Located in the heart of Newport Beach, California, this dazzling island offers a diverse range of activities for travelers. From strolling along Marine Avenue to embarking on a ferry ride, Balboa Island provides a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Swoop yourself into the island's rich history at the Balboa Museum and more. So venture on a journey of self-discovery as we unveil the best things to do at Balboa Island.
1. Marine Avenue
Popular as the main street of Newport Beach California Balboa Island, Marine Avenue is filled with a vast collection of novelty shops, antique stores, restaurants, surf shops, clothing boutiques, and galleries. You and your beloved can create special shopping memories as you walk hand in hand along this lane.
Plus, this place is a great area to enjoy the captivating view of boats on the water. The surrounding beach makes it a fabulous place to relax.
2. Explore The Cottages
The island is known for its unique and colorful beach cottages that line the streets, and they are a sight to behold. These whimsical cottages are a significant part of the island's charm and history, and many of them have been around for decades.
Walking around the island and admiring the cottages is a great way to spend a leisurely afternoon. The cottages are also a popular subject for photographers and artists, making them a great spot for capturing memories and creating art.
3. Balboa Fun Zone
Part of the things to do at Balboa Island, Fun Zone is one of Southern California's oldest and last great coastal amusement areas. It is a popular family-friendly attraction, offering rides on the waterfront Ferris Wheel, games in the arcade, and a nautical museum.
This is a great place to take kids, and friends, or even have a date, with plenty of food, activities, and shops to enjoy. It is a beloved destination for those seeking an entertaining experience. So, experience an exhilarating blend of fun and adventure.
4. Balboa Island Ferry
The ferry provides a unique and scenic way to travel between Balboa Island and Balboa Peninsula. It has been in operation since 1919 and offers continuous service for drivers, passengers in vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians. The crossing is approximately 800 feet and takes about 3-5 minutes.
This is a great way to enjoy the beautiful views of the harbor and the Pacific Ocean, and it is a beloved attraction for visitors to the area. It operates every day from 6:30 AM to 12 AM.
5. Balboa Island Museum
Founded in 2000, Balboa Island Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of Balboa Island and Newport Beach. It offers free admission to all guests, making it an accessible and informative stop for people.
The museum's exhibits cover a range of topics, including the creation of the island, the ferry, and the notable celebrities who have been associated with the area, such as Shirley Temple and John Wayne. This place will be your educational addition to a day of exploring the island's attractions, shops, and restaurants.
6. Balboa Pavilion
Balboa Pavilion is a historic landmark in Balboa Island Newport Beach. Established in 1906, it played a significant role in the development of Newport Beach by attracting real estate buyers to the area.
Today, the pavilion is used as a marine recreation facility, with sportfishing boats, whale watching, sunset cruises, a restaurant, and an upstairs ballroom for banquets, receptions, and conferences. This is also the transportation terminal for the Catalina Flyer to Catalina Island, making it a convenient and exciting way to explore the nearby island.
7. Relax On Balboa Island
You can unwind on the public beach which offers calm waters and beautiful views. The island's peaceful ambiance and picturesque surroundings create the perfect setting to embrace a slower pace of life.
Whether you're lounging on the beach or simply taking in the island's laid-back atmosphere, Balboa Island is the ideal place to unwind and recharge. So, relax on Balboa Island and let the cool ocean air blow through your hair, just like in the movies.
8. Catalina Island Excursion
You have to consider embarking on an exciting excursion to Catalina Island when you are in Balboa Island. The Catalina Flyer, a 600-passenger catamaran ferry, offers round trip service from Newport Beach to Catalina Island, providing a quick and efficient 75-minute crossing with fantastic coastal views.
This adventure presents an excellent opportunity to explore the natural beauty and unique attractions of Catalina Island, including its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming towns.
9. Rent A Duffy Boat
Feel an incredibly enjoyable experience that will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated by renting a Duffy boat. As you captain your electric boat, you'll glide through the sparkling waters of Newport Harbor, passing by stunning coastal estates and magnificent yachts.
The easy classic marine style of the Duffy boat makes for a leisurely and comfortable cruise. You can enjoy the picturesque views and feel the gentle breeze as you explore the harbor at your own pace.
10. Go For Paddleboarding
When you are on this astonishing island, why not seize the day and try paddleboarding? It's an amazing way to soak up the sun, get some exercise, and connect with the beautiful coastal surroundings. You can rent a paddleboard from various places on the island.
Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro, the calm waters around the island make for a perfect paddleboarding experience. So, gather your friends, embrace the sunshine, and make some special memories out on the water.
11. Go For Shopping
Exploring local shops is a key part of any vacation because it adds excitement and lets you find special things to remember your trip by.
With over 100 picturesque boutiques, gift shops, galleries, and more, this island is the perfect place to find everything you are looking for, from apparel to accessories to artwork, decor items, and gifts. So, grab your cards and embark on a memorable shopping experience in Balboa California.
12. St.John Vianney Chapel
A visit to St. John Vianney Chappel is a must for its serene and welcoming atmosphere, beautiful mosaics, and its significance as a historic Catholic parish. Whether you're interested in attending Mass, seeking a peaceful place for reflection, or simply admiring the chapel's architectural beauty, it is sure to be a memorable and uplifting experience.
The rich history and friendly community make it a wonderful place to connect with your faith and enjoy a moment of tranquility.
13. Indulge an Original Frozen Banana
When you're on Balboa Island, treating yourself to an original frozen banana is an absolute must. These iconic sweet treats have been a mainstay for nearly 75 years and are a true local treasure.
Dipped in chocolate and covered with a variety of delicious coatings, from nuts and sprinkles to cookie crumbs, they offer the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors. Thus, indulging in a frozen banana is a delightful way to savor the island's rich culinary tradition.
14. Go For A Coffee Date At Huskins Coffee Company
Huskins Coffee offers a unique and inviting experience. The bright and airy space provides the perfect setting for a coffee date, where you can enjoy their signature Maple Latte and explore their selection of locally-made gifts and merchandise.
The photogenic interior and live music performances create a cozy and charming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to unwind. So, don't waste any time and head to this amazing and pleasant coffee spot.
15. Biking Around Island
Dive into the heart of Balboa Island with a biking adventure that promises to awaken your senses and ignite your spirit. You can feel the rhythm of coastal life as you pedal along its scenic shores, exploring hidden treasures, charming boutiques, and local art galleries that beckon with stories waiting to be told.
Let the symphony of crashing waves guide your journey as you chase the sunset, creating memories and forging connections that will last a lifetime.
16. Whale And Dolphin Watching
Newport Landing Whale Watching offers a 2-2.5 hour cruise with prices starting from $20. During the late spring and summer months, you can view giant blue whales, humpback whales, finback whales, minke whales, and much more.
With one of the largest marine protected parks just outside of Newport Bay, whales and dolphins of all types can be viewed as soon as you leave the bay. Balboa Island is a great place to start your adventure.
17. Go For Swimming At Ruby Beach
You should definitely go for a swim at Ruby Beach. The beach is public and there are no waves, making it a perfect spot for families with little kids.
The shore is located between Ruby Ave and Diamond Ave, along the North Bay Front. It is the only beach area on the island with a roped-off swimming area and no shore moorings. So, you can enjoy swimming without worrying about boats. Refresh your mood and make your day swimmy.
18. Walk On Balboa Pier
While exploring Balboa Island, make sure to savor a walk along the historic Balboa Pier, a beloved landmark offering sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean and Newport Beach.
Whether you're seeking a tranquil walk, angling for a catch, or simply relishing the sea breeze, the pier sets the stage for a serene and unforgettable outing. Don't miss the chance to revel in the breathtaking coastal scenery and the relaxed ambiance that makes Balboa Pier a cherished spot.
19. Newport Beach Municipal Beach
This beautiful stretch of coastline offers pristine sands, sparkling waters, and a variety of activities for everyone to enjoy. Whether you want to relax and soak up the sun or try beach volleyball, this beach has something for you.
If you're into surfing or interested in learning, it offers an awesome surf break, making it the perfect spot for catching waves and enjoying the beach. So, soak up the sun and breathe in the fresh coastal air at Balboa Beach California.
20. Surf's Up At The Wedge
Located at the extreme east end of the Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach, the Wedge is a popular surfing spot. It is known for its large wedge-shaped waves that can reach up to 30 feet high during a south or southwest swell of the right size and alignment in the swell window.
The beach at The Wedge is very steeply shaped sand, resulting in what is known as shore break and a very strong backwash which often drags people back into the surf.
