Tustin, CA

Looking for a charming escape with small-town vibes right in the heart of Orange County? I say, check out Tustin! The first time I wandered through Old Town Tustin, I was surprised by how peaceful and inviting it felt—like stepping into a relaxed, walkable slice of SoCal history. You’ll be nestled between Irvine and Santa Ana, with access to all the big attractions, but you get that hometown feel. Whether you’re strolling through historic streets, checking out local shops, or grabbing tacos at a neighborhood favorite, Tustin gives you the best of both worlds—easygoing charm and unbeatable location.

Best Time to Visit

If you want to enjoy perfect weather without the summer crowds, I’d recommend visiting between March and June or September and November. I came in spring and was greeted with blooming flowers, sunshine, and ideal patio weather. Fall has the same mellow vibe, and you’ll still get that famous SoCal sun without the heat. It’s the kind of weather that makes you want to stay outside all day, which is perfect for a town like this.

How to Get There

• Driving in? I usually hop on either the I-5 or CA-55—Tustin is just 40 minutes southeast of LA and about 20 minutes from the beach. It’s an easy drive and really well-connected, especially if you’re doing day trips to Disneyland, Irvine Spectrum, or Newport Beach.
• Flying? I always fly into John Wayne Airport (SNA) when I can—it’s just a 10-minute drive from Tustin. It’s small, convenient, and saves so much hassle compared to LAX. But if you’re coming from farther away, both LAX and Long Beach Airport work too—just give yourself a bit more drive time.
• Taking the train? I’ve used the Tustin Metrolink Station before, and it’s great for connecting to LA or other cities along the Orange County Line. It’s a smooth way to travel if you don’t want to deal with freeway traffic.

Where to Stay

• Fairfield Inn & Suites Tustin Orange County – I stayed here on a quick business trip and was pleasantly surprised. It’s modern, clean, and the free breakfast made mornings easy. If you’re planning to get around the region, you’ll appreciate how close it is to the freeway.
• Key Inn & Suites – If you’re on a tighter budget, this one’s a solid pick. I’ve recommended it to friends looking for a quick, affordable stay close to shopping and local eats. It’s nothing fancy, but it does the job well.
• Nearby Irvine hotels – If you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, I’d explore the hotels just a few minutes away in Irvine. I’ve stayed at a few for conferences, and they’re polished, comfortable, and still super close to everything in Tustin.

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