The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Burbank, California to Costa Mesa, California
Burbank and Costa Mesa, two picturesque cities in California, offer visitors a range of opportunities to experience the Golden State's sunny beaches, iconic amusement parks, and breathtaking natural scenery. This road trip from Burbank to Costa Mesa is a perfect way to explore the best of what Southern California has to offer.
The journey from Burbank to Costa Mesa spans over 50 miles and takes about an hour and a half to complete. The route winds through some of California's most scenic landscapes, with the halfway point being Bellflower, California, a city located in the heart of Los Angeles County.
Top Five Things to Do
So if you're planning a road trip from Burbank to Costa Mesa, here are five must-visit destinations along the way.
1. Griffith Observatory
If you're a fan of astronomy and breathtaking city views, you'll want to add Griffith Observatory to your list of must-visit destinations. With over a million visitors per year, this iconic Los Angeles landmark is one of the most popular attractions in Southern California.
The observatory has been a center for public astronomy since 1935 and offers visitors the opportunity to view various planets, stars and galaxies from its telescopes. The building itself is an impressive structure with its Art Deco architecture. Visitors can also take part in various exhibits, live shows and planetarium shows.
Interesting fact: It was featured in several films, including “Rebel Without a Cause,” and the “Terminator” franchise.
2. Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach, nicknamed "Surf City USA," is widely known for its iconic surf culture, consistent waves, and long sandy beaches. Whether you're a pro or a novice, visitors can ride waves or enjoy watching surf competitions that are often held in the area.
The beach itself spans over 10 miles of coastline and is home to various eateries, bars, and shops. Besides surfing, visitors can also participate in beach games such as volleyball, biking, and fishing.
Interesting fact: Huntington Beach has the world’s world's largest surfboard manufacturing company.
3. Downtown Disney
Located in the heart of Orange County, Downtown Disney is a hub of entertainment, dining, and shopping. The area offers a range of shops, from Disney merchandise to designer apparel. Apart from shopping, visitors can enjoy fine dining restaurants, bars and live performances.
This lively Disney-inspired area features various attractions such as a World of Disney, a large 40,000 square foot store offering a selection of Disney merchandise as well as AMC Downtown Disney theater.
Interesting fact: Downtown Disney’s first location opened in Orlando, Florida, in 1997.
4. The Queen Mary
Permanently docked in Long Beach, the RMS Queen Mary is an iconic ocean liner that was built in the 1930s. This majestic vessel offers visitors the opportunity to step back in time and experience elegance of luxury travel transatlantic.
Along with being a popular destination for tourists seeking history lessons, the iconic ship hosts various themed dinner events, including tea parties and saloon nights. Its first-class dining room, which is now the popular Sir Winston's Restaurant and Lounge, offers gourmet dishes complemented by an award-winning wine list.
Interesting fact: During WWII, the vessel was repurposed as a troopship; its dark past, including Nazi spy allegations, contributes to some ghost sightings.
5. Newport Beach
Located along the coast of Orange County, Newport Beach is a popular destination for sailing enthusiasts, beach lovers, and foodies. Besides its stunning ocean views and long sandy beaches, it is also famous for its harbor filled with yachts, powerboats, and sailboats.
Visitors can take a sunset dinner cruise and enjoy ocean views while dining on a luxury charter boat. Other activities include paddleboarding, cycling along beach paths, surfing, exploring the area’s art galleries and boutique shops, and tasting fresh seafood.
Interesting fact: Newport Beach has been used as filming locations in various Hollywood films such as "The O.C.," "The Orange County" and "The Beach Boys: An American Family."
Conclusion
This road trip from Burbank to Costa Mesa is a perfect way to explore the best of Southern California. Visitors can make stops along the way to visit iconic landmarks such as Griffith Observatory and the RMS Queen Mary, the Disneyland Resort's flagship shopping and dining district, Downtown Disney, Huntington Beach known as surfing capital of the world, and the Newport beach famous for its coastline views and luxury sailing.
With a drive of just over one and a half hours, it's an unforgettable journey for anyone seeking adventure and fun, which could be your perfect day trip activity or a full weekend adventure.