Newport Beach offers a thrilling blend of coastal adventures, world-class shopping, and mouthwatering dining experiences. Visitors can explore the picturesque shoreline, indulge in retail therapy at the upscale Fashion Island, and savor fresh seafood with breathtaking ocean vistas. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-filled escape or a leisurely getaway, this vibrant destination promises to captivate your senses and leave you craving more.
Good To Know
- Explore the charming Balboa Island by ferry, strolling along the scenic boardwalk and visiting local shops and eateries for a unique coastal experience.
- Indulge in luxury shopping at Fashion Island, an upscale outdoor mall featuring high-end stores, designer boutiques, and stunning ocean views.
- Savor fresh seafood and coastal cuisine at waterfront restaurants with breathtaking ocean vistas, or try innovative menus at award-winning dining establishments.
- Enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding in the crystal-clear waters, or hike scenic trails with panoramic ocean views.
- Easily access Newport Beach via various transportation options, including highways, public transit, and rideshare services, and explore the compact, walkable layout of the city.
Getting to Newport Beach
How do you get to Newport Beach? The city is located in Orange County, California, about an hour’s drive south of Los Angeles.
Visitors can take the I-405 or the I-5 South to reach Newport Beach. Public transportation options include taking the Amtrak or Metrolink train to Irvine or Santa Ana, then connecting to local buses that serve Newport Beach.
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available.
Once in Newport Beach, getting around is easy with the city’s compact layout and walkable neighborhoods. Exploring the area on foot or by bike is a popular way to experience the coastal charm.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Newport Beach.
Exploring Balboa Island
Nestled just off the Newport Beach coastline, Balboa Island offers visitors a charming and quaint escape. This small island, accessible by ferry, is a haven for leisurely strolls and exploring local shops and eateries.
Visitors can indulge in delicious seafood, ice cream, and other culinary delights while enjoying the island’s scenic boardwalk and charming homes. The island’s vibrant community atmosphere and unique boutiques make it a popular destination for those seeking a relaxed and authentic Newport Beach experience.
With its picturesque setting and variety of activities, Balboa Island is a must-visit during any Newport Beach adventure.
Luxury Shopping in Fashion Island
Leaving the quaint charm of Balboa Island behind, visitors can head to Fashion Island, Newport Beach’s premier shopping destination.
This upscale outdoor mall offers a luxurious shopping experience with high-end stores, designer boutiques, and chic restaurants. From Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus to Anthropologie and Apple, the diverse array of shops caters to every taste.
Visitors can browse trendy fashion, browse home decor, and indulge in gourmet dining.
With its Mediterranean-inspired architecture, lush landscaping, and stunning ocean views, Fashion Island provides the perfect setting for a day of retail therapy and relaxation.
Dining Experiences
After exploring the high-end shopping at Fashion Island, visitors can indulge in a variety of dining experiences in Newport Beach.
The area offers:
- Waterfront restaurants with stunning ocean views, serving fresh seafood and coastal cuisine.
- Upscale dining establishments featuring award-winning chefs and innovative menus.
- Casual eateries and food trucks showcasing the diverse culinary scene.
- Opportunities to arrange private dining experiences, catered meals, or wine tastings during the tour.
Dining options can be tailored to suit individual preferences and dietary needs, ensuring an enjoyable and memorable culinary journey.
Outdoor Activities at the Beach
Along With the diverse dining options, Newport Beach offers a wealth of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy along the picturesque coastline.
From strolling the famous Balboa Pier or renting electric bikes to explore the area, there’s something for all. The crystal-clear waters invite swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding, while nearby parks offer hiking trails with breathtaking ocean vistas.
Visitors can also soak up the sun on the pristine sandy beaches or participate in beachside games like volleyball and frisbee.
With so many ways to take in the natural beauty, Newport Beach is a true outdoor paradise.
Visiting the Iconic Balboa Pier
One of the must-visit attractions in Newport Beach is the iconic Balboa Pier, which stretches out into the sparkling Pacific Ocean.
Visitors can enjoy the following at the pier:
- Strolling along the wooden boardwalk, taking in the stunning ocean views.
- Fishing off the end of the pier, with a chance to catch a variety of marine life.
- Exploring the shops and restaurants that line the pier, offering a lively atmosphere.
- Watching the iconic Balboa Ferris Wheel, a classic amusement park ride that offers panoramic vistas.
Cultural Attractions in Newport Beach
Newport Beach boasts a vibrant cultural scene, offering visitors a diverse array of attractions to explore.
The Balboa Island Museum & Historical Society showcases the island’s rich history through interactive exhibits. At the Bowers Museum, art enthusiasts can admire world-class collections, including Native American artifacts and Asian art.
For a taste of the local arts, the Laguna Art Museum features contemporary exhibitions by regional artists. Outdoor enthusiasts can visit the Back Bay Science Center to learn about the region’s ecosystem and participate in educational programs.
With so much to discover, Newport Beach’s cultural offerings cater to a wide range of interests.
Transportation and Accessibility
Luxury private transportation is provided for the Newport Beach Adventure, with an air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi for guest comfort.
Pickup locations include:
- Balboa Island
- Anaheim
- Newport Beach
- Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Corona Del Mar, Irvine, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa
Guests must confirm their pickup time with the local provider.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and stroller accessible, and service animals are also allowed.
Public transportation is available nearby for added convenience.
The Sum Up
Newport Beach offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors. From exploring the scenic coastline to indulging in luxury shopping and dining, the city caters to various interests. With its accessibility and array of activities, Newport Beach is an ideal destination for a well-rounded getaway. Whether seeking adventure, retail therapy, or culinary delights, there’s something to captivate every traveler.
More Dinner Experiences in Newport Beach
- Newport Beach Adventure, Retail Therapy and Dining
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More Dining Experiences in Newport Beach
- Newport Beach Adventure, Retail Therapy and Dining
- Newport Beach Fathers Day Plated Dinner Cruise
- Orange County Premier Dinner Cruise From Newport Beach
- Newport Beach: Mothers Day Brunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise
- Marina Del Rey: Luxury,Romantic Surprise Dinner Boat Cruise
- Newport Beach: Thanksgiving Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
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