Orange County

Orange County is known for being on the sleepy side where nightlife is concerned which only means that communities and businesses are becoming more creative to entice residents out.  They are combining art walks with live music, cheese and wine tastings with open mic night and providing public transportation to larger public performances.

Orange County’s live music scene is growing as more venues, many of them intimate and reasonably priced, are opening up with the support of locals.  Santa Ana and Costa Mesa have seen huge growth in the number of cafes and coffee shops that have live performances on certain nights of the week.

When clubs like The Observatory open up and showcase area LA up-and-coming bands, residents realize that they don’t need to drive to Los Angeles to hear quality live music and look in their own backyards for live music venues.

• Best Nightclubs in Orange County
• Upcoming nightlife events in Orange County

Looking for more information on each Orange County nightclub? Check out our club guides below.

Don’t forget – we also have a free mobile app that you can download here. Use the app to see who’s spinning, sign up for guestlists, buy tickets, and book bottle service!

Orange County / Costa Mesa Nightlife FAQ

What are the hottest clubs in Orange County?

The hottest clubs in the OC include the Observatory, Mansion Costa Mesa, Time Nightclub, and Legacy Nightclub.

What are the best EDM clubs in Orange County?

The best EDM clubs in the OC include Time Nightclub and Circle. On occasion you’ll find EDM DJ’s performing at the House of Blues and The Observatory.

What are the best hip hop clubs in Orange County?

The best hip hop clubs in include Mansion Costa Mesa, and Blush.

What are the best after hours spots in Orange County?

Orange County isn’t known for being big on after hours. Your best bet is to meet someone at a club who’s down to after party!

What are the best pool parties in Orange County?

There aren’t really any big pool parties in Orange County.

What are the best day drinking spots / dayparties in Orange County?

• Topside Roof Deck
• Offshore 9 Rooftop Lounge
• Drink Bar
• Vacation Bar
• Blind Rabbit
• Blinking Owl Distillery
• FLOE Lounge
• Driftwood Kitchen
• Bungalow Huntington Beach

What part of Orange County has the best nightlife?

Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Anaheim, and Seal Beach are best areas for nightlife in the Orange County.

What are the best gay clubs/bars in Orange County?

The best LGBTQ friendly bars/clubs are: Velvet Lounge, Tin Lizzy Saloon, Club Main Street Cabaret, Metro Q, Mermaid Lounge, Club Lucky.

What time is last call in Orange County?

Last call is usually around 1:30 or 1:45. The official last call is 2:00 AM.

What time do clubs close in Orange County?

Most clubs close at 2:00 AM or earlier.

What are the best music festivals in Orange County?

The best annual festivals at or around the OC include: Viva! Pomona, Happy Sundays, Pasadena Daydream, OC Brew Ha Ha, Kaaboo Del Mar, Nocturnal Wonderland, Ohana Festival, Groove Island, Socal Hoedown, Desert Daze, Escape Psycho Circus, Dreamstate.

Is weed legal in Orange County?

Recreational weed is now legal in Orange County for anyone over 21.

Can you drink in public in Orange County?

Like most states, California has prohibited the possession and consumption of an open container of alcohol in public places as well as in automobiles. If a person has an open container is on the streets, they may only be given a ticket. However, if an open container is in a car, the penalties are much more severe.

Can you drink on the beaches in Orange County?

Most city beaches started banning drinking on the beach decades ago, and the rest of the state beaches in Orange County banned drinking in 1991.

There are a few loopholes here in Orange County, I’ve found. At the State’s campgrounds, there are portions of the sand near the campsites where you’re allowed to drink. Also, you can apply for a special events permit at the state beaches, such as Bolsa Chica, Huntington State, Doheny, San Clemente State, and San Onofre.