Visiting The Coast Vintage Market in 24155 Laguna Hills Mall, Laguna Hills, California 92653 is truly a unique experience for anyone who loves vintage finds and one-of-a-kind treasures. From the moment I stepped inside, I was drawn to the vibrant mix of carefully curated vintage clothing, handmade crafts, and retro home decor. The atmosphere is welcoming and lively, making it easy to spend hours browsing through stalls filled with history and creativity. Whether you’re a longtime vintage enthusiast or just curious, this market offers a genuine taste of Southern California’s vintage and indie scene that you won’t want to miss. Discover creative works at the Stagecoach Territory Inc and explore local culture at the Hive Market.
The Coast Vintage Market Schedule
- Address: Laguna Hills Mall, Laguna Hills, CA 92653
- Phone: (949) 381-9947
📍 Essential Market Information at a Glance
The Coast Vintage Market transforms the Laguna Hills Mall into a vibrant vintage wonderland on the second Sunday of every month. Located in one of Orange County’s most accessible shopping centers, the market benefits from excellent facilities, ample parking, and a comfortable indoor environment that makes browsing enjoyable year-round.
📅 Upcoming Market Dates 2025
| Month | Market Date | Special Theme/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| January | January 12 | New Year Vintage Kickoff |
| February | February 9 | Valentine’s Vintage Romance ❤️ |
| March | March 9 | Spring Refresh Collection |
| April | April 13 | Mid-Century Modern Focus |
| May | May 11 | Mother’s Day Special Finds |
| June | June 8 | Summer Vintage Vibes ☀️ |
| July | July 13 | Retro Summer Party |
| August | August 10 | Back-to-School Vintage |
| September | September 14 | Fall Preview Collection |
| October | October 12 | Halloween Vintage Spooktacular 🎃 |
| November | November 9 | Holiday Shopping Kickoff |
| December | December 14 | Festive Vintage Market 🎄 |
Note: Always check the official website or social media for any schedule changes or special events
🚗 Getting There: Parking & Transportation Made Easy
One of the best aspects of The Coast Vintage Market is its incredible accessibility. Unlike many vintage markets that require navigating crowded streets or limited parking, this market takes advantage of the spacious Laguna Hills Mall infrastructure.
🅿️ Parking Information
The Laguna Hills Mall offers several large parking lots that surround the entire complex, making it virtually impossible not to find a spot. The parking is completely free, which is a huge bonus when you consider that many Southern California events charge premium parking fees. On market days, you’ll want to park near the designated market entrance, typically near Macy’s or the main mall entrance where vendors set up.
Pro Parking Tips:
- ✅ Arrive between 9:30-10:00 AM for spots closest to the entrance
- ✅ The lot rarely fills completely, even during peak hours
- ✅ Shaded parking spots are available on the mall’s west side
- ✅ Accessible parking is clearly marked near all entrances
- ✅ Remember your parking location snap a photo of the lot letter/number!
🚌 Public Transportation Options
For eco-conscious shoppers or those without cars, the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) provides excellent bus service to Laguna Hills Mall:
| Bus Route | Stops Near Market | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Route 91 | Laguna Hills Mall Direct | Every 30 minutes |
| Route 167 | El Toro Road & Mall Entrance | Every 45 minutes |
| Route 85 | Nearby Connection | Every 30 minutes |
The bus stops are just a short walk from the market entrance, making car-free shopping completely feasible. Check the OCTA website for real-time schedules and trip planning.
🚕 Ride-Share & Alternative Transportation
Uber and Lyft services are plentiful in this area, with drop-off right at the mall entrance. If you’re planning to make substantial purchases (like furniture!), consider these options:
- 📦 Arrange pickup with XL vehicles for larger items
- 🚐 Some vendors offer delivery services for a fee
- 🤝 Coordinate with friends to share rides and split finds
🏪 What Makes This Market Extraordinary
The Coast Vintage Market stands out in Southern California’s crowded vintage scene for several compelling reasons. The curation is exceptional vendors are carefully selected to ensure quality, authenticity, and variety. You won’t find mass-produced knock-offs or overpriced “vintage-inspired” items here. This is the real deal: genuine vintage clothing from the 1950s-1990s, authentic mid-century furniture, handcrafted artisan goods, and carefully restored antiques. 🌟
🛍️ What You’ll Discover
| Category | What’s Available | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Vintage Clothing | 1950s-1990s apparel, designer pieces, accessories | $15 – $200+ |
| Furniture | Mid-century modern, retro, restored pieces | $50 – $1,500+ |
| Jewelry | Handcrafted, vintage costume, estate pieces | $10 – $300+ |
| Home Decor | Wall art, ceramics, textiles, lighting | $5 – $400+ |
| Records & Media | Vinyl records, vintage books, posters | $5 – $100+ |
| Collectibles | Toys, memorabilia, quirky treasures | $8 – $250+ |
🌟 Famous Vendors & Must-Visit Booths
The Coast Vintage Market has cultivated a community of talented vendors who bring passion, expertise, and incredible finds to every market. Here are the standout stalls that have earned cult followings:
👗 Spirit Bird Vintage
Specialty: Carefully curated retro apparel from the 1960s-1980s
Spirit Bird Vintage has become legendary among fashion-forward shoppers for their impeccable eye for quality vintage clothing. Owner Sarah personally sources every piece, traveling to estate sales, vintage warehouses, and private collections across California. You’ll find everything from flowing bohemian maxi dresses to sharp 1980s power suits, all in excellent condition. Their Instagram (@spiritbirdvintage) showcases new arrivals before each market, and items often sell within the first hour!
