Noguchi Garden
Why Noguchi Garden in Costa Mesa Is a Hidden Gem for Professional Portraits
If you're looking for a location in Orange County that combines minimalist beauty, natural elements, and artistic depth—Noguchi Garden in Costa Mesa should be at the top of your list. As a local photographer and longtime resident, I've worked at nearly every type of shoot location from beaches to urban alleys, and this garden remains one of my favorites for professional portraits.
Let me walk you through why it's special, how to plan your visit, and a few pro tips that can make your shoot smooth and successful.
About Noguchi Garden
Noguchi Garden is 1.6 acres of open garden surrounded by office buildings and tall corporate buildings. This public space is a renowned sculpture garden commissioned by Henry T. Segerstrom in 1979 and completed in 1982, by the Japanese artist Isamu Noguchi.
The California Scenario is recognized as one of the country’s preeminent sculpture gardens and the most vital publicly accessible outdoor sculpture oasis in Southern California.
Visitors will find themselves entranced by the sculptures, which are designed to bring out the inner beauty and power of nature. Additionally, the garden is a perfect spot for a professional photoshoot, a peaceful stroll, or for meditation and contemplation.
An ideal destination for art lovers and nature lovers alike. So if you're looking for a unique and calming experience, be sure to take some time to visit Noguchi Gardens in Costa Mesa, CA!
Learn about Christopher Todd Studios' family portrait photography.
What Makes Noguchi Garden So Unique For a Photoshoot?
Known officially as California Scenario, the garden was designed by the legendary Japanese-American artist Isamu Noguchi in 1982. It's not just a park—it’s a sculptural landscape filled with symbolic representations of California’s diverse ecosystems: desert, forest, mountain, and water.
The mix of materials—granite, concrete, redwoods, and flowing water—creates a bold, modernist backdrop that photographs beautifully. It's peaceful, compact, and easy to navigate, making it ideal for portrait sessions that range from lifestyle and branding to engagement and fashion shoots.

An outdoor photoshoot at Noguchi Garden is a convenient location for professionals looking to get a creative and unique headshot or executive portrait.
If you are looking for a photoshoot location with multiple scenic backgrounds Noguchi Gardens is a great option. Here you will find 5-7 different looks all in one place. Hire an experienced photographer who knows where all the best shots should be taken.
Pros:
- Variety of backgrounds to choose from
- Convenient location to many Orange County offices
- Good for small group photos
- Good for headshots and magazine covers
Cons:
- Can be a bit windy
- Paid parking garage
- Mid-day sun can be harsh
- Can be busy during lunchtime
Pro tip: The best outfit for this outdoor setting is casual nice attire. A nice dress or slacks with a button down. Avoid t-shirts and jeans for your portraits here.
Good for: Family portraits, graduation photos, executive portraits, headshots, and lifestyle photos & holiday cards.
How To Prepare For A Noguchi Garden Photo Session
If you’re looking to capture some beautiful family memories in a unique and peaceful setting, consider a session at Noguchi Garden in Costa Mesa. This Japanese-inspired garden offers stunning views, perfect for creating lasting family photos.
Located near South Coast Plaza, Noguchi Garden is a perfect outdoor family photo location. It features a variety of trees, shrubs, and flowers that bring out the beauty of nature year-round.
Before the session, there are a few steps you can take to make sure it goes as smoothly as possible.
- First, plan ahead and book your session in advance so that you can ensure the perfect time and weather conditions.
- Next, consider what type of clothing and accessories would best express your family’s personality.
- Finally, make sure to arrive on time for your session so that you can make the most of your time in the garden. With these simple steps, you’ll be ready for an unforgettable experience at Noguchi Garden!
Pro tip:
Be sure to read the signs while you are exploring the grounds and get your children engaged. Explain to them the six principal elements that comprise the California Scenario: Forest Walk, Land Use, Desert Land, Water Source, Water Use, and Energy Fountain. Don't forget to have the kids find The Spirit of the Lima Bean sculpture.
Noguchi Garden Engagement Session
A Noguchi Garden Costa Mesa Engagement Session is the perfect choice for any couple looking to capture a beautiful and unique moment in their lives. Offering lush grounds and stunning visuals that are sure to make your engagement photos truly memorable.
