Newport Beach has always been one of Southern California’s golden children. It has a history of surf culture, a splash of seaside glamour, and the kind of weather that makes everyday life feel like the California dream. Over the years, it’s evolved from a little harbor town into one of Southern California’s most sought-after (and upscale) coastal communities.
While some parts of Newport feel a bit more polished than sandy these days, plenty still hold onto that mellow, old-school beach-town charm. You feel it immediately in Lido Marina Village and the Balboa Peninsula, two side-by-side neighborhoods that define Newport’s beach-to-bay lifestyle. Here’s everything to do in this picture-perfect pocket of California.
Where to Stay
Bay Shores Peninsula Hotel
Bay Shores feels like the peninsula’s cool younger sister — the one who somehow knows the surf report without checking and always picks the perfect beach day playlist. Just steps from both the sand and the bay, this retro-modern boutique stay is small, charming, and perfectly in tune with Newport’s laid-back vibe. Expect coastal-inspired rooms, great amenities, two rooftops, and complimentary beach gear.
Lido House, Autograph Collection
Perfectly perched at the edge of Lido Marina Village, Lido House is designed like a modern Cape Cod retreat; it has the feel of a beach house scaled up into a resort. Think navy-and-white interiors, breezy cabanas, a fun pool scene, and plenty of sun-soaked lounging spots. Topside, the hotel’s rooftop bar, is a local favorite, while the rooms and standalone cottages make it feel like the kind of place you could move into.
Where to Visit
Explore Lido Marina Village
Lido Marina Village is Newport Beach at its chicest. The marina is lined with cute, curated boutiques, florists, cafés, and walkable pathways wrapping around the water. Start with a latte from Herst Coffee Roasters or a matcha from Malibu Farm, then pop into shops like Elysewalker, Eberjey, and Frankies Bikinis. Grab a bite and beer at Circle Hook, lunch at Zinqué, or drinks at Lido Bottle Works.
Bike the Balboa Peninsula Boardwalk
Simply put, biking the Balboa Peninsula boardwalk is a quintessential Newport experience. Rent a cruiser (several shops line Balboa Boulevard), then head along the oceanfront path from Newport Pier down to The Wedge.
Hop on the Balboa Island Ferry
This tiny, three-minute ferry ride is too fun to skip. Running since 1919, it shuttles people between the peninsula and Balboa Island. Once you’re across, walk through Balboa Island’s pretty streets, grab one of the famous frozen bananas, or walk the perimeter for stunning bay views.
Visit The Wedge
The Wedge is one of Newport’s most iconic surf spots. Surfers head here for the big waves, photographers come for the perfect shot, and plenty of people stop by just because it’s one of the prettiest spots on the peninsula. On big-swell days, the jetty gets packed; on calmer days, it’s the perfect place to hang out.
Where to Eat & Drink
Bear Flag Fish Co.
Bear Flag is one of those spots every local casually insists you must try, and they’re right. The poke bowls are super fresh, the burritos are huge, and the seafood plates always hit the spot. It’s fast, delicious, and exactly what you want when you’re in California.
Zinqué
Zinqué is part café, part wine bar, part “should we just stay here all afternoon?” Mornings mean strong espresso and pastries on the patio; afternoons are filled with rosé and snacks; and dinner is like one long, relaxed hang by the harbor.
The Cannery
Set inside a former 1920s cannery, this restaurant is a staple. Expect classic seafood dishes done exactly the way you want them (think oysters, chowder, and perfectly cooked fish), paired with marina views that make everything taste a little better. It’s the kind of spot that’ll leave you wondering why you don’t come here more often.
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