Emerald Isle – North Carolina, USA
- Bogue Inlet Drive, Emerald Isle, Carteret County, North Carolina, 28594, United States
- +1 (252) 354-3424
- October 13, 2025
About This Beach
Located in the heart of Orange County’s coastal paradise, Newport Beach is one of Southern California’s most picturesque and upscale seaside destinations — offering 10 miles of pristine shoreline, world-class surf, luxury harbor views, and iconic coastal culture.
Known for its crystal-clear waters, elegant neighborhoods, and vibrant harbor, Newport Beach attracts visitors year-round for its unique blend of beachfront relaxation, boating adventures, and chic oceanfront dining.
From surfing the legendary Wedge to strolling the Balboa Pier or shopping at Fashion Island, Newport offers the quintessential California coastal lifestyle — equal parts laid-back and luxurious.
📜 History & Unique Features
Incorporated in 1906, Newport Beach began as a seaside getaway and quickly became a premier harbor city.
The Newport Harbor, once a shipping port, is now the largest recreational harbor on the U.S. West Coast.
Home to the Balboa Peninsula, Balboa Pier, and Balboa Fun Zone — classic SoCal attractions.
The famous surf break The Wedge produces some of California’s biggest waves, attracting thrill-seekers and photographers.
The Balboa Island Ferry, operating since 1919, connects visitors to one of Orange County’s most charming island communities.
Annual events like the Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race and Christmas Boat Parade have become legendary.
Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit
Spring (Mar–May): Fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures, and great surf.
Summer (Jun–Aug): Peak season; lively beaches and warm waters.
Fall (Sep–Nov): Best sunsets, calmer surf, local events.
Winter (Dec–Feb): Quieter vibe, ideal for whale watching and photography.
Summer (Jun–Aug): Peak season; lively beaches and warm waters.
Fall (Sep–Nov): Best sunsets, calmer surf, local events.
Winter (Dec–Feb): Quieter vibe, ideal for whale watching and photography.
Things To Do
Popular Activities
- Surfing: Hit The Wedge or Blackies for iconic waves.
- Harbor Cruises: Take a sunset or whale-watching cruise through Newport Harbor.
- Balboa Fun Zone: Enjoy old-school rides, games, and ferris wheel views.
- Beach Day: Swim, sunbathe, or play volleyball along miles of clean shoreline.
- Shopping: Visit Fashion Island for luxury brands and ocean-view dining.
- Dine on the Waterfront: Dozens of upscale restaurants along Newport Harbor.
- Whale Watching: Daily tours spot gray whales, dolphins, and seals.
- Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Explore the calm waters of the harbor.
- Cycling: Scenic coastal bike trails connect to Huntington and Laguna Beach.
- Fishing: Balboa and Newport Piers open for public fishing year-round.
Amenities
Nearby Amenities
- Lifeguards year-round
- Restrooms and outdoor showers
- Volleyball courts and playgrounds
- Fire pits and picnic tables (Balboa area)
- Parking lots and street meters ($2–$4/hr)
- Umbrella and chair rentals available
- ADA-accessible paths and beach wheelchairs
- Food stands, cafés, and surf shops along the boardwalk
Where to Stay
Where to Stay
Balboa Bay Resort: 5-star luxury with private marina and ocean views.
Hyatt Regency Newport Beach: Family-friendly with multiple pools.
Newport Beach Hotel: Boutique lodging near the pier.
Lido House, Autograph Collection: Nautical-inspired luxury steps from the harbor.
Holiday Inn Express Newport Beach: Affordable option near the marina.
Hyatt Regency Newport Beach: Family-friendly with multiple pools.
Newport Beach Hotel: Boutique lodging near the pier.
Lido House, Autograph Collection: Nautical-inspired luxury steps from the harbor.
Holiday Inn Express Newport Beach: Affordable option near the marina.
Beach Hours
Beach Hours
Open Now
Open 24/7
Hours/Lifeguards
Hours/Lifeguards
Beach Access: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
Lifeguards: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (seasonal extension)
Piers & Balboa Fun Zone: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Lifeguards: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (seasonal extension)
Piers & Balboa Fun Zone: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Pricing
Pricing
Beach Access: Free
Parking: $2–$4/hr meters, $20–$30/day lots
Ferry: $1.50 per person, $2 per vehicle
Rentals: Umbrellas/chairs $20–$30, kayaks $25/hr, paddleboards $30/hr
Cruise Tickets: $35–$60 for sunset or whale-watching tours
Parking: $2–$4/hr meters, $20–$30/day lots
Ferry: $1.50 per person, $2 per vehicle
Rentals: Umbrellas/chairs $20–$30, kayaks $25/hr, paddleboards $30/hr
Cruise Tickets: $35–$60 for sunset or whale-watching tours
Nearby Attractions
Nearby Attractions
Corona del Mar State Beach: Ideal for families and kayaking.
The Wedge: Legendary surf spot for expert riders.
Balboa Island: Charming village with shops, cafés, and famous frozen bananas.
Fashion Island: Luxury shopping mall with ocean views.
Crystal Cove State Park: Hiking trails, tide pools, and rustic beach cottages.
