Newport Beach combines Southern California’s quintessential coastal charm with upscale amenities and natural beauty. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a spontaneous day trip, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the best things to do in Newport Beach.
As someone who has explored every corner of this coastal gem, I’m excited to share insider tips that will help you experience Newport Beach like a local. From pristine beaches to hidden cultural spots, this guide has it all.
Table of Contents
Beaches & Water Activities
Newport Beach boasts some of Southern California’s most beautiful coastlines. Here’s where to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf.
Corona Del Mar State Beach
Description: This picturesque half-mile beach features gentle waves and stunning cliffs, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. “things to do in newport beach”
Key Practical Info:
- Location: Ocean Boulevard & Poppy Avenue
- Hours: 6 AM to 10 PM daily
- Cost: Free (parking $10-15)
- Parking Tips: Arrive early on weekends as spaces fill quickly; street parking available in surrounding neighborhoods
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for fewer crowds
Insider Tip: Walk to the far north end of the beach to find “Little Corona,” a secluded spot with excellent tide pools during low tide.
The Wedge “things to do in newport beach”
Description: World-famous for its massive waves that can reach heights of 30 feet, The Wedge is a must-visit for surf enthusiasts and spectators alike.
Key Practical Info:
- Location: End of Balboa Peninsula at Channel Road
- Hours: Always open
- Cost: Free
- Parking Tips: Metered parking available nearby; arrive early during big swells
- Best Time to Visit: South swells in summer and hurricane swells in late summer/early fall
Insider Tip: Unless you’re an expert surfer, enjoy The Wedge as a spectator during big swells. The unique wave formation creates spectacular viewing even for non-surfers. Learn more about the science behind The Wedge’s wave formation from the Surfrider Foundation.
Newport Harbor Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Description: Explore the calm waters of Newport Harbor at your own pace with a kayak or stand-up paddleboard rental.
Key Practical Info:
- Location: Multiple rental locations along Balboa Peninsula and Balboa Island
- Hours: Most rental shops open 9 AM to sunset
- Cost: $$, approximately $25-35/hour for rentals
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning for calm waters and less boat traffic
Insider Tip: Paddle around the harbor islands for up-close views of impressive waterfront homes and yachts. The route between Balboa Island and the Peninsula offers scenic views with minimal boat traffic.
Crystal Cove Underwater Park
Description: A protected marine area perfect for snorkeling and diving with abundant marine life including garibaldi, rays, and even the occasional dolphin.
Key Practical Info:
- Location: Crystal Cove State Park
- Hours: 6 AM to sunset daily
- Cost: Free entry; $15 state park parking fee
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning during high tide for best visibility
Insider Tip: The Moro Beach section has the best underwater visibility, especially after several days without large waves.
Iconic Attractions
These landmarks define Newport Beach and should be on every visitor’s itinerary.
Balboa Pier
Description: This historic wooden pier extends 920 feet into the Pacific Ocean, offering panoramic coastal views and excellent fishing.
Key Practical Info:
- Location: Balboa Peninsula at Palm Street
- Hours: 5 AM to midnight daily
- Cost: Free
- Parking Tips: Metered parking nearby; parking lots at Balboa Peninsula Park
- Best Time to Visit: Sunset for spectacular views; early morning for fishing
Insider Tip: Grab a classic Ruby’s Diner banana shake at the end of the pier – the views from their dining room are unmatched anywhere in Newport.
Balboa Island Ferry
Description: This charming, historic auto ferry has been shuttling passengers between Balboa Island and the Peninsula since 1919.
Key Practical Info:
- Location: Ferry departs from the end of Park Avenue on Balboa Island
- Hours: 6:30 AM to midnight (weekdays); extended hours on weekends
- Cost: $, $1.25 for pedestrians, $2.25 for vehicles
- Best Time to Visit: Any time; evening rides offer beautiful harbor light reflections
Insider Tip: For the full experience, walk onto Balboa Island, take the ferry across as a pedestrian, and explore Balboa Fun Zone on the other side.
Balboa Fun Zone
Description: This nostalgic waterfront amusement area features a historic Ferris wheel, arcade games, and harbor views.
Key Practical Info:
- Location: 600 E. Bay Avenue
- Hours: 11 AM to 9 PM (varies by season)
- Cost: Free entry; attractions individually priced
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon through early evening
Insider Tip: The Ferris wheel ($5) provides one of the best affordable panoramic views of Newport Harbor, Balboa Island, and the coastline.
