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Summer on the Water: 10 Ways to Experience the Newport Beach Harbor  

people on a boat

Summer is ramping up, and many sunny days are ahead, which means the water is calling your name! The Newport Beach Harbor has so many opportunities to sail, splash, and sightsee. From adrenaline junkies to laid-back paddlers, here’s a list of how to experience the Newport Beach Harbor this summer. 

Balboa Water Sports  

Whether you are looking to cruise the bay with friends or race in the waves with your family, Balboa Water Sports is an ideal location to rent jet skis. Located in the Balboa Fun Zone, this is a great opportunity to explore from Balboa Island to Corona del Mar. Hop on a jet ski and have a blast! 

Captain Frank Sailing Adventures 

Looking to raise the sunset sail or experience the winds of the water? Check out Captain Frank Sailing Adventures right off the Pacific Coast Highway. Whether you want to trim the sails and hoist the anchor or relax on the stern of the boat, Captain Frank offers two unique sailing experiences. Check it out and see what floats your boat! 

East Meets West Excursions 

If riding the waves with dolphins and getting splashed by whales is calling your name, check out East Meets West Excursions. With close-up views of marine life, these excursions charter groups of 2-6 people. Grab your partner and head into the sea!  

Newport Beach Tikis 

Tiki around the Newport Beach Harbor with Newport Beach Tikis. Perfect for a bachelorette, birthday party, or guys’ trip, the six-person floating tiki bar comes with a certified captain. Music, drinks, food, and vibes ALL while floating on a tiki around the harbor. What more could you ask for? 

Blue Star Yacht Charter 

Ahoy! Step aboard a luxury yacht for an overnight stay, full-day excursion, or week-long adventure. With a wide variety of ships and sizes, Blue Star offers an experience that caters to your party. You can experience the breathtaking views of Newport Beach all from the comfort of a yacht.  

Duffy Electric Boats  

Ready to be captain for a day? Rent a Duffy Electric Boat and seas the day! Located near Balboa Bay Resort, you can spend a day enjoying the hotel and head out on a dock ‘n dine adventure at Buddha’s FavoriteMalibu Farm, or Billy’s at the Beach along the harbor. Choose your time and your vibe to create your unique boating excursion.  For your convenience, there is also a location at Balboa Fun Zone.

Newport Gondola 

Searching for a European summer? Reserve a gondola through the Newport Beach Harbor and bring the Italian vibes to the Pacific! Experience local dining options while leisurely cruising for 1-2 hours. Book the Amore Cruise for a romantic date night or proposal that you won’t forget.  

Newport Dunes Water Park 

If you’re looking to make a splash this summer, head over to Newport Dunes for some guaranteed fun! Everyone turns into a kid again at the Newport Dunes Water Park! Huge slides plummet you into the ocean water after navigating a course of inflatables (that might also send you into the water).

Pirates Cove Beach 

Calm waters and rock caves to explore create the perfect environment for a family beach day at Pirates Cove Beach. Bordering Corona del Mar beach, this cove is a hidden gem with clear waters perfect for seashell searchers and safe swimmers! Check out this hidden gem for a relaxing family day.  

Pirate Coast Paddle Company  

Looking for a paddling experience on the bay? Look no further: Pirate Coast Paddle Company offers a variety of experiences, including movie nights, full-moon paddles, and lessons. As you paddle through Newport Bay, be sure to check out the stunning cliffs and up-close views of one-of-a-kind boats at their home docks. Gather together with friends or paddle along alone to see why we love Newport Beach so much! 

BONUS! Newport Beach Sailing School

From tying knots to navigating the waves, Newport Beach Sailing School is the perfect way to start your sailing career. Providing private and semi-private sailing lessons, you are sure to learn a thing or two about sailing. Whether you’re pursuing a sailing certification or just trying it out, this is a great way to hit the water this summer.  

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