Price Range: $25-$150 Best For: Wearable vintage fashion, special occasion pieces Pro Tip: Follow them on social media for preview posts before market day
🏖️ Coastal Crafts Co.
Specialty: Handmade coastal-inspired home decor
This vendor perfectly captures the essence of Southern California beach culture through handmade macramé wall hangings, driftwood art, painted ceramics, and ocean-themed textiles. Everything is created by local Orange County artisans, making each piece truly one-of-a-kind. Their booth is always beautifully styled and incredibly Instagram-worthy!
Price Range: $15-$200 Best For: Beach house decor, gifts, boho style lovers Signature Items: Macramé plant hangers, ceramic wave bowls
🪑 Oceanfront Antiques
Specialty: Restored mid-century modern furniture
For serious furniture collectors and interior design enthusiasts, Oceanfront Antiques is THE destination. They specialize in beautifully restored mid-century pieces think Eames-era chairs, Danish modern sideboards, and sleek 1960s credenzas. The owner, Michael, is an expert restorer who maintains the integrity of each piece while ensuring it’s functional for modern living.
Price Range: $150-$1,500+ Best For: Statement furniture pieces, MCM collectors Pro Tip: Arrive early furniture sells fast! Ask about custom restoration services.
💍 Homestead Handmade Jewelry
Specialty: Nature-inspired, handcrafted jewelry
This charming booth features delicate, nature-inspired jewelry pieces created by local artisan Emma. Using semi-precious stones, recycled metals, and ocean-found materials, she creates earrings, necklaces, and rings that feel both vintage and contemporary. Every piece comes with a story card explaining the materials and inspiration.
Price Range: $20-$150 Best For: Unique gifts, sustainable fashion, beach lovers Bestsellers: Abalone shell earrings, sea glass necklaces
👜 Second Chance Boutique
Specialty: Affordable wearable vintage with modern styling
Perfect for vintage newcomers or budget-conscious shoppers, Second Chance Boutique offers carefully styled vintage looks at accessible prices. The owner, Jessica, has a gift for mixing vintage pieces with modern accessories, and she’s always happy to provide styling advice. This is where you’ll find those “everyday vintage” pieces that seamlessly integrate into contemporary wardrobes.
Price Range: $10-$75 Best For: First-time vintage buyers, casual retro style Special Service: Personal styling consultations during market hours
🛋️ Retro Revival Furniture
Specialty: Upcycled and restored vintage furniture
Taking a more creative approach to vintage furniture, Retro Revival specializes in pieces that have been lovingly restored with modern updates think mid-century chairs reupholstered in contemporary fabrics or vintage dressers painted in trendy colors. It’s perfect for those who love the vintage aesthetic but want pieces that match current interiors.
Price Range: $75-$800 Best For: Eclectic home decor, statement pieces Custom Options: Commission custom colors and fabrics
💡 Expert Tips for First-Time Visitors
Whether you’re a seasoned vintage shopper or stepping into your first vintage market, these insider tips will help you make the most of your Coast Vintage Market experience:
⏰ Timing Strategies
Early Bird (10:00 AM – 11:00 AM):
- ✅ Best selection of furniture and big-ticket items
- ✅ Less crowded, easier to browse
- ✅ Better opportunities to chat with vendors
- ❌ Can feel rushed if vendors are still setting up
Sweet Spot (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM):
- ✅ Full market energy and atmosphere
- ✅ All vendors fully set up and ready
- ✅ Great for people-watching and inspiration
- ❌ Most crowded period
Deal Hunter (2:30 PM – 4:00 PM):
- ✅ Vendors more willing to negotiate
- ✅ Potential last-minute deals
- ✅ Relaxed, less crowded atmosphere
- ❌ Best pieces already sold
👜 What to Bring
Essential Items:
- 💵 Cash (some vendors prefer it, may offer cash discounts)
- 📱 Phone with payment apps (Venmo, Zelle, PayPal)
- 🛍️ Large reusable shopping bags
- 📏 Measuring tape (for furniture shopping!)
