Lima Beans and Louis Vuitton: The Surprising Evolution of South Coast Plaza

If you’re from Costa Mesa, you’ve probably cruised through South Coast Plaza more times than you can count. It’s not just a place to shop—it’s a lifestyle. Where else can you grab a Gucci bag, slurp Din Tai Fung soup dumplings, and casually walk past a Calder sculpture all in the same afternoon?

South Coast Plaza has been holding it down in the 949 since 1967, and it’s only gotten cooler with time. Here’s the lowdown on what makes this place the ultimate Costa Mesa flex.

The Lima Bean Glow-Up

In 1967, before South Coast Plaza was home to Chanel and Hermès, it was a sprawling lima bean field owned by the Segerstrom family.

Instead of just farming, the family decided to plant something a little more iconic: a shopping center that would put Costa Mesa on the map.

The original plaza opened with 70 stores, but the Segerstroms had big dreams. Over the years, it’s grown into one of the most famous shopping destinations in the world, with over 275 stores and a reputation for mixing retail therapy with high art.

Shops That Make Your Wallet Cry (in a Good Way)

If you’ve got your eye on the finer things in life, South Coast Plaza delivers. Here’s what locals love:

Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton for when you want to feel fancy.

Apple and Microsoft for tech vibes.

Zara and Uniqlo for trendy fits without breaking the bank.

But the real gems? Costa Mesa locals know to hit up The Webster for curated designer looks and Sugarfina when you’re in the mood for bougie candy.

Not Just About Shopping

South Coast Plaza isn’t just for maxing out your credit card. It’s a full-on cultural experience.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts: If you haven’t caught a Broadway show or a ballet here, what are you even doing? It’s basically Costa Mesa’s cultural HQ.

Art Everywhere: The plaza has sculptures and installations that are more impressive than half the museums in LA. Don’t miss the Calder in the Jewel Court.

Seasonal Events: Lunar New Year, the iconic holiday tree lighting, and even fashion pop-ups keep things fresh all year.

Dining That Delivers

You can’t talk about South Coast Plaza, without talking about the food scene. Let’s be real: locals come for the shopping, but they stay for the eats.

Din Tai Fung : If you haven’t had their soup dumplings yet, fix that immediately.

Water Grill : Perfect for a special seafood dinner.

The Capital Grille : A classic spot for steak and celebration.

Café Beau Soleil : The go-to for a latte and people-watching.

And don’t forget dessert: Boudin serves up sourdough perfection, while Caffé Bene has gelato that’s always worth it.

Why Costa Mesa Can’t Get Enough

South Coast Plaza isn’t just for tourists — it’s where locals go to flex their style, catch a show, or grab dinner with friends. It’s woven into the fabric of Costa Mesa life, and whether you’re here to window shop or splurge, it always delivers.

So next time you’re looking for a place to spend the day, you know where to go. Just don’t forget your wallet — and maybe some comfy shoes.