December may be quickly approaching, and most of the country may be donning boots and jackets, but in Newport Beach, CA we’re still sporting bathing suits and flip-flops. Our pleasant climate, warm sunshine, and coastal access invites you to step outside and enjoy all that Newport Beach has to offer, especially when it comes to group travel. Newport Beach’s year-round climate, teams up with miles of beaches and one of the largest recreational harbors in the US for numerous outdoor activities sure to get any group excited! But wait, there’s more! Each of the following activities (including shopping) will give groups an immersive destination experience, and one that captures the very vibe of the area.

Duffy Boats – Nothing says Newport Beach more than a Duffy! Nearly everyone living on Newport Harbor has a Duffy, and why not? A cruise aboard a Duffy is an easy way to enjoy the beauty of the area. Duffy’s are quiet, comfortable electric boats that glide through the water. They’re perfect for sunset cocktail cruises, a relaxing group outing or as a unique transfer to waterfront restaurants.

Rowing – Each weekday morning at 6 AM and each afternoon at 4 PM, you’ll hear the rhythmic call to Newport’s crew teams. Rowing is as much a part of Newport Beach’s history as John Wayne. For years, high schools, local colleges and service organizations have been rowing their way through the harbor. Your group can be a part of this long–standing Newport Beach sport either as a teambuilding activity or simply as a way to partake in a sport indicative of the destination.

Sailing – Just like rowing, sailing seems to be a prerequisite of living in Newport Beach. Afternoon waters are filled with dozens of sabots, (sailing is a school elective). With as many as 10 yacht clubs lining the harbor, Newport residents can learn sailing at a young age. But your group doesn’t need to know how to sail to enjoy it, thanks to a number of sailing companies, and captains along the harbor.

Have a group that would prefer to watch rather than hoist the sails? Newport has you covered with the legendary Newport Beach to Ensenada Mexico yacht race. Started by hard-core sailors from local yacht clubs back in 1948, the Newport-Ensenada race has grown into one of the largest sailboat races in the nation. In fact, long-time Newport Beach resident Humphrey Bogart was among the original instigators of the first official race. Bogart sailed his boat alongside Spencer Tracy and Errol Flynn during those early years of the race. If you’re looking to give your group a unique Newport Beach experience, The Newport to Ensenada Race will do just that. Watching literally hundreds of sailboats jockey for position at the starting point is an amazing sight your group can only witness in Newport Beach, CA

SUP Paddleboard – Stand Up Paddleboards seem to have taken over the kayak market across the country and Newport Beach is no exception. SUP’s are a fun way to get an up close view of the harbor, and a great core workout at the same time. Locals know this, which is why on any given day you’ll see plenty of SUP’s dotting Newport’s waterways.

Biking/Pedego – Biking seems to be a favorite activity for many Newport Beach locals. Plenty of sunshine, coastal and bluff top bike paths make it easy to get out and appreciate the beauty of Newport. For a twist on traditional pedaling try Pedego’s, electric bikes that make it a breeze to get around town. For a real taste of the local scene, consider taking your group on a pub-crawl Newport Beach style! Start with a ferry ride from Balboa Island to the peninsula, then head down the boardwalk lined with pubs, (don’t worry we can have your bikes picked up at any one of the pubs along the way) return transfers will be via a coach.

Shopping – A great way to experience the vibe of Newport Beach is with a shopping trip to one of the many coastal boutiques. Shopping in Newport Beach will give your group a glimpse of Newport’s comfortably chic lifestyle. For a beautiful outdoor shopping experience head to the lux boutiques of the ocean view, upscale shopping destination Fashion Island. Stop by Kendra Scott for a private, “design your own jewelry” party, or take home a memento from one of the many eclectic shops lining quaint Balboa Island or check out the newly renovated harborside shops of Lido Marina Village.

Participating in an activity favored by locals will enable your group to experience the true spirit of a destination, leading to a cultural connection and memories of a well-orchestrated program.

Where can you find information on top local activities and cultural experiences in Newport Beach, CA? Start by involving Visit Newport Beach, the local DMO and a meeting planner’s best friend. Visit Newport Beach opens the doors to the Newport Beach experience with insider knowledge and strong partnerships. Visit Newport Beach can help determine the best fit for your group, simplify the planning process and offer resources to help extend the meeting budget.