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Newport Beach is a coastal city in Orange County wrapped around Newport Harbor, one of the largest recreational boat harbors on the West Coast. Its long Balboa Peninsula, small islands and sandy beaches attracted summer visitors from the early 1900s, and the city was incorporated in 1906. Today it is known for waterfront homes, yachts and a relaxed beach lifestyle.
On the peninsula, the Newport and Balboa piers anchor miles of beach, and the Balboa Fun Zone keeps a classic Ferris wheel by the harbor. A small ferry, running since the early 1900s, carries cars and people across to Balboa Island, with its strolling paths and frozen banana stands. The Wedge, at the end of the peninsula, is famous for huge waves.
Further south, Corona del Mar has a sheltered state beach, tide pools and the Sherman Library and Gardens, while Crystal Cove State Park and the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve protect wild coastline and wetlands.
A small island in Newport Harbor lined with colorful cottages, boutiques and cafes on Marine Avenue. It is famous for frozen chocolate-dipped bananas and Balboa Bars. Walk the boardwalk around the island for harbor views, and leave the car behind, as parking on the island is very limited.
A small waterfront amusement area on the Balboa Peninsula with a Ferris wheel, arcade, snack stands and harbor cruise and whale watching boats. The nearby Balboa Pavilion dates from 1905. It is a fun stop with children; combine it with the ferry ride to Balboa Island just steps away.
A tiny ferry that has carried cars, bikes and people across Newport Harbor between Balboa Island and the peninsula since 1919. The ride takes only a few minutes and gives great harbor views. Fares are cheap; go on foot or by bike to skip the summer car line, which can be long.
A long public pier near the center of the Balboa Peninsula, with fishing, ocean views and the historic Dory Fishing Fleet selling fresh fish nearby in the mornings. The surrounding beach is popular for surfing and volleyball. Visit early to see the dory fishermen, and check parking meters.
A famous bodysurfing spot at the tip of the Balboa Peninsula, where waves reflect off the jetty to create huge, powerful shorebreak waves on big south swells. It is dangerous for beginners. Watch from the sand on big days, and follow lifeguard flags, as swimming may be banned at certain times.
A sandy beach in a cove below the cliffs of Corona del Mar, at the entrance to Newport Harbor, with fire pits, volleyball, picnic areas and calm water near the jetty. It is popular with families. The parking lot fills early on summer weekends, so arrive early or park in town and walk down.
A small cove beach south of Corona del Mar State Beach, known for its tide pools, rock arch and protected marine life. It is good for snorkeling on calm days and exploring at low tide. Check tide charts, never take or disturb animals, and use the street parking above the beach.
A large state park with three miles of beach, tide pools, wooded canyons and backcountry trails. The historic Crystal Cove cottages from the 1930s and 1940s are available to rent and there is a beachside restaurant. Pay the day-use fee, and reserve cottages months ahead, as they book quickly.
A botanical garden and research library in Corona del Mar, with colorful flower displays, a tropical conservatory, koi pond, cactus garden and a cafe. It is small but carefully maintained. There is an entry fee; visit in spring for blooms, and have lunch at the garden cafe.
An estuary and ecological reserve with marshes, bluffs and trails used by walkers, cyclists and birdwatchers, along with the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center. It is one of the best places in Southern California to see shorebirds. Bring binoculars, and try kayaking the back bay.
An upscale open-air shopping center overlooking the ocean, with department stores, boutiques, restaurants and koi ponds. Its Mediterranean-style walkways make shopping pleasant. Parking is free; visit in the evening for dinner, and see the large holiday tree in December.
A long-running whale watching and sportfishing company based at the Balboa Pavilion, with trips to see gray whales in winter and blue whales, humpbacks and dolphins in summer. Tours last about two to two and a half hours. Book ahead, bring layers and sunscreen, and take seasickness tablets if needed.
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California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
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