How to Spend Memorial Day Weekend in Newport Beach
Memorial Day Activities in Newport Beach
Pay Tribute at the Field of Honor
This year’s Field of Honor is set to take place at Castaways Park in Newport Beach from Friday, May 16, through Monday, May 26. This patriotic event features a display of 1,776 American flags along the park paths, which overlook Newport Harbor, to honor those who have served our country. Special events are included in this Newport Beach Flags of Honor celebration, with an Armed Forces Day celebration scheduled for May 17 and a Memorial Day ceremony scheduled for May 26. Come visit one of the best places to go for Memorial Day weekend!
Sip and Savor at the Newport Beach Wine Festival
Sip the day away at the Newport Beach Wine Festival this Memorial Day Weekend (May 23-25)! 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 Jean-Charles Boisset Winemaker 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 fresh seafood, decadent desserts and more.
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.
Memorial Day Celebration at Pendry Newport Beach
Celebrate in style this Memorial Day in Newport Beach with a three-day soiree of sun, style and sound. Join Pendry for exclusive pop-up trunk shows from L Space and Vacation Sunscreen on Saturday and Sunday, 12-3 p.m., perfect for refreshing your summer essentials. Then on Monday, the holiday heats up with a lively family-style BBQ, live music and DJs spinning the ultimate summer soundtrack from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Whether you’re lounging, dancing or dining al fresco, it’s all happening under the sun and only for registered hotel guests and Elwood Club members.
Set Sail on a Harbor Cruise
Welcome the season with a breezy escape on the beautiful waters of Newport Harbor this Memorial Day in Newport Beach. Whether you choose a sleek yacht, a charming sailboat or an electric boat, there’s no better way to soak in the coastal magic of Newport Beach. Glide past picturesque canals and waterfront estates with your favorite crew by your side—because here, summer starts with sunshine, a sea breeze, and a boat full of good vibes.
Family-Friendly Memorial Day Activities In Newport Beach
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 in Newport Beach 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 23!
Take Surf Lessons With 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 enjoy one of Southern California’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 Ferris wheel, which boasts some of the best views of the harbor!
Places to Stay in Newport Beach For Memorial Day
Balboa Bay Resort
For a front-row seat to Newport Beach’s nautical charm, Balboa Bay Resort delivers in every way. Tucked along the Balboa Peninsula, this elegant waterfront resort features well-appointed rooms with private balconies perfect for bayfront sunsets. Guests can relax at the full-service spa, savor coastal cuisine at A+O Restaurant | Bar, or take to the water with paddleboards, kayaks and boat rentals just steps from their door. With a private marina and dock, it’s the ideal launchpad for Memorial Day activities on the bay.
Lido House
If you’re dreaming of a beachy escape with all the comforts of a luxury stay, Lido House is your spot. Set on the former City Hall site, this hotel blends Newport’s laid-back style with upscale touches—from chic rooms and suites to charming three-story cottages. The rooftop bar, Topside, offers sweeping sunset views, while The Mayor’s Table plates up elevated California cuisine. Spend your days strolling to nearby hotspots like Lido Marina Village or lounging by the pool before heading to the beach for a Memorial Day well spent.
Hyatt Regency Newport Beach
Surrounded by 26 acres of lush landscape and just steps from the scenic Back Bay, the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach is a top pick for families looking to mix relaxation with recreation. With three sparkling pools, outdoor fire pits and Memorial Day activities like table tennis and volleyball, there’s something for everyone. It’s also perfectly positioned near Fashion Island, the Back Bay trails and the beach. Whether you’re kayaking at sunrise or roasting marshmallows at night, this resort makes Memorial Day memories easy.
VEA Newport Beach
VEA Newport Beach is a Memorial Day must for travelers who want it all—ocean views, family-friendly amenities, and the Red, White, & VEA Blue BBQ 🇺🇸! Saturday, May 24 through Monday, May 26 from 11 AM–4 PM there will be poolside BBQ classics and a live DJ spinning all weekend long at EDGE Pool & Bar. Food, music, sunshine—what more could you need? Plus, just steps from Fashion Island and minutes from the buzzy Balboa Peninsula, VEA puts you in the center of the action while still feeling like a true getaway.
