20 Fun Things To Do In Newport Beach California

1. Walk Along The Newport Pier

Newport Pier, nestled in Newport Beach, California, stands as a picturesque symbol of the city's coastal allure. Stretching gracefully into the Pacific Ocean, this historic wooden pier offers visitors a multifaceted experience.

As one of the oldest piers in Orange County, Newport Pier not only provides stunning panoramic views of the ocean and coastline but also serves as a hub for recreational activities.

Fishing enthusiasts can be seen casting lines into the deep blue waters, hoping for a catch of the day, while others prefer leisurely walks along the pier, taking in the salty breeze and the rhythmic crashing of waves against the pilings making it one of the Newport Beach, CA attractions.

2. Visit Balboa Peninsula

Balboa Peninsula, situated in Newport Beach, California, is a vibrant coastal destination offering a blend of sun-soaked beaches, charming shops, and enticing restaurants. This narrow strip of land is bordered by the Pacific Ocean on one side and Newport Harbor on the other, creating a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and strolls.

Visitors can relax on pristine sandy beaches, take a scenic bike ride along the boardwalk, or explore the iconic Balboa Fun Zone with its vintage arcade games and Ferris wheel.

The peninsula is also home to a variety of boutique shops, surf stores, and art galleries, where shoppers can find unique gifts and souvenirs. Dining options abound, ranging from casual beachfront cafes to upscale seafood restaurants, offering fresh local cuisine and breathtaking views of the ocean.

3. Explore The Newport Beach Farmers' Market

The Newport Beach Farmer's Market is a vibrant community gathering held weekly, offering a delightful array of local produce, artisanal crafts, and food trucks. Located in the heart of Newport Beach, California, this market showcases fresh fruits and vegetables, organic goods, and handmade crafts from local farmers and artisans.

Visitors can browse through colorful stalls filled with seasonal produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and specialty items, supporting local growers and producers. The market also features a variety of food trucks offering diverse culinary delights and a delicious sampling of Southern California's diverse food scene.

With live music, family-friendly activities, and a bustling atmosphere, the Newport Beach Farmer's Market is a beloved destination where residents and visitors alike can enjoy a taste of local culture and community spirit. 

4. Explore Lido Marina Village

Lido Marina Village in Newport Beach offers a charming blend of boutique shopping and waterfront dining along its scenic promenade, making it one of the top things to do in Newport Beach, California.

This upscale shopping destination features a curated selection of stylish boutiques, artisanal shops, and specialty stores, perfect for fashion enthusiasts and trendsetters. Visitors can explore unique finds, from designer clothing and accessories to home decor and gourmet treats, all set against the backdrop of stunning harbor views.

Lido Marina Village also boasts a variety of waterfront restaurants and cafes, where patrons can indulge in delicious cuisine while enjoying the sights and sounds of Newport's bustling marina.

5. Shop At Fashion Island

Fashion Island in Newport Beach, California, is a premier destination offering upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment, making it one of the top attractions in Newport Beach, CA. This iconic outdoor mall features a curated selection of luxury retailers, boutique shops, and department stores such as Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom.

Visitors can explore the latest fashion trends, designer brands, and unique home decor items while enjoying the open-air ambiance and scenic views of the Pacific Ocean. Fashion Island also boasts a variety of restaurants ranging from fine dining to casual eateries, providing a diverse culinary experience.

With its beautiful landscaping, fountains, and entertainment options like movie theaters and live music events, Fashion Island offers a sophisticated and enjoyable destination for shopping and leisure activities in Newport Beach, California.

6. Visit Crystal Cove State Park

Crystal Cove State Park, located near Newport Beach, California, offers a pristine natural setting where visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities. This coastal gem features scenic hiking trails that wind through coastal sage scrub and offer panoramic ocean views.

Picnic areas among native plants provide a perfect spot for families and friends to enjoy meals surrounded by nature's beauty. The park's sandy shores invite visitors to relax, sunbathe, or explore tide pools teeming with marine life.

Crystal Cove State Park also preserves historic beach cottages, offering a glimpse into California's past and a unique backdrop for exploring the park's natural wonders. 

7. Explore Newport Beach Wine Tasting

Newport Beach Wine Tasting invites visitors to explore local wineries and tasting rooms, offering a delightful experience in Newport Beach, California. This activity allows wine enthusiasts to sample a variety of wines crafted from grapes grown in nearby vineyards.

