Newport Beach is usually jamming during the summer vacation months, and is still active the rest of the year too. That being said, you will find better rates and fewer crowds between October and April with an exception of the holidays.
Key attractions
The main attraction in Newport Beach is the beach itself and the water for swimming, surfing, paddleboarding and other water sports. When you’re not beaching it, the other main attractions are the two piers, Balboa and Newport Pier. With arcade games, a giant Ferris wheel and much more, there’s fun for whole family.
Having fun
Having fun in the Newport Beach area is all about the ocean, so spending time in the sand is important. That being said, spending time in or on the water is equally important and fun. If you already know how to surf, grab a “stick” and head out to the waves. If you don’t you can always take a lesson. If that’s a challenge you aren’t ready to take, the second biggest sport is Body Surfing or Boggie Boarding. These are two fun things that can get you in the water and on the waves, without needing a lesson.
If your in Newport Beach during wale watching season, which is between January and April for Grey Whales, then a Wale Watching Cruise is a splendid way to spend a few hours and get some ocean and camera time.
The latest craze on the waters of Newport Beach involve paddle boarding, where with a little instruction and practice you too could be gliding away and getting some sun and exercise at the same time.
The newest fun attraction for the daredevils is Jetpack America, where you learn how to fly. That’s right, they strap you into a water jetpack and you soar on or above the water for up to twelve minutes or so.
Renting a bicycle or one of the new “Pedego Electric Bikes” is also a great way to tour the area. Get up to speed with the pedals and the little motor kicks in.
Shopping
Being that you are in an upscale fashion region of California, there are opportunities for shopping beyond belief. If your looking for specialty boutiques and designer labels, go no further than Fashion Island located almost on the waterfront, with panoramic ocean views. Here you will find stores like Nordstrom’s, Jonathan Adler, Neiman Marcus and more. And for a break from shopping, you will find more than thirty excellent dining choices for lunch or dinner.
You will also find choice shopping specialty stores along the Newport Coast, on Balboa Island in Balboa Village, and Corona del Mar. If you enjoy strolling through a farmers market you’re in luck. There are two excellent farmers markets, the Corona del Mar and Newport Beach Certified Farmers Markets.
Nearby
You can take a ferryboat out to Balboa Island where there are loads of beach activities. Renting bicycles or learning how to use a Segway is also a lot of fun. There are many pubs and restaurants to choose from, and interesting shopping along Marine Avenue.
An excellent day trip is to catch a ride on the Catalina Flyer out to Catalina Island. This island is all about relaxing, and after an hour or so you’ll come to understand why. As you can’t bring a vehicle out with you, most residents get around on golf carts, which you can rent. Or there are multiple tours offered of the island, from small bus to a jeep tour. You can also visit the islands casino, where you can take a tour or watch a movie. But forget the idea of spending some time at the Blackjack Table; there isn’t any gambling here.
Another fun adventure is to take a special boat tour to see Catalina Islands “flying fish”. Although this “flying” only occurs at night during the summer, if you have the opportunity, there’s nothing like having one of these fish fly into your lap.
Our recommendations in Newport Beach
Balboa Bay Resort
Located in Newport Beach, Balboa Bay Resort is in the business district and on the waterfront. Newport Pier and Balboa Pier are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Huntington State Beach and Corona del Mar State Beach. Consider The Observatory for a night out, and don't miss Santa Ana Zoo, a top local attraction.
Extended Stay America Suites Orange County John Wayne Airprt
Located in Newport Beach, Extended Stay America Orange County - John Wayne Airport is in an area with good airport proximity. Fashion Island and South Coast Plaza are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Corona del Mar State Beach and Huntington State Beach. Check out an event or a game at Angel Stadium of Anaheim, and consider making time for Santa Ana Zoo, a top attraction not to be missed.
Hyatt Regency John Wayne Airport Newport Beach
Hyatt Regency John Wayne Airport Newport Beach is located near the boardwalk and in an area with great airport proximity. South Coast Plaza and Fashion Island are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Corona del Mar State Beach and Huntington State Beach. Consider The Observatory for a night out, and don't miss Santa Ana Zoo, a top local attraction.
VEA Newport Beach, A Marriott Resort & Spa
Newport Beach Marriott Hotel and Spa is located near the beach and in a walkable area with good shopping. Fashion Island and South Coast Plaza are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Corona del Mar State Beach and Crystal Cove State Park. Consider The Observatory for a night out, and don't miss Santa Ana Zoo, a top local attraction.
Renaissance Newport Beach Hotel
Renaissance Newport Beach Hotel is located near the beach and in an area with good airport proximity. Huntington Beach Pier and Newport Pier are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those in the mood for shopping can visit South Coast Plaza and Fashion Island. Consider The Observatory for a night out, and don't miss Santa Ana Zoo, a top local attraction.
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Fashion Island Hotel Newport Beach
Fashion Island Hotel Newport Beach is located near the beach and in an area with good shopping. Balboa Pier and Newport Pier are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those in the mood for shopping can visit Fashion Island and South Coast Plaza. Consider The Observatory for a night out, and don't miss Santa Ana Zoo, a top local attraction.
Newport Beach Marriott Bayview
Located in Newport Beach, Newport Beach Marriott Bayview is in the business district and near the beach. Segerstrom Center for the Arts and FivePoint Amphitheatre are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Balboa Pier and Huntington Beach Pier. Consider The Observatory for a night out, and don't miss Santa Ana Zoo, a top local attraction.
Hyatt Regency Newport Beach
Located in Newport Beach, Hyatt Regency Newport Beach is in the entertainment district and near the beach. Balboa Pier and Newport Pier are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Corona del Mar State Beach and Huntington State Beach. Consider The Observatory for a night out, and don't miss Santa Ana Zoo if you're traveling with kids.
Bay Shores Peninsula Hotel
Located in Newport Beach, Bay Shores Peninsula Hotel is near the beach. Newport Pier and Balboa Pier are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those in the mood for shopping can visit Fashion Island and Main Street. Santa Ana Zoo and Boomers are also worth visiting.
Holiday Inn Express Newport Beach, an IHG Hotel
Located in Newport Beach, Holiday Inn Express Newport Beach is near the beach. Newport Pier and Huntington Beach Pier are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those in the mood for shopping can visit Fashion Island and Main Street. Consider The Observatory for a night out, and don't miss Santa Ana Zoo, a top local attraction.
Little Inn By The Bay Newport Beach
Located in Newport Beach, Little Inn By The Bay Newport Beach is in the entertainment district and near the beach. Newport Pier and Balboa Pier are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Huntington State Beach and Corona del Mar State Beach. Consider The Observatory for a night out, and don't miss Santa Ana Zoo, a top local attraction.
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Hotel Solarena, Premier Collection by Best Western
Located in Newport Beach, Hotel Solarena, Premier Collection by Best Western is in the suburbs and near the beach. Newport Pier and Huntington Beach Pier are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those in the mood for shopping can visit Fashion Island and Main Street. Santa Ana Zoo and Boomers are also worth visiting.
Newport Beach Hotel, A Four Sisters Inn
Located in Newport Beach, Newport Beach Hotel, A Four Sisters Inn is in the city center and on the beach. Fashion Island and Main Street are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Huntington State Beach and Corona del Mar State Beach. Ready for a night out? Consider The Observatory and Irvine Meadows Amphitheatre.