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 15, through Monday, May 25. 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 ceremony scheduled for May 16 and a Memorial Day ceremony scheduled for May 25. Come visit one of the best places to go for Memorial Day weekend!
Sip and Savor at the Newport Beach Wine & Spirits Festival
Celebrate Memorial Day weekend in Newport Beach with the Newport Beach Wine & Spirits Festival, a three-day, waterfront experience at Balboa Bay Resort that blends coastal luxury with a lively social scene. The weekend kicks off with an intimate winemaker dinner featuring JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery, followed by the Grand Tasting—an afternoon of unlimited pours, chef-driven bites and live music set along the harbor. It wraps with “Blanc on the Bay,” a high-energy all-white party complete with DJs, cocktails and sweeping sunset views. Beyond the wine, the event also gives back, with proceeds supporting local student scholarships, making it as meaningful as it is memorable.
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, reserve a fire pit and enjoy an evening of smiles and s’mores.
Memorial Day Celebration at Pendry Newport Beach
Celebrate the holiday in style at the Memorial Day BBQ at Pendry Newport Beach, where the resort’s Tree Shack sets the scene for a laid-back yet elevated kickoff to summer. From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., guests can enjoy a refined take on classic barbecue favorites served à la carte, alongside handcrafted cocktails, live music and a DJ spinning throughout the day. Designed for easygoing gatherings with friends and family, this all-day affair blends effortless coastal energy with signature Pendry polish—making it the perfect spot to settle in, stay awhile and celebrate the long weekend.
Memorial Day BBQ on Balboa Island
Cheers to the long weekend with a classic, community-driven BBQ on Balboa Island, hosted by the Balboa Island Museum at Balboa Island Park. Taking place from 12 to 2 p.m. just steps from the ferry, this laid-back afternoon honors local veterans (who eat and drink free!) while serving up all the nostalgic staples like burgers, hot dogs, chili, ice cream and lemonade. With affordable pricing and a welcoming, small-town feel, it’s the kind of feel-good gathering that captures the heart of Memorial Day in Newport Beach.
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. You can also enjoy 10% off your weekday electric Duffy Boat rental with Newport Fun Tours.
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 22!
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 waterfront, this elegant 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.
Pendry Newport Beach
For a weekend that’s as stylish as it is indulgent, Pendry Newport Beach sets the bar high. This luxury hotel balances urban sophistication with garden-inspired design, offering next-level amenities like a serene spa, a sleek pool deck and a members-only social club. Rooms are spacious and refined, complete with balconies, luxe bath products and high-tech extras. Don’t miss a meal at SET Steak & Sushi or drinks at Bar Pendry before catching the hotel shuttle to the beach—fully stocked with everything your family needs for a perfect day by the sea.
VEA Newport Beach
VEA Newport Beach is a Memorial Day must for travelers who want it all—ocean views, family-friendly amenities and walkability to top attractions. With rooms ranging from sleek suites to sprawling multi-bedroom retreats, this revamped resort pulls out all the stops. Treat yourself to a massage at the full-service spa, sip cocktails poolside and take in panoramic ocean views from almost every angle. 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.