Newport Pier “things to do in newport beach”
Description: Less crowded than Balboa Pier, Newport Pier offers excellent fishing, beachfront dining, and spectacular sunset views.
Key Practical Info:
- Location: McFadden Place & Newport Boulevard
- Hours: 5 AM to midnight daily
- Cost: Free
- Parking Tips: Metered parking along Balboa Boulevard; municipal lots nearby
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday evenings for fewer crowds
Insider Tip: Walk the beach between Newport and Balboa piers (about 2 miles) for one of the most scenic strolls in Orange County.
Shopping Destinations
From luxury retailers to charming boutiques, Newport Beach offers diverse shopping experiences.
Fashion Island
Description: An upscale, open-air shopping center featuring over 150 stores including luxury brands, department stores, and specialty boutiques.
Key Practical Info:
- Location: 401 Newport Center Drive
- Hours: 10 AM to 9 PM Monday-Saturday; 11 AM to 6 PM Sunday
- Cost: Free entry; $$$$ shopping
- Parking Tips: Free parking in structured lots
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for a relaxed experience
Insider Tip: The Koi pond near Bloomingdale’s is a peaceful spot to rest between shopping. Also, check out the seasonal events and pop-up shops throughout the year. “things to do in newport beach”
Lido Marina Village
Description: A sophisticated waterfront shopping and dining destination with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
Key Practical Info:
- Location: 3434 Via Lido
- Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM (restaurants open later)
- Cost: Free entry; $$$ shopping
- Parking Tips: First 90 minutes free in the parking structure
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon into dinner time
Insider Tip: Check out Lido Village Books for a carefully curated selection of titles and grab coffee at Malibu Farm while enjoying harbor views.
Balboa Village
Description: A charming collection of beachside shops, eateries, and attractions near the Balboa Pier.
Key Practical Info: “things to do in newport beach”
- Location: Along Main Street near Balboa Pier
- Hours: Varies by business, generally 10 AM to 8 PM
- Cost: Free entry; $ to $$ shopping
- Parking Tips: Municipal lots at Palm Street and Main Street
- Best Time to Visit: Afternoon after beach time
Insider Tip: Sugar ‘n Spice serves the original frozen banana and Balboa Bar – Newport Beach treats since 1945. Try both to decide your favorite! “things to do in newport beach”
Nature & Outdoors
Discover the natural beauty that makes Newport Beach special beyond its famous coastline.
Crystal Cove State Park
Description: This 3.2-mile stretch of pristine coastline features rugged beaches, marine conservation areas, and historic cottages.
Key Practical Info:
- Location: 8471 N. Coast Highway
- Hours: 6 AM to sunset daily
- Cost: Free entry; $15 state park parking fee
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for hiking; low tide for tide pools
Insider Tip: Make reservations well in advance (up to six months) to stay in one of the restored historic cottages for a unique overnight experience.
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve
Description: Known locally as “The Back Bay,” this ecological reserve spans 1,000 acres and is home to nearly 200 species of birds.
Key Practical Info: “things to do in newport beach”
- Location: 2301 University Drive
- Hours: 7 AM to sunset daily
- Cost: Free
- Parking Tips: Free parking at the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning for bird watching; sunset for photography
Insider Tip: The 10.5-mile Back Bay Loop Trail is perfect for hiking, biking, or running with several entry/exit points if you don’t want to complete the full loop.
Buck Gully Reserve “things to do in newport beach”
Description: A hidden canyon trail system offering shaded hiking through coastal sage scrub habitat with seasonal streams.
Key Practical Info:
- Location: 5 Poppy Avenue (trailhead)
- Hours: 7 AM to sunset daily
- Cost: Free
- Parking Tips: Limited street parking near trailhead
- Best Time to Visit: Spring for wildflowers; early morning year-round
Insider Tip: The lower section of the trail features a boardwalk through riparian habitat that’s surprisingly lush for Southern California. “things to do in newport beach”
Learn more about this fragile coastal canyon ecosystem via the California Native Plant Society and how to support its preservation.
Dining & Foodie Experiences
Newport Beach’s culinary scene ranges from casual beach eats to fine dining waterfront establishments.
Waterfront Dining
Description: Newport Beach offers numerous restaurants with harbor, bay, and ocean views.