Duffy Boat Rentals: Self-drive electric boats for harbor exploration.
The Wedge: Legendary surf spot for expert riders.
Balboa Island: Charming village with shops, cafés, and famous frozen bananas.
Fashion Island: Luxury shopping mall with ocean views.
Crystal Cove State Park: Hiking trails, tide pools, and rustic beach cottages.
Duffy Boat Rentals: Self-drive electric boats for harbor exploration.
Food & Drinks
Food & Drinks
The Crab Cooker: Local institution for seafood since 1951.
Mutt Lynch’s: Classic beachfront bar & grill with ocean views.
Bear Flag Fish Co.: Fresh poke, tacos, and sustainable seafood.
Bluewater Grill: Waterfront dining along Cannery Village.
Nobu Newport Beach: World-famous Japanese fine dining on the harbor.
Balboa Lily’s Café: Great for coffee and breakfast after sunrise walks.
Mutt Lynch’s: Classic beachfront bar & grill with ocean views.
Bear Flag Fish Co.: Fresh poke, tacos, and sustainable seafood.
Bluewater Grill: Waterfront dining along Cannery Village.
Nobu Newport Beach: World-famous Japanese fine dining on the harbor.
Balboa Lily’s Café: Great for coffee and breakfast after sunrise walks.
Events & Festivals
Events & Festivals
Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade (December): Over 100 illuminated yachts parade through the harbor.
Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race (April): World-famous sailboat race.
Newport Beach Film Festival (October): Showcasing independent films.
Pacific Wine & Food Classic (August): Culinary event on the beach.
Concerts on the Green (Summer): Free outdoor performances.
Balboa Island Artwalk (May): Fine art, live music, and coastal charm.
Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race (April): World-famous sailboat race.
Newport Beach Film Festival (October): Showcasing independent films.
Pacific Wine & Food Classic (August): Culinary event on the beach.
Concerts on the Green (Summer): Free outdoor performances.
Balboa Island Artwalk (May): Fine art, live music, and coastal charm.
Travel Tips & Local Insights
Travel Tips & Local Insights
Parking fills quickly near both piers — arrive before 9 AM.
Mornings offer calm surf for beginners; afternoons better for advanced surfers.
Watch surfers tackle The Wedge during big swell season (May–Oct).
Take the Balboa Ferry just before sunset for perfect golden-hour photos.
Bring a light jacket — ocean breezes can get chilly after dark.
For a quieter day, head toward Corona del Mar State Beach nearby.
Mornings offer calm surf for beginners; afternoons better for advanced surfers.
Watch surfers tackle The Wedge during big swell season (May–Oct).
Take the Balboa Ferry just before sunset for perfect golden-hour photos.
Bring a light jacket — ocean breezes can get chilly after dark.
For a quieter day, head toward Corona del Mar State Beach nearby.
Safety & Rules
Safety & Rules
No alcohol, glass, or smoking on beaches.
Dogs allowed before 10 AM and after 4:30 PM (leash required).
Swim only in designated lifeguard zones.
Fires and BBQs permitted in approved areas only.
Surfing restricted during peak swimming hours in certain areas.
Observe posted warnings for rip currents and tides.
Dogs allowed before 10 AM and after 4:30 PM (leash required).
Swim only in designated lifeguard zones.
Fires and BBQs permitted in approved areas only.
Surfing restricted during peak swimming hours in certain areas.
Observe posted warnings for rip currents and tides.
FAQs
Can I swim and surf here?
Yes, though The Wedge is best left to experienced surfers.
Can I take a boat or ferry ride?
Yes, the Balboa Ferry and multiple harbor cruises operate daily.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, during designated hours and on leash.
What’s the best spot for photos?
Atop Balboa Pier or during sunset along the harbor walkway.
Contact Information
Primary Phone
Website URL
Location
Beach Address
1600, Newport Center Drive, Fashion Island, Newport Beach, Orange County, California, 92660, United States
Access Points
Main Access Points:
Newport Pier: 72 McFadden Pl, Newport Beach, CA 92663
Balboa Pier: 1 Balboa Pier, Newport Beach, CA 92661
Getting There:
By Car: Take I-405 or CA-55 South to Pacific Coast Hwy (CA-1).
By Transit: OCTA routes connect from Irvine, Costa Mesa, and Huntington Beach.
By Ferry: Balboa Island Ferry runs every few minutes ($1.50/person, $2/vehicle).
Parking: City lots and meters available near both piers ($20–$30/day typical).
Newport Pier: 72 McFadden Pl, Newport Beach, CA 92663
Balboa Pier: 1 Balboa Pier, Newport Beach, CA 92661
Getting There:
By Car: Take I-405 or CA-55 South to Pacific Coast Hwy (CA-1).
By Transit: OCTA routes connect from Irvine, Costa Mesa, and Huntington Beach.
By Ferry: Balboa Island Ferry runs every few minutes ($1.50/person, $2/vehicle).
Parking: City lots and meters available near both piers ($20–$30/day typical).
1600, Newport Center Drive, Fashion Island, Newport Beach, Orange County, California, 92660, United States
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