Hey, Beachgoers! Here Are 8 Places to Explore This Summer
Summer is here, which means some fun in the sun is in your future! Whether it’s dining al fresco on the harbor, catching some rays at the beach or watching the kiddos plunge in the pool, the options for sun-soaked entertainment are endless in Newport Beach. So slip on your swimsuit, slather on that SPF and gear up for a midweek family vacay that’ll set your watch to summertime. Below, we’ve pieced together the ultimate beachgoer itinerary for those in search of a jam-packed coastal vacation.
4 p.m. Check Into Luxury
Check into your three-bedroom villa suite at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach—a coastal retreat set on 26 acres with three sparkling pools, outdoor fire pits and an abundance of family-friendly activities. This expansive property sits adjacent to the Upper Newport Bay Nature Reserve, or as locals call it, “The Back Bay,” and offers access to outdoor activities like swimming, biking, kayaking, paddleboarding and on-site games like shuffleboard, volleyball and table tennis. Spend a day at the resort’s Oasis pool with a cocktail in hand as the kids zoom down the winding waterslide. Fun for all awaits at Hyatt Regency Newport Beach!
9 a.m. Grab Breakfast at Cappy’s Cafe
They always say, “breakfast is the most important meal of the day,” and we won’t argue with that! After a peaceful night’s sleep in your luxury suite, head to Cappy’s Cafe for a hearty morning meal. For 38 years, this iconic dining landmark has remained a place of community where folks are well-fed and treated like family. Feast on a.m. favorites like Eggs Benedict, Huevos Rancheros, the Nova Lox Burrito and Cinnamon Swirl French Toast. Plus, parents will love Cappy’s bottomless Bloody Mary and mimosa options!
11 a.m. Play at Marina Park
After you’ve pleased your palate, take a drive down the bustling Balboa Peninsula and make a pit stop at Marina Park. Here, you’ll find a gorgeous harborside recreation area with amenities like picnic tables, a spacious lawn, clean restrooms and a nautical-themed playground. Let the kids romp around on the soft sand and explore the miniature lighthouse while you kick back and take in views of the sparkling boat-filled harbor.
12 p.m. Head to the Balboa Fun Zone
Continue the day’s festivities with a trip to the time-honored Balboa Fun Zone—just a five-minute drive down the Peninsula. This family-friendly amusement area sits on the water’s edge and offers an assortment of fun activities for all ages. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel, let the kids play in the old-school arcade and snag a slice of ‘za from Pizza Pete’s for lunch!
1:30 p.m. Embark on a Harbor Cruise
Eager to explore the harbor? Newport Beach is home to several top-notch boat rental companies such as Duffy Electric Boat Rentals, Lido Marina Village Electric Boat Rental, Newport Beach Boat Rentals and more. Select your vessel of choice and play captain for the day as you and your crew cruise the open waters. Hint: most rental rates are lower during the week compared to weekends, so look into a midweek afternoon or sunset cruise!
3 p.m. Slurp Down a Milkshake at Crystal Cove Shake Shack
A day on the bay can wear out even the most adventurous of vacationers. So to refuel, take a scenic drive down Pacific Coast Highway to Crystal Cove, where you’ll find the iconic Crystal Cove Shake Shack—the perfect place for an afternoon pick-me-up! Grab a spot on the deck overlooking the Crystal Cove Historic District and order one of their famous creamy milkshakes and a side of crispy fries. Remember, calories don’t count on vacation!
3:30 p.m. Hit the Beach in Crystal Cove
While the milkshakes may have brought you here, the real draw of Crystal Cove is its pristine stretch of shoreline. Take a stroll down to the sand and discover a string of smaller beaches like Little Treasure Cove, Pelican Point Beach and Treasure Cove Beach. And if you’re up for a little adventure, spend some time exploring the area’s tide pools, sandy coves and rocky reefs, where you’ll spot creatures like sea urchins and starfish. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and check the tide schedule before you go!
5:30 p.m. Dine at The Beachcomber
One of Crystal Cove’s most popular dining spots, The Beachcomber is situated just steps from the sand and features an outdoor deck with ocean views, an on-site bar (The Bootlegger) and a menu full of California favorites and tropical drinks. Sit down to a sunset dinner here and dig into seafood favorites like the Crispy Calamari, Maine Lobster Pasta, Mahi Mahi Spring Rolls and more. An evening at The Beachcomber is the perfect way to end a perfect day.
Written By: Kaylin Waizinger
