Here’s How to Fill Those Stockings This Holiday Season
The retail scene in Orange County is almost as legendary as its surf. Known for its blend of luxury stores, outdoor shopping malls and curated collectives, OC offers a little something for every holiday shopper. From the boutique-lined alleyways of Lido Marina Village to the luxury stores that dot South Coast Plaza, here is your guide to the best and most festive holiday shopping destinations in Orange County. Ready, set, let’s go gift hunting!
SOCO & The OC Mix
For those who thrive on creativity and curated finds, SOCO & The OC Mix in Costa Mesa is a dream come true. This vibrant hub is a haven for all things apparel, design, homewares and accessories. It boasts 300,000 square feet of shops and showrooms! Stores like Local Fare provide a treasure trove of unique gifts and home decor, offering serving pieces, soaps, candles and glassware curated from local makers. At Modern Ware Market, you’ll find finely crafted home and lifestyle goods that blend timeless elegance with modern minimalism, from impactful statement pieces to everyday essentials that elevate any space.
If you’re shopping for the foodie in your life, stop by We Olive & Wine Bar for gourmet cheeses, decadent desserts and California’s finest extra virgin olive oils. This shop also features complimentary tastings and a cozy wine bar should you need a vino break! And for fashionistas, The OC Mix offers a delightful fusion of indie designers and established brands. Be sure to pop into shops like Blue Skies, which sells the cutest UPF50 sun protective hats, and Sisu for the outdoorsy one on your list!
Location: Costa Mesa
River Street Marketplace
San Juan Capistrano’s River Street Marketplace is the perfect blend of historic charm and modern retail. This all-new open-air destination features a carefully curated mix of shops and dining options, making it an ideal spot for holiday shopping. Boutiques like SALT., Tecovas, and Wildfire Mercantile offer everything from premium eyewear and Western boots to stylish lifestyle apparel, ensuring a gift for everyone on your list. Dining here is just as remarkable, with standout spots like La Vaquera, with its menu of authentic ranchero cuisine, and Finca, which is helmed by award-winning chef David Pratt. With its rustic decor, seasonal flair and a nod to San Juan Capistrano’s rich history, River Street Marketplace is a delightful place to shop, dine and revel in Orange County’s holiday spirit.
Location: San Juan Capistrano
Fashion Island
Fashion Island transforms holiday shopping in Orange County into a luxurious, open-air experience. This Newport Beach shopping center offers an impressive mix of high-end department stores like Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom, along with popular brands such as LSPACE and Vuori. Holiday shoppers can find everything from upscale fashion to surf and skate wear, ensuring gifts for all ages and tastes. During the holiday season, Fashion Island also comes alive with its iconic nightly tree lighting, casting a magical glow over the center. Seasonal treats and community events, including a toy drive for foster children, add to the festive atmosphere. With its coastal charm and upscale ambiance, this elevated Orange County shopping mall delivers a sleighful of cheer.
Location: Newport Beach
South Coast Plaza
Costa Mesa’s South Coast Plaza is synonymous with luxury shopping. As the largest high-end retail destination on the West Coast, this iconic center offers more than 275 boutiques, six department stores and an array of fine dining options. From iconic designer brands like Chanel and Gucci to contemporary labels like Zimmermann and Golden Goose, South Coast Plaza caters to those who love a little luxury. Its location near the Segerstrom Center for the Arts and the new Orange County Museum of Art makes it a cultural hub as well. Whether you’re shopping for fashion-forward gifts, contemporary home furnishings or fine jewelry, this sprawling mall’s unparalleled selection ensures you’ll find something special for all of your friends and family!
Location: Costa Mesa
Bella Terra
In Huntington Beach, Bella Terra captures the laid-back charm of Surf City USA while delivering a vibrant holiday shopping experience. This open-air center features a mix of major retailers, including REI and World Market. There are also local boutiques and salons, making it a one-stop shop for your holiday needs. And Bella Terra truly shines during the holidays. Its walkways transform into a winter wonderland complete with festive performances, snow showers and visits from Santa. Families can enjoy seasonal events like Winter Fest, which features live music, hot cocoa, and appearances by beloved holiday characters. Whether you’re browsing for gifts or enjoying a cozy meal, this is the ultimate holiday hangout.
Location: Huntington Beach
Lido Marina Village
Newport Beach’s Lido Marina Village offers a unique holiday shopping experience with its twinkling waterfront views and boutique charm. The seaside center is home to charming shops like Sugar Paper, Eberjey, Stoney Clover Lane and The Great., where you can find everything from cozy loungewear to customizable accessories and beyond. Seasonal events, including Santa’s arrival by electric boat and live holiday music, add to the festive allure. Dining options like Malibu Farm and Lido Bottle Works provide the perfect setting to enjoy seasonal bites while soaking in marina views. Stop by this bayside village for a little coastal Christmas magic!
Location: Newport Beach
Old Towne Orange
For a shopping experience steeped in nostalgia, Old Towne Orange offers a delightful mix of vintage charm and holiday cheer. This historic district is lined with antique shops, art galleries and specialty boutiques. Seasonal events like the tree lighting ceremony in the Old Towne Orange Plaza bring the community together in celebration, while the weekly Farmers and Artisans Market offers an array of handcrafted goods. With its quaint streets and festive ambiance, Old Towne Orange is an enchanting destination that captures the spirit of the season.
Location: Orange