Visitors can enjoy guided tastings led by knowledgeable staff, learning about the wine-making process and the unique characteristics of each wine. Some venues may offer vineyard tours, providing an opportunity to see firsthand how grapes are cultivated and harvested.

Whether enjoying a leisurely afternoon of wine tasting with friends or attending special events hosted by local wineries, Newport Beach Wine Tasting offers a sophisticated and enjoyable way to appreciate California's thriving wine culture in a coastal setting.

8. Take A Balboa Island Ferry ride

The Balboa Island Ferry offers a scenic boat ride across Newport Harbor, providing a charming way to experience the coastal beauty of Newport Beach, California. This iconic ferry service transports passengers and vehicles between Balboa Peninsula and Balboa Island, offering picturesque views of the harbor, luxury yachts, and waterfront homes along the way.

The short crossing is a popular activity for visitors and locals alike, providing an opportunity to enjoy the sea breeze and panoramic views of Newport Beach's iconic landmarks.

Whether you're exploring Balboa Island's shops and restaurants or simply taking in the sights from the ferry deck, the Balboa Island Ferry offers a memorable and relaxing experience on the water in Newport Beach.

9. Go Jet skiing

Jet skiing in Newport Beach, California, offers an exhilarating experience for adventure enthusiasts seeking thrills on the ocean. Visitors can rent jet skis from local rental companies and explore Newport Harbor's scenic waters or venture out into the open Pacific Ocean for an adrenaline-pumping ride.

With the wind in your hair and the water beneath you, jet skiing allows you to zip across the waves, enjoying panoramic views of the coastline and possibly spotting marine life along the way.

Whether you're a beginner looking to try something new or an experienced rider seeking excitement, jet skiing provides a memorable and dynamic way to enjoy Newport Beach's stunning coastal scenery.

10. Attend Newport Beach Jazz Festival

The Newport Beach Jazz Festival invites music enthusiasts to enjoy a vibrant celebration of jazz and contemporary music in a scenic outdoor setting. Held annually in Newport Beach, California, this festival showcases a lineup of talented musicians and bands performing live on stage.

Attendees can immerse themselves in the rhythmic melodies of jazz, soul, and R&B while enjoying the beautiful coastal ambiance. The festival typically features a mix of local and nationally renowned artists, offering a diverse musical experience for all ages.

Whether lounging on the lawn with friends or dancing to the smooth tunes by the ocean, the Newport Beach Jazz Festival promises a memorable weekend filled with music, relaxation, and community spirit in one of Southern California's most picturesque locations.

11. Cruising along the Coast Highway(PCH)

Cruising along the Coast Highway (PCH) in Newport Beach, California, offers a picturesque drive with breathtaking ocean views. This scenic route winds along the coastline, providing motorists with panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged California coastline.

Drivers can enjoy the cool ocean breeze and the sight of crashing waves as they travel along this iconic highway. The Coast Highway (PCH) is dotted with scenic overlooks, beach access points, and charming seaside towns, making it a popular route for leisurely drives and exploration.

Whether you're seeking a relaxing coastal journey or a scenic drive to appreciate Southern California's natural beauty, cruising along the Coast Highway (PCH) promises a memorable experience in Newport Beach.

12. Newport Aquatic Center

The Newport Aquatic Center in Newport Beach, California, offers a fantastic opportunity to rent kayaks, canoes, or outrigger canoes to explore the picturesque waters of Newport Harbor. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddler, the center provides a range of watercraft to suit your adventure style.

Renters can paddle along calm channels, venture out into the open harbor, or explore nearby ecological reserves teeming with marine life. The Newport Aquatic Center also offers lessons and guided tours for those looking to enhance their skills or learn more about the area's natural history.

Whether enjoying a peaceful paddle or embarking on a guided excursion, the Newport Aquatic Center provides a memorable way to experience Newport Beach's beautiful coastal environment from the water.

13. Newport Beach Whale Watching

Newport Beach Whale Watching offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts looking to observe majestic marine life up close. Situated in Newport Beach, California, these boat tours take visitors out into the Pacific Ocean to spot whales, dolphins, and other sea creatures in their natural habitat.

