Best Places to Work Remote in OC

alexdmeshot
May 28
3 min read

With the rise of remote work, the ability to live and work from anywhere has become a reality for many. For remote workers seeking a change of scenery and a boost of productivity, coffee shops, lobbies, or libraries can be the perfect alternative to a home office. Going out to work provides structure, a break from distractions, and experience variety in your day.

Cramming into a dark, crowded, loud coffee shop is not always ideal, so having some go-to places that provide the right amount of white noise, comfortable seating, and caffeine is a welcome luxury. Also I intentionally avoided chain coffee shops like Starbucks, Peets, Philz, or Urth Cafe as I have found these cafes can get busy and do not provide the working ambiance I prefer.

Here are a few of my favorite working remote safe havens in Orange County:

Coffee Shops:

Steadfast Cafe - Huntington Beach

Steadfast Cafe is my personal favorite cafe, not only because they offer some of the best coffees, teas, and food, but because the amazing community that frequents this cafe. The owner, Brad, is quick to great you with a genuine smile and he will remember your name which makes you feel welcome. There is plenty of seating, great playlist, and fast Wi-Fi, and I could spend my entire workday here.

Karak House Coffee - Laguna Hills

Karak is an international coffee shop in Laguna Hills featuring a unique fusion of flavors inspired by Middle-Eastern and Indo-Pak traditions. This cafe features comfortable seating, tasty treats, great ambiance and strong coffee. Karak is also open late, until 10PM of weekdays/12AM on weekends, for any late night studying or projects, however the cafe does get crowded in the late afternoon.

Mameya Coffee Roasters - Aliso Viejo

Mameya, which translates to bean in Japanese, is a Japanese coffee company that specializes in small batch, fresh roasted coffee beans. There are several large vats of beans from around the world where you can chose the level of roast (acidity/bitterness). There is not a large select of pour over coffee or seating inside the cafe, however if you are able to reserve a seat you are in for a unique experience.

Greenhouse Coffee Bar & Eatery - Costa Mesa

Greenhouse Coffee is located right next to South Coast Plaza and offers artisan drinks and food that is delicious. True to its name, the cafe has an enormous 120 degree window which creates a really creative and inspiring ambiance. This cafe can get really busy due to its location so arrive early to reserve a seat.

Laguna Coffee Company - Laguna Beach

Laguna Coffee Company is located right on PCH between Oak and Anita. The cafe itself is a little small with only a few indoor seating options, however there is plenty of space outside. On a beautiful day you can easily work outside or take a quick stroll down Thalia to watch the shore break.

Libraries:

Huntington Beach Library

The beautiful architecture of this library really helps this location stand out and inspire. There are plenty of tables and quiet spaces. This library is located right next to a large park as well which is great to take a break for a quick walk.

Newport Beach Library

This library offers a great combination of location and aesthetic. There are several art installations that prompt focus and inspiration that are perfect for a productive day of work.