There are so many things to do in Orange County, but one thing’s for sure: you won't want to miss out on its shopping scene. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry, a designer handbag, or affordable outlet stores to cash in on some steep discounts, there's a shopping center for you. These are a few of the shopping centers we like to frequent.
Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa is jam-packed with premier shopping destinations.
1. South Coast Plaza
South Coast Plaza is the largest luxury shopping complex in the state and the fourth largest in the entire nation.
It exudes opulence and features some of the biggest international brand names. More than 250 storefronts span its 2.8 million sq. ft. of floor space. The plaza has designer brands, such as Gucci, Bottega Veneta, and Cartier, but you'll also find common shopping mall staples, such as Bath & Body Works and Macy’s.
Customer satisfaction reigns supreme, and upscale amenities, such as valet parking, access to personal stylists, language assistance, and foreign currency exchange, are available. We feel particularly at home in this shopping mall, as it's across the street from the Segerstrom Center for the Arts.
Its unique layout, featuring Napoleon red granite and glass, fits up to 3,000 people. World-class shows take the stage, fully utilizing its cutting-edge technology, much like we do during our own shows. The Orange County Museum of Art, one of the best museums in Orange County, is also on the Segerstrom Center campus.
2. Metro Pointe at South Coast
Orange County’s beautiful year-round weather makes it a phenomenal destination for alfresco shopping experiences. Big-box shopping opportunities intermingle with local boutiques along the paved paths of Metro Pointe at South Coast.
Its blend of Californian and Italian architecture, lush flower gardens, and string lights combine for the ultimate shopping experience. Metro Pointe's entertainment is just as vibrant as the shopping. Every weekend, live music attracts crowds.
At the Edwards Metro Pointe Stadium 12 movie theater, you can catch a film every day of the week. Comfortable high-back seats and high-end sound systems create an immersive environment.
Several restaurants are located here, and the beautiful outdoor dining center surrounds a picturesque fountain. You’ll even find Karl Strauss Brewery and Restaurant on-site. It’s one of the most beloved Orange County restaurants, serving delectable microbrews and American cuisine.
Irvine
Irvine is home to two of Orange County’s best shopping centers.
3. Irvine Spectrum Center
Irvine Spectrum Center perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Southern California, from its high energy to its alfresco approach to shopping. Large retail stores like Target comprise part of the shopping experience, but plenty of smaller brands are around. It also hosts live musical performances on weekends.
Get a sky-high view of the shopping center and surrounding areas from the on-site Ferris wheel. The Giant Wheel overlooks the palm tree-lined lawns and covered tables. Entertainment is found around every corner, from the classic carousel to the Spectrum Climber, a large climbing structure for kids.
4. University Center
At University Center, you'll find boutiques and shops alongside dining and entertainment venues. Beautiful landscaping, including fountains and flowers, lines the walkways for an enjoyable experience.
The center sits beside the University of California's Irvine campus, attracting many students thanks to Target, Trader Joe’s, and a U.S. Post Office. From banking options to salon services, it’s like a small-scale city within walking distance of the university.
The dining scene is particularly diverse, with plenty of quick service and sit-down options. While densely populated with students, it’s open to the public for all who dare brave the crowds. The parking lot can get quite packed, so we recommend using the public transportation system.
Santa Ana
Santa Ana offers some of the best shopping centers in Orange County.
5. MainPlace
MainPlace Mall is one of the city's best-loved shopping centers. It replaced the Santa Ana Fashion Square in 1987 and has been a prime retail destination for the surrounding areas ever since. The '90s-era interior of this indoor mall evokes nostalgia, but that's part of the appeal.
An extensive food court provides several dining options, but it also has a small dining area if you prefer an intimate option. Candyland is a big indoor playground that appeals to families. With its whimsical colors and extensive equipment, your kids could spend a whole day here. Easily.
Check out the Human Claw Machine for one of the most unique shopping center experiences. You (or your child) will be strapped into a swing and propelled over a big pit of plushies. It's up to you to claim one as you dangle above.
6. Santa Ana Downtown Plaza
The Santa Ana Downtown Plaza is a one-stop shop for basic shopping needs. While you won’t find luxury shops here, you’ll have access to a Food 4 Less grocery store, Marshalls, and several specialized shops.
It has hair and nail salons, and several restaurants and cafés line the plaza for quick meals on the go. Locations specializing in jewelry, phones, and health care fill in the gaps.
Elevate your Orange County Stay!
Ready for a whimsical twist to your Orange County visit? Make the most of your day with high-flying Cirque du Soleil acts and vibrant shows!
Newport Beach
Shop on the indulgent side in Newport Beach, where beautiful shopping centers serve a range of retail needs.
7. Fashion Island
Fashion Island is a premier destination for luxury, designer, and specialty brands in the heart of Newport Beach. Here, Louis Vuitton products are showcased alongside items from Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s. Explore over 200 specialty shops, including Orange County’s only Neiman Marcus location.
Come with an empty stomach—the venue has 30 restaurants. You’ll find the area’s best alfresco dining options in this shopping district. Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar and JOEY Newport Beach are particularly popular, and you’ll get to dine in style with ocean views.