Depending on the season, you might see gray whales, blue whales, humpback whales, or even playful pods of dolphins. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the behaviors and migration patterns of these incredible animals, enhancing the educational aspect of the tour.

With stunning coastal scenery as a backdrop, Newport Beach Whale Watching combines adventure and education, making it a must-do activity for anyone visiting the area.

14. Harbor Fishing Charters

Harbor Fishing Charters in Newport Beach, California, offer an exciting opportunity for anglers of all skill levels to enjoy fishing in Newport Harbor or venture offshore into the open Pacific Ocean. These charters provide all the necessary gear and expertise, ensuring a memorable fishing experience. In Newport Harbor, you can catch a variety of fish species in the calm, protected waters, perfect for a relaxing day on the water.

For those seeking more adventure, offshore charters take you further out to deep waters where you can target larger game fish like tuna, marlin, and yellowtail. Experienced captains and crew are on hand to guide you, whether you're a beginner learning the basics or an experienced fisherman seeking a new challenge. With stunning ocean views and the thrill of the catch, Harbor Fishing Charters in Newport Beach promises an enjoyable and rewarding day at sea.

15.Walk or bike at Back Bay Loop Trail

The Back Bay Loop Trail in Newport Beach, California is a scenic route perfect for hiking or biking, offering stunning views of the bay and surrounding natural habitats. This well-maintained trail circles Upper Newport Bay, providing a serene environment for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.

Along the way, visitors can enjoy diverse landscapes, including wetlands, coastal sage scrub, and panoramic vistas of the bay's tranquil waters. The trail is suitable for all fitness levels and offers several entry points, making it accessible for both short strolls and longer, more challenging excursions.

Whether you're birdwatching, taking in the natural beauty, or enjoying a peaceful bike ride, the Back Bay Loop Trail provides a refreshing escape into nature in the heart of Newport Beach.

16. Visit Orange County Museum of Art

The Orange County Museum of Art, located in Newport Center is a renowned institution dedicated to contemporary art. This museum showcases an impressive collection of modern and contemporary works from both local and international artists, providing visitors with a dynamic and thought-provoking cultural experience. 

The Orange County Museum of Art hosts rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and special events, making it a vibrant hub for art enthusiasts and the community. With its sleek architecture and innovative displays, the museum offers an engaging environment for exploring the latest trends and movements in contemporary art. 

17. The Wedge

The Wedge in Newport Beach, California, is a renowned surf spot famous for its massive, thrilling waves that attract surfers and spectators alike. Located at the eastern end of the Balboa Peninsula, The Wedge is known for its unique wave patterns, created by the interaction of ocean swells with the man-made jetty, resulting in some of the biggest and most powerful waves in Southern California.

Surfers come from all over to test their skills on these challenging waves, while onlookers gather along the shore to witness the impressive displays of athleticism and bravery. The best time to experience The Wedge is during a strong south swell, typically in late summer and fall when the waves can reach heights of up to 30 feet. 

18. Visit The Balboa Pavilion

 The Balboa Pavilion in Newport Beach, California, is a historic waterfront landmark offering dining and boat tour options, steeped in local charm and maritime history. Built-in 1906, this iconic structure serves as a gateway to Newport Harbor, welcoming visitors with its distinctive architecture and nostalgic ambiance.

Inside, the pavilion houses various dining establishments where patrons can savor fresh seafood and coastal cuisine while enjoying panoramic views of the harbor and bustling marina. The pavilion also serves as a departure point for scenic boat tours, allowing guests to explore the beauty of Newport Harbor and nearby attractions from the water.

Whether dining with waterfront views or embarking on a leisurely boat excursion, the Balboa Pavilion offers a quintessential Newport Beach experience rich in both tradition and modern coastal allure.

19. Duffy Boat Rentals

Duffy Boat Rentals in Newport Beach, California, offers a unique and leisurely way to explore Newport Harbor aboard an electric Duffy boat. These eco-friendly boats provide a relaxing and quiet experience as you cruise along the scenic waterways of the harbor.

Perfect for groups or couples, Duffy boats are easy to operate and come equipped with comfortable seating and a canopy for shade, ensuring a comfortable outing regardless of the weather. Whether you're looking to enjoy a sunset cruise, a daytime excursion with friends, or a romantic getaway, Duffy Boat Rentals provides a memorable and tranquil experience on the water in Newport Beach.

20. Sherman Library & Gardens