The city of Newport Beach is known for being a beautiful, coastal city in Southern California, home to tons of thriving businesses, restaurants, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Not only is this city one of the most scenic places to live or visit in Orange County, California, but it’s also one of the best cities for things to do.
From world-class restaurants to plentiful shopping to family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures, there are so many things to do in Newport Beach, CA that you’ll never run out of ideas. Continue reading for a few of our favorites or contact the Newport Beach real estate specialists at First Team real estate with your Newport Beach area questions.
Balboa Fun Zone
The Balboa Fun Zone has been on the top of the list of things to do in Newport Beach with kids since opening in 1936. Under new owners, the Balboa Fun Zone is undergoing restoration and preservation to breathe new life into the beloved landmark.
Located on the Balboa Peninsula, it offers a variety of games and amusement rides, a rock-climbing wall, and a Ferris wheel. Plus, with plenty of shops and restaurants on the boardwalk, you can spend the whole day having fun and taking in the gorgeous view of the bay.
Whale Watching
If you’re already having a fun time at Balboa Fun Zone, you can head over to watch some whales without having to go far! Known for being one of the best places to go for whale watching, Newport Beach sits along major whale migration routes.
Taking a whale watching excursion out to sea is one of the most exciting things to do in Newport Beach for families. From near Balboa Pier, you’ll take a boat out and keep your eyes peeled for these majestic animals. Whales aren’t the only animal you can find on these trips – you can easily spot some dolphins, seals, and sharks, too!
Newport Beach Pier
As one of the most recognized features of the city, the Newport Beach Pier sits at the northern end of the Balboa Peninsula. Here you can take a moment and relax, catching a breathtaking sunset, going fishing, and strolling along the water’s edge.
The Wedge
If you’re looking for a thrill of a lifetime, head over to the Wedge! The Wedge is where all the surfers come to play and ride some of the largest waves around. For decades, surfers and water sports lovers gathered at the Wedge for fun in the massive waves – some reaching almost 30 feet high!
For those who aren’t thrill-seekers or surfers, there are still plenty of things to do here like watching the waves, skimboard, sunbathe, or boogie board.
Fashion Island
Fashion Island is a must for residents and vacationers alike. This open-air mall is like a miniature city with almost 200 shops and restaurants to explore. Decorated with gorgeous fountains, gardens, and well-kept walkways, you’ll take in the luxurious and relaxing atmosphere as you peruse from store to store.
Fashion Island has an incredible selection of stores from small, charming boutiques to large department stores, to high-end shopping like Chanel and Gucci. Not only are the stores of good taste, but the restaurants are as well! You’ll be able to choose from a variety of cuisines to satisfy any craving and enjoy ocean views at the same time. And, after a day filled with shopping and eating good food, you can relax and catch a movie at the multiplex movie theater.
Balboa Island
If you’re looking to branch just outside of Newport Beach, catch a ferry to Balboa Island off of Balboa Pier. This island acts as a time machine, taking visitors back many decades as it was built in the early 1900s, with many structures still standing today. With its charming shops, fantastic restaurants, you can stroll through the island if you need a break from the hustle and bustle. And don’t forget to try the Island’s famous desserts– the Balboa Bar and the Frozen Banana!
If you want some excitement or more things to do, you can rent kayaks or paddleboards and explore the surrounding coast.
Newport Beaches
Lastly – and probably the most popular – is the Newport Beach beaches. Made up of pristine, golden sand, visiting one of the many beaches is one of the best family-friendly activities in Newport Beach. With breathtaking nature and good weather all year, the main beach is used for swimming, sunbathing, watersports, and walks.
There’s no doubt that there are plenty of things to do in Newport Beach! If living in Newport Beach sounds like the perfect move for you, learn more about the area. You can also browse Newport Beach homes for sale or contact the Newport Beach real estate specialists at First Team Real Estate with any questions.
