Pop Pie Co for all types of pies.
But the most unexpected highlight? Elixir Tea Bar — a wizard-themed boba bar that feels straight out of Hogwarts. The drinks are magical (literally).
For dessert, don’t skip Stella Jean’s Ice Cream, another queer-owned fave serving up small-batch ice cream with inventive flavors including S’Mores, Ube, and Mango Sticky Rice.
Nature + Newport Vibes
Of course, it wouldn’t be a California trip without some outdoor time. We spent a slow morning walking the Back Bay Loop, a scenic trail connecting Costa Mesa to Newport Beach. Think nature, birds, and just enough exercise to justify another ice cream scoop.
And since Newport is only 15 minutes away from Costa Mesa, we ended the trip beachside, toes in the sand, soaking in that California sun.
Why Costa Mesa Should Be On Your Queer Travel Radar
Costa Mesa is perfect for a low-key, queer-friendly weekend where you don’t need a packed itinerary. You can just show up, explore, shop local, eat amazing food, and find your people. Whether you’re into metaphysical shops, queer bars, or just want to walk hand-in-hand with your girl without getting side-eyed—Costa Mesa’s the perfect Orange County spot.
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