Introduction
When I first discovered Newport Beach, California—it felt like uncovering a little secret. Soft golden sands, a laid-back yet upscale vibe, and enough adventure and relaxation to fill several days. I’ve done my share of beach trips, and Newport Beach stands out as one of those spots where you could flip from “hearing crashing waves” to “cheers to cocktails at sunset” without ever leaving the city.
Whether you’re going with friends, family, or solo, here are 12 of the best and most fun things to do in Newport Beach, from must-see beaches to hidden nature gems, local flavour and classic California sunshine.
12 Best & Fun Things To Do In Newport Beach, CA (2026)
1. Soak Up the Beach Vibes at the Main Beach
No trip to Newport would feel complete without spending time at its signature beach. The wide sand, moderate waves, and warm sun make the perfect combination to either laze or get active. According to local visitor info, you can surf or swim along the roughly eight miles of city beaches.
Tip: Bring a beach blanket, maybe a good book, and plan to stay until golden hour—Newport’s sunsets are special.
See Also: 26 Best & Fun Things To Do In Birmingham, AL
2. Walk or Bike the Oceanfront Boardwalk
For a change of pace from lying on the sand, take a stroll or bike ride along the oceanfront boardwalk. The paved path runs a few miles and showcases beach cottages, surf shops and the rhythmic ebb of waves. According to TrailLink, the boardwalk begins around 36th Street and continues down the Balboa Peninsula.
Tip: Rent a bike and go early morning if you want less crowd and great light for photos.
3. Explore Balboa Island & the Ferry Ride
One of my favourite little detours: Balboa Island feels quaint yet energetic. You stroll around the perimeter, browse the charming shops along Marine Avenue, and then hop on the short ferry ride to the Balboa Peninsula—simple, fun and California-classic.
Local flavour: Grab a famous “Balboa Bar” or frozen banana from one of the legends on the island.
Tip: Go at sunset and take the ferry back for that extra bit of romantic harbour-water breeze.
4. Visit the Upper Newport Bay Nature Reserve (Back Bay)
Ready for nature and calm? Upper Newport Bay (often called the Back Bay) is a standout. This estuary is one of the few remaining in southern California and is home to countless bird species and walking trails through scenic marshland.
Tip: Rent a kayak or bring binoculars if you’re into bird-watching. It’s peaceful and gives a different texture to the beach-holiday vibe.
5. Go Whale Watching or Boat Cruise in the Harbor
For a memorable out-on-the-water experience, join a whale-watching cruise or a harbour boat tour. The city guides mention charter fishing boats, harbour rides and excursions leaving from the Balboa Peninsula.
Tip: Check the seasons—some tours specialise in winter for grey whales; summer may still yield dolphins or bluewhales.
6. Shop and Dine at Fashion Island
If you’re in the mood for shopping or a more upscale meal, Fashion Island is the place. It’s an open-air shopping complex in Newport Centre featuring many boutiques, cafés and ocean-view dining.
Tip: Go later in the afternoon when the sun is softer and take advantage of dining with a view.
7. Visit the Balboa Pier & the Historic Dory Fleet
The Balboa Pier is steeped in history and fun. It dates back over a century and is a hub for fishing, walking and waterfront food.
Nearby, you’ll find the historic Dory Fleet fishing market, perfect for seafood lovers.
Tip: Grab some fresh fish tacos or seafood at a café near the pier after a morning stroll.
8. Dive into Beachside Fun at the Balboa Fun Zone
For a classic, light-hearted outing with family or friends, the Balboa Fun Zone on the peninsula is ideal. You’ll find arcades, a Ferris wheel, harbour cruises and more.
Tip: For the best views, ride the Ferris wheel at dusk—lights, ocean and harbour all in one.
9. Visit the Trendy Lido Marina Village
If you’re looking for something a little more relaxed, stylish and immaculately parked by the water, Lido Marina Village is a gem. Locals point it out as a top place to walk, shop and dine.
Tip: Choose a waterfront table for dinner and enjoy boats gently bobbing while you sip something chilled.
10. Hit the Trails at Crystal Cove State Park
A short drive from Newport Beach, Crystal Cove State Park offers 2,400 acres of coastal wilderness, tide pools, beaches and historic cottages. It’s a nature lover’s side-trip away from the central buzz.
Tip: Pack for a half-day; wear sensible shoes for the tide-pool section and bring a picnic.
11. Enjoy Local Flavour: Food, Drinks & Sunset Views
Beyond sightseeing, one of my favourite parts was just sitting down somewhere good and watching time chill. Newport Beach has a strong dining scene (seafood obviously) plus rooftop bars and waterfront cafés. A recent sample article points out that seafood lovers flock here thanks to the Pacific location.
Tip: Reserve a table at sunset. The light over the Pacific adds magic to even a simple meal.
12. Find Hidden Gems & Local-Style Relaxing Spots
I always like to veer off the tourist track a little:
- Take the quieter back-bay trails.
- Visit the little villages like Corona del Mar for mellow shopping & dining.
Skip the midday crowd at the beach and grab an early morning coffee by the water. Reddit locals suggest:
“Rent a Duffy boat… then head back to Balboa Island and check it out if you have time.”
Tip: Ask a barista or local shop owner for their favourite hidden beachside spot—they’ll often point you to something less crowded, more relaxed.
Final Thoughts
All in all, Newport Beach perfectly balances “sun-and-surf holiday” with some refined touches—harbour cruises, boutique shopping, tranquil nature reserves. If I could sum it up: you get both the postcard scene and a comfortable, lived-in vibe.
Whether you’re planning a weekend, a longer stay, or a short stop on a California road trip, this city delivers. If I were going back tomorrow, I’d still visit the beach, but I’d also add a full evening walk around Balboa Island, a bay paddle at dawn, and maybe dinner at a rooftop overlooking the water. Because at the end of the day, the best memory is the one of standing at the water’s edge as the sun dips into the Pacific.