Newport Beach, California

Newport Beach is a seaside city in Orange County, California. It is known for its stunning beaches, world-class shopping, beautiful parks, delicious food, and outdoor activities. Whether you want to spend the day surfing, sunbathing, exploring the town’s many attractions or just taking a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores, Newport Beach has something for everyone.

10 Places to Visit

Balboa Island Fun Zone

Experience the classic beach boardwalk vibe at Newport’s Balboa Island Fun Zone. Enjoy the Ferris wheel, a spectacular ride consisting of six Ferris wheel gondolas, an arcade and attractions, and eateries.

Newport Pier

Newport Pier is the perfect place for a morning walk, watch the sunrise or enjoy a beautiful sunset. The pier, situated on the edge of Balboa Peninsula and characterized by a prominent four-story tower, is home to a variety of restaurants, shops and beach gear rentals.

The Wedge

The Wedge is a hotspot in Newport, famous for its big waves, perfect for experienced surfers. During peak swell season, the waves can reach up to thirty feet high. However, the Wedge is open to the public, so anyone can visit and watch from a safe distance.

Cannery Village

Visit Cannery Village, a quaint historic district, home to unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The historic village and its waterfront are also home to a number of iconic attractions, including The Old Lighthouse, the old Cannery Office, and the Cannery Village Marina.

Corona Del Mar State Beach

Corona Del Mar State Beach is the perfect place to lounge in the sun or play in the water. The beach is located at the foot of the bluffs, making it a beautiful and serene place to relax. Once here, you can hike, swim or participate in activities like sand volleyball or skimboarding.

The Sherman Library & Gardens

The Sherman Library & Gardens are a hidden gem in Newport’s Corona Del Mar neighborhood. The library is home to over 15,000 volumes and overlooks the gardens, which include a variety of flora and fauna. It’s an excellent place to have a picnic, take family photos or even join a guided garden tour.

Newport Beach Pier

The Newport Beach Pier is an excellent spot to take a walk or ride a bike down the boardwalk. The pier offers several amenities like restaurants, shops, and picturesque views. The colorful blossoms and bountiful trees provide visual treats worthy of your time.

Lido Marina Village

Lido Marina Village is a popular shopping center located in the heart of Newport Beach. The Marina offers boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. The harbor views are stunning with a variety of yachts and boats to enjoy. Lido Marina has the world’s largest Duffy electric boat dealership if you’re looking for a quieter day on the water.

Crystal Cove State Park

Crystal Cove State Park is a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features 3.2 miles of unspoiled beach, outdoor activities, and several well-maintained hiking trails. Whether you want to mountain bike, hike, or just have a picnic, Crystal Cove has it all.

Blackie’s, Newport Beach

If you’re looking to experience Newport Beach’s nightlife, Blackie is the spot to be. Blackie’s, a quirky, beach themed dive bar, has been serving up drinks and good times for over 60 years. Be sure to try one of their famous frozen drinks or enjoy the ocean breeze on the back patio.

5 Places to Avoid

Balboa Pavilion Beach

The Balboa Pavilion Beach is not known for being very clean, and the water can be murky. If you’re looking to go to the beach in Newport, we recommend visiting one of the other beaches lining Newport Coastlines.

Fashion Island Mall office center

This mall shopping center is trendy, but you’ll likely spend more than you bargained for at the exclusive stores in the location. If shopping isn’t your jam, skip this spot.

Newport Center Drive

The traffic here is heavy, and parking is a nightmare. It’s best to avoid this area during peak traffic periods and look for parking any place else.

Newport Harbor Nautical Museum

The museum is smaller and based around maritime history; it’s not ideal for those who aren’t fans of naval culture or know someone with an interest in this history. There are better attractions around the city that offer more options for activities.

Little Corona Beach

The beach is not easily accessible and demands a bit of a hike to get there. It’s also not very clean or suitable for swimming, making it not an ideal spot for families with small children.

Overview of Newport Beach