Duffy boats are all the rave in Newport Beach near Lido Isle and Balboa Island! It's a great way to tour Lido/Balboa and go future house hunting (or dream). The rental will give you a map to follow and Labor Day weekend will be sure to give you amazing weather to enjoy a cruise throughout the canals.
Balboa Island is where Eric used to spend his summer vacations with his family. We recommend Ubering close to the bridge entrance as parking on the island can be very tricky, especially during a holiday weekend. Be sure to stop by Dad's Famous Frozen Banana shop as the chocolate covered frozen banana is Balboa Island's specialty! On the opposite side of the island is the Balboa Ferry where you can take it across to check out various restaurants and bars.
More than a brewery, Helmsman Ale House is a full service, family-friendly restaurant, proudly serving lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. In addition to their flagship and wide-ranging seasonal house beer, they offer a full bar with cocktails, wine, and curated list of guest brewery selections. The menu is a refreshing extension of classic pub fare with vibrant California and coastal flavors brought together.
Close to Lido House, Bear Flag Fish Co. is a popular Orange County-based, sustainably-focused fish market and restaurant. It specializes in high-quality, locally caught seafood, offering fresh fillets, poke, and popular fish tacos in a casual, coastal-style setting. They operate their own fishing boats to ensure quality and sustainability. If you're looking to take advantage of the fresh caught California fish, look no further.
Located in Newport Beach’s Lido Marina Village, Circle Hook Fish Company is a modern waterfront restaurant dedicated to serving premium, sustainably sourced seafood. Their fish comes from trusted local partners, including Bear Flag Fish Co. and a fourth-generation fisherman from the historic Newport Beach Dory Fleet, ensuring exceptional freshness. Enjoy a menu of coastal favorites like fish and chips, wonton poke tacos, oysters, and Thai coconut clams, along with handcrafted cocktails — all paired with scenic views of the Newport Marina.
Across the street from Lido House, Fable & Spirit is a Michelin Bib Gourmand-recognized, family-owned restaurant in Newport Beach’s Lido Marina Village, offering a sophisticated, whimsical dining experience. Opened in 2019 by Darren and Jean Coyle, it blends Irish-inspired storytelling with coastal Californian cuisine, featuring wood-fired dishes, handcrafted cocktails, and a notable wine program. Perfect for a wonderful date night before the weekend begins!
Zinqué is a beloved neighborhood hotspot & all-day restaurant serving french-inspired dishes, small plates, craft cocktails & a uniquely curated wine selection. Inspired by the zinc countertop bars & cafés of paris, many of its customers consider it a second home — a place to work, linger & socialize.