We get it, family vacations are not one-size-fit-all. Depending on the age of your kids, you’re bound to have completely different experiences from families with tots versus teens. Not to worry, we’ve got you covered with itinerary suggestions that are just right for every age group. From relaxing waterfront walks with your infant to thrilling aquatic adventures perfect for tweens. Here’s the scoop on how the whole family (grandparents too!) can enjoy Newport Beach’s sun, sea and sandy shores at any age!

Babies and Toddlers

Stay at Hyatt Regency Newport Beach, which sits on 26 acres of landscaped grounds with on-site walking paths perfect for strollers and little legs.

Play on Balboa Island. Bring the stroller for a nostalgic walk along charming Marine Avenue, where Dad’s Donuts and Sugar ‘n Spice both claim status as creators of Newport’s iconic Balboa Bar.

Dine on home-style cooking at Wilma’s Patio. The Balboa Island fixture is beloved by local families for its pet-friendly patio, relaxed vibe and kid-friendly comfort food.

If you have one extra hour: Tour Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona del Mar. Its paved pathways are easy-to-navigate and allow your little one to have close-up views of plants from around the world while safely secured in a stroller.

Elementary School Kids

Stay at Marriott’s Newport Coast Villas. The sprawling grounds are home to lawn games, s’mores roasting pits and four pools that can keep kids entertained in between excursions.

Play at Little Corona del Mar beach or Crystal Cove. Both beaches have popular tidepools where kids can explore and learn about incredible creatures living just below the surface.

Dine on a piping hot slice at Sgt. Pepperoni’s, a local favorite since 1976 with New York-style pizza and an arcade room where kids beg to spend their quarters.

If you have one extra hour: Take a short walk through the Balboa Fun Zone. Treat your kids to a ride on the historic Ferris wheel that provides a bird’s-eye view of the bustling harbor.

Tweens and Teens

Stay at Lido House, which boasts a boutique vibe and Cape Cod-style decor. Lido House is walking distance to Lido Marina Village and has unbeatable views of the sunset every night.

Play in the Back Bay with a stand-up paddleboard or kayak rental from Pirate Coast Paddle Co., where even beginners can learn to navigate the calm water with ease. For a break in the action, head up the road to catch a movie at Fashion Island’s luxury cinema, The Lot.

Dine at Circle Hook, a fast-casual counter service spot at Lido Marina Village. Teens will love seafood you can dig into after a long day, like fish and chips and lobster rolls — no utensils needed.

If you have one extra hour: Rent an electric boat from Lido Marina Village Electric Boat Rental. Pack snacks for the whole family and a bottle of wine for you to enjoy while cruising the harbor aboard a self-captained vessel.

Multi-Generational

Stay at the Pelican Hill Villas. Two-, three- and four-bedroom retreats can accommodate parents, kids and grandparents with all the comforts of home, including a fully-equipped gourmet kitchen.

Play out on the water during a whale watching excursion with Davey’s Locker or Newport Coastal Adventure. Departing from Newport Harbor, daily cruises promise glimpses of giant blue whales, humpbacks, dolphins and more.

Dine just a few steps from the shore at Beachcomber Café, housed inside a Crystal Cove Historic District cottage. Catch the legendary raising of the martini flag during dinner and save room for dessert — a plate of the restaurant’s famous beignets to share with the table.

If you have one extra hour: Leave the kids with their grandparents and escape for an adults-only cocktail hour. Grab an app and handcrafted libation at one of our new local hot spots, Fable & Spirit (named Orange County’s Best New Restaurant in 2019) or CdM Restaurant in Corona del Mar.