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Newport Beach, California
Best Things to Do in Newport Beach
Newport Beach is one of the most iconic beach towns in Southern California. Located just south of Los Angeles between Laguna Beach and Huntington Beach, this popular destination is the perfect blend of coastal adventures, beautiful natural landscapes, high-end shopping, and fantastic restaurants to explore and enjoy, making it the best beach town in California for travelers of all ages and interests!
Our Newport Beach property is located on the Balboa Peninsula, just a few steps from the Beach, the Balboa Pier, Balboa Village, and Newport Harbor, a short walk or bike ride from all of the other Balboa Peninsula attractions, and and a short drive to any of the other Newport Beach recommendations below. Planning a trip to Newport Beach, California? If so, check out this list of our favorite things to do in Newport Beach — from the best beaches and outdoor adventures to the top family-friendly attractions and outdoor shopping malls — to guarantee an unforgettable getaway to this charming destination.
Best Beaches in Newport Beach on the Balboa Peninsula
The Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach is home to a long stretch of sandy shoreline, referred to as “The Peninsula.” The Peninsula is home to several beaches that are often referred to by the name of the street on which they are located — for example, 10th Street Beach, 19th Street Beach, and 41st Street Beach.
Two of the most popular beaches on the Balboa Peninsula are the beach near the Balboa Pier (located just steps from our property) and the beach near the Newport Pier. Both piers are connected by a beautiful coastal beachwalk that spans nearly two miles, where tourists and locals can walk, bike, rollerblade, or rollerskate. (We provide six bikes for our guests to use for just this purpose!) The views along this walk are also gorgeous — on one side, you’ll pass multi-million dollar homes, and on the other, you can admire the sandy shores of the beaches on The Peninsula!
During the summer, the Newport Pier-2-Pier Swim is a lifeguard-organized open ocean swim between these two piers that annually draws a large field of participants from newbies to Olympic competitive swimmers, as well as lots of spectators. This year’s event will take place on July 13, 2025.
Balboa Pier Beach
The beach at Balboa Pier, located just steps from our property, is situated near the end of a five-mile stretch of sandy coastline on the Balboa Peninsula. It is located near Balboa Village, a popular destination for dining and shopping in Newport Beach, as well as the home of the Balboa Fun Zone and the Balboa Island Ferry.
Balboa Pier Beach is a popular spot for surfing, sunbathing, sandcastle building, volleyball, and all sorts of beach activities. Fishing enthusiasts will also enjoy casting a line into the open ocean from the end of the pier. This beach also has fire pits, making it a fantastic spot for a beach bonfire under the stars after a day in the sunshine. Ample parking is available in the large parking lot at the pier, making it easy to meet friends coming from other locations for a day at the beach.
Newport Pier Beach
The beach at Newport Pier is also a popular spot for sunbathing and surfing. The area around Newport Pier is home to several restaurants and a large parking lot, making it an easily accessible destination for a day of fun in the sun in Newport Beach.
Newport Pier is a hub for local events, including the Newport Beach Farmers’ Market, which takes place every Sunday from 9 AM to 1 PM. This is a great spot to shop for farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh bread, and local goodies to bring back to your vacation rental. It’s also an excellent place to hunt for local souvenirs, such as handmade candles, jewelry, and artwork, to bring home with you.
If you’re visiting Newport Pier, you also can’t miss the chance to visit Dory Fleet Fish Market, a historic fish market that has been providing fresh fish to the locals in Newport Beach since 1891. And, if you’d rather try catching the fish yourself, Newport Pier is also a popular spot for fishing – so grab a fishing pole and cast a line to see what you reel in!
The Wedge
The Wedge is the most famous surfing spot in Newport Beach. Located one mile from our property at the southernmost tip of the Balboa Peninsula, this area is famous for its massive and unpredictable waves that can reach up to 30 feet in height, generated by the interaction between incoming swell and the rock jetty that creates the entrance to Newport Harbor.
Between May 1 and Oct. 31, this area is open for body surfing only (no bodyboards, surfboards, or skimboards) from 10 AM – 5 PM. Because of the danger involved, the Wedge is more a place to admire than to engage.
Elite athletes and local surf icons have defined what it means to master these waves. During summer swells, spectators line the beach to watch the surfers. Red Bull, the World Surf League, and countless videographers have turned The Wedge into a media event, drawing thousands of visitors during peak swell windows. The best times of year to catch higher surf at The Wedge Newport Beach are during the summer and the fall seasons.
Largest Recreational Harbor West of the Mississippi
The harbor side of the peninsula is also a popular launching point for kayaking, paddleboarding, duffy boat rentals, boat tours, fishing charters and whale-watching cruises in Newport Beach. Ocean-going vessels will depart from here for tours of the coastline and trips to Catalina Island. This is also where the ferry departs to take passengers to Catalina Island.
A boat tour inside the calm waters of Newport Harbor is the perfect way to spot some of the more impressive yachts, and homes of the rich and famous like John Wayne, Buddy Ebson and Nicolas Cage.
