Welcome to our guide to Newport Beach – the ultimate destination for anyone seeking a fun-filled vacation in Southern California. Situated in Orange County, Newport Beach offers a plethora of activities and attractions that cater to all ages and interests. Whether you are seeking an adventurous day out on the water or a relaxing beachside getaway, this coastal city has something for everyone. In this post, we’ll be highlighting the best things to do and see in Newport Beach. From exploring its beautiful beaches to sampling the local cuisine, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and discover the best of Newport Beach!

The 2 Best Tours with Locals in Newport Beach

1. Newport Beach Private Harbor Cruise
2. Orange County Coastal Adventure Tour

The 2 Best Tours with Locals in Newport Beach

1. Newport Beach Private Harbor Cruise

Enjoy a charming boat trip with your friends or family with a chartered cruise for up to six people during this private boat trip in Newport Harbor. Your private captain will lead you through a personalized boat tour unique to you and your travel companions, and tick off Newport’s top coastal attractions including waterfront mansions. Bring any snacks, refreshments, or food that you’d like to make it a perfect outing.

The boat excursions include a private captain and drinking water. All-day cruise departures have flexible timings for your convenience. The meeting and pickup location is at 2801 West Coast Hwy, Newport Beach, CA 92663, and the parking details are in the BayWatch confirmation email. Once parked, walk directly to the right of “Billy’s at the Beach” restaurant, and our BayWatch Captain will meet you at the top of the dock ramp at your start time.

2. Orange County Coastal Adventure Tour

Discover the natural beauty of the Southern California coast on this tour that takes you along the Pacific, to see some of Orange County’s top destinations such as Laguna Beach, Huntington Beach, and Dana Point. Take a break from theme parks and learn about coastal towns and attractions from a professional guide. Enjoy views of the ocean from the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Round-trip transport is provided from Anaheim and nearby areas, with hotel and residential pickups available. The tour includes passing by the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano and a visit to Dana Point. Join this Orange County Coastal Adventure Tour to experience the beauty and diversity of this stretch of the California coast.

Top FAQs about Newport Beach

Newport Beach is a beautiful coastal city in Orange County, California, well-known for its pristine beaches, trendy boutiques, and beautiful marinas. If you’re planning a visit to this charming seaside town, here are some frequently asked questions you should know the answers to before your trip.

1. What are the best beaches in Newport Beach?

There are several beaches in Newport Beach, each with its own unique features. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include:

a. Corona del Mar State Beach

This beach is perfect for families, with calm waters and beautiful views. It’s also a great spot for picnicking and barbecuing.

b. Balboa Beach

Balboa Beach is a popular destination for surfers, and it’s well-known for its boardwalk and pier. It’s also a great spot for sunbathing and picnicking.

c. Newport Beach

Newport Beach is a long stretch of white sand with plenty of space for sunbathing and swimming. It’s also a great spot for biking and jogging.

d. Crystal Cove State Park

If you’re looking for a more secluded beach experience, Crystal Cove State Park is a great option. It’s a bit of a hike to get there, but it’s well worth the effort for the stunning views and peaceful atmosphere.

2. What are the best restaurants in Newport Beach?

Newport Beach has no shortage of great restaurants, ranging from casual eateries to high-end fine dining. Some of the most popular choices include:

a. The Cannery

A seafood restaurant with a beautiful waterfront location, The Cannery is known for its fresh seafood and delicious cocktails.

b. Sol Grill

This casual eatery serves up delicious burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as an impressive selection of craft beers.

c. Nobu

If you’re in the mood for sushi, Nobu should be at the top of your list. This upscale Japanese restaurant is known for its fresh sashimi and creative sushi rolls.

d. The Winery

For a romantic night out, The Winery is the perfect spot. With an extensive wine list and elegant ambiance, this restaurant is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion.

3. What are some fun things to do in Newport Beach?

There’s no shortage of fun activities in Newport Beach. Here are a few of our top picks:

a. Take a boat tour

Newport Beach is known for its beautiful marinas, and there are plenty of opportunities to take a boat tour and explore the coastline.

b. Visit the Balboa Fun Zone

The Balboa Fun Zone is a beloved Newport Beach attraction, with arcade games, carnival rides, and a Ferris wheel.

c. Go shopping

Newport Beach is home to plenty of trendy boutiques and high-end shopping destinations, including Fashion Island and Lido Marina Village.

d. Explore the tide pools

Crystal Cove State Park has some great tide pools to explore, where you can see a variety of marine life up close.

