Newport Beach Travel Guide: Discover the Best of our Hometown
From world-class restaurants and buzzy bars to coastal walks, boardwalk bike rides, boutique shopping, and harbor cruises—Newport Beach offers a blend of elevated style and laid-back fun. Whether you're in the mood for fresh seafood by the bay, rooftop cocktails at sunset, or an afternoon exploring charming local shops, there's something here for every kind of traveler.
Things to Do in Newport Beach
From coastal walks and boardwalk bike rides to harbor cruises and world-class shopping, Newport Beach is full of laid-back charm and elevated experiences. Here are some of our favorite ways to explore the area:
🌴 Explore
Balboa Island
A charming, walkable island accessible by car or ferry. Stroll the boardwalk that circles the island (about 45 minutes), browse boutiques along Marine Avenue, and don’t miss the famous Balboa Bar from Dad’s Donuts or Sugar & Spice.
Balboa Peninsula
Spend the day at the beach, walk the boardwalk, rent bikes, or watch surfers at The Wedge. For something more relaxed, head to Blackie’s by the Sea on 21st Street and Oceanfront—perfect for casual bites and local people-watching.
Balboa Fun Zone
Ride the iconic Ferris wheel, rent a boat, and browse for souvenirs at this nostalgic bayside boardwalk.
Lido Marina Village
An upscale waterfront district with stylish boutiques and cafes. Shop Jenni Kayne, Amber Interiors, LoveShackFancy, and Cynthia Rowley (say hi to our friend Connie!). Grab lunch at Malibu Farm, Zinqué, or Nobu.
Fashion Island
A beautiful open-air shopping center with designer boutiques, department stores, and great dining. Don’t miss the French Dip at R+D Kitchen for lunch.
Roger’s Gardens
A stunning nursery and lifestyle destination—especially magical during the holidays. Known for seasonal décor and charming garden rooms.
Crystal Cove State Beach
Tucked between Corona del Mar and Laguna Beach, this historic beach cove features soft sand, scenic trails, and coastal cottages from the 1930s and ’40s. Dine beachside at The Beachcomber and explore the historic district nestled around Los Trancos Creek.
Duffy Boat Rentals
Nothing says Newport like cruising the harbor in an electric Duffy boat. Pack snacks and enjoy a relaxing float past waterfront homes.
🍽 Where to Eat
☕ Coffee & Breakfast
C'est Si Bon
A local favorite for decades. French-inspired pastries, baguette sandwiches, and one of the best breakfast croissants in town.
Malibu Farm (Lido Marina Village)
Fresh, coastal, and organic-focused. Great for a light breakfast with harbor views. Order the Swedish pancakes or egg sandwich.
The Beachcomber Café (Crystal Cove)
Enjoy breakfast right on the sand—this nostalgic spot is a must for early risers. Get there before 9AM for easier parking.
Alta Coffee
A cozy, artistic local haunt just off the peninsula, famous for their creamy chai lattes and laid-back neighborhood vibe.
🥂 Brunch Spots
Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens
Surrounded by blooming gardens, this hidden gem offers seasonal, farm-to-table brunch in a relaxed yet elevated setting.
Cannery Café (inside the Cannery restaurant)
Laid-back weekend brunch with marina views—especially peaceful on sunny mornings.
🥗 Lunch Favorites
Bear Flag Fish Co.
Fresh, casual seafood—perfect for poke bowls, grilled fish tacos, and the best casual ceviche around.
Malibu Farm
Light and bright options ideal for a mid-day meal by the water. Great salads and cocktails.
Gulfstream
Classic American fare with a Southern twist—try the cedar plank salmon or rotisserie chicken. Great patio atmosphere.
🍽 Dinner Destinations
RH Newport Beach – Ocean Grill
Located on the rooftop of RH at Fashion Island, this is your go-to for elegant coastal dining with the best view in town.
Nick’s Newport Beach
Consistently rated one of the best spots in town. Chic, approachable, and reliably delicious. Start with the deviled eggs.
Ocean 48
A new addition with upscale steak and seafood, plus an extensive wine list. Stylish interior, perfect for date night or celebration dinners.
21 Oceanfront
Elegant and romantic, with panoramic ocean views and a traditional fine dining menu. Ideal for anniversaries and special evenings.
Fly N Fish Oyster Bar & Grill
Fresh oysters, chowder, and waterfront casual seafood. A must for East Coast-style seafood lovers.
The Cannery
An iconic Newport landmark. Upscale sushi, seafood, and steaks in a restored historic cannery overlooking the bay. Open for brunch and dinner.
