7 Newport Beach Activities for Your “End of Summer” Checklist
With only a few weeks left of summer, it’s time to squeeze in some last-minute fun! Newport Beach offers an array of sun-soaked activities for both locals and visitors to enjoy. From shopping by the bay to zooming around town on an electric bike, there’s never a dull moment in our coastal town! So seas the end of summer and check these seven activities off your seasonal bucket list.
Possibly one of the most popular activities in Newport Beach, docking and dining is a fun way to get out on the water and get a taste of the local restaurant scene. Vision Electric Boat Rental, Duffy Electric Boat Company and Newport Beach Boat Rentals offer a fleet of electric vessels for your enjoyment. Rent a boat and make some waves as you dock and dine at top-notch restaurants like Lido Bottle Works, The Cannery Seafood of the Pacific, Billy’s at the Beach, Buddha’s Favorite and more.
The summer’s warmer waters bring blue whales close to shore, making it the perfect time to go whale watching! Local companies, such as Newport Landing, Davey’s Locker, and Newport Coastal Adventure, offer daily excursions guided by experienced professionals. Cruise the open ocean to get a glimpse of these majestic creatures up close!
Visit the Balboa Fun Zone
For some family fun, spend a sunny afternoon at the historic Balboa Fun Zone! A visit to this retro amusement area in Balboa Village is a great way to entertain the kids. Take a ride on the colorful Ferris wheel for unbeatable views of the harbor, or let the little ones play in the old-school arcade! And when the fam gets hungry, stop by Jane’s Corndogs for an afternoon snack.
Explore Balboa Island
One of Newport Beach’s hidden gems, Balboa Island offers an escape from the summertime hustle and bustle. This charming island is also home to quaint shops and eateries and plenty of space to stick an umbrella in the sand. Take a stroll down Marine Avenue and be sure to order a creamy, chocolate-dipped Balboa Bar from Dad’s Donut & Bakery Shop or Sugar ‘n Spice!
Enjoy a Bonfire in Crystal Cove
This August, spend an evening on the sand in Crystal Cove! The Beachcomber in the Crystal Cove Historic District offers an array of bonfire experiences for parties of 10 or fewer. In our opinion, there’s no better way to savor a Newport Beach sunset! To reserve your fire pit, visit www.thebeachcombercafe.com/crystalcove/beach-rentals.
Shop at Lido Marina Village or Fashion Island
Whether you’re on the hunt for some back-to-school clothes for the kids or just want to treat yourself to a “me day,” Newport Beach is home to two spectacular retail destinations. For a quaint yet upscale experience, head to Lido Marina Village, where you’ll find an adorable collection of boutiques and specialty shops. If it’s name-brand apparel you’re after, Fashion Island is our go-to with its variety of department stores and sought-after labels like LuluLemon, Anthropologie, Vuori and more.
Tour the Town on an Electric Bike
Rent your own electric bike and take a ride down the breezy Balboa Peninsula. Seaside Bike Rentals and Pedego Electric Bikes offer everything from beach cruisers and tandem bikes to surreys, which can seat up to six adults and two children. Stop by the Newport Beach Pier to watch the surfers, zip over to Lido Marina Village for some shopping or dine seaside at Newport Landing.
Written by: Kaylin Waizinger
