Camper Van Rental Costa Mesa, CA
Explore camper van rentals near Costa Mesa, from luxury Sprinter vans to passenger vans and more. Long-term and short-term options available.
Discover California’s Coast with a Camper Van Rental in Costa Mesa
Interior of Sequoia, from altCamp’s luxury Signature Collection.
Costa Mesa, nestled in the heart of Orange County, California, serves as the perfect starting point for a bucket list camper van adventure. Known for its vibrant arts scene, sunny beaches, and easy access to Southern California’s best landscapes, Costa Mesa is ideally suited for families, couples, and solo travelers eager to rent a campervan or Class B RV and hit the open road.
With immediate proximity to coastal routes, mountain getaways, and popular urban attractions, Costa Mesa allows you to effortlessly combine comfort, convenience, and exploration. Consider a one-way rental to fully embrace the flexibility and adventure of campervan travel.
Top Campgrounds Near Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa puts some of Southern California’s best camping spots within easy reach. Here are four standout campgrounds ideal for your camper van adventure:
El Moro Campground (Crystal Cove State Park) – Just a short drive from Costa Mesa, this campground offers tiered bluff-top sites overlooking Crystal Cove in Newport Beach, easy beach access, and extensive hiking trails through the canyon.
Doheny State Beach – A favorite spot for surfers and families alike, Doheny provides beachfront campsites, beginner-friendly waves, picnic areas, and sunset views. Perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed coastal experience.
San Elijo State Beach – Located near Encinitas, this coastal campground offers some of the best oceanfront camping in all of California. It’s excellent surfing and charming small town vibe make it a great destination for road-trippers looking to explore the southern coastline.
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort – Situated just minutes from Costa Mesa, Newport Dunes combines the best of camping comfort and convenience. Enjoy full-hookup RV sites, a calm swimming lagoon, paddleboard rentals, and family-friendly amenities.
For scenic drives, explore the iconic Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1) north toward Malibu and Big Sur or south to San Diego’s beaches. Consider inland routes like Ortega Highway for mountainous landscapes and picturesque stops along the way.
Things to Do Around Costa Mesa
Before or after your road trip, be sure to explore some local highlights in Costa Mesa:
South Coast Plaza – Indulge in luxury shopping and dining at one of California’s premier shopping destinations.
The LAB Anti-Mall & The CAMP – Explore these unique shopping and dining venues with a focus on sustainability, creativity, and local businesses.
Balboa Island & Newport Beach – Spend the day enjoying beach activities, strolling the boardwalk, or taking a ferry ride across Newport Harbor.
Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Experience world-class performances and events in the heart of Costa Mesa’s arts district.
FAQ: Costa Mesa Camper Van Rentals
1. How Much Does a Camper Van Rental Cost in Costa Mesa?
Prices vary based on the van’s size, amenities, and season. Budget camper vans typically start around $130 per night, while luxury Sprinter camper vans, like altCamp’s Signature Collection, can exceed $400 per night during peak season.
2. Are One-Way Rentals Possible from Costa Mesa?
Yes, many rental hosts offer one-way rentals. This allows travelers to pick up their camper in Costa Mesa and drop it off in another city or state, providing great flexibility for longer trips. Check listings carefully for availability and additional fees.
3. Do Camper Vans Have Bathrooms?
Larger Class B RVs and luxury Sprinter camper vans often include built-in bathrooms. Smaller camper vans may offer portable toilets or rely on campground amenities. Be sure to review individual listings for details.
Related article: Do Camper Vans Have Bathrooms?
4. What’s the Difference Between a Camper Van and a Motorhome?
Camper vans (often known as Class B RVs) are smaller, more maneuverable, and easier to park. Motorhomes (Class A or C RVs) are larger, typically more spacious, but less convenient in urban areas or tight campgrounds. Many camper vans will be fully self-contained, but the average motorhome will require power and sewer hookups.
5. What Kinds of Camper Vans Can I Rent in Costa Mesa?
Costa Mesa rentals include:
Luxury Sprinter camper vans with high-end amenities
Budget-friendly conversion van rentals
Spacious passenger vans for groups or families
Small RVs and compact travel vans perfect for quick escapes
6. Where Can I Park Overnight in Costa Mesa?
Overnight parking options nearby include Crystal Cove State Park, Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort, and Bolsa Chica State Beach (paid campgrounds). Always verify reservation requirements, especially during busy seasons.
Related article: Can I Sleep Anywhere in a Camper Van?
7. Are Pets Allowed in Costa Mesa Camper Van Rentals?
Many rental hosts are pet-friendly, but policies vary. Some may charge an additional cleaning fee or have size restrictions. Always confirm the pet policy with your rental host.
8. Is Driving a Camper Van Difficult in Southern California?
Most camper vans and Class B RVs handle similarly to large trucks or SUVs, making them manageable even for first-time RV travelers. Be cautious of height clearance in parking structures, drive-thrus, and bridges.
9. What Features Should I Consider When Renting a Camper Van?
Consider amenities such as:
Solar power and battery storage
Kitchen facilities, including refrigerators and stoves
Climate control for year-round comfort
Comfortable sleeping arrangements and seating capacity
Built-in bathroom or portable toilet options
10. What Are the Best Road Trips from Costa Mesa?
Popular road trip options include:
Pacific Coast Highway north to Big Sur and San Francisco
Inland to Joshua Tree National Park or the Mojave Desert
South along the coast toward San Diego and Baja California
Related articles: The 5 Best Places to Surf and Camp in CA, Best Camper Van Destinations in the Southwest US
Begin Your Camper Van Journey from Costa Mesa Today
As North America's #1 campervan rental marketplace, altCamp® offers a vast selection of 1,000+ camper vans and Class B RVs. From budget-friendly travel vans to luxurious Sprinter models, there's something perfect for every kind of adventure.
Book your Costa Mesa camper van rental today and start exploring California’s coast, mountains, and deserts with total freedom.
Explore more nearby rentals: Los Angeles | San Diego | Riverside | Long Beach | Orange County
Disclosure: Some of the links on this site are affiliate links. This means that if you click on the link and make a purchase, we may receive an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products and services that we believe will add value to our customers.