The Beachcomber Café
- Location: Crystal Cove State Park
- Cost: $$$
- Cuisine: California coastal
- Specialty: Seafood and brunch with panoramic ocean views
- Insider Tip: Come for breakfast and stay for the 5 PM flag lowering ceremony with complimentary cocktail samples
A&O Kitchen+Bar
- Location: Balboa Bay Resort
- Cost: $$
- Cuisine: Gastropub
- Specialty: Craft cocktails and shared plates
- Insider Tip: Request harbor-side seating during sunset hours for spectacular views
Local Food Specialties “things to do in newport beach”
Seafood
Description: Fresh seafood is abundant in Newport Beach, from casual shacks to upscale restaurants.
Bear Flag Fish Co.
- Location: 3421 Via Lido
- Cost: $$
- Specialty: Poke, fish tacos, and seafood plates
- Insider Tip: Try the “Tommy’s Margarita” with your fish tacos for the perfect pairing
Crab Cooker
- Location: 2200 Newport Boulevard
- Cost: $$
- Specialty: Simply prepared fresh fish and their famous Manhattan clam chowder
- Insider Tip: Take home some of their smoked fish – it travels well and makes great gifts
Sweet Treats
Description: Newport Beach has several iconic dessert spots that locals love.
Balboa Bars & Frozen Bananas
- Location: Multiple shops on Balboa Island and Peninsula
- Cost: $
- Specialty: Ice cream bars and frozen bananas dipped in chocolate and toppings
- Insider Tip: Compare Dad’s Donut Shop and Sugar ‘n Spice – locals are divided on which is better!
Nightlife & Entertainment
When the sun goes down, Newport Beach offers everything from sophisticated lounges to casual beach bars.
Waterfront Bars “things to do in newport beach”
Description: Enjoy cocktails with harbor views at these popular gathering spots.
Billy’s at the Beach
- Location: 2751 W. Coast Highway
- Cost: $$$
- Specialty: Mai Tais and Hawaiian-inspired appetizers
- Hours: 11 AM to 10 PM; later on weekends
- Insider Tip: Happy hour (3-6 PM weekdays) offers discounted appetizers and tropical drinks
Topside Roof Deck
- Location: Lido House Hotel
- Cost: $$$
- Specialty: Craft cocktails with panoramic harbor views
- Hours: 3 PM to 10 PM; later on weekends
- Insider Tip: Arrive before sunset to secure a good spot – no reservations taken
Live Music Venues
Description: From dueling pianos to acoustic sets, Newport Beach has several spots for live music.
Campus Jax “things to do in newport beach”
- Location: 3950 Campus Drive
- Cost: $$ plus ticket/cover charge for scheduled performances
- Specialty: Supper club with jazz, blues, and tribute bands
- Hours: Varies by performance schedule
- Insider Tip: Check their calendar and purchase tickets in advance for popular shows
Family Fun & Kid-Friendly Activities
Newport Beach offers plenty of entertainment options for visitors of all ages.
Balboa Island “things to do in newport beach”
Description: This charming man-made island features a 1.6-mile boardwalk, charming shops, and plenty of family-friendly activities.
Key Practical Info:
- Location: Accessible via Marine Avenue bridge or Balboa Island Ferry
- Hours: Business hours vary; boardwalk always open
- Cost: Free to explore
- Parking Tips: Limited metered street parking; consider parking on the peninsula and taking the ferry
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon
Insider Tip: Walk the full perimeter of the main island and Little Balboa Island via the boardwalk for a scenic 2.5-mile loop.
ExplorOcean/Newport Harbor Nautical Museum
Description: Interactive maritime exhibits and educational programs focused on ocean literacy and conservation.
Key Practical Info: “things to do in newport beach”
- Location: 600 E. Bay Avenue (Balboa Fun Zone)
- Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM daily
- Cost: $, Adults $5, Children $3
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday afternoons
Insider Tip: Check their calendar for special events like underwater robotics demonstrations and touch tank experiences.
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina
Description: Family-friendly resort featuring a waveless beach, inflatable water park, and various water activities.
Key Practical Info:
- Location: 1131 Back Bay Drive
- Hours: Beach open daily, 6 AM to 10 PM; water park seasonal hours
- Cost: $$, Day use fees apply; water park additional
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings during summer
Insider Tip: The inflatable water park is less crowded first thing in the morning or within two hours of closing.
Arts & Culture “things to do in newport beach”
Discover Newport Beach’s rich cultural offerings beyond its beaches and harbor.
Orange County Museum of Art
Description: Contemporary art museum featuring rotating exhibitions of modern and contemporary works.
