Top Newport Beach Attractions You Can’t Miss
- October 10, 2025
- Things to Do
- 5 mins read
Welcome to Newport Beach, California — where golden sands meet luxury living, and coastal charm blends effortlessly with world-class attractions.
From sun-soaked beaches and harbor cruises to art, dining, and marine adventures, Newport Beach offers something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, romantic getaway, or weekend escape, here are the top Newport Beach attractions you won’t want to miss in 2025.
1. Newport Beach Pier & Balboa Pier
Location: McFadden Place & Balboa Blvd
The twin piers of Newport are the heartbeat of the coastline.
Newport Pier, built in 1888, offers panoramic Pacific views, surfers gliding below, and plenty of local dining nearby. Balboa Pier, a short drive south, is a quieter spot for fishing, romantic strolls, and stunning sunsets.
Don’t Miss:
Grab fish tacos at Mutt Lynch’s by the Newport Pier.
Watch dolphins near the end of the pier at dawn.
Why it’s iconic: The perfect mix of oceanfront fun, fishing, food, and SoCal charm.
2. Newport Harbor Cruises & Whale Watching
Location: Newport Landing, Balboa Pavilion
Newport Harbor is one of the largest recreational harbors in the U.S., lined with multi-million-dollar homes, yachts, and waterfront restaurants.
You can:
Take a sunset or dinner cruise.
Go whale watching (Dec–Apr for gray whales, May–Oct for blue whales).
Rent a Duffy boat or kayak and explore on your own.
Top Operators: Davey’s Locker, Newport Landing Whale Watching, Lido Marina Rentals
Pro Tip: Bring a light jacket — ocean breezes can be cool even in summer.
3. Balboa Fun Zone & Balboa Island
Location: 600 E Bay Ave
The Balboa Fun Zone is one of California’s last remaining waterfront amusement areas — a nostalgic must-visit for families. Ride the Ferris wheel, play arcade games, and enjoy ice cream with a view.
Just across the ferry, Balboa Island offers boutique shops, art galleries, and iconic frozen bananas. Walk the scenic 1.7-mile island loop and soak in harbor views.
Top Experiences:
Ride the Balboa Island Ferry (just $1.50).
Visit the Balboa Island Museum for free local history.
Try a “Balboa Bar” (ice cream dipped in chocolate & nuts).
4. The Wedge – Surf City’s Wildest Waves
Location: 2172 Channel Rd
At the east end of Balboa Peninsula lies The Wedge, one of the most powerful surf breaks in North America. On big swell days, waves can reach 20 feet or more, attracting professional surfers, photographers, and thrill-seekers.
Best Time to Visit: Late summer and fall when south swells hit hardest.
Safety Tip: Swimming is discouraged — waves and currents are dangerous.
Why go: It’s not just a surf spot — it’s a spectacle.
5. Corona del Mar State Beach
Location: 3001 Ocean Blvd
Known as the “Crown of the Sea,” Corona del Mar State Beach is a family-friendly gem with calm surf, golden sands, and postcard views. It’s ideal for swimming, picnics, and tide pooling.
Highlights:
Lifeguard-supervised areas
Picnic tables and BBQ pits
Easy parking near the cliffs
Nearby: Visit Inspiration Point, a romantic overlook perfect for sunsets and engagement photos.
6. Lido Marina Village
Location: 3434 Via Lido, Newport Beach
Lido Marina Village is Newport’s chicest destination — where coastal design meets luxury retail.
Stroll along the waterfront, shop boutique stores, or enjoy farm-to-table dining. Every corner looks straight out of a California travel magazine.
Don’t Miss:
Brunch at Malibu Farm or coffee at Blue Bottle.
Designer shopping at Elyse Walker or LoveShackFancy.
Sunset views over the yacht marina.
Pro Tip: Visit on weekends for live music and artisan pop-ups.
7. Fashion Island
Location: 401 Newport Center Dr
A shopping experience unlike any other — Fashion Island combines high-end retail with ocean views, fountains, and outdoor dining.
Home to Bloomingdale’s, Neiman Marcus, Apple, Tesla, and over 100 boutique shops.
Eat & Relax:
True Food Kitchen for healthy bites
R+D Kitchen for modern American
Canaletto for fine Italian dining
Why Visit: It’s more than a mall — it’s an elegant coastal lifestyle hub.
8. Crystal Cove State Park
Location: 8471 N Coast Hwy
Technically between Newport Beach and Laguna Beach, Crystal Cove is a must-see for nature lovers.
Explore 3.2 miles of sandy coastline, tide pools, and scenic hiking trails. The restored historic beach cottages date back to the 1930s and offer a peek into old California life.
Activities:
Snorkeling and tide pooling
Hiking through coastal canyons
Dining at The Beachcomber Café (right on the sand)
Insider Tip: Parking fills early — arrive before 9 AM.
9. Dine on the Waterfront
From surf shacks to celebrity hot spots, Newport Beach has one of California’s most dynamic dining scenes.
Must-Try Restaurants:
Bear Flag Fish Co. – Fresh seafood bowls & tacos
Nobu Newport Beach – Luxury sushi with marina views
Bluewater Grill – Classic coastal dining on Cannery Row
The Crab Cooker – A Newport tradition since 1951
The Bungalow – Craft cocktails with sunset views
Pro Tip: For romance, book dinner at The Lighthouse Café or The Cannery just before sunset.
10. Visit the Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA)
Location: 3333 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa (10 minutes from Newport)
A world-class modern art destination recently reopened in a stunning new building near South Coast Plaza. Exhibits feature contemporary works by California and international artists.
Why it’s worth it: Blends coastal culture with creativity — a perfect indoor escape from the sun.
Bonus: Annual Events You’ll Love
Newport Beach Film Festival (October): World-class cinema by the sea.
Christmas Boat Parade (December): 100+ lighted yachts cruise the harbor.
Newport Wine & Food Classic (August): SoCal’s best culinary event.
Newport to Ensenada Yacht Race (April): Iconic international sailing competition.
Summer Concerts on the Green: Free live music outdoors.
📍 Planning Your Visit
Getting There:
Newport Beach is 45 miles south of Los Angeles, 15 minutes from John Wayne Airport (SNA).
Best Time to Visit:
Spring & Fall – Fewer crowds, ideal weather.
Summer – Peak tourist season with all attractions open.
Where to Stay:
Lido House – Boutique luxury near the marina.
Balboa Bay Resort – Classic waterfront elegance.
Paséa Hotel & Spa – Oceanfront resort with infinity pool and rooftop bar.
Final Thoughts
From beach adventures to luxury shopping, Newport Beach’s attractions deliver an unforgettable blend of sun, sophistication, and California soul.
Whether you’re watching surfers at The Wedge, dining by candlelight on the harbor, or cruising past multi-million-dollar yachts, Newport Beach is where every day feels like vacation.
Pack your camera — and prepare to fall in love with the coast all over again.
