My husband is from Orange County, California, and lived there his entire life before joining the Marine Corps and moving to the east coast where we met. His parents and sister are still out west, so we try to visit every year still.
I have to admit that as a small-town girl from the swamps of northeast North Carolina and an Outer Banks frequenter, I always feel like a fish out of water in California, but the more I visit the more I love it and my in-laws out there. Over the years I have explored a lot of southern California, but nothing compares to Newport Beach, Balboa, and Corona Del Mar.
I have prepared this travel guide to Newport Beach for readers who are like me, who might feel out of their element but are eager to explore everything the region has to offer.
History of Newport Beach
Newport Beach has a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s. Originally established as a shipping port, it has evolved into a premier coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, luxurious homes, and vibrant community.
The early 20th century brought a touch of Hollywood to Newport Beach. Celebrities and movie stars who sought refuge in its serene coastal setting flooded the area and the glamorous lifestyle of the area was immortalized in classic films and TV shows, further enhancing its allure.
neighborhoods & towns in Newport Beach
Additionally, Newport Beach’s history is closely tied to its islands. Lido and Balboa Island, created in the early 1900s through a massive dredging project, quickly made Newport Harbor a fashionable destination. Its charming streets and waterfront views continue to attract visitors and residents alike today.
Traveling across Newport Beach today you will discover a variety of distinct residential full of beautiful, historic coastal homes and commercial areas. These areas are known collectively as Newport Beach’s “villages, Each possesses unique character and charm. Together, they create one of the most attractive communities on the West Coast.
Balboa Island
We spend most of our time on Balbo Island, which despite being on an island (like I’m used to on the Outer Banks barrier island system), the commute to Balboa is more like the Portsmouth, Virginia, commuter ferry to Waterside in Norfolk.
Balboa Island has a small-town feel despite being in the middle of Newport Harbor. It’s accessible by boat or by driving down Jamboree Road and Bayside Drive. A bridge leads you to Mariner’s Way, a charming main street with quaint shops for baby clothes, women’s fashion, and home goods. Plus, there are a handful of restaurants.
Parking is limited, so I recommend taking the ferry, but more on that later.
Balboa Peninsula
Balboa Peninsula is completely different from Balboa Island. It touches the Pacific Ocean and is known for its lively atmosphere. The Peninsula features the Fun Zone with its iconic Ferris wheel, piers, parks, and expansive beaches.
It’s a hub of activity with shops and recreational options like the Catalina Flyer boat to Catalina Island. The terminal makes it a popular destination for both tourists and locals seeking a day away from the mainland (to me that sounds a lot like Ocracoke Island, but as a wine-mixer).
Lido
Northwest of Balboa, you will find Lido Island and the Peninsula,. On the peninsula, you will find some of the cutest s I especially love to shop around at Lido Marina Village. Similar to Balboa Island, Lido Island is more residential, while the Peninsula has a variety of restaurants and boutiques nested against an upscale waterfront area on Newport Harbor.
Mariner’s Mile
Fun fact: John Wayne’s house along Bayshore Drive’s Mariner’s Mile has a view of both Lido and Balboa in the Newport Harbor. This stretch along Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is called Mariner’s Mile and is renowned for its yacht clubs, boat dealerships, and waterfront dining.
The area is a hub for boating enthusiasts and offers some of the best views of the harbor. It’s an excellent spot for enjoying a meal while watching the boats go by.
Newport Coast & Crystal Cove Beach
Newport Coast is known as the “Pacific Riviera,” featuring luxurious homes, stunning ocean views, and expansive open spaces. It includes neighborhoods like Pelican Hill and Pelican Point, with much of the land dedicated to golf courses and natural preserves. This area is ideal for those who appreciate upscale living and outdoor activities.
The primary highway running through this area is the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), also known as California State Route 1. Driving along the PCH, you’re likely to see a plethora of fancy cars, from luxury sedans to exotic sports cars, as this scenic route attracts both locals and visitors who enjoy cruising along the coast in style.
