7 Ways to Spend Memorial Day Weekend in Newport Beach
Hailed as the nation’s first taste of summer and day to honor those who serve and have served, Memorial Day weekend is the perfect time to round up the family, fire up the barbecue and soak up some sun. And with some of the best beaches, resorts, restaurants and parks that California has to offer, Newport Beach has something for everyone this holiday weekend. Whether it be an escape to a luxurious oceanfront hotel or a relaxing afternoon listening to live music, read on to see some of the amazing activities Newport has to offer this Memorial Day weekend.
Pay Tribute at the 15th Annual Field of Honor
This year’s Field of Honor is set to take place at Castaways Park in Newport Beach from Friday, May 17, through Monday, May 27. This patriotic event features a display of 1,776 American flags along the park paths, which overlook Newport Harbor, to honor both past and present armed forces members and first responders. Special events are included in the celebration, with an Armed Forces Day celebration scheduled for May 18, featuring keynote speaker Elaine Brattain, former national chaplain for the American Gold Star Mothers. Come visit and pay tribute this Memorial Day weekend!
Listen to Live Music at Tunes at the Dunes
Nestled neatly in the heart of Newport’s gorgeous back bay marina, Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina offers some of the best ways for families to escape and explore one of Newport’s hidden treasures. With everything from RV camping to Duffy boat rides, this no-frills resort is the perfect place to spend Memorial Day with the kids. Don’t miss the opening of the resort’s inflatable floating waterpark on Memorial Day Weekend and the seasonal Tunes at the Dunes free concert series starting May 24!
Sip and Savor at the Newport Beach Wine Festival
Sip the day away at the Newport Beach Wine Festival this Memorial Day Weekend (May 24-26)! Balboa Bay Resort will host this highly anticipated annual event, and guests will have the opportunity to sample a variety of world-class wines and spirits. Enjoy live music, tasty bites and stunning views of Newport Harbor, and don’t forget to snag tickets to the Justin Winery Limited Release Wine Dinner on Friday night! At this year’s festival, there will also be a Veuve Clicquot Champagne Brunch on Sunday, where guests can sip bubbles and dig into a buffet of handcrafted cheeses, fresh seafood and decadent pastries.
Memorial Day Celebration at Pendry Newport Beach
A three-day weekend means extra time for celebration! On Monday, May 27, the all-new Pendry Newport Beach will host a Memorial Day Celebration that you won’t want to miss! Soak up the SoCal sun and enjoy a poolside family BBQ featuring live music, specialty eats and a stylish summer-ready scene in the center of it all. This swanky, urban hotel also has several seasonal offers, so you can take full advantage of the long weekend and save big on a vacation!
Take Surf Lessons at Endless Sun Surf School
Given the plethora of scenic and spacious world-class surf populating Newport Beach’s coastline, there is no better way to seek a bit of adventure this Memorial Day than to spend a day in the waves with Endless Sun Surf School. With tons of different options for every skill level, Endless Sun offers a great way for families to indulge in one of SoCal’s favorite pastimes. Full wetsuits and surfboards are included in the price, and their experienced instructors cater to all levels!
Play by the Bay at the Balboa Fun Zone
This list would be remiss without including one of Newport’s most iconic places for fun and fanfare: the Balboa Fun Zone. Initially built in 1936, this one-of-a-kind waterfront attraction has been entertaining families for over 85 years, making it a true staple in the Newport Beach community. So hop aboard the ferry, grab your favorite flavor of ice cream, and don’t forget to take a ride on the legendary Balboa Ferris Wheel, which boasts some of the best views of the harbor!
Plan a Bonfire With S’mores in Crystal Cove
Nothing kicks off the summer season like an evening spent by the fire at one of the most scenic beaches in the state: Crystal Cove State Park. With shimmering panoramic views of the ocean, cliffs baked in golden sunlight and some of the best spots to watch the sunset, Crystal Cove is perfect for a beach bonfire with the family. Simply pack a bag, grab a fire pit and enjoy an evening of smiles and s’mores.
