4 Ways to Spend Spring Break in Newport Beach
Hey, springbreakers! It’s that time of year again when we stow away our sweaters, break out our swimsuits and gear up for some fun in the sun. If you’re craving a coastal getaway this season, Newport Beach is the ultimate spring break destination. With miles of sandy shores, a boat-filled harbor and plenty of places to sip, savor and play the day away, our seaside town is eager to make your spring vacation unforgettable. With the said, we’ve tailored a spring break playbook for every tribe and vibe. Whether you’re wrangling the kiddos, cozying up with your significant other, rallying the girls or planning a bro-cation, Newport Beach promises memories minted in the golden glow of the Pacific. Let’s dive in!
For the Families
STAY
Unpack your bags and kick off your sandals at Balboa Bay Resort, where family-sized fun meets waterfront luxury. This bayfront hotel sits on the harbor’s edge and features everything from a cabana-lined pool deck and on-site restaurant to spacious suites fit for the whole family. This splashy afternoons and snug evenings, all with a view.
DINE
Fuel up for your adventure at the Beachcomber in Crystal Cove for breakfast with a sea breeze, Balboa Island’s Wilma’s Patio Restaurant for that homey bite or Avila’s El Ranchito for a taste of Mexico in a kid-friendly atmosphere. And when it comes to satisfying your kiddos’ sweet tooth, make a pit stop at Sugar ‘n Spice for one of their famous chocolate-dipped Balboa Bars and frozen bananas—it’s practically a rite of passage!
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For a dose of nature, head to Crystal Cove State Park, where tide pools and acres of protected marine life abound. Or, marvel at the majesty of whales with a guided whale-watching tour! If you’re looking for the ultimate day by the bay with your kids, make a trip to Newport Dunes to enjoy water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding or spend the afternoon at the historic Balboa Fun Zone, complete with an arcade and Ferris wheel.
For the Couples
STAY
Rekindle your romance this spring break with a vacation at The Resort at Pelican Hill. This five-star seaside resort boasts immaculate grounds, an oceanfront golf club, a breathtaking Roman-style pool and a stunning spa sanctuary. Couples can cozy up in one of the residential-style bungalows or villas and enjoy a relaxing date night featuring a menu of fresh California cuisine at the on-site restaurant Pelican Grill.
DINE
Newport Beach’s vibrant culinary scene sets the stage for a week of sophisticated dining experiences. Snag a table at the ultra-posh JOEY Newport Beach for a light lunch and a round of cocktails, cozy up in one of the red leather booths at A Restaurant for a meal of steak and seafood, or dine on the patio of Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens, where farm-to-table cuisine shines.
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Stroll hand-in-hand through Sherman Library and Gardens (a scenic place to get your steps in!) or paddle the day away on the Back Bay with kayak or paddleboard rentals from Pirate Coast Paddle Company. Back at the resort, couples can enjoy some R&R together with a dip in the magnificent Coliseum Pool or a trip to The Spa at Pelican Hill for therapeutic massages and body treatments.
For the Girl Squad
STAY
Check in to the iconic Lido House hotel—a charming yet upscale retreat with a nautical, all-American feel. This Cap Cod-inspired property sits in the center of it all, offering access to some of the best shopping, dining and entertainment Newport Beach has to offer. For your girls’ trip, you’ll want to reserve one of the custom-designed three-story cottages for ample living space. And once you’ve arrived, head up to Topside Roof Deck for a round of drinks and some girl gab at sunset.
DINE
What’s a girls’ trip without brunch? Enjoy harbor views and farm-to-table eats at Malibu Farm, or get your bottomless bubbles and seafood fix at Shorebird. When it comes time for a girl dinner, there’s no trendier spot than the all-new Palmilla Cocina y Tequila, where an immaculate indoor-outdoor ambiance meets a menu of craft cocktails and Sonoran-style Mexican cuisine.
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For some time on the water, rent your very own colorful boat from Vision Electric Boat Rental! For some retail therapy, pop over to Lido Marina Village or Fashion Island, where you’ll find a collection of name-brand stores and locally-owned boutiques. And when the girls are craving some pampering, Facialworks provides customized facials that’ll give you that coveted springtime glow.
For the Guy Group
STAY
Let the all-new Pendry Newport Beach be the home base for your boys’ getaway. A social hub for both recreation and leisure, this sky-high hotel is all things posh with its urban-chic rooms and suites, private members’ club and can’t-miss restaurants. Catch some rays by the sparkling outdoor pool during the day, then gather with the guys for a dinner of rolls and nigiri flights at SET Steak & Sushi.
DINE
Start your day with an indulgent brunch at Tavern House Kitchen + Bar, which boasts bay views and a menu of bloody marys, oysters, fried chicken and waffles and more. Dive into the local scene at Newport Beach Whaler—one of Newport Beach’s newest outposts—or knock back a few pints and catch a sports game on TV at Helmsman Ale House, where you and your pals can enjoy craft beer and camaraderie.
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Grab your clubs for an afternoon on the green! Tee off at the renowned Pelican Hill Golf Club, or if you prefer to set sail, Newport Beach Sailing Charters offers sailboat rentals so you can seas the day. Be sure to also make a pit stop at Daydream Surf Shop to grab a coffee from their cafe and shop their rad collection of surf essentials.
Written by: Kaylin Waizinger