Key Practical Info: “things to do in newport beach”
- Location: 3333 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa (nearby)
- Hours: 11 AM to 8 PM Wednesday-Sunday; closed Monday-Tuesday
- Cost: Free
- Best Time to Visit: Friday evenings for special programs
Insider Tip: Check their calendar for free public programs including artist talks and family art-making activities.
The museum is also affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution as part of a national network promoting arts education and accessibility.
Newport Beach Film Festival
Description: Annual celebration of cinema featuring over 300 films from around the world.
Key Practical Info: “things to do in newport beach”
- Location: Various venues around Newport Beach
- Dates: Usually held in October
- Cost: $$, Individual screenings $15-20; passes available
- Best Time to Visit: Opening weekend for star-studded premieres
Insider Tip: Spotlight films featuring specific countries often include receptions with themed food and drinks.
Sherman Library & Gardens
Description: Botanical garden and research library featuring desert, tropical, and California native plants.
Key Practical Info: “things to do in newport beach”
- Location: 2647 E. Coast Highway
- Hours: 10:30 AM to 4 PM daily
- Cost: $, Adults $5, Members/Children free
- Best Time to Visit: Spring for peak blooms; lunchtime to enjoy Café Jardin
Insider Tip: The garden’s central Tea Garden is a hidden spot perfect for quiet reflection away from coastal crowds.
Unique & Local Experiences
Go beyond the typical tourist attractions with these authentic Newport Beach experiences.
Duffy Boat Rental “things to do in newport beach”
Description: Captain your own electric boat through Newport Harbor for a self-guided tour of waterfront homes and yachts.
Duffy boats are zero-emission electric vessels designed for calm harbor cruising; learn more about their eco-friendly design from Electric Boat Association.
Key Practical Info:
- Location: Multiple rental locations around the harbor
- Hours: Most rentals operate 9 AM to sunset
- Cost: $$$, Approximately $100-200/hour depending on boat size
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for beautiful lighting
Insider Tip: Boats from Balboa Boat Rentals include a harbor map highlighting celebrity homes and points of interest. Most rental places allow you to bring your own food and drinks.
Newport Landing Whale Watching
Description: Year-round whale watching tours spotting blue whales (summer), gray whales (winter), and dolphins anytime.
Key Practical Info:
- Location: 309 Palm Street
- Hours: Multiple daily departures
- Cost: $$, Adults $36, Children $30
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning for calmer seas
Insider Tip: Booking midweek trips often means smaller crowds and more personalized attention from naturalists onboard.
Farmers Markets
Description: Shop for local produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted items at Newport Beach’s farmers markets.
Key Practical Info: “things to do in newport beach”
- Location: Lido Marina Village (Wednesdays) and Corona del Mar (Saturdays)
- Hours: Typically 9 AM to 1 PM
- Cost: Free entry; $ to $$ for purchases
- Best Time to Visit: Early for best selection
Insider Tip: The Corona del Mar market features several prepared food vendors – arrive hungry and make it a lunch stop.
Seasonal Activities & Events
Plan your visit around these special events that showcase Newport Beach at its finest.
Christmas Boat Parade
Description: America’s oldest boat parade featuring over 100 decorated vessels cruising Newport Harbor.
Key Practical Info: “things to do in newport beach”
- Location: Throughout Newport Harbor
- Dates: Five nights in mid-December
- Cost: Free to view from public areas; ticketed viewing areas available
- Best Time to Visit: Opening night or finale for fireworks
Insider Tip: Marina Park provides excellent free viewing with easy parking and amenities.
Newport Beach Wine & Food Festival
Description: Upscale culinary event featuring tastings, chef demonstrations, and wine seminars.
Key Practical Info: “things to do in newport beach”
- Location: Newport Beach Civic Center
- Dates: Early October
- Cost: $$$$, Various ticket options from $150-500
- Best Time to Visit: Sunday Grand Tasting tends to be less crowded
Insider Tip: The VIP early admission ticket is worth the upgrade for shorter lines and exclusive tastings.
Lobsterfest at Newport Beach
Description: Annual celebration featuring fresh Maine lobster, live music, and dancing.
Key Practical Info: “things to do in newport beach”
- Location: Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort
- Dates: August
- Cost: $$$, Tickets approximately $65-150
- Best Time to Visit: Early afternoon for best seating options
Insider Tip: Spring for the VIP tickets to enjoy a separate bar area with shorter lines and premium drinks.
