Things To Do
Balboa Island
One of our favorite places to walk around and feel like we are on vacation! There is a great walking path around the perimeter and shops and restaurants dotted down Marine Avenue. A small ferry runs between Balboa Island and the Balboa Peninsula. To Eat/Drink: Hutchins Coffee, Snipe Island Craft House, The Royal Hen, Dad’s (because no trip to Newport Beach is complete without a frozen banana or Balboa bar!)
Balboa Peninsula
This is the best place for a beach day! There is a boardwalk for walking and biking that begins at 36th Street and continues for a few miles past the Newport Pier and Balboa Pier. At the very end of the Peninsula is “The Wedge”, which is known for big waves and is a great spot to watch the boats. To Eat/Drink: Alta Coffeehouse, Arc Butcher & Baker, Ho Sum Bistro, Palmilla, Mutt’s Cantina
Lido Marina Village
A quaint stretch of harbor-front shops and restaurants that are wonderful at any time of day. Visit Lido Village Books and take it to the beach! To Eat/Drink: Hutchins Coffee, Bear Flag, Circle Hook Fish Company, Malibu Farms
The Back Bay
Another great spot for a walk, bike ride, or water sport. To walk or bike ride, we recommend parking by the YMCA on University Drive. Kayak and paddle board rentals are available from Southwind Kayak Rental Center.
Corona del Mar
CdM is a darling neighborhood in Newport Beach with more great restaurants and beach access. Corona del Mar State Beach is a great option for a beach day or the grassy area along Ocean Boulevard is perfect for a picnic and sunset view. To Eat/Drink: El Cholo (where we had our first date!), Rose Bakery & Cafe, Zinc Cafe, Bamboo Bistro, 608 Dahlia at Sherman Gardens, Bandera
Crystal Cove State Park
The state park has a three-mile stretch of beach and tide pools to explore, as well as great hiking trails for everything from short sunset walk to an 8-mile trek. To Eat/Drink: Crystal Cove Shake Shack, Bear Flag, The Beachcomber