6 Newport Beach Experiences for the Luxury Traveler
It’s no secret Newport Beach offers the best of both worlds. For many, a trip here consists of endless beach days and lots of adventure, but there’s also an assortment of luxury shops, fine dining restaurants and high-end hotels if you enjoy the frills of vacation. And if luxury is more your style, this guide will help you discover Newport Beach’s sophisticated side—think yacht charters, ocean-view golfing, omakase dining experiences and more! Here are six Newport Beach experiences for the luxury traveler.
Stay in Luxury
Newport Beach is home to some of the best resorts in Southern California that redefine coastal luxury. The Resort at Pelican Hill offers a Tuscan-inspired escape with sweeping ocean views, Roman-style architecture, a showstopping Coliseum Pool and ultra-private villas featuring full kitchens, personal butlers and access to the exclusive Villa Clubhouse. Over on the Balboa Peninsula, Lido House blends beachside charm with boutique style—its five coastal cottages are individually designed to embody Newport’s “barefoot luxury” lifestyle and come with perks like in-cottage spa treatments, curated shopping experiences and beach gear rentals.
For a more contemporary Newport Beach spa resort stay, Pendry Newport Beach delivers modern sophistication steps from Fashion Island, where specialty suites like the Newport and Lido boast floor-to-ceiling ocean views, marble bathrooms, full kitchens and exclusive access to the private Elwood Club. Whether your version of luxury is poolside serenity, designer interiors or curated coastal experiences, Newport Beach has a stay to match your style.
Play an Unforgettable Round of Golf
A signature feature of The Resort at Pelican Hill, Pelican Hill Golf Club offers an elevated tee time experience set against one of the most breathtaking coastal backdrops in Southern California. Re-perfected by renowned course designer Tom Fazio, the Ocean North and Ocean South courses span 36 holes of pure seaside splendor, where every fairway offers sweeping ocean views. In addition to the dramatic natural setting, guests enjoy access to an expertly appointed practice facility, men’s and women’s locker rooms with private lounges, GPS-enabled golf carts, complimentary valet parking and a stunning clubhouse with alfresco dining at its signature restaurant. Just be warned—keeping your eye on the ball can be tricky when the scenery is this stunning.
Rent a Private Yacht
Indulge in a touch of opulence with a private yacht charter in Newport Beach, where every detail is thoughtfully curated. For a truly elevated day at sea—whether you’re celebrating something special or simply savoring the good life—our coastal haven offers a range of upscale yacht charter experiences. Newport Coast Marine Yacht Charters is known for its sleek, state-of-the-art vessels from prestigious brands like Ferretti and Sunseeker, each equipped with cutting-edge navigation systems, lavish amenities and a licensed crew to handle every nautical need. Captain Newport offers flexible charters that range from a few hours to full weekend getaways, with party-ready yachts that can accommodate up to 70 guests. And for those drawn to clean lines and innovative design, VanDutch Newport Beach delivers with its iconic minimalist yachts and curated itineraries, from harbor cruises to Catalina Island escapes. Let your crew take the helm while you sip, sunbathe and cruise the coastline in style.
Indulge in Newport Beach’s Best Fine Dining
Our city is a haven for discerning foodies seeking unforgettable Newport Beach fine dining experiences. At Ocean 48 in Fashion Island, seafood takes center stage with fresh plates of wild-caught salmon, crab, and lobster, all complemented by an impressive wine list and standout cocktails. For timeless sophistication, Mastro’s Ocean Club delivers with sultry lighting, exceptional service, and a land-meets-sea menu that includes tender filet mignon, lobster tails, and everything in between.
Still hungry for more Newport Beach fine dining? Sushi aficionados will find their match at Sushi ii, where Master Chef Susumu Ii crafts traditional omakase experiences using the freshest seasonal ingredients and Japanese-imported fish. Meanwhile, along the harbor, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar boasts sweeping bay views and a globally inspired wine list paired with modern California cuisine—perfect for both date night and daytime indulgence. And for a cozy, classic vibe, A Restaurant charms with its storied past, rich leather booths, and hearty American fare, including premium steaks and signature cocktails that keep locals and visitors coming back.
Discover the Best Views of Newport Beach From the Sky
Ready to take your vacation to new heights with a Newport luxury tour? Located in the Atlantic Terminal at John Wayne Airport, OC Helicopters offers aerial tours of the Orange County coastline. Enjoy a bird’s eye view of some of Newport Beach’s most famous landmarks, including The Wedge, Balboa Island, and the historic Balboa Fun Zone. You also get to see miles of sandy beaches and blue waters! Ric Webb, the chief pilot of OC Helicopters, brings 25+ years of military service experience, ensuring your flight will be seamless and safe. To book a private tour, click here.
Explore High-End Shopping
If your idea of the perfect day includes designer labels, waterfront strolls, and a glass of something chilled between shops, Newport Beach delivers on all fronts. For a laid-back yet elevated retail experience, start at Lido Marina Village. From fashion-forward staples at elysewalker to clean beauty favorites at Aesop and Cos Bar, this marina-adjacent Newport Beach luxury shopping center is the place to refresh both your closet and skincare routine.
Not far away, A’MAREE’S offers a more avant-garde take on luxury, with an artful selection of high-fashion pieces housed in a striking, glass-enclosed building that’s as iconic as the brands it carries. And when only the best will do, Fashion Island awaits with a polished mix of global fashion houses—think Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Neiman Marcus—alongside stylish eateries and ocean breezes. Whether you’re window shopping or wardrobe revamping, Newport Beach brings its signature flair to every fashion moment.