Sample Itineraries “things to do in newport beach”
Perfect Family Weekend
Day 1:
- Morning: Balboa Fun Zone and Ferry ride
- Lunch: Ruby’s Diner on Balboa Pier
- Afternoon: Beach time at Corona Del Mar
- Dinner: Pizza at Blaze Pizza at Fashion Island
- Evening: Frozen bananas on Balboa Island
Day 2:
- Morning: Crystal Cove tide pools
- Lunch: The Beachcomber Café
- Afternoon: ExplorOcean exhibits
- Dinner: Mama D’s Italian Kitchen
Romantic Getaway “things to do in newport beach”
Day 1:
- Morning: Coffee and pastries at Zinc Café
- Late morning: Duffy boat rental through Newport Harbor
- Lunch: A&O Kitchen+Bar
- Afternoon: Shopping at Lido Marina Village
- Dinner: Sunset dinner at The Lighthouse Café
- Evening: Drinks at Topside Roof Deck
Day 2:
- Morning: Hike at Crystal Cove State Park
- Lunch: The Shake Shack (Crystal Cove)
- Afternoon: Couples massage at Pelican Hill Spa
- Dinner: Waterfront dining at Bayside Restaurant
- Evening: Stargazing at Inspiration Point
Budget Day Trip “things to do in newport beach”
Morning:
- Walk the Balboa Pier (free)
- Explore Corona Del Mar State Beach tide pools (free)
- View the luxurious homes along the harbor walkways (free)
Lunch:
- Pack a picnic or grab affordable tacos at Great Mex ($)
Afternoon:
- Balboa Island window shopping and boardwalk stroll (free)
- Balboa Ferry ride ($1.25 pedestrian)
- Upper Newport Bay nature watching (free)
Dinner:
- Happy hour specials at Malarky’s Irish Pub ($)
Practical Information
Getting Around
Newport Beach is spread out, so having a car is convenient, though parking can be challenging in summer.
Transportation Options: “things to do in newport beach”
- Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): Readily available throughout Newport Beach
- Newport Beach Trolley: Free seasonal service connecting major attractions (Memorial Day through Labor Day)
- Bike Rentals: Numerous rental shops offering hourly/daily rates
- Electric Boat Rentals: Great way to explore the harbor
- Walking: Balboa Island, Balboa Peninsula, and Fashion Island are all walkable areas
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season (June-August):
- Warmest weather and water temperatures
- All attractions and restaurants operating at full capacity
- Largest crowds and highest prices
Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October):
- Pleasant weather with fewer crowds
- Lower accommodation rates
- Great time for outdoor activities
Off-Season (November-March): “things to do in newport beach”
- Occasional rain but many clear, sunny days
- Lowest hotel rates
- Christmas Boat Parade in December is a highlight
- Whale watching season for gray whales
Accommodation Tips
Newport Beach offers accommodations ranging from luxury resorts to vacation rentals.
Luxury Options: “things to do in newport beach”
- Pelican Hill Resort
- Balboa Bay Resort
- Lido House, Autograph Collection
Mid-Range Options:
- Newport Beach Hotel
- Hyatt Regency Newport Beach
- Newport Beach Marriott Bayview
Budget-Friendly Options: “things to do in newport beach”
- Bay Shores Peninsula Hotel
- Little Inn by the Bay
- Vacation rentals on Airbnb/VRBO (especially off-season)
Insider Tip: For the best value, stay in adjacent Costa Mesa where rates are typically lower but still only 10-15 minutes from Newport Beach attractions.
Conclusion “things to do in newport beach”
Newport Beach offers an incredible mix of natural beauty, upscale amenities, and authentic coastal experiences. From surfing legendary waves to exploring ecological preserves, shopping at designer boutiques to savoring fresh seafood, there’s something for everyone in this quintessential Southern California destination.
Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, Newport Beach delivers the perfect blend of relaxation and activity. Its year-round pleasant climate means there’s never a bad time to visit, though each season offers its own unique charm. “things to do in newport beach”
I hope this guide helps you discover the best things to do in Newport Beach and create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or would like recommendations tailored to your specific interests, please leave a comment below!
About the Author
Jane Smith is a Southern California native who has spent over 15 years exploring coastal communities throughout Orange County. After living in Newport Beach for 7 years, she now specializes in creating comprehensive travel guides that combine local knowledge with practical visitor information. When not writing, she can be found paddle boarding in Newport Harbor or hiking the trails of Crystal Cove State Park.