Crystal Cove State Park, part of Newport Coast, offers pristine beaches, tide pools, and scenic hiking trails. The park features 3.2 miles of coastline, 2,400 acres of backcountry wilderness, and an offshore underwater area. Crystal Cove also includes a federally listed Historic District, where you can explore 46 coastal cottages originally built as a seaside colony in the 1930s and 1940s.
Corona del Mar
Meaning “Crown of the Sea,” Corona del Mar is a picturesque neighborhood known for its stunning beaches, cliffside views, and charming village atmosphere.
One of the highlights of Corona del Mar is Corona del Mar State Beach, a 30-acre park featuring a half-mile stretch of beach that is ideal for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. The park also offers picnic benches, making it a great spot for an afternoon picnic with family or friends.
The homes in Corona del Mar are truly remarkable, with many of them perched on ocean cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific. These residences showcase stunning architecture and luxurious designs, making the neighborhood one of the most desirable and beautiful places to live in Southern California.
Best Things to Do in Newport Beach
Newport Beach, California, offers a perfect blend of coastal charm, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. Whether you want to relax on a beach, get your historic landmarks in, or enjoy an outdoor activity, Newport Beach has something to offer every visitor.
Here are some of the best things I have found to do in Newport Beach.
#1: Tour Sherman Gardens and Library
Sherman Gardens and Library in the neighborhood of Corona Del Mar is by far my favorite place to visit in Newport Beach. Probably because the fountain you see upon entering the gardens is breathtaking.
This hidden gem is nestled along PCH. The botanical garden is a tranquil oasis showcasing a fascinating variety of plants including begonias, caucuses, and greenhouses full of regional-specific plant
The history of Sherman Library & Gardens adds to its allure. Established in 1966 by businessman and philanthropist Arthur D. Haskell, it began as a small adobe office space. Haskell’s vision for landscaping expanded, eventually transforming the surrounding area into the stunning gardens we see today. Named after Haskell’s mentor, Moses Hazeltine Sherman, this attraction seamlessly blends natural beauty with a rich historical legacy
#2: Take the ferry to Balboa Island
We’ve already touched on how much we love Balboa Island. We say it is a must-try day trip if you are in Newport Beach.
The Balboa Island Ferry provides a scenic and enjoyable way to reach the Balboa Island. Operating continuously since 1919, it shuttles passengers and vehicles between Balboa Peninsula and Balboa Island.
The cost for passengers is $1 each way, while vehicles are charged $2 each way, making it an affordable and scenic mode of transportation across Newport Harbor.
One cannot visit Balboa Island without walking down Marine Avenue, stopping in a store or two, before indulging in its famous culinary delights, the Balboa Bar and Frozen Banana. These treats have been beloved staples for nearly 75 years, featuring frozen bananas or ice cream bars dipped in chocolate and coated with a variety of toppings like nuts and chocolate sprinkles.
#3: Ride the Ferris wheel at the Fun Zone
If you are taking the ferry you will be at the Balboa Fun Zone and the Pavillion at some point, so you might as well have the full experience and ride the Ferris Wheel while you are at it.
The Balboa Ferris Wheel claims to be the world’s longest Ferris Wheel ride and has had some famous appearances like its appearance in a Childish Gambino music video. Adjacent to the Ferris Wheel, you can find an arcade that continues to entertain visitors with a variety of games.
There are plenty of vendors selling ice cream and cold drinks for you to enjoy while exploring the cheesy touristy stores offering Newport Beach-branded beach gear..
The Fun Zone is a quaint, but beloved destination that embodies the vibrant spirit of California living.
#4: Check Out Balboa or Newport Pier
When visiting Balboa or Newport Pier, you can have a leisurely stroll while taking in the ocean views and vibrant beachside vibes. When we went to Balboa Pier we took the ferry from Balboa Island to the Fun Zone and walked through Balboa Park to the end of the pier to Ruby’s Diner.
This historic gem adds a nostalgic touch to your visit. Originally built in the 1940s, it served as a diner and popular hangout spot for locals and visitors alike with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
It is a unique experience, I recommend at least grabbing a milkshake once.
#5: Rent a Duffy boat in Newport Harbor
On the last night of our SoCal trips, we always rent a Duffy boat in Newport Harbor. We sit in our electric boat, relaxing with each other on serene waters with a charcuterie board and an Aperol spritz or two.