4. What is the best time of year to visit Newport Beach?

The best time of year to visit Newport Beach depends on your preferences. If you’re looking for warm weather and a bustling atmosphere, the summer months (June-August) are the busiest and most popular. However, if you prefer a quieter experience and cooler weather, the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) are great options. The winter months (December-February) can be chilly but are still a good time to visit if you’re looking for a peaceful getaway.

5. What is parking like in Newport Beach?

Parking in Newport Beach can be a challenge during peak tourist season. Most beaches and popular attractions have paid parking lots, so be prepared to pay a fee for parking. Some places may offer street parking, but be sure to check for any parking restrictions or time limits.

6. What are some popular annual events in Newport Beach?

Newport Beach is known for its vibrant community events throughout the year. Some of the most popular include:

a. Newport Beach Film Festival

This annual event showcases independent films from around the world and attracts filmmakers and movie lovers alike.

b. Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade

The Christmas Boat Parade is a beloved holiday tradition in Newport Beach, with elaborately decorated boats cruising through the harbor.

c. Newport Beach Wine and Food Festival

Foodies will enjoy this annual event, which features top chefs and winemakers from around the region.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Newport Beach

Newport Beach, California is known for its beautiful beaches, amazing sunsets, and lively entertainment scene. As a tourist, there are plenty of things to do in this coastal city. To make the most of your time in Newport Beach, we’ve put together a guide of some of the best activities, attractions, and places to visit during your trip.

1. Explore the Beaches

Newport Beach is home to several stunning beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and other water activities. Some of the most popular beaches include:

1.1 Newport Beach Pier

Located in the heart of the city, Newport Beach Pier is the perfect spot for a stroll along the beach. This iconic pier is known for its gorgeous views of the coastline and abundant sea life. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops nearby, making it a great place to spend a day or an evening.

1.2 Corona Del Mar State Beach

Corona Del Mar State Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches in Newport Beach. This beach is known for its rocky outcrops, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views. It’s a perfect place for swimming, surfing, and relaxing in the sunshine.

2. Take a Boat Tour

Newport Beach is located along the harbor, which means there are plenty of opportunities to get out on the water. One of the best ways to experience the harbor is by taking a boat tour. There are several companies that offer harbor cruises, sunset cruises, and even whale watching tours. It’s a great way to get a different perspective of the city and its beautiful coastline.

3. Visit the Balboa Fun Zone

The Balboa Fun Zone is a historic amusement park located in Newport Beach. It’s famous for its Ferris wheel, arcade games, and carnival rides. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops nearby, making it a great place to spend an afternoon or evening. And, of course, you can’t leave without trying their world-famous frozen bananas!

4. Explore the Newport Beach Harbor

The harbor in Newport Beach is home to several marinas, yachts, and sailboats. There are plenty of opportunities to take a leisurely walk along the harbor, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or even charter your own private yacht. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars along the harbor, making it a great spot for a night out.

5. Visit the Orange County Museum of Art

The Orange County Museum of Art is located in Newport Beach and is a must-visit for art lovers. The museum features a wide range of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations. It’s a great place to spend a rainy afternoon or to escape the heat on a hot summer day.

6. Shop at Fashion Island

Fashion Island is Newport Beach’s premier shopping destination. This open-air shopping center features more than 100 stores, including high-end designer boutiques, department stores, and restaurants. It’s a great place to spend a day shopping, dining, and people-watching.

7. Go to an Outdoor Concert

During the summer months, Newport Beach hosts a variety of outdoor concerts and events. These events are held in venues like Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort, Newport Beach Civic Center, and the Newport Pier. These outdoor concerts are a great way to enjoy the city’s nightlife, while also enjoying the beautiful weather and amazing music.

Book Your Tour Now

Newport Beach is one of Southern California’s most beloved coastal cities, and for good reason. There are so many things to see and do, whether you’re looking for a day at the beach, a night out on the town, or a cultural experience. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip to Newport Beach, and that you have a wonderful time exploring this beautiful city.