How to Spend a Fall Day in Newport Beach

Fall has arrived in Newport Beach, bringing crisp mornings, golden light, and all the seasonal flavors we look forward to. With true sweater weather in Newport Beach, there is plenty to enjoy, from sipping coffee in cozy cafés to exploring scenic trails and checking out festive October events throughout the city. If you’re looking for the best things to do Newport Beach in the fall or just want to soak up a crisp autumn day by the water, this guide has you covered!
Coffee, Pastries & More at Kit Coffee
Start your day in Newport Beach with a cozy morning at Kit Coffee, a local favorite known for its artfully crafted coffee and welcoming atmosphere. They offer coffee, matcha, and seasonal beverages inspired by the flavors of fall, perfect for sipping alongside their freshly baked pastries. Pair your drink with one of their fan favorites like avocado toast or a breakfast burrito, widely considered some of the best in town. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to plan your day or a cheerful place to catch up with friends, Kit Coffee is the perfect way to kick off a fall morning in Newport Beach.
Scenic Stroll at the Back Bay
After fueling up, head to the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve for a refreshing walk. This peaceful spot is a fall favorite for spotting wildlife, enjoying cool coastal breezes, and soaking in the serene scenery. Whether you’re up for a casual walk or a longer hike, the trails offer plenty of opportunities for photo-worthy moments framed by the water and golden light.
Fall Shopping at Fashion Island
Spend your mid-morning exploring Fashion Island, Newport Beach’s premier open-air shopping destination, now buzzing with exciting new openings. Discover chic boutiques like L’Agence, Todd Snyder, Cinq à Sept, CHICJOC, Elia Parfum, Fitigues, J. Pritchard, Monica Vinader, Rubin & Chapelle, and more. Don’t miss the recently debuted RH flagship, an 80,000-square-foot home and lifestyle destination complete with the RH Ocean Grill rooftop restaurant, perfect for a stylish lunch break. And coming soon, Joe & The Juice will serve up fresh-pressed juices, nutritious shakes, and tasty sandwiches in a sleek, Scandinavian-inspired setting. With the latest fall fashions, seasonal home décor, and plenty of photo-worthy spots, Fashion Island is the ultimate destination for a stylish and festive fall shopping experience in Newport Beach.
Experience the “Midnight Market” at Roger’s Gardens
It wouldn’t be a spooky season without the opening of Roger’s Gardens’ annual Halloween Boutique! Step beyond the ordinary and into the shadows of the Midnight Market, a spellbinding Halloween Boutique like no other. As twilight falls, the veil between seen and unseen lifts, revealing a mysterious after-dark bazaar. Here, nomadic merchants, enchanted fortune tellers, and wandering souls gather beneath moonlit velvet skies. Explore eerie stalls filled with smoldering pumpkins, gleaming cauldrons, enchanted botanicals, and curious treasures from other realms.
Enjoy a Waterfront Comfort Meal at The Cannery
Wrap up your fall day with dinner at The Cannery, a Newport Beach landmark known for its fresh seafood, harbor views, and timeless coastal charm. Housed in a historic building that dates back to the early 20th century, The Cannery offers an elegant yet relaxed dining experience. Start with seasonal appetizers like their crab cakes, oyster specials, or a shareable seafood platter, then move on to mains that highlight the ocean’s bounty, including pan-seared scallops, grilled local fish, or their signature cioppino. Pair your meal with a crisp white wine, a handcrafted cocktail, or one of their curated seasonal drinks. Whether you choose a table indoors with warm, intimate lighting or a waterside spot on the patio, dining at The Cannery is a quintessential Newport Beach experience.
Seasonal Scoop from Salt & Straw
End your fall day in Newport Beach on a sweet note with a trip to Salt & Straw! This creamery is churning out seasonal flavors that’ll get you in the mood for sweater weather. With limited-edition scoops like the black currant apple cider and caramel apple sherbert and favorites like the cinnamon snickerdoodle and honey lavender, the choices couldn’t be sweeter. Stay tuned on social media for their upcoming October flavors!