I recommend grabbing a map of Newport Harbor to familiarize yourself with key landmarks and points of interest along the way. The villages and neighborhoods we mentioned earlier will be on full display.
If you are like me though the more you sit out there looking at mega yachts, the more you wonder what kind of jobs these people have.
#6: Catch a Sunset sitting at Inspiration Point
Inspiration Point at Corona Del Mar’s Little Corona Beach is the prime spot to catch a breathtaking sunset. The scenic overlook offers unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean and Balboa Island.
I’m especially fond of Inspiration Point because Taylor proposed to me here on the last night of our vacation in August 2023 after a Duffy boat ride. The sunset was spectacular as is every California sunset, but especially here they are the best.
There are stadium seats carved into the side of a cliff where you can walk down to the beach and watch boats sway in the waves.
#7: Drive Down Pacific Coast Highway past Pelican hill
Another option for sunsets is just taking a drive down Pacific Coast Highway. I like to drive South towards Corona Del Mar and past Pelican Point. You might not be able to afford to at stay Pelican Point, have a spa day, or golf on their premises, but driving down the road is free.
With a 14%+ tax rate, you might as well enjoy it and the views are worth it. Seeing it from the road is free and it is worth seeing! One day I’ll go here and update you on it, but for now, we will brag about how Taylor’s dad tends to their palm trees at his job.
#8: Go House Hunting
House hunting in Newport Beach is a passion of mine, especially exploring the city’s rich architectural heritage spanning from the 1920s into the present day.
Balboa Island holds some true gems, showcasing its quaint charm and historic character. However, Corona del Mar offers a different kind of vibe with its stunning homes valued at tens of millions of dollars, perfect for a scenic drive that turns into a Zillow rabbit hole.
As an East Coaster, I find it refreshing to experience the unique vibe of homes on the West Coast, each with its own story and style. Newport Beach never fails to captivate with its blend of history, luxury, and coastal beauty.
#9: Take a Hike at Back Bay Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve and Ecological Reserve – Back Bay
#10:
The Best Shopping in Newport Beach
- Marine Avenue on Balboa Island
- Fashion Island
- Lido Marina Village > Via Lido Pharmacy
Best Restaurants in Newport Beach
Tavern House Kitchen and Bar
608 Dahila
The Cannery Seafood of the Pacific: A historic restaurant with great seafood and a view of the marina.
Nobu Newport Beach: Famous for its upscale Japanese cuisine and stylish setting.
Traveling to Newport Beach & Orange County, California
Do yourself a favor and fly into John Wayne Airport instead of LAX if you are traveling to Newport Beach or Orange County, California in general.
Flying into LAX is always tempting because there are more direct flights if you live in a smaller town like me and fly out of a little airport with two terminals., It is also important to remember how far away LAX and John Wayne airports are from each other.
If you are looking at a map, LAX and John Wayne look pretty close, but southern California covers a lot of gound, and traffic during daylight hours can turn into a nightmare really quickly. If you also want to sneak in some time even further south of Newport Beach and head down to San Diego, flying into John Wayne directly is going to save you a lot of time, However, if you want to see more of Los Angeles, then LAX could be the option for you.
Newport beach hotels & accommodations
The Resort at Pelican Hill: A luxurious option with stunning views and world-class amenities.
Balboa Bay Resort: Offers waterfront luxury and easy access to local attractions.
Hyatt Regency Newport Beach: Family-friendly with beautiful grounds and numerous pools.
Lido House, Autograph Collection: A boutique hotel with a beach house feel and close proximity to Lido Marina Village.
climate & Weather in Southern California
The climate and weather in Southern California are so different from anything I have experienced back east. In August, I still need a sweatshirt or light jacket to be comfortable outside. There is zero humidity. The naturally dry climate makes 90 degrees here feel like a 78-degree day back home.
Don’t be like me. When I first traveled to Southern California I was unprepared for the fact that I was visiting a desert. I had culture shock. It felt like there were no trees or green grass, but that is to be expected when you are in the desert and there are palm trees.
