3 Gardens for a Dose of Nature in Newport Beach
Spring has nearly sprung, which means it’s time to get outside and soak up the sunshine! Newport Beach may be known for its pristine beaches and barrelling waves, but heading to the shore isn’t the only way to experience the natural splendor of our city. Look beyond the swaying palms, and you’ll discover a variety of destinations to explore with lush botanical beauty. Here are three gardens to visit this spring!
Newport Beach Civic Center Park
Spanning 14 acres, Newport Beach Civic Center Park features wildlife habitats, a sculpture garden and 1.23 miles of walking trails. To explore this serene area of Newport Beach, we recommend downloading a self-guided walking tour of the exhibition to your smartphone via the “MyNB” app! This tour will walk you through a series of natural habitats and offer a detailed description of the plants and animals that would naturally dwell there.
As you venture through, you’ll eventually come across a blue-railed bridge made of welded recycled steel, which serves as a viewing platform over the wetland wildlife. The Civic Center’s wetland is a habitat for both terrestrial and aquatic plants and animals, and it actually predates the development of the park.
Along your journey, take notice of the various sculptures—from van McLean’s intricate sphere of stainless steel rods to the park’s circle of child-sized, white bunnies!
Beyond the rather unassuming exterior of Sherman Library & Gardens lies a 2.2-acre horticultural oasis. This museum of living plants in Corona del Mar offers visitors a serene spot to meander with its wide brick walkways, lush gardens, blooming flower beds and trickling fountains.
This CdM landmark is open to the public and is the perfect place to spend a spring afternoon. Stroll through and discover a variety of collections ranging from cacti and succulents to tropical vegetation like palms, orchids, gingers and other exotic specimens. Stop by the Rose Garden for a petal-perfect afternoon or visit the Tea Garden (just outside the Garden Shop), and discover a charming patio with delicate blooms. Be sure to take time to visit the koi pond within the Tropical Conservatory and watch the colorful fish feed on their afternoon snack of oranges and bananas! You’ll also want to stop by 608 Dahlia for an al fresco lunch, which serves up seasonal fare from daily pickings from their gardens and local farms.
In the springtime, Sherman Library & Gardens hosts a variety of classes, lectures and workshops available to the public, including yoga sessions, painting classes and activities for the kids. To see what’s on the calendar this month, check the Sherman Library & Gardens website!
This destination home and garden center in Corona del Mar sits on multiple acres, offering visitors a variety of unique items for indoor and outdoor living. With everything from roses, succulents and fruit-bearing trees to patio furniture, home decor items and garden tools, Roger’s Gardens is a lush haven for those looking to spruce up their space this spring.
Even if your thumb isn’t too green, Roger’s Gardens is an idyllic spot for an afternoon stroll. The grounds feature walkable trails that lead guests through an incredible display of botanical beauty. Journey through and witness an assortment of flowering foliage, gurgling fountains and hand-crafted collectibles such as Italian pottery and fine home furnishings. You’ll want to pop into the Floral Studio, where you can pick out a handcrafted bouquet of fresh-cut flowers!
To round out your experience, head over to Farmhouse—the on-site, garden-style eatery with locally sourced American fare, cocktails and regional wines. Sit down to a leisurely lunch or dinner prepared by Chef Mead, and experience the freshest flavors of the season!
Written by: Kaylin Waizinger