A Restaurant
A moody, clubby interior and a menu centered around dry-aged steak, cocktails, and rich, indulgent dishes. A Newport classic.
ARC Butcher & Baker / ARC Restaurant
Modern American with bold, fire-roasted flavors. Perfect for foodies or adventurous eaters.
The Quiet Woman (Corona del Mar)
Lively scene with hearty entrees, stiff martinis, and live music later in the evening. A fun locals' spot.
Louie’s by the Bay
Overlooking the marina, Louie’s is perfect for an elegant dinner. The menu blends Italian classics with coastal favorites.
CDM Restaurant (Corona del Mar)
Trendy, upscale bistro with a moody interior and refined menu. Great for dinner dates or cocktails with friends.
🛍 Bonus Local Favorites
Crocker’s – The Well Dressed Frank
Casual, charming, and delicious. A must-stop for gourmet hot dogs and old-school charm.
Bear Flag – Multiple Locations
Worth a second mention for its all-day appeal and fresh-off-the-boat quality.
🚲 Active Coastal Living
Cycle the boardwalk along the beach.
Paddleboard through the calm harbor waters.
Learn to surf or watch the pros at The Wedge.
🍸 Nightlife & Bars
A Restaurant Newport Beach and Newport Coast
Both locations offer a vibrant late-night scene with refined cocktails, moody lighting, and a fashionable crowd. Ideal for date nights or post-dinner drinks.
Javier’s (Crystal Cove)
Upscale Mexican dining with a dramatic bar scene and killer margaritas. A popular choice for a lively, stylish night out.
CDM Bar (inside CDM Restaurant)
Dimly lit and intimate with craft cocktails and a chic ambiance. Great for after-dinner drinks or a stylish meet-up.
The Quiet Woman
Also known to locals as the Qdub.
Turns into a lively bar with live music and dancing later in the evening. High energy with a mix of locals and visitors.
The Cannery
Locals love The Cannery not only for dinner but also for its excellent happy hour with marina views and elevated bites. Be sure to order the popular 911 Roll and say Hi to our favorites: Ashlyn, Ryan and Cole.
21 Oceanfront
Perfect for sunset drinks or after-dinner cocktails. Elegant and timeless, with beautiful views of the ocean.
Topside Roof Deck at Lido House
Newport's only rooftop bar, offering craft cocktails, light bites, and panoramic sunset views over Lido Marina. A must-visit for out-of-towners.
Malarky’s Irish Pub (Balboa Peninsula)
A younger, upbeat crowd and energetic pub atmosphere. Great for a casual drink and late-night energy.
Stag Bar + Kitchen (Balboa Peninsula)
One of the oldest bars in Newport with a massive liquor selection and buzzing bar scene. Fun and casual.
The Helmsman Ale House (Balboa Peninsula)
Trendy, industrial vibe with local beers and a lively crowd. A great spot for groups.
Cassidy’s Bar & Grill (Balboa Peninsula)
A beloved Newport dive bar with strong drinks, casual locals, and no frills. Authentic and fun.
🛍 Shopping Highlights
Lido Marina Village
An upscale waterfront destination filled with stylish boutiques and design-forward shops. Stop into Jenni Kayne, Amber Interiors, LoveShackFancy, and Cynthia Rowley (say hi to our friend Connie!). Enjoy a relaxed lunch at Malibu Farm, Zinqué, or Nobu after shopping.
Fashion Island
A beautiful open-air shopping center with everything from designer labels to department stores and great dining. A must for gift shopping or wardrobe upgrades. Our lunch go-to: the French Dip at R+D Kitchen.
Balboa Island
In addition to its famous Balboa Bars and coastal charm, Marine Avenue on Balboa Island is lined with quaint boutiques and specialty shops—perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll and some unique finds.
Roger’s Gardens
More than just a nursery, Roger’s Gardens is a beautifully curated destination filled with seasonal décor, garden rooms, and home goods. It's especially magical at Christmas time, when the entire property transforms into a holiday wonderland.
🏨 Where to Stay
Balboa Bay Resort – Right on the bay with marina views and a classic coastal feel
Lido House Hotel – A luxury boutique hotel steps from Lido Marina Village
Vea Newport Beach – Modern, upscale, and walkable to Fashion Island
The Resort at Pelican Hill – Five-star villas and bungalows with sweeping ocean views
Marriott Newport Coast Villas – Family-friendly, perched above Crystal Cove with coastal access