About Costa Mesa
Situated between Los Angeles and San Diego and only a short drive from many of the most beautiful beaches in the state, Costa Mesa is found in the heart of California’s Orange County. Established in 1953, Costa Mesa was originally farmland with a small but densely packed population. Since its founding, the city has dramatically grown and now includes such popular attractions like incredible shopping venues, fine arts events, and exceptional dining options.
Costa Mesa received its name in 1920. Originally titled Harper, many who visited the area confused this urban center with nearby Harperville. To help prevent further confusion, the residents of this city decided to host a contest and award $25 to the person responsible for suggesting the best name. It was a teacher by the name of Alice Plumer who took home the top prize when she coined the phrase “Costa Mesa,” meaning coastal tableland.
When it comes to great places to host film shoots, it’s hard to go wrong with Costa Mesa. If you’re on the lookout for the ideal Costa Mesa filming locale, the biggest decision you’ll face here is narrowing your choices down to only one.
Filming Options in Costa Mesa
Finding the ideal Costa Mesa filming location can take some serious decision-making. Once you’ve settled on your ideal spot, your next job is securing the right professionals to help you get your venue ready for filming to commence. Costa Mesa has many top-tier supply vendors, rental companies, and set designers that can help you get the place ready to roll in no time.
- Audio-Visual Equipment Rentals
In need of some new equipment for your Costa Mesa filming locale? Is your budget a little too tight for a big purchase right now? Not to worry. Costa Mesa is home to many exceptional audio-visual equipment rental companies. Stocking a large inventory of the latest equipment for the film, photo, and video industry, you’re sure to find everything you need here.
- Security
Since it’s just not possible for one of your cast or crew to be on-site at your Costa Mesa filming locale at all times, it’s a good idea to hire a professional security team to keep your property and possessions protected at all times. From on-site uniformed guards to video surveillance systems and even high-tech alarms, the right Costa Mesa security company has got you covered.
- Catering
Ensuring your cast and crew have access to snacks and meals during your Costa Mesa filming is an excellent way to help keep production on schedule. Whether you are looking for simple coffee and tea service, paninis, soups, and salads, or a hot meal or pasta station, the right Costa Mesa catering company can design and deliver a menu that is sure to keep your staff well-fed and ready to deliver Oscar-worthy performances.
Filming Companies in Costa Mesa
Now that you’ve found the perfect place to do some Costa Mesa filming, it’s time to put the final details in place for an effective shoot. Whether you need someone to help with set décor, are looking to rent a few pieces of equipment, or require a caterer to keep hot joe and snacks continually on the go, you’ll find everything your heart desires with Costa Mesa’s top professionals working for you.
- PROtog Rentals
PROtog Rentals is a professional audio-visual equipment rental business located in the heart of Costa Mesa. A team that takes great pride in its exceptional customer services, PROtog Rentals stocks a wide selection of fine equipment including cameras, lenses, lighting, and video software. The staff at PROtog Rentals have experience in the film and photo industries, giving them the expertise you need to provide detailed advice when it comes to product selection and technical support.
- PacWest Security Services
A private security firm founded in 1994, PacWest Security Services has more than 27 years of experience keeping their residential and commercial clients’ property and possessions well protected. Providing service throughout the entirety of California, this Costa Mesa-based security team also has locations in Los Angeles, San Diego, Ontario, and Hayward.
- 24 Carrots Catering and Events
A catering company and event planning service located in SoCal, 24 Carrots Catering and Events specializes in handcrafted cuisine that is innovative, beautiful, and exceptionally delicious to keep your guests coming back for more. A team that prioritizes a personal approach to the planning process, the culinary professionals at 24 Carrots Catering and Events involved you in each step of the menu development to ensure your complete satisfaction.
Pros and Cons of Filming in Costa Mesa
A city with its own quaint charm, Costa Mesa is a great place to call home or to make your next vacation spot. Still, there are positives and negatives to doing some filming here.
Advantages
- Affordable cost of living
Costa Mesa offers its residents a wonderful lifestyle for an affordable price. Expenses for living in Costa Mesa are considered to be lower than in other urban centers in the state.
- Low crime rate
When compared to other populous areas in California, Costa Mesa has a low crime rate. Its residents report feeling quite safe here.
- Consistently beautiful weather
A city that enjoys sunshine, blue skies, and warm temps nearly every day of the year, Costa Mesa’s consistently beautiful weather is a big drawing card for those who live here and those who visit.
Disadvantages
- Heavy traffic
Since Costa Mesa is wedged between two large metropolitan centers, it is also subject to heavily congested highways and streets. Expect lengthy commute times when traveling to and from places in Costa Mesa.
- Overcrowding
Costa Mesa’s beautiful beaches make it a destination hotspot for locals and tourists alike. This influx of tourists can lead to overcrowding in the streets, on the roads, and also in shops and restaurants here.
- High number of property-related crimes
Though on the whole Costa Mesa sees very little crime, offenses involving property are higher here than in some other California cities.
Famous Locations in Costa Mesa
- Noguchi Garden
For true lovers of the great outdoors, a trip to Noguchi Garden is not to be missed. In the late 20th century, construction began on this property to yield almost two acres of incredibly landscaped gardens featuring plants, flowers, and trees from countries all over the world.
- South Coast Repertory Theater
First opening its doors to the public greater than 50 years ago, the South Coast Repertory Theater is a popular spot for concerts, plays, and other live entertainment events in Costa Mesa. With a season that extends from early fall to early summer, you’ll find everything here from classic rock, trendy musicals, and modern comedies to murder mysteries, workshops, and private poetry readings.
- Fairview Park
Fairview Park is a natural space measuring more than 200 acres, offering you plenty of pristine property to explore at your leisure. For those who enjoy spending time in the great outdoors, Fairview Park’s many hiking trails are a true delight. Other activities here include picnicking, flying kites, and even people-watching. Several festivals and other annual events are also held here for the public to enjoy.