Davey’s Locker Whale Watching & Sportfishing — one of the area’s most popular tour agencies — is located just a short walk from our property in the Balboa Village area.
Boat Tours & Water Activities in Newport Beach
Whale-Watching Tours
The coast of Newport Beach attracts several whale species and ocean mammals, making whale-watching tours and cruises one of the best things to do in Newport Beach! Winter and early spring (December to April) is the best time to catch a glimpse of grey whales as they migrate to Mexico, and summer (June to September) is the best time to see blue and humpback whales off the coastline. Regardless of the time of year, you’ll almost always see dolphins during your whale-watching tour!
If you’re looking for a highly-rated whale-watching tour in Newport Beach, book this Whale-Watching Cruise from Newport Beach or Newport Beach Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise.
Duffy Boat Rides
Duffy boats — small electric boats that go about five miles per hour — are a popular and scenic way to explore the Newport Harbor.
Our team at Beach and Snow Rentals can arrange Duffy boat cruises with a private captain for our guests for a fraction of the price of more popular tour companies, guaranteeing a unique and personalized experience on the shores of Newport Beach.
Balboa Island
Balboa Island is a charming residential island in the Newport Harbor that you can reach via car or the “old-fashioned way” on the Balboa Island Ferry, which is located just two blocks from our property. This ferry service was established in 1919 for convenience, but the ride’s stunning ocean views have helped it become a popular tourist attraction in its own right. At $1.25 per person, the ride and its price feel like a throwback to simpler times.
Once you reach the island, enjoy a waterfront walk to see the homes and their private docks, or stroll through the shops on Marine Ave with a Balboa Bar or a frozen banana. To reach Marine Ave from the ferry, there is a harbor front scenic walk that circles the Island. While the complete circle is about a three-mile walk, it is only one mile to the shops and restaurants on this iconic island.
Balboa Village and The Fun Zone
A stay on the Balboa Peninsula would be incomplete without a trip to The Fun Zone at Balboa Village. This classic carnival-style amusement park has been in operation since the 1930s and has a variety of fun activities for families, including a ferris wheel, arcade games, and food stands. It is located just two blocks from our property.
While you are in Balboa Village, enjoy buying some saltwater taffy or other vintage candy at the Balboa Candy Store, or some souvenirs at the local shops. There are also a variety of restaurants in this area.
Other Beaches & Top Attractions in Newport Beach
Corona del Mar is a quaint residential village in Newport Beach known for its beaches, tide pools, cliffside views, and village atmosphere of shops and dining. Beaches in the area include Corona del Mar State Beach (Big Corona) and Little Corona, a more secluded, neighborhood beach.
The original residential area of Corona del Mar, known as the Flower Streets, contains vintage cottages next to stunning new homes in this chic walkable village concentrated between Pacific Coast Highway and the Pacific Ocean. Shopping and dining are located along Pacific Coast Highway.
Corona del Mar
Corona del Mar is a quaint residential village in Newport Beach known for its beaches, tide pools, cliffside views, and village atmosphere of shops and dining. Beaches in the area include Corona del Mar State Beach (Big Corona) and Little Corona, a more secluded, neighborhood beach.
The original residential area of Corona del Mar, known as the Flower Streets, contains vintage cottages next to stunning new homes in this chic walkable village concentrated between Pacific Coast Highway and the Pacific Ocean. Shopping and dining are located along Pacific Coast Highway.
Corona del Mar State Beach Park
Corona del Mar State Beach Park, also known as Big Corona del Mar Beach, is one of the most popular public beaches in Newport Beach. It features a wide range of activities along its half-mile stretch of scenic coastline, along with numerous amenities for beachgoers.
At Corona del Mar State Park, you’ll see families with kids building sandcastles, adventure-seekers swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the ocean, wildlife lovers looking for sea creatures in the tide pools, and sports enthusiasts playing games of beach volleyball at the volleyball nets. If you stick around until sunset, start a beach bonfire at one of the fire pits and roast s’mores under the stars!
Little Corona del Mar Beach
Located just south of Corona del Mar State Beach Park lies Little Corona del Mar Beach. Although smaller than Big Corona, Little Corona is a peaceful and picturesque destination, with rocky reefs on both sides of the beach that make it a desirable spot for divers and snorkelers.
Since the beach is protected by the reefs, Little Corona is also a perfect spot for families with small children to visit who do not want to contend with large waves or undercurrents. Kids will also love searching for hermit crabs, anemones, and other sea creatures in the tide pools near the beach!
Inspiration Point
Inspiration Point, as the name suggests, is a scenic coastal overlook in Corona Del Mar on the walkway between Big and Little Corona Beaches. Many people bring a picnic to enjoy on the grassy area of this awe-inspiring viewpoint. Sunset is the most popular time to snap a postcard-worthy photo of the rocky coastline and multi-million dollar homes of Newport Beach!
Sherman Library & Gardens
Located in the shopping and dining area of Corona del Mar, Sherman Library & Gardens is a beautiful and educational place to visit with kids in Newport Beach.