- 📸 Camera for inspiration and remembering details
- 💧 Water bottle
- 🕶️ Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll be on your feet!)
Optional but Smart:
- 📝 Notebook for vendor contact info
- 🎨 Paint swatches or fabric samples (for furniture matching)
- 🚗 Blankets/padding in car (for protecting furniture purchases)
- 👥 A friend for second opinions and help carrying
💰 Budgeting & Negotiation
Setting Your Budget: Most shoppers spend between $50-$200 per visit, but it’s easy to exceed that when you find that perfect piece! Set a comfortable budget and consider these strategies:
- 🎯 Decide on “investment pieces” vs. “fun finds” budgets
- 💳 Bring your max budget in cash to avoid overspending
- 📊 Research prices online first for comparison
- 🤝 Build relationships with vendors for future discounts
Negotiation Etiquette: Unlike some markets, aggressive haggling isn’t the culture here, but respectful negotiation is welcome:
- ✅ Ask politely: “Is there any flexibility on the price?”
- ✅ Bundle items from the same vendor for discounts
- ✅ Shop near closing time for better deals
- ❌ Don’t lowball or insult vendors’ pricing
- ❌ Avoid comparing to mass-market retail prices
👗 Shopping Smart for Vintage Clothing
Sizing Considerations: Vintage sizing runs significantly smaller than modern sizing! A vintage size 12 might fit like a modern size 6. Always:
- 📏 Bring your measurements (bust, waist, hips, inseam)
- 🔍 Inspect carefully for condition, stains, tears
- 👃 Check for mothball or musty smells
- 🧵 Look at seams can they be let out if needed?
- 💡 Ask vendors about their return/exchange policies
🪑 Furniture Buying Tips
Before You Buy:
- 📐 Measure your space and bring dimensions
- 🚗 Consider transport will it fit in your vehicle?
- 🔍 Check for structural soundness, not just aesthetics
- 💡 Test drawers, doors, cushions for functionality
- 🎨 Visualize it in your space (take photos of your room to compare)
- 💵 Ask about delivery options (many vendors offer this for a fee)
🏨 Where to Stay: Nearby Accommodations
| Hotel | Distance | Price Range | Best For | Key Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Laguna Hills Lodge & Suites | 2.8 miles | $ | Budget travelers | Free WiFi, Pool, Continental breakfast |
| Residence Inn Irvine Spectrum | 5.1 miles | $$ | Extended stays | Full kitchens, Grocery service, Pet-friendly |
| DoubleTree Suites Irvine Spectrum | 6.2 miles | $$$ | Comfort seekers | Suites, Restaurant, Fitness center |
| Hilton Orange County | 7.4 miles | $$$ | Business/leisure | Full service, Multiple restaurants, Spa |
| Laguna Cliffs Marriott | 8.9 miles | $$$$ | Luxury experience | Ocean views, Golf course, Premium dining |
🏖️ Make It a Weekend Trip!
Combine your market visit with other Orange County attractions:
- Laguna Beach (15 minutes): World-class beaches and art galleries
- Irvine Spectrum Center (10 minutes): Shopping and entertainment
- Mission San Juan Capistrano (20 minutes): Historic landmark
- Dana Point Harbor (25 minutes): Waterfront dining and whale watching
🍽️ Dining Near the Market
After shopping, refuel at these nearby favorites:
Within Laguna Hills Mall:
- ☕ Starbucks – Coffee and quick bites
- 🍕 Food court options – Various cuisines
- 🥗 Healthy grab-and-go – Fresh options
Nearby Restaurants (5-10 minute drive):
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Price | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luciana’s Ristorante | Italian | $$ | Romantic, family-friendly |
| Wahoo’s Fish Taco | Mexican/Seafood | $ | Casual, beach vibes |
| The Vintage Steakhouse | American | $$$ | Upscale, date night |
| Pho Bac | Vietnamese | $ | Authentic, casual |
| Mendocino Farms | Sandwiches | $$ | Fresh, California-style |
🎨 Why This Market is Different
🤝 Community & Culture
What truly sets The Coast Vintage Market apart is the sense of community. This isn’t a corporate-run event with impersonal booths it’s a gathering of passionate individuals who love what they do. Vendors know each other, shoppers return month after month, and genuine friendships form over shared appreciation for vintage treasures.
The market attracts a diverse crowd: young couples furnishing their first apartments, interior designers hunting for client pieces, vintage fashion bloggers, nostalgic baby boomers, and curious Gen Z shoppers discovering vintage for the first time. This mix creates an electric, creative energy that’s palpable from the moment you walk in. 🌈
♻️ Sustainability & Conscious Shopping
In an era of fast fashion and disposable furniture, The Coast Vintage Market represents a more sustainable way to shop. Every purchase here:
- ♻️ Keeps quality items out of landfills
- 🌱 Reduces demand for new production
- 💪 Supports small businesses and artisans
- 🎨 Preserves craftsmanship and history
- 💚 Promotes circular economy principles
📸 Instagram-Worthy Photo Spots
The Coast Vintage Market is a photographer’s dream! Here are the most share-worthy locations: For more markets across the region, visit the California Flea Markets.
