Driving Time between Altadena, California and Costa Mesa, California

A picture depicting driving

Road Trip! Altadena to Costa Mesa

Are you ready to hit the road and explore Southern California? Whether you're looking for an adventure or just itching to get out of town, a road trip from Altadena to Costa Mesa is the perfect way to spend a weekend. With several route options and countless places to stop and explore along the way, you're sure to have a blast.

Route Options

There are a few different routes you can take from Altadena to Costa Mesa, depending on what you're looking for. Here are a few options:

I-5 S and CA-55 S

This is the fastest route, taking you down the I-5 South to the CA-55 South. It's a little over 50 miles and takes about an hour and a half, depending on traffic.

CA-57 S and CA-22 W

Taking the CA-57 South to the CA-22 West is a slightly longer route, at just over 60 miles, but can be faster depending on traffic. This route also takes about an hour and a half.

Pacific Coast Highway

For a scenic drive, take the Pacific Coast Highway down to Costa Mesa. This route is about 70 miles and will take a little over two hours, but there are plenty of gorgeous views and beach towns to stop and explore along the way.

Places to Stop

No road trip is complete without a few fun stops along the way. Here are some suggestions for places to check out:

  • Orange County Fairgrounds: If you're in town during the summer, be sure to check out the Orange County Fairgrounds for rides, games, and fried food.
  • Huntington Beach: This beach town is perfect for a quick dip in the ocean or a stroll down the boardwalk.
  • Newport Beach: This upscale town is home to beautiful beaches, high-end shopping, and delicious seafood restaurants.
  • Balboa Island: Take the ferry to Balboa Island and explore this quaint community filled with small shops and cute homes.
  • Crystal Cove State Park: This park is a great spot for hiking, picnicking, and soaking up the sun on the beach.

Drive Time

No matter which route you choose, you can expect to spend about an hour and a half to two hours on the road. Of course, traffic can always impact your drive time, so it's a good idea to check the latest traffic conditions before you leave.

Final Thoughts

A road trip from Altadena to Costa Mesa is the perfect way to experience the beauty and diversity of Southern California. Whether you're looking for a quick day trip or a weekend getaway, there's plenty to see and do along the way. So grab some snacks, your favorite playlist, and hit the road!