spring break hot spots
Ready to escape and dive into the best and local spring break destinations? Whether you're looking for the perfect bite, long-lasting memories or crafts and other activities, we at The Tide Times have you covered. This guide will help you find the ideal spots right here in Southern California to make unforgettable memories. Let the fun begin!
written by Kavya Thakrar
The Kickstand Soda Shop
2001 W Balboa Blvd Pier, Newport Beach, CA 92663
The rise of Swig in Utah has taken the TikTok world by storm and the California version of the soft drinks chain has finally arrived in Newport Beach! After embracing the love for dirty soda in Utah, Mike Hancock, founder of The Kickstand Soda Shop, decided to bring it to California. Since its arrival, The Kickstand has blown up on social media, with people all around SoCal trying their trendy soda flavors. The Kickstand’s menu consists of the classic dirty soda flavors typically found at a Swig in Utah, but with a SoCal twist. The Kickstand Soda Shop is perfect for embracing the summer sun and getting a refreshing drink with your friends.
Thee Candle Lab & Perfume Bar
2425 Park Ave, Tustin, CA 92782
For those of you who want to explore your creative side, or better yet, do it with your friends, Thee Candle Lab & Perfume Bar is the place for you. Located right here in Tustin, Thee Candle Lab & Perfume Bar, allows you to pickyour favorite scents and compile them into a customizable perfume or candle of your choosing. The experience is fun and interactive, allowing you to not only create long-lasting memories, but havea creation to take home inthe end. They have a variety of bottles, sizes, colors and scents to choose from, so there’s sure to be something for everyone.
Anaheim Packing District
440 S Anaheim Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92805
The issue of not knowing where to get food or which cuisine to choose from can be tough, especially when on a budget. The Anaheim Packing District is the perfect solution to that: a place to catch a meal with your family and friends, and ahome to 28 food vendors, spanning all cuisines. The food hall has a lively and family-friendly scene, and is perfect if you want a hearty meal while still being on a budget.
Coffee Dose
7.5 Corporate Park, Irvine, CA 92606
Instead of opting for a generic Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts drink, the Coffee Dose, located right in our neighboring city of Irvine, addsa cute and aesthetically pleasing touch to signature drinks. The trendy cafe exceeds coffee shop norms with outdoor seating and its pastel pink booth kitchen. Their signature coffees and matchas are trademarked by quotes on the cups, putting an iconic flair on their products.
The Lab
2930 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
The Lab in Costa Mesa has everything from thrift stores, delicious food spots, and a photobooth by renowned photographer Bryant Eslava (@boothbybryant). The Lab features unique design installations and isn’t your typical mall. Titled an “anti-mall,” The Lab’s locations span the outdoors, featuring beautiful greenery and unique architecture that the mall has. The whole space is designed with an artsy, industrial aesthetic, with murals, repurposed materials, and outdoor seating areas, making it a fantastic place to go to with friends and family.
Shake Shack (Crystal Cove)
7703 East Coast Hwy, Newport Beach, CA 92657
If you are looking for a perfect treat on a sunny March day, the Shake Shack in Crystal Cove is the perfect place for you! This quaint and scenic restaurant is just across the street from the ocean, directly off of Pacific Coast Highway. There you can find a variety of sweet shakes, fries, and burgers to choose from. Around the area, you can also walk around Crystal Cove and shop at the center across the street as well. It is a classic Southern California landmark and the perfect local spring break destination.