Neighborhood Guide: Airport District
Traveling for business or simply want to stay in the center of it all? Newport Beach’s Airport District acts as a hub for all things business, travel and recreation. The neighborhood surrounds John Wayne Airport, Orange County (SNA), and is home to several upscale hotels, including the newly renovated Hyatt Regency John Wayne Airport Newport Beach. Spend a day at Disneyland with the kids (only 14 miles from the airport) or rent a luxury car, roll the windows down and cruise Pacific Coast Highway! Here’s your guide to exploring all that the Airport District has to offer.
STAY
Just five minutes from the airport lies the Renaissance Newport Beach Hotel, a 10-story property with an ocean-inspired aesthetic. Whether you’re traveling for work or need a chic place to stay in the heart of OC, this hotel has it all with its cabana-lined rooftop pool, full-service restaurant and shuttle service to and from the airport. The stylish Hyatt Regency John Wayne Airport Newport Beach is also another stellar property that offers a little something for everyone. Between the indoor-outdoor meeting and event spaces to the polished guest rooms with Italian marble bathrooms, this urban-chic hotel is OC luxury at its finest.
DINE
While many don’t assume the surrounding community of an airport to be a “foodie” destination, Newport Beach flips the script. Kickstart your day with a Madagascar Vanilla Latte from Stereoscope Coffee Co. or a pastry from Moulin—the best French patisserie in town. For lunch, we love a smoothie and salad from Vibe Organic Kitchen & Juice or a fresh poke bowl from Sweetfin. And when dinner rolls around, you can’t beat Benihana, Campus JAX or il Barone Ristorante.
DO
Escape the hustle and bustle with a day on the green at Newport Beach Golf Course! This 18-hole executive course sits behind John Wayne Airport and boasts scenic views, a practice chipping green and two distinctly different nine holes. If golf isn’t your game (and self-care is), Lemon & Honey Day Spa is a boutique wellness destination that offers everything from hydrating facials and soothing massages to waxing services and spray tans. Treat yourself to a little TLC!
DON’T MISS
Since you’re near the airport, an OC Helicopters tour is a must! Embark on a sky-high tour of the city’s beautiful terrain, taking in views of Newport’s stunning beaches and rugged bluffs. OC Helicopters offers twenty-mile tours for up to four people, so you can soar to new heights in good company! To reserve your ride, click here.
Written by: Kaylin Waizinger