Sun & Sand Escape: The Ultimate Spring Itinerary in Newport Beach
The season of sunshine, sea breezes and salty air is officially here. If you’re looking for the ultimate coastal getaway, Newport Beach has everything you need for an unforgettable spring vacation. With stunning shorelines, lively harbor scenes, and plenty of spots to sip, savor, and soak up the sun, our seaside city is calling your name.
We’ve mapped out the perfect 3-day itinerary for your spring vacation in Newport Beach—whether you’re traveling with family, friends or your special someone. Let’s dive in!
PLACES TO STAY
For a spring break in Newport Beach rooted in luxury, book your stay at the Pendry, a standout addition to our city’s vibrant hospitality scene. Just steps from Fashion Island, this urban retreat blends contemporary sophistication with coastal charm, offering 295 elegant guest rooms and 114 suites with breathtaking ocean and harbor views. Guests can indulge in world-class dining at SET Steak & Sushi, sip cocktails at Bar Pendry or lounge poolside at the Tree Shack Pool Bar & Grill. Meanwhile, wellness seekers will love Spa Pendry, and families can take advantage of the Paintbox kids club. And to make your vacation even more exclusive, The Elwood Club offers members a refined space for socializing, dining and entertainment. This is SoCal luxury at its finest.
For a chic and sun-soaked spring break getaway, Lido House is a coastal retreat that blends nautical charm with modern amenities in the heart of Newport Beach. Just steps from boutique shopping, waterfront dining and vibrant nightlife, this Cape Cod-inspired gem offers everything you need for a stylish escape. Elevate your stay by booking one of the custom-designed three-story cottages, each with spacious living areas and private rooftop decks, perfect for sipping morning mimosas or unwinding after a day in the sun. Lounge poolside in a private cabana, indulge in fresh coastal fare at The Mayor’s Table, then head to Topside Roof Deck, Newport Beach’s only rooftop bar, for craft cocktails and golden hour views. You’ll quickly realize why Lido House is one of the best hotels in Newport Beach.
Set on 15 acres of pristine bayfront property, Balboa Bay Resort is the ultimate waterfront playground for vacationers in search of some vitamin sea. With 159 renovated guest rooms and suites, each featuring espresso wood beds, plush Frette linens and coastal-chic decor, this AAA Four-Diamond resort sets the stage for an unforgettable stay. Days here are best spent poolside in a private cabana, indulging in revitalizing spa treatments and clinking glasses on the oceanfront patio at A+O Restaurant | Bar. Whether you’re sailing through the harbor, soaking up the sun or simply savoring the salty air, Balboa Bay Resort is the perfect place to drop your bags, kick off your sandals and settle into that easy SoCal state of mind.
DAY 1
Brunch at Shorebird
Start your day at Shorebird, a chic eatery located in the buzzy Peninsula Village, offering a refined yet relaxed waterfront atmosphere. With a menu full of classic breakfast favorites and seafood-inspired dishes, you can enjoy everything from crab cakes and chicken and waffles to lemon ricotta soufflé hot cakes. Pair your meal with a bottomless mimosa, bloody mary or creamy macchiato, and take in the stunning harbor views as you ease into the morning.
Explore Sherman Library & Gardens
A hidden gem in the charming neighborhood of Corona del Mar, Sherman Library & Gardens is a botanical oasis featuring lush gardens, colorful flora and peaceful walking paths. Stroll through the beautifully curated grounds, admire the exotic plant collections and find a quiet bench to relax under the shade of towering trees. It’s the perfect spot to soak in the serenity before a day of adventure.
Shopping + Lunch at Lido Marina Village
For a perfect day of shopping and dining, head to Lido Marina Village, where charming boutiques and waterfront restaurants create an idyllic coastal ambiance. Start with a leisurely lunch at one of the open-air patios, savoring fresh seafood at Circle Hook Fish Company, farm-to-table bites at Malibu Farm or French fare at Zinqué. After your meal, stroll through the stylish shops—you’ll find chic apparel at Jenni Kayne, buttery soft loungewear at Eberjey, home goods at Serena & Lily and more.
Host of the Coast Yacht Experience
For an unforgettable golden hour on the water, book the Host of the Coast experience at Balboa Bay Resort. This exclusive offering allows you to set sail on a private yacht, where you’ll cruise through Newport Harbor, taking in breathtaking coastal views. Enjoy light bites and refreshing drinks onboard as you soak up the California sunshine. It’s the perfect way to embrace the nautical lifestyle of Newport Beach.
Dinner at Palmilla, Nobu or Fable & Spirit
Cap off the day with a spectacular dinner at one of Newport Beach’s best restaurants. Palmilla Cocina y Tequila offers upscale Mexican cuisine in a stunning indoor-outdoor setting, while Nobu serves up world-renowned Japanese dishes with an unbeatable bayfront backdrop. For a refined dining experience with globally inspired flavors, Fable & Spirit is the perfect choice, especially if you want to catch a movie at the newly restored Lido Theater next door!
Aprés-Dinner Cocktails at A Restaurant
Finish the evening at A Restaurant, a historic Newport Beach restaurant known for its sophisticated ambiance and expertly crafted cocktails. Their espresso martini is a must-try, offering the perfect balance of bold espresso and cream. Sip, socialize and savor the moment before heading back to your hotel for a restful night.
DAY 2
Breakfast at Parakeet Café
Kickstart your second morning with a health-conscious breakfast at Parakeet Café, where organic ingredients and bold flavors come together in dishes like charcoal waffles, chilaquiles and decadent avocado toast. Their specialty lattes—like the golden turmeric and salted maple—are the perfect pick-me-up before a day of exploring.
