Spend a Summer Day Hoping on and off the Balboa Peninsula Trolley
Summer is almost here, which means the Newport Beach coastline is about to see an influx of visitors looking to catch some rays. And while we love the summer months, there is a downside: parking. As the weather begins to heat up, spots fill up fast, but luckily, the city of Newport Beach provides a free trolley service that’ll take you up and down the Balboa Peninsula. There are 22 stops, to be exact, and the trolleys stop at each one every 15 minutes.
Trolley Operational Hours & Dates:
- The trolley’s regular hours of operation are on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. until 9:30 p.m.
- Wheelchair accessible
Ready for an epic day cruising the Balboa Peninsula? Hop aboard!
Our Balboa Peninsula Trolley Itinerary
Stop 4: Balboa & 20th
After departing from the Avon Street Parking Lot, which is near the intersection of Tustin Avenue and Avon Street, cruise to stop four on the trolley route. This will drop you at the Newport Pier, where you can begin your day with a coffee from Newport Coffee Co. After you’ve picked up one of their organic cold brews or signature lattes, take a walk out onto the pier for epic views of the waves. Watch the surfers do their thing before hopping back on the trolley!
Stop 7: Balboa & 11th
Next stop? Sun, surf, and sand! Assuming you brought your beach gear with you, hop off the trolley at Balboa & 11th and find a spot on the shore where you can soak up the sun, build sandcastles, and catch some waves. And if waves aren’t your jam, you can also walk over to the bay side of the peninsula, where you’ll find 10th Street Beach—a small stretch of sand that boasts picturesque views of the boat-filled bay. This beach is perfect if you have little ones in tow!
Stop 12: Balboa & Adams
We promised some fun in the sun, which leads up to our next stop: the iconic Balboa Fun Zone! This family-friendly entertainment area sits on the edge of the harbor and boasts all kinds of fun attractions. Take a spin on the colorful Ferris wheel, let your kids play in the arcade and grab a bite to eat from one of the village’s many restaurants, like Jane’s Corndogs, Newport Landing, or the all-new Irv’s Burgers. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can also hop on the ferry and spend some time exploring Balboa Island just across the bay.
Stop 17: Marina Park
Our next stop on the Balboa Peninsula trolley route is Marina Park. Another great spot for kids, this grassy park and sailing center features a nautical-themed playground for the littles, basketball courts, an outdoor fitness circuit and stunning views of the bay. Lay out a picnic blanket and watch the boats cruise by, or walk over to the adjacent Lighthouse Café for even better panoramic views and a tasty lunch.
Stop 21: Via Lido & Via Oporto
Last on your itinerary is a stop at the one and only Lido Marina Village—a charming collection of shops, restaurants, and specialty stores on the bay. Step off the trolley into a quaint village full of photo ops and plenty of places to sip, savor, browse, and relax. Pop into stores like ALOHA Collection and Stoney Clover Lane for all of your travel and beach essentials. Then, grab a table at Malibu Farm or Lido Bottle Works for a farm-to-table meal with views of the bay. And if you want to extend your summer day on the Balboa Peninsula, you can even rent an electric boat from Electric Boat Rental and cruise the canals!
Conveniently Experience the Balboa Peninsula By Trolley
Whether you’re a local looking for a stress-free beach day or a visitor exploring Newport Beach for the first time, the Balboa Peninsula Trolley offers a fun, convenient, and completely free way to soak up the best of summer. With 22 easy-to-access stops and trolleys arriving approximately every 15 minutes, it’s never been easier to hop on and off while enjoying everything from sandy beaches to waterfront dining.
Don’t forget to download the ParkMobile app and enter promo code TROLLEY25 for free parking at the Avon Street Parking Lot (stop 1) in Mariners’ Mile. The trolley operates every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., with added service on summer holidays. So pack your beach bag, grab your sunscreen, and let the Balboa Peninsula Trolley take you on the ultimate coastal day trip—no car (or parking stress) required!
