National Dog Day is August 26, and there’s no better excuse to plan a day around your four-legged best friend. With miles of scenic walking paths, breezy outdoor shopping destinations, waterfront patios and plenty of places that roll out the welcome mat for pups, Newport Beach makes it easy to bring your dog along for the fun. From a morning cruise around the harbor to boutique browsing, bayside bites and a sweet treat by the sand, here’s how to spend the ultimate dog-friendly day in Newport Beach.

Start the Morning on a Duffy Boat

First things first: all aboard! Kick off your day with a cruise around Newport Harbor aboard a classic Duffy boat. These easy-to-operate electric boats are a quintessential Newport Beach experience, offering a front-row seat to waterfront homes, impressive yachts and the harbor’s bustling docks—all from the comfort of your own floating living room. And the best part? Your pup can come along for the ride!

Several local rental companies offer Duffy and electric boat rentals throughout the harbor, including Duffy Electric Boat Company, Pacific Electric Boat Rentals, Sea Señorita Duffy and EB Rentals. Pack water and a few treats for your first mate, bring breakfast or snacks for yourself and spend a couple of hours cruising at your own pace. Just be sure to check your rental company’s current pet policy before booking.

Stroll Through Lido Marina Village

Once you’re back on dry land, make your way to Lido Marina Village for a little waterfront wandering. With its whitewashed storefronts, quaint walkways, twinkling string lights and boats bobbing in the marina, this open-air destination was practically made for leisurely strolls.

Browse the village’s mix of fashion, home and lifestyle boutiques while your pup takes in the sights and smells along the harbor. Shops like Jenni Kayne, Eberjey and Serena & Lily make it easy to turn your morning walk into a little retail therapy. Store pet policies can vary, so check with individual retailers before heading inside with your four-legged shopping buddy.

Grab a Bayside Bite at Malibu Farm

All that cruising and shopping calls for lunch. Luckily, you won’t have to venture far. Set along the waterfront at Lido Marina Village, Malibu Farm serves fresh, farm-forward fare in a bright, coastal setting that feels right at home in Newport Beach. Grab a seat on the outdoor patio with your pup and refuel with everything from colorful salads and crab cakes to cauliflower-crust pizza and Korean short ribs. If brunch is more your speed, the Swedish mini pancakes are always tempting. Add a refreshing cocktail and settle in for an afternoon of harbor views, sunshine and people—and pup—watching.

Take the Scenic Route at Castaways Park

After lunch, stretch your legs at Castaways Park, where a paved path winds along the bluffs overlooking the Back Bay and Newport Harbor. The approximately 1.3-mile walk is just long enough to get some steps in without committing to a full afternoon hike, and the elevated views make it one of the prettiest places in town for a walk with your pup.

Take your time along the trail, breathe in the coastal air and stop to admire the scenery along the way. For pups (and humans) with a little more energy to burn, the nearby Back Bay Loop stretches roughly 10 miles around Upper Newport Bay.

Spoil Your Pup at Barker’s Dog Boutique

Next stop: Balboa Island, where it’s your dog’s turn to do a little shopping. Barker’s Dog Boutique is a charming pet shop specializing in thoughtfully curated dog apparel, accessories, treats and gifts. From stylish everyday essentials to something special just because, there’s plenty to tempt even the most discerning Newport pup.

Afterward, take your new goodies for a spin with a walk around Balboa Island. The neighborhood’s quaint cottages, colorful gardens and harbor views make the island an attraction in itself. Follow the waterfront for an easy stroll past docks and boats, or wander the residential streets and admire the charming homes along the way.

Enjoy a Sweet Note at Gelatissimo

After a walk around Balboa Island, a sweet ice cream treat is a must. Gelatissimo makes its gelato fresh in-store, offering traditional flavors and ones to boost you out of your comfort zone. 

You can’t leave your dog out of a special treat – good thing they have dog-friendly vanilla ice cream! Witness your pup chow down on a vanilla cone on their special day.  

Shop and Stroll at Fashion Island

If you’re not quite shopped out, head over to Fashion Island for another dog-friendly stroll. Newport Beach’s iconic open-air shopping destination has plenty of room to roam, with landscaped courtyards, fountains, ocean breezes, and an impressive mix of boutiques and restaurants.

Leashed dogs are welcome throughout the center’s outdoor common areas, and many individual retailers welcome well-behaved pups inside, too. You’ll also find restaurants and cafés with outdoor patios where dogs can join their owners. Policies vary by business, so it’s always smart to ask before your pup crosses the threshold. Even if you’re only window-shopping, Fashion Island makes for an easy afternoon wander with your furry sidekick.

Extend Your Day at Balboa Bay Resort

Not ready for your dog-friendly day to end? Turn it into an overnight escape at one of our dog-friendly hotels, including Pendry Newport Beach, Lido House Hotel, and Balboa Bay Resort. Stay with ease, as these hotels are as big of fans of your dog as you are!

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