The stunning botanical garden spans two acres and includes a rose garden, succulent garden, tea and herb garden, butterfly garden, and several other themed gardens. The library contains over 15,000 volumes with an emphasis on historic books and documents related to Southern California, Arizona, and Northern Mexico. Sherman Library & Gardens also has a garden-to-table restaurant, kids’ programs, events, classes, and numerous other activities for visitors and the community.
Upper Newport Bay Ecological Preserve
Located north of the coast, Upper Newport Bay Ecological Preserve, also known as the “Back Bay” by locals, is the largest expanse of coastal wetlands in Southern California.
This nature preserve features unique, specialized habitats and lies along a bird migration route, making it a popular spot to observe hundreds of local and migratory bird species, as well as waterfowl and other wildlife, including bobcats and coyotes. Aside from birdwatching, Back Bay is a popular destination for hiking and biking on the trails, as well as canoeing and kayaking in the surrounding salt marshes. The Newport Aquatic Center offers kayak and paddleboard rentals in this serene location.
Crystal Cove State Park
Located between Newport Beach and Laguna Beach, Crystal Cove State Park is home to one of the most stunning stretches of seashore in Southern California.
With over three miles of pristine coastline encompassing sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and tide pools, this state park is a fantastic destination for a peaceful, untouched experience with nature and stunning sunset views. Crystal Cove is known for its historic cottages and also has wonderful places to eat, including The Beachcomber at Crystal Cove on the shoreline and Crystal Cove Shake Shack — an iconic stop for burgers and milkshakes.
If you’ve seen enough of the beach, Crystal Cove State Park has nearly 2,500 inland acres to explore as well, making it one of the most easily accessible locations for hiking and biking in Newport Beach.
Pelican Hill Golf Club
Ready to tee off during your vacation to Newport Beach? If so, head to Pelican Hill Golf Club — one of the best public golf clubs in Newport Beach with world-class courses and jaw-dropping views.
Pelican Hill Golf Club features two 18-hole courses, each with panoramic ocean views, designed by Tom Fazio: the Ocean North Course and the Ocean South Course. To guarantee a tee time, book online before your trip to Newport Beach. The green fees include a golf cart and access to other top-tier amenities at the club, including complimentary valet parking, private lounges, and a restaurant.
Where to Shop & Eat in Newport Beach
Fashion Island
Fashion Island is an open-air luxury shopping mall that has earned a reputation as one of the premier shopping destinations in Southern California. This high-end outdoor mall is home to over 150 retailers, including department stores and luxury brands, such as Nordstrom and Louis Vuitton.
If you’re ready to take a break from shopping, Fashion Island is also home to a couple of dozen quick-serve and sit-down restaurants, as well as a movie theater, a grocery store, and several fountains that are perfect for young children who want to splash and play in the water!
Lido Marina Village
Lido Marina Village is a stylish outdoor shopping mall in Newport Beach. It has a mix of charming boutiques, local shops, and authentic restaurants, making it a phenomenal place for a day of shopping for items and souvenirs that reflect the luxury coastal flair of Newport Beach.
Lido Marina Village is home to several dozen retailers, selling a diverse range of products, from high-end clothing and accessories to coastal home decor and beauty products. After shopping, sit down for a meal at one of the local restaurants, serving everything from farm-to-table organic dishes to handmade pizzas.
Restaurant Recommendations
While there are hundreds of phenomenal places to eat in Newport Beach, you can’t miss the chance to enjoy a waterfront meal during a trip to the coast of Southern California.
Some of the top spots for coastal dining in Newport Beach include The Beachcomber at Crystal Cove, The Winery, and Newport Landing Restaurant. The Beachcomber at Crystal Cove serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in an outdoor dining area that overlooks Crystal Cove Beach. The Winery offers a fine dining experience overlooking the Newport Marina, and Newport Landing Restaurant offers fresh seafood and oysters right next to Newport Harbor and the Balboa Island Ferry.
Additional restaurant recommendations include San Shi Go for authentic Sushi in Balboa Village, Basilic for a romantic Swiss meal on Balboa Island, and the recently opened rooftop restaurant at Restoration Hardware, which offers 180-degree panoramic views of Newport Beach and the Newport Harbor.
Find The Perfect Place to Stay in Newport Beach With Beach & Snow Rentals
Preparing for a trip to Newport Beach, California, and looking for a clean, modern, well-equipped place to stay that is conveniently located close to the best beaches, shopping, dining, and attractions in Newport Beach?
If so, look no further than our luxurious, comfortable vacation rentals from Beach and Snow Rentals. Our two vacation rentals in Newport Beach — Balboa Beach House and Balboa Beach Retreat — are located in a beautifully updated duplex in a prime location on the Balboa Peninsula. Both properties offer off-street parking and complimentary bikes to get around town, making it easy to explore the best of Newport Beach, even during the peak summer months.
Browse our rentals to peek at the high-end amenities and spectacular ocean views waiting for you in Newport Beach!