Newport Beach, California, is a coastal paradise known for its pristine beaches, luxury shopping, waterfront dining, and outdoor adventures. If you’re looking for a laid-back beach escape or an action-packed vacation, Newport Beach offers something for everyone. Here’s an in-depth guide to the top 10 things to do in Newport Beach to make the most of your visit.
Things to Do in Newport Beach
1. Soak Up the Sun at Newport Beach
The beach itself is one of the biggest attractions, with soft golden sand, gentle waves, and plenty of room to relax.
Highlights:
- Swimming & Sunbathing – The perfect place to unwind and catch some rays.
- Surfing – The waves at Blackies Beach and 54th Street are great for beginners and seasoned surfers.
- Beachfront Bonfires – Enjoy a classic California beach bonfire at Corona del Mar State Beach.
- Beach Volleyball – Play a game at one of the many courts along the shore.
Pro Tip: Arrive early on weekends to secure a good spot, especially during peak summer months.
2. Explore Balboa Island & Balboa Peninsula
Take a scenic ferry ride to Balboa Island, one of Newport Beach’s most charming spots.
Highlights:
- Balboa Island Ferry – A quick, scenic ride with beautiful views.
- Balboa Fun Zone – A small amusement area with an old-school Ferris wheel and arcade games.
- Waterfront Shopping & Dining – Enjoy boutique shopping and fresh seafood at places like Wilma’s Patio.
- Try a Famous Balboa Bar – A chocolate-dipped ice cream bar covered in your choice of toppings!
Pro Tip: Rent a bike or a golf cart to explore the island at a relaxed pace.
3. Take a Whale Watching Cruise
Newport Beach is one of the best places in California for whale watching, with year-round opportunities to see gray whales, blue whales, and even dolphins.
Best Whale Watching Tour Companies:
- Newport Landing Whale Watching
- Davey’s Locker Whale Watching
- Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari
Pro Tip: For the best experience, book a morning cruise, as the ocean is calmer and marine life is more active.
4. Visit Crystal Cove State Park
For hiking, tide pools, and breathtaking ocean views, head to Crystal Cove State Park, just south of Newport Beach.
Highlights:
- Hiking Trails – Scenic coastal hikes with panoramic views of the Pacific.
- Historic Beach Cottages – Take a walk through this 1930s-era beachside community.
- Tide Pools – Spot sea stars, anemones, and hermit crabs at low tide.
- The Beachcomber Café – A beachfront restaurant with amazing seafood and cocktails.
Pro Tip: Arrive at low tide to explore the best tide pools and hidden sea caves.
5. Take a Sunset Gondola Ride in Newport Harbor
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Experience a romantic and relaxing evening with a Venetian-style gondola ride through Newport Harbor.
Best Gondola Companies:
- Gondola Adventures
- Newport Beach Gondola Company
Pro Tip: Bring a bottle of wine (many tours are BYOB) and enjoy the sunset over the water.
6. Go Shopping at Fashion Island
Fashion Island is an upscale outdoor shopping center offering luxury stores, delicious dining, and stunning ocean views.
Highlights:
- Luxury Brands – Shop at Neiman Marcus, Louis Vuitton, and Bloomingdale’s.
- Fine Dining – Try Fig & Olive, Javier’s, or Sushi Roku for a delicious meal.
- Outdoor Ambience – Beautiful fountains, palm trees, and sunset views over the Pacific.
Pro Tip: Enjoy free parking, and visit during the holidays for stunning decorations.
7. Rent a Duffy Boat and Cruise Newport Harbor
Duffy boats are electric, easy-to-drive boats, perfect for a private and leisurely cruise through Newport Harbor.
Highlights:
- BYO Food & Drinks – Pack a picnic or grab takeout from a local restaurant.
- Harbor Views – See multi-million dollar waterfront homes, luxury yachts, and sea lions.
- Sunset Cruises – The perfect way to unwind in the evening.
Pro Tip: Rent a boat from Newport Duffy Boat Rentals and book in advance on weekends.
8. Explore Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve
For nature lovers, this 752-acre ecological reserve offers kayaking, bird-watching, and scenic walking trails.
Highlights:
- Kayaking & Paddleboarding – Rent a kayak and paddle through calm waters.
- Wildlife Spotting – See egrets, herons, and even rare birds.
- Hiking & Biking Trails – Enjoy scenic views and fresh air.
Pro Tip: Visit during spring or fall when migratory birds are most active.
9. Enjoy Fresh Seafood at Newport Beach’s Best Restaurants
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Newport Beach is a foodie’s paradise, especially for seafood lovers.
Best Seafood Restaurants:
- The Crab Cooker – Famous for their clam chowder and fresh seafood plates.
- Bluewater Grill – A local favorite for sustainably sourced seafood.
- Bear Flag Fish Co. – A casual spot with amazing poke and fish tacos.
- Fly N Fish Oyster Bar – Known for fresh oysters and craft cocktails.
Pro Tip: For oceanfront dining, reserve a table at The Cannery or A Restaurant.
