10 Fun Things to Do in Newport Beach

1. Balboa Island
Balboa Island is a fun place to walk around. Visit a few of Balboa Island’s specialty gift shops or boutique clothing stores. Grab a bite at one of the island’s coffee shops, pastry shops, sweet shops, or restaurants. And before you leave, make sure to take a stroll down alongside Newport Bay. This is also where you can catch the Balboa Island Ferry.
2. Balboa Island Ferry
The Balboa Island Ferry has been carrying passengers, cyclists, and automobiles from Balboa Island to Balboa Peninsula since 1919. You can certainly drive from one to the other but the ferry is a shorter, scenic, ride.
3. Balboa Village
Balboa Village is located on the Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach. There are so many fun things to do in Balboa Village including visiting the Fun Zone. Besides the Fun Zone, Balboa Village offers boat rentals as well as bike and Segway rentals. In the village, you will also find plenty of dining and shopping options.
4. Take a stroll on the pier
Both the Newport Pier and the Balboa Pier are popular spots for fishing, walking, dining, and watching the sunset.
5. Surf the Wedge
The Wedge is a very popular spot for surfers, due to its large, wedge shaped waves. You will find The Wedge at the east end of Balboa Peninsula.
6. Sherman Library & Gardens
Visit the Library, the Gardens, and then enjoy a nice brunch at their Café Jardin. Sherman Library & Gardens is located at 2647 East Coast Highway in Corona Del Mar.
7. Newport’s Back Bay
The Upper Newport Bay Preserve is a nature reserve home for several species of birds. The approximately 1000 acres of wetland also provides trails for running, hiking, and biking. Paddle boarding and kayaking are also very popular in this area.
8. Orange County Museum of Art
“Enrich the lives of a diverse and changing community through modern and contemporary art.” The Orange County Museum of Art is located at 850 San Clemente Drive. Check their site for information on upcoming exhibits.
9. Newport Dunes
Newport Dunes is a waterfront resort and marina. Bring your RV, tent camp, or rent one of their cottages. Their amenities include a water park as well as rental sailboats, kayaks, electric boats pedal boats and stand-up paddleboards. You can also rent a golf cart, bike, or covered surrey.
10. Resort at Pelican Hill
From the Resort at Pelican Hill you can enjoy ocean-view golf, an iconic Coliseum Pool, and a must-visit Crystal Cove Beach.
Learn more about and visit the Beaches of Newport!