Got beach? We do! In fact, Newport Beach, CA has miles of uninterrupted beach along the Pacific coast. As you may expect groups heading west for their next group program often consider an event on the beach. In order to get your group fired up about a beach event – you have to ditch tradition. Rather than opting for the sea of been there, done that tiki torch and mai tai luaus or beach boogie and surfboard entries, you’re better off playing up the true colors of the destination. Here are our top picks for planners looking to break the mold and play up Newport Beach, CA’s casually chic lifestyle.

Break tradition with these twists on beach events

While Newport Beach may have plenty of golden sand beaches, they vary considerably in their ambiance. We begin with a beachside soirée at Crystal Cove. No need for elaborate décor when the Pacific Ocean is your backdrop, which is exactly what you’ll get at Crystal Cove State Beach. Spanning over three miles of uninterrupted coastline, this gorgeous stretch of beach gives a glimpse into the California of yesteryear. The beach along with 2,400 acres of undeveloped and conserved woodland is part of California’s ongoing preservation program. In the 1930’s this area was filled with colorful beachside cottages, which eventually grew to become a hallmark of the city.

After a lengthy restoration project these picturesque cottages dot the hillside behind one of the most beautiful beaches in the area, Crystal Cove. The most famous of these historic landmarks is the “Beaches” cottage named after the Bette Midler movie, which it hosted along with several other films over the years.

Crystal Cove is the place for a classic beach party. Try a casual clambake, a formal wine tasting, or even a wine pairing dinner, add some great music, and exhilarating ocean views and you have the makings of a outstanding Newport Beach event. Play up the natural hues of the ocean with white lounge furniture set right on the sand, rustic ‘driftwood’ inspired chairs and tables dressed in sea grass green, Pacific blue or whitecap white. Top with driftwood centerpieces, hillside sage and candles for a comfortably sophisticated beachside gathering.

Put the fun back into your corporate beach event

Just a few miles up the coast, along Newport’s Upper Back Bay sits a crescent style beach perfect for an evening of casual beachside fun!

Newport Dunes sits at the entrance to Newport’s Upper Back Bay, a natural estuary and a protected marine habitat comprised of 1000 acres of coastal wetlands. This quiet bay is perfect for a toes-in-the-sand beach party. Think casual fun with sliders, kabobs, ahi tacos and organic vodka martinis. Or play up Newport’s coastal sophistication with cracked crab and chilled wine, steamed lobster or sushi platters. Finish either menu with a relaxing fire pit gathering for s’mores and cordials.

Go casual with colorful beach chairs combined with white or natural picnic tables and beach blankets or opt for long family style tables topped with indigenous eucalyptus branches and succulents.

About 2 miles up the coast and out on the Newport Peninsula sits Marina Park. This harbor side beach offers a large indoor or outdoor space perfect for groups.

This is an ideal location for active parties. We’re talking surfboard simulators or even sand surfing on surfboard inspired balance boards. Add some interactive food stations highlighting destination specialties like farm fresh, organic veggies, fruit and seafood, or influences like a zesty Mexican street taco bar.

Forget the corporate ballroom rounds and play up the relaxed beach atmosphere with vibrant lounge clusters, bistro tables or oversized chairs. Set the stage for beachside fun by handing guests flip-flops and visors upon arrival.

Taking your cues from the destination will help alleviate the same old, seen it before event. Likewise, knowing which location would best serve your group will ease the process of creating your ideal beach party. When you’re ready to begin organizing your next group meeting, connect with the local experts at Visit Newport Beach, the destination marketing organization for Newport Beach, CA. Visit Newport Beach opens the doors to this Pacific paradise with destination expertise, customized site visits, strong partnerships and valuable resources.