There aren’t many phrases in life that give people an instant sense of calm more than “long weekend.” The mere mention of a long weekend inspires people to relax and, inevitably, get excited about how they’re going to spend all that time. In Newport Beach, it is not difficult to fill those itineraries.

Active families seeking sand, sun, sea, and serenity need look no farther than Newport Beach, where lodging is plentiful, activities are abundant and suited to families of any interest, and family-friendly recreation is great for parents and kids alike.

What does a long weekend in Newport Beach look like? Obviously, it can look however you want based on what your family likes to do, but here’s a sample itinerary to give your family a memorable long weekend.

Day 1: Friday – Arrive and Explore the Coast

You and your family have arrived, and it’s time to welcome yourselves to the area. First, check into one of many active-lifestyle-oriented hotels like the Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina, where you can drop off your bags, get settled into your cottage, and get set for your weekend away.

One of the best ways to get acquainted with Newport Beach upon arrival: a beach bike ride. Seaside Bike Rentals in the Balboa Pier area have bikes of just about every style for riders of all ages. Get the family set up and cruise the Balboa Pier and surrounding areas.

After your ride, enjoy a game of beach volleyball or a refreshing swim under a beautiful Newport Beach sunset before a casual dinner at one of hundreds of family-friendly restaurants. Then, it’s back to the hotel to wind down and get ready for the next day.

Day 2: Saturday – Full Day of Sports

Day two, your first full day in Newport Beach, is packed with sports. Start with a tee time at Pelican Hill Golf Club, with 36 holes and ocean views to get your day started right. New to the game? Pelican Hill’s Golf Academy gives lessons to players of all ages and abilities.

After the round, enjoy a family lunch at JOEY Newport Beach to refuel for the afternoon of, yes, more sports. Pickleball and tennis are popular activities among Newport Beach visitors, and you’ll be able to play with your family, take lessons, or even find a game with a new friend or two.

As the sun begins to set on a very active day two, there’s still time for more. Go to the harbor, rent some paddleboards or kayaks, and take a leisurely ride with your family.

Close out the day with dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in the area. After a long, active, fulfilling day, you are certain to find a restaurant in Newport Beach to suit any mood or type of cuisine.

Day 3: Sunday – The Beach

On your final full day, you want to make sure you’ve gotten everything you can out of the many outdoor activities in Newport Beach and, naturally, one of the most popular areas for activities: the beach.

Take a surf lesson or put yourself through a beach workout, then move on to Wild Strawberry Cafe for a healthy brunch and the comforting feeling of being in a French brasserie or bistro.

After brunch, it’s back to the beach for some laid-back relaxation combined with watersports. You and the family can rent just about any type of watercraft you can think of. If you’re up for more paddleboarding or kayaking, go for it. Looking for more speed? Rent as many personal watercraft as your family needs at Balboa Water Sports. Rent boats or charter yachts; however your family likes to spend time on the water, you can do it in Newport Beach.

If you’d rather stay next to the water rather than on the water, play another game of beach volleyball or snag an open pickleball court as the sun again begins to set.

What better way to celebrate an active, fun, long weekend with the family than with a celebratory dinner on your final night? Plenty of Newport Beach restaurants give you a stellar view to accompany a delectable menu, including Bayside Restaurant overlooking Newport Harbor.

Plan Your Family Trip to Newport Beach

For a long weekend your active family will never forget, Newport Beach is not only the perfect place to do it, but with so many things to see and do, Newport Beach is the perfect place to do it again, completely differently and just as memorable. Whatever your family’s interests or itinerary, we’re here to help you plan your family trip to Newport Beach. Contact us to learn more.