Explore Crystal Cove State Park
After breakfast, spend some time in the sunshine exploring Crystal Cove State Park, where scenic hiking trails lead to breathtaking coastal views and sandy shores are perfect for tidepooling and wave-watching. After soaking in the natural beauty, head to The Beachcomber, a beloved beachside cafe just steps from the sand in the Historic District. Enjoy oceanfront dining with favorites like their famous ahi tacos, Maine lobster rolls or a refreshing margarita as you relax under the California sun. Whether you’re hiking, beachcombing or indulging in a seaside meal, Crystal Cove offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Shopping at Fashion Island
Ready for some retail therapy? Spend a few hours shopping at Fashion Island, where a curated mix of luxury boutiques, trendy brands and renowned department stores make it a premier retail destination. Whether you’re on the hunt for elevated activewear from Alo, stylish men’s apparel at TravisMathew or beach-chic swimwear from LSPACE, there’s something for every fashion enthusiast. Accessorize your look with timeless jewelry from Gorjana, or browse Brixton’s effortlessly cool hats and apparel.
For an unforgettable afternoon at sea, rent your own electric boat and set sail! Vision Electric Boat Rental in Lido Marina Village allows you to choose from a dynamic fleet of boats that’ll take you and your group on a nautical adventure. After some time on the water, set your sights on waterfront restaurants like Buddha’s Favorite, Bluewater Grill, The Cannery, Newport Landing or Lido Bottle Works. Many of these even offer dock-and-dine packages, so you can enjoy your sips and bites out at sea!
Dinner at Louie’s by the Bay or JOEY Newport Beach
Newport Beach is home to several upscale restaurants, perfect for a dinner date or springtime celebration. Louie’s by the Bay is a premier Italian steakhouse offering breathtaking waterfront views. Indulge in their hand-cut steaks, housemade pastas and exquisite wine selections while watching boats drift along the bay.
If you’re in the mood for something more contemporary, JOEY Newport Beach delivers a buzzy, stylish atmosphere paired with globally inspired dishes. From handcrafted cocktails to sushi rolls and steak frites, this spot offers an elevated dining experience with a vibrant social scene. Whether you choose classic elegance at Louie’s or modern chic at JOEY, your dinner will be an unforgettable highlight of your Newport Beach spring vacation.
Drinks at Topside Roof Deck
If you’re in the mood for a nightcap, Topside Roof Deck at Lido House offers an inviting mix of beach-house charm and elevated ambiance. Overlooking Balboa Peninsula, this stylish rooftop bar is ideal for unwinding with a craft cocktail in hand. Whether you’re sipping a Topside Margarita by the fire or enjoying a refreshing nightcap under the stars, the ocean breeze and panoramic views set the scene for a memorable end to day two.
DAY 3
Breakfast at Lighthouse Cafe or Malibu Farm
Start your final day of your Newport Beach spring break vacation with a delicious and scenic breakfast at Lighthouse Cafe or Malibu Farm. Lighthouse Cafe, located right on the water next to Marina Park, offers a cozy yet elevated experience with stunning harbor views. Enjoy classics like steak chilaquiles, lobster rolls or their signature lemon blueberry ricotta pancakes while soaking in the peaceful waterfront setting.
For a farm-to-table experience, Malibu Farm at Lido Marina Village serves up fresh and wholesome dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Try the green juice, Swedish mini pancakes or the refreshing acai bowl for a healthy and energizing start to day three.
Embark on a Whale-Watching Adventure
No trip to Newport Beach is complete without experiencing its marine wildlife up close. Book a whale-watching tour with one of the many local operators and set sail in search of majestic gray whales, dolphins and even the occasional blue whale. Depending on the season, you may also spot sea lions lounging on buoys or pods of playful dolphins surfing the boat’s wake. Tours typically last 2-3 hours and provide an unforgettable, kid-friendly experience out on the open ocean.
Lunch at Fashion Island
After your morning on the water, spend the afternoon indulging in the many eats Fashion Island has to offer! Stop at True Food Kitchen for a health-conscious meal packed with fresh, organic ingredients. However, if you’re craving a truly one-of-a-kind lunch experience, make a reservation (well in advance!) at the new RH Ocean Grill, where you can enjoy seafood and caviar specialties and panoramic views of the California coastline.
Fun in the Sun at Newport Dunes
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina is a serene retreat with plenty of outdoor activities, whether you’re looking to paddleboard, kayak or ride bikes along the scenic Back Bay. Rent a board from Pirate Coast Paddle Company and glide across the calm waters, or hop in a kayak for a peaceful journey through this ecological reserve. Families with kids can enjoy the inflatable water park during the warmer months or simply relax on the sandy shore.
Dinner at The Cannery or Gulfstream
Close out your trip with a final dinner at one of Newport Beach’s top dining establishments. For a timeless waterfront meal, The Cannery offers a refined yet welcoming atmosphere with a focus on wild-caught seafood. From sushi rolls to their famous cioppino, every dish is expertly crafted to highlight the flavors of the Pacific.
Gulfstream is another great place to settle in for a cozy evening. String lights twinkle overhead, while Adirondack chairs and a glowing patio fireplace create an atmosphere that feels both upscale and welcoming. Uncork a bottle of California wine and savor a menu brimming with fresh seafood and comforting classics like ruby red trout, New Orleans barbecue shrimp and a rich, flavorful Newport Beach clam chowder.
Sweet Treat at Sugar ‘n Spice
Before you say goodbye to Newport Beach, make one final stop at Sugar ‘n Spice on Balboa Island for a famous Balboa Bar. This legendary frozen treat features hand-dipped ice cream bars coated in chocolate and topped with your choice of nuts, sprinkles or cookie crumbles. It’s the ideal way to end your spring vacation on a sweet note!
