A Family-Friendly Itinerary for a Day of Fun in the Sun
From breezy boat rides to endless beach days, there isn’t a more magical place to spend your summer than Newport Beach. Our sun-drenched city is a dreamy destination for families in search of some fun in the sun. Whether it’s sticking your toes in the sand, enjoying breakfast as a family or heading to the Balboa Fun Zone for a ride on the Ferris Wheel, the memories you’ll make will be cherished forever. Here’s the sweetest summertime itinerary for families planning a trip to our city by the sea.
STAY
Ocean views, world-class dining and dazzling accommodations await at VEA Newport Beach! This newly rebranded hotel embraces the best of Newport Beach and is perfect for families who want to stay in the center of it all. Accommodations here range from coastal-chic guest rooms and suites to sprawling two- and four-bedroom retreats. On property, you and your family will enjoy amenities like a 14,000-square-foot spa oasis, three dreamy dining concepts, a destination pool experience and ocean views for days. The hotel is also situated just a stone’s throw from Newport Beach’s buzzing shopping center, Fashion Island, as well as other attractions like the charming Balboa Island, the Balboa Peninsula and Newport Harbor.
Play
Traveling with kids can be tricky, but a trip to the Balboa Fun Zone is sure to keep everyone in your crew entertained. Since 1936, this time-honored amusement area in Balboa Village has offered a taste of nostalgia to all who visit. With everything from retro ice cream shops and a Ferris wheel to an old-school arcade, you’ll love spending family time at this whimsical, open-air attraction. And once you’ve had your fill of fun and games, walk over to the beach side of the Balboa Peninsula for some playtime on the sand!
Dine
Cappy’s Cafe, The Crab Cooker, Avila’s El Ranchito, Mama D’s
Newport Beach may be known for its collection of award-winning waterfront restaurants, but surprisingly, our city’s dining scene is super kid-friendly! Instead of opting for room service, get a taste of the local cuisine and spend time together. We love Cappy’s Cafe for a casual breakfast, The Crab Cooker for a midday bite (try their famous seafood chowder!), Avila’s El Ranchito for family-style Mexican fare and Mama D’s Italian Kitchen for a seaside Italian dinner. Be sure to also stop by Sugar ‘n Spice on Balboa Island for one of their famous chocolate-dipper Balboa Bars (the perfect sweet treat!).
Shop
Summertime calls for a wardrobe update, and we know just the place. Expansive and upscale, Fashion Island is one of Newport Beach’s premier retail destinations, with shops ranging from local boutiques to larger-scale department stores. Dad can pick up a few vacation essentials at Bloomingdales, Brixton and Buck Mason, while Mom can hone her look with a trip to Anthropologie, Johnny Was and Lululemon. Don’t worry—we didn’t forget about the kiddos! Fashion Island is chock-full of stores for the little ones; shop for swimwear at Janie and Jack, shorts and skirts at Splendid and matching family outfits at Lilly Pulitzer.
Explore
For an idyllic afternoon on the bay, rent your very own electric boat from Vision Electric Boat Rental. This rental company sits in the heart of Lido Marina Village and boats a fleet of top-of-the-line vessels for your enjoyment. And not only are these boasts colorful (and perfect for photo ops), but they can be customized with a balloon arch! Set “sail” in style this summer as you and your family navigate the shimmering blue waters of the bay.