8. Newport Coast Shopping Center
Shop in Mediterranean-style elegance surrounded by palm trees and other curated landscaping at Newport Coast Shopping Center. This strip mall’s stylish architecture pairs wonderfully with the brick paving.
While this mall is smaller than other shopping centers, it has a handful of boutiques, a gourmet grocery store, and a Starbucks.
Orange
Between stellar deals and plenty of dining options, shopping in Orange is rarely a disappointing experience.
9. The Outlets at Orange
If you’d rather shop outlets than the newest in high fashion, head to The Outlets at Orange. It’s the biggest outlet shopping mall in Orange County, and you’ll find over 120 outlet and bargain stores and high-end brands.
It’s located near several attractions, such as Disneyland Resort and the Anaheim Convention Center. However, it boasts its own collection of entertainment, with an indoor skate park, a Dave & Busters arcade, a bowling alley, and an IMAX theater.
10. Orange Town & Country Shopping Center
Orange Town & Country Shopping Center is located on the corner of Main Street and Town & Country Road. It’s easily accessible, and you can grab a quick bite at Jersey Mike’s Subs or Baja Fish Tacos.
Although shopping options are somewhat limited, you can sift through books at the nearby Barnes & Noble. A salon, massage parlor, beauty supply store, and jewelry store add a touch of luxury to your shopping spree.
Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach is far more than a prime surfing hub. It also has great malls with admirable views.
11. Pacific City
Upscale beachfront shopping awaits at Pacific City. With views of the Pacific Ocean and Huntington Beach Pier, you're free to appreciate the surrounding beauty while shopping in one-of-a-kind shops alongside national favorites.
This pet-friendly shopping center is full of things to do. Monthly kids' club events include sing-alongs and story time. During the summer months, it transforms into a live music venue featuring several local artists across numerous genres.
Prepare for an entire gastronomic journey across various cuisines. Pacific City’s culinary scene features several local favorites. Creative farm-to-table dishes from Bluegold offer top-notch dining with stunning seaside vistas through the floor-to-ceiling windows.
12. Bella Terra Mall
Venture through Bella Terra, an outdoor shopping center with Tuscan vibes. You'll find popular national retailers, such as Old Navy, Burlington Coat Factory, and Costco, as well as eclectic local stores, such as Huntington Surf & Sport.
The dining scene is just as awesome as the shopping. Award-winning restaurants offer a range of cuisines, from Mediterranean to Japanese. One of the locals’ favorite brunch spots is Euro Caffe, which is also a quick drive away.
In the center of Bella Terra, there's a green area where kids play and regular music performances and festivals take place. Several shops also host events, such as workouts, workshops, and author signings.
Anaheim
Shopping in Anaheim is a lively experience with luxury brands and national favorites.
13. Anaheim GardenWalk
Anaheim GardenWalk is centrally located near the Anaheim Convention Center and Disneyland Resort. It offers a host of stores, eateries, and entertainment venues.
Thanks to the Art on the Walk program, this spot houses all kinds of art installations, including murals and art hung in windows. A quarterly event also brings over 30 talented artists to the shopping center to sell their work.
If you’d rather avoid the crowds of Disneyland, the indoor play space offers plenty of activities to engage children, including slides, trampolines, and a bowling alley, which features glow-in-the-dark action at night.
14. Anaheim Plaza
Anaheim Plaza provides spectacular shopping and dining options. Quick-serve and sit-down restaurants offer easy meals. You'll primarily find national retailers here, such as Ulta, Petco, Ross Dress for Less, and smaller stores.
It’s one location where you can check off most of your errands, from a haircut to grocery shopping. It even houses El Super, a grocery store loaded with Hispanic produce and foods. While Anaheim Plaza lacks the fanfare and entertainment of other venues, it's closer to the hotels around Disneyland.
San Clemente
San Clemente calls itself the “Spanish Village by the Sea,” and that motto shines through in its shopping venues.
15. The Outlets at San Clemente
Great style comes with steep discounts at the Outlets at San Clemente. This pet-friendly shopping center offers over 65 stores amid brick-lined plazas and Spanish-style architecture. This coastal outlet shopping experience brings discounts as high as 70% at some retailers.
Plenty of dining and entertainment opportunities offer snacking and coffee when you need to recharge. A mix of restaurants, from fast food to sit-down diners and cafés, appeal to a variety of flavor profiles and cuisine preferences.
16. El Camino Shopping Center
El Camino Shopping Center evokes a luxurious atmosphere. Its beautiful architecture and carefully cultivated gardening add to the ambiance as you browse its 135,000 sq. ft. Various shops offer a range of beauty services, such as eyelash extensions and laser hair removal.
Pet Life has everything you could ever need if you have a four-legged friend. When it's hot outside, indulge in homemade treats at Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream. Other dining venues offer sandwiches, bagels, Italian cuisine, and grilled foods for a more substantial meal.
The Best Shopping Destinations Across Orange County for Every Shopper
Orange County’s shopping centers have everything from clothing and jewelry to discount shops and restaurants. After you’re all shopped out, come to one of our shows for an unforgettable experience. Our stories will keep the adventure running as you rest your weary legs.
Prepare to be dazzled by expert acrobatics and awe-inspiring choreography performed at unbelievable heights. On our stage, anything is possible, and dreams really do come true. You'll leave more excited about the show than the great bargains you got on your shopping spree.