The 2 Best City Tours in Newport Beach
Newport Beach isn’t just about sandy shores and surfboards; it’s a lively area packed with surprises just waiting to be uncovered. While the beaches are famous, the nearby Costa Mesa offers a surprisingly fun way to see the city — with interactive scavenger hunts that turn wandering into a game. These tours make discovering the city feel more like a treasure hunt than a traditional sightseeing stroll, perfect for those who like a bit of competition or just want to explore at their own pace.
In this guide, we’ll look at two of the best city-based scavenger hunts in Newport Beach’s vicinity. Both are budget-friendly, at just $10 per person, and last about two hours. They’re flexible, interactive, and designed to keep you engaged, whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family. If you’re after a low-pressure way to soak in the local vibe with a twist, these tours are worth checking out.
Quick Overview
The list below features two top city scavenger hunts in Costa Mesa, each priced at $10 per person for approximately two hours of fun. The first is Explore Costa Mesa with a Scavenger Hunt by Operation City Quest, which involves finding objects and completing challenges using an app. The second, Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Costa Mesa by Crazy Dash, emphasizes photo challenges and live rankings. Both include remote hosts for guidance, making them accessible for all.
1. Explore Costa Mesa with a Scavenger Hunt by Operation City Quest
This scavenger hunt invites you to explore Costa Mesa with an app that turns your phone into a game controller. For around $10, you get two hours of activity that involves finding objects around the city — in any order — and completing fun challenges to earn points. The app features live rankings, so you can see how you stack up against other players, adding a friendly competitive edge. There’s also a remote host on call to help if you get stuck or need hints, which keeps the experience flowing smoothly.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility. You’re not tied to a strict route; instead, you decide what to find and when. The game covers a variety of locations in Costa Mesa, exposing you to both well-known spots and lesser-seen corners of the city. The challenge is light enough for families, yet engaging enough for adults looking for a quick, active way to experience the area. The price is attractive, and the digital format means no paper map or guidebook is needed, making it a simple, modern way to explore.
Bottom Line: If you like the idea of a flexible, self-paced game with live updates and a remote host, this scavenger hunt offers a budget-friendly, interactive experience. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of friendly competition while discovering Costa Mesa.
2. Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Costa Mesa by Crazy Dash
For those who prefer a photo-based challenge, the Crazy Dash in Costa Mesa is a fantastic choice. Also priced at $10 and lasting about two hours, this scavenger hunt uses an app where you submit photos of specific items or scenes around the city. It’s a relaxed, easygoing way to see Costa Mesa, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The game’s goal is to find and photograph items you choose in any order, then submit your photos for points. Like the Operation City Quest, players can see their scores on a live leaderboard, which adds a fun competitive element.
What sets Crazy Dash apart is its focus on visual fun. Instead of simply finding objects, you’re encouraged to capture creative or interesting photos, making it ideal for social media-minded travelers or those who love taking photos. The remote host also chats with players during the game, providing encouragement or tips. Many find this version less intense than other scavenger hunts, making it a good fit for relaxed afternoons or casual family outings.
Bottom Line: This scavenger hunt is best if you enjoy taking photos, want a laid-back experience, and like competing with others across the country. It’s a simple, fun way to see Costa Mesa from a different perspective.
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding between these two scavenger hunts, consider your preferences for activity style and game format. If you enjoy a points-based challenge with real-time rankings and a variety of challenges, the Operation City Quest might be more your speed. But if you prefer a more relaxed, photo-focused experience that emphasizes creativity, then Crazy Dash fits the bill.
Budget-wise, both tours are equally affordable at $10 per person, and their two-hour duration makes them a perfect way to add some active fun without taking up your entire day. For families with kids who love taking pictures or groups wanting a friendly competition, Crazy Dash offers a more casual vibe. Meanwhile, for those who like a little more challenge and live updates, Operation City Quest is a great option.
Final Thoughts
In Newport Beach and surrounding Costa Mesa, these scavenger hunts provide a lively way to experience the city beyond the beaches. Whether you’re after a digital challenge that tests your navigation skills or a photo adventure that sparks your creativity, both options are affordable and engaging. For travelers with limited time, they’re perfect quick escapes that reveal unexpected corners of the area. To ensure a smooth experience, consider booking ahead, especially during peak seasons.
If you’re visiting with family or friends, these interactive tours can become memorable highlights. For the competitive types, the live rankings add a sense of accomplishment, while casual explorers will enjoy the relaxed pace and fun challenges. Whatever your style, these scavenger hunts are a smart choice to see Newport Beach’s vibrant community in a different way. Book early to secure your spot and start planning your active exploration today.