10. Catch the Sunset at Inspiration Point
End your day at Inspiration Point, a scenic overlook in Corona del Mar with stunning sunset views over the Pacific.
Highlights:
- Panoramic Views – Watch the sun set over Catalina Island and the Pacific Ocean.
- Photo Opportunities – One of the most Instagrammable spots in Newport Beach.
- Relaxing Vibe – Perfect for a quiet moment away from the crowds.
Pro Tip: Bring a blanket and a cup of coffee for a peaceful, picture-perfect moment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Newport Beach
1. What Are the Must-See Attractions in Newport Beach?
Newport Beach has a mix of natural beauty, waterfront activities, and upscale experiences. Here are some of the top places to visit:
- Newport Beach & Balboa Peninsula – Relax on the beach, surf, or explore the lively boardwalk.
- Balboa Island – Ride the ferry, try a famous Balboa Bar, and explore boutique shops.
- Crystal Cove State Park – A great spot for hiking, tide-pooling, and beachfront dining.
- Fashion Island – Luxury outdoor shopping with ocean views.
- Newport Harbor – Rent a Duffy boat, go paddleboarding, or enjoy a gondola ride.
- Whale Watching Tours – One of the best places in California to spot blue whales, gray whales, and dolphins.
- Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve – Ideal for bird-watching, kayaking, and biking.
2. What is the Best Time to Visit Newport Beach?
Newport Beach enjoys pleasant weather year-round, but each season has its perks:
- Spring (March–May): Ideal for outdoor activities, mild weather, and fewer crowds.
- Summer (June–August): Peak season with warm weather, beach activities, and lively nightlife.
- Fall (September–November): Warm temperatures, fewer crowds, and great for whale watching.
- Winter (December–February): Cool but sunny, perfect for holiday shopping and scenic walks.
Best time for beach lovers: May–September
Best time for fewer crowds & deals: October–April
3. Are There Free Things to Do in Newport Beach?
Yes! You can enjoy Newport Beach without spending much. Some great free activities include:
- Relaxing on the Beach – Miles of sandy coastline are open to the public.
- Exploring Balboa Island – Walk along the scenic waterfront and enjoy the island charm.
- Hiking at Crystal Cove State Park – A small parking fee applies, but trails are free.
- Visiting Inspiration Point – A perfect spot for sunset views.
- Window Shopping at Fashion Island – Enjoy the scenery, fountains, and ocean breeze.
- Exploring the Tide Pools – Best at Little Corona del Mar Beach.
- Biking the Boardwalk – Rent a bike or walk along the oceanfront path.
4. What Are the Best Family-Friendly Activities?
Newport Beach is great for families, offering kid-friendly fun for all ages.
- Balboa Fun Zone – A classic boardwalk with an arcade, Ferris wheel, and ice cream shops.
- Newport Duffy Boat Rentals – Drive your own electric boat around the harbor.
- Whale Watching Tours – An exciting way to see marine life up close.
- Exploring the Tide Pools – Little ones will love discovering sea creatures.
- Kayaking in Back Bay – Calm waters make it perfect for kids and beginners.
- Discovery Cube’s Ocean Quest – A hands-on science and marine learning experience.
5. How Many Days Should I Spend in Newport Beach?
- 1 Day: Visit the beach, explore Balboa Island, and enjoy a nice meal.
- 2-3 Days: Add in whale watching, Crystal Cove hikes, and shopping at Fashion Island.
- 4+ Days: Explore nearby destinations like Laguna Beach, Huntington Beach, and Disneyland.
6. What’s the Best Way to Get Around Newport Beach?
- Car Rental – The most convenient option, especially for exploring beyond Newport Beach.
- Bike Rentals – Perfect for getting around the boardwalk and Balboa Peninsula.
- Balboa Island Ferry – A fun and scenic way to travel between the island and the peninsula.
- Walking – Many areas, like Balboa Island and the beach boardwalk, are very walkable.
- Uber/Lyft – Readily available but can get expensive during peak hours.
7. What Are the Best Places to Shop?
- Fashion Island – High-end outdoor shopping with brands like Louis Vuitton and Bloomingdale’s.
- Lido Marina Village – Chic waterfront boutiques and trendy coffee shops.
- Balboa Island Shops – Quaint local stores offering gifts, art, and beachwear.
- South Coast Plaza (nearby) – One of the most luxurious shopping malls in the U.S.
8. What Food is Newport Beach Known For?
Newport Beach is a seafood lover’s dream, but you’ll also find great tacos, fine dining, and dessert spots.
- Seafood: The Crab Cooker, Bear Flag Fish Co., Bluewater Grill.
- Mexican Food: Javier’s, Avila’s El Ranchito, Sancho’s Tacos.
- Brunch Spots: Malibu Farm, Café Gratitude, C’est Si Bon.
- Desserts: Balboa Bars (on Balboa Island), Sidecar Doughnuts, Frozen Bananas.
Final Thoughts
Newport Beach is a Southern California gem, offering a mix of relaxation, adventure, shopping, and gourmet dining. Whether you’re into beach days, outdoor activities, or luxury experiences, this coastal city has something for everyone.
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