Pro Tip: Outfits can be dressed up at this location for a more sophisticated look. Consider wearing a dress and guys wear dress pants with a nice button-down shirt. For more styling tips inquire about our style guide app.
Want to add a second location to your engagement session? Check out the nearby Lab Anti-Mall and the Camp. Both have onsite free parking and are less than a mile and a half away.
Best Time to Visit for a Portrait Session
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Golden Hour is magic here.
Come about 45–60 minutes before sunset for warm light and long shadows that interact beautifully with the angular sculptures and open spaces.
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Cloudy mornings work, too.
If you're hoping for a soft, even light that flatters skin tones, a cloudy weekday morning gives you just that—plus fewer people around.
🕊️ Quietest Times:
Weekday mornings are usually calm. Avoid lunchtime and early evenings during weekdays, when office workers nearby use the garden as a lunch or break spot.
Where to Park and How to Find It
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Location:
Noguchi Garden is located at
611 Anton Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA, across from the Westin Hotel and just steps from South Coast Plaza.
🅿️ Parking Options:
- Limited metered street parking is available on Anton Blvd.
- A more reliable option is the parking structure at 600 Anton Blvd, just a 3–5 minute walk from the garden entrance. Rates are reasonable for short visits.
🚶♂️
Insider Tip:
There are no big signs pointing to the garden. Look for the
low stone wall and small path entrance across from the Westin. It’s tucked away, which keeps it peaceful—but easy to miss if you don’t know what to look for.
Bottom Line
Noguchi Gardens is an outdoor sculpture oasis in Orange County, CA. It is known for its tranquil beauty, its lush gardens, and its stunning sculptures.
- Open to the public
- Paid parking no street parking available
- Japanese garden design
Good location for business headshots, outdoor family portraits, and engagement photos. See our favorite top 10 outdoor family portrait locations in Orange County.
Noguchi Garden FAQs
When is Noguchi Garden open?
Noguchi Garden is open to the public from 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM seven days a week.
Do you need to book in advance to visit Noguchi Garden?
You do not need to book a visit to Noguchi Gardens in advance. The renowned sculpture garden is an outdoor public space and does not require tickets to enter.
What hotels are near Noguchi Garden?
Less than 1 mile from South Coast Plaza and just off the 405 freeway make this a very convenient location.
Hotels near Noguchi Garden:
(0.16 mi) Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel
(0.14 mi) The Westin South Coast Plaza
(0.20 mi) Costa Mesa Marriott
(0.43 mi) Crowne Plaza Costa Mesa Orange County, an IHG Hotel
(0.50 mi) Hilton Orange County Costa Mesa
What restaurants are near Noguchi Garden? Expand
Restaurants near Noguchi Garden, including South Coast Plaza Restaurants:
(0.04 mi) Mastro's Steakhouse
(0.06 mi) Costa Peruvian Cuisine
(0.13 mi) Silver Trumpet Restaurant & Bar
(0.12 mi) Leatherby's Cafe Rouge
(0.19 mi) Water Grill
How much does it cost to go to the Noguchi Garden?
Noguchi Gardens in Orange County is free and open to the public. There is no charge to explore this outdoor art gallery.
Where do I Park for Noguchi Garden Costa Mesa?
There are 3 parking structures within a 4-minute walk to the center of the Japanese gardens design. These are paid parking and there is no street parking available.
https://parkabm.com/facilities/parking-for-600-anton/
SP + Parking
Parking Garage off Park Center Drive
Where is Noguchi Garden Located?
Noguchi Garden is located 611 Anton Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 in the center of the Pacific Arts Plaza
Just off the 405 and 55 freeways and one mile from John Wayne Airport
Walkable access to entertainment, culture, and cuisine, including the acclaimed Segerstrom Center for the Arts, South Coast Plaza and the brand-new OC Museum of Art
Adjacent hotels The Westin South Coast Plaza and Costa Mesa Marriott
Mastro's Steakhouse overlooks the center of Noguchi Garden
Meet Christopher Todd: Your Orange County Photographer
Hi, I’m Christopher Todd! I launched
Christopher Todd Studios back in 2000, but my love for photography started long before that.
Born and raised in Orange County, I’ve spent my life exploring this beautiful area. From surfing in Huntington Beach to discovering the best photo spots across the OC. Over the past
25 years as a professional photographer, I’ve continued to learn, grow, and refine my craft.