Newport Beach has a special meaning to every 90’s girl that watched the TV show “The OC”. I can’t remember how many times I’ve watched each episode. And it was back then when I decided that I was going to live in California one day.
Newport is bordered by Huntington Beach to the north and Laguna Beach to the south, and is conveniently located near John Wayne Airport and the major Southern California highways. The scenic route is always via PCH and totally worth it!
Here are 7 places in Newport Beach that you should visit next time you're in town:
Newport Beach and Paved Trail
Newport Beach stretches for 5 miles and counts on plenty of activities for the entire family: boating, fishing, surfing and swimming, just to name a few. There is also a paved trail by the beach that runs for several miles all the way north to Huntington Beach, and south to Balboa, allowing biking, skating, and walking/running with beautiful views of some of the most expensive real estate in Orange County. Good to know: Many of the houses in the area, including some beachfront properties are available for seasonal rentals. If you're visiting in the summer months, book in advance!
Newport Beach Pier & Plaza
The Newport Pier is over 1000 feet long, and was rebuilt in 1940 after a hurricane destroyed it in 1939. Today, it is a popular place among visitors and locals. The area around the pier plaza offers several dining and shopping options. Our favorite stops are: Charlie's Chilli, Dory Deli and Banzai Bowls!
Corona Del Mar
Corona Del Mar or CdM, is really a "Crown of the Sea" as its name translates to. Its beaches, Big Corona and Little Corona, are great places to go swimming and snorkeling, and they also count with some of the most picturesque views of the area. For a full day of fun in the sun, volleyball courts and fire pits are crowd faves. Inspiration point is the place to go to watch an unforgettable sunset or enjoy a picnic with your favorite people.
Also, the Sherman Library & Gardens is a 2 acres botanical retreat and historical research library that features gardens with thousands of plants, from native species to rare tropical specimens.
Crystal Cove
Crystal Cove is one of the most beautiful sceneries I’ve found in SoCal, and definitely worth going whether you are a visitor or a local. Located off of PCH in Newport Beach, it features 3.2 miles of coastline and cliffs with hiking trails and breathtaking views.
Find more about this state park in an exclusive post here.
Balboa
Balboa is a true hidden gem that you can drive, walk, bike or take a quick ferry to, and features all sorts of entertainment for the entire family, such as amazing beaches, sit down restaurants, bistros and bars, water sports, shopping, art galleries, whale watching and sunset cruises, and more!
The Balboa Village features a historic amusement area with plenty of attractions and rides known as Balboa Fun Zone and you can read all about it plus see some fun photos here.
Lido Marina Village
The Lido Marina Village is the newest and coolest shopping and dining destination in Newport. It offers fine dining, stylish boutiques & shops, amazing views of the harbor, and some pretty awesome photo ops to amp up your Insta game.
Read more about it here.
Fashion Island
They say the dress code in Newport is laid-back luxury. At Fashion Island, you get the favorite big box stores, plus several chic and trendy shops that attract locals and visitors from all over the place. Some of the best upscale restaurants in Newport can be found in this rather large and aesthetically pleasant outdoor mall that deserves a visit whether you're up for some shopping therapy, brunch with the girls or just want to enjoy some sea breeze.
With Love,
Bella