📷 Best Photo Opportunities
Inside the Market:
- ✨ Spirit Bird Vintage’s color-coordinated clothing racks
- 🌊 Coastal Crafts Co.’s boho beach display
- 💍 Jewelry close-ups with natural light
- 🪑 Mid-century furniture vignettes
- 🎨 Colorful vendor booth setups
Around the Mall:
- 🎨 The vibrant mural near the main entrance (perfect for market day selfies!)
- 🌺 Seasonal flower displays
- 🏢 Architectural details of the mall exterior
- ☀️ Golden hour shots in the parking lot (yes, really!)
Pro Photography Tips:
- 📱 Best lighting is near the mall entrance windows
- 🙏 Always ask vendors before photographing their merchandise
- 🎯 Focus on details: textures, colors, patterns
- 👗 Flat-lay your finds on a neutral surface after shopping
- 🏷️ Tag vendors and use #CoastVintageMarket
🎪 Special Events & Seasonal Markets
Throughout the year, The Coast Vintage Market hosts special themed events:
🎉 Annual Highlights
- Valentine’s Market (February): Romantic vintage finds, couples’ shopping
- Spring Refresh (March/April): Emphasis on home decor and garden items
- Summer Vintage Festival (July): Extended hours, live music, food trucks
- Fall Preview (September): New season fashion and cozy home goods
- Halloween Spectacular (October): Vintage costumes, spooky decor, special deals
- Holiday Market (December): Gift-focused vendors, festive atmosphere, extended hours
Check the official website and social media closer to these dates for exact schedules and special activities! 🎊
🛒 Becoming a Vendor
Interested in selling at The Coast Vintage Market? The application process is straightforward:
📋 Vendor Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Quality | Authentic vintage or high-quality handmade goods |
| Booth Fee | $75-$200 (varies by size and location) |
| Registration | Online application via official website |
| Setup Time | Early morning before 10 AM opening |
| Requirements | Business license, liability insurance recommended |
Vendor Benefits:
- 🎯 Access to dedicated vintage-loving clientele
- 📱 Marketing support via market social media
- 🤝 Networking with other vendors
- 📊 Indoor, climate-controlled environment
- 🅿️ Vendor parking and load-in access
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often is The Coast Vintage Market held?
A: The market takes place every second Sunday of the month, year-round. Mark your calendar for monthly visits!
Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No! Entry is completely FREE for all visitors. No tickets, no cover charge; just show up and shop! 🎉
Q: What payment methods do vendors accept?
A: Most vendors accept cash, credit/debit cards, and payment apps like Venmo, PayPal, and Zelle. However, bringing cash is still recommended as some vendors prefer it and may offer cash discounts.
Q: Can I bring my dog?
A: While service animals are always welcome, pet policies vary. Check with market organizers beforehand, and if pets are allowed, keep them leashed and under control at all times.
Q: What if I buy furniture can it be delivered?
A: Many furniture vendors offer delivery services for a fee, typically $25-$100 depending on distance. Ask individual vendors about their delivery options and pricing.
Q: Are there ATMs nearby?
A: Yes, there are ATMs inside Laguna Hills Mall near the food court and main entrances.
Q: Can I return or exchange items?
A: Policies vary by vendor. Always ask about return/exchange policies before purchasing, especially for clothing or expensive items. Get vendor contact information in case of issues.
Q: Is the market family-friendly?
A: Absolutely! Families with children are welcome. The indoor setting makes it comfortable even with strollers, though weekends can get crowded.
🌟 Final Thoughts: Why You Need to Visit
The Coast Vintage Market at Laguna Hills Mall is more than a shopping destination it’s an experience that celebrates history, creativity, sustainability, and community. Whether you leave with a show-stopping mid-century chair, a delicate handmade necklace, or simply inspiration for your next project, every visit offers something special.
The market represents the best of Southern California’s vintage scene: carefully curated, authentically passionate, and genuinely welcoming. In a world of online shopping and mass production, there’s something profoundly satisfying about discovering a one-of-a-kind treasure, hearing its story from the vendor who lovingly restored or created it, and bringing home a piece that no one else in the world will have. 🏆
So mark the second Sunday of every month on your calendar, set that alarm (or sleep in the market runs until 4 PM!), grab your reusable bags and comfortable shoes, and head to Laguna Hills Mall. The Coast Vintage Market is waiting to share its treasures with you. See you there! 🌊✨🛍️
