This beach town puts its glamorous harbor and surf culture first.
Newport Beach, California, may be best known for its sandy beaches, but it’s the extensive outdoor activities, vibrant culture, fascinating history and laid-back surfer vibe that really set this city apart. For families, Balboa Fun Zone is steeped in seaside nostalgia — and filled with arcade games and carnival rides. Plus, Newport Beach offers high-adrenaline hiking and surfing as well as more leisurely pursuits like shopping, dining and cocktail sipping.
Explore Newport Beach
- Corona del Mar
- Balboa Island
- Balboa Peninsula
- Crystal Cove
- West Newport
Corona del Mar
Overview
Situated along the Pacific Coast Highway and stretching up into the hills, Corona del Mar is the kind of place you’ll never want to leave. With a mix of shops and restaurants, stunning homes and beloved beaches, the area is a restful reprieve from the busy mix of other Newport neighborhoods.
Known For
Beaches, Shopping, Dining
Balboa Island
Overview
An iconic Newport Beach destination, this man-made island is a wonderful place for a long stroll or bike ride. Take in the beauty of the bay, stop by some cute boutiques and art galleries and try some famously delicious baked goods and treats.
Known For
Shopping, Walking, Galleries, Dining
Balboa Peninsula
Overview
Both a hot spot for visitors and a residential enclave, Balboa Peninsula is known for its beachside carnival rides and fire pits, iconic surf spots and nostalgic eateries. Spend the afternoon at the arcade and marvel at surfers as they navigate the waves, then grab a bite to eat and step back in time at the original Ruby’s Diner.
Known For
Surfing, Family Fun, Entertainment, Casual Dining
Crystal Cove
Overview
Arguably the most luxurious part of Newport Beach, Crystal Cove is full of expensive homes and high-end amenities. But the sprawling state beach also boasts ample spots for hiking, camping, swimming and taking in those sweeping ocean views.
Known For
Ocean Views, Camping, Swimming, Hiking, Dining
Stay in The Center of it All
Immerse yourself in your destination at these centrally located hotels.
Spend Three Sunny Days in Newport Beach, California
Soak Up the Sun
Soak up the sun with a trip to Newport Beach’s best stretches of sand. Then take in the views from the best vantage point possible, the water, while riding aboard a Duffy, the kind of slow-moving electric boats you can rent for an afternoon.
Take a Hike
Flex your adventuring muscles as you hike, bike and swim through stunning coastal parks and beaches. Then refuel all the energy you’ve just burned with nostalgic treats. End the day by watching the sunset over the water before enjoying a decadent meal of seafood and steak.
It’s Island Time
Experience Newport’s sites and bites as you stroll through the walkable streets of Balboa Island and see its historic charm firsthand. Finish your trip with a visit to a nostalgic little amusement park and dinner at one of the city’s oldest and most famous eateries.