Neighborhood Guide: Back Bay
Glistening waters and over 1,000 acres of preserved wetlands have come to characterize Newport Beach’s beautiful Back Bay. This region is officially known as the Upper Newport Bay Nature Reserve—a sprawling ecological reserve that’s home to paved trails and a handful of endangered species. Surrounding this body of water are a handful of understated hotels, bayside restaurants and natural spaces to hike and explore. Drop anchor for the weekend and take in the beauty of the Back Bay!
STAY
The Back Bay plays host to a surprising assortment of places to stay. If hotel formalities aren’t your thing, Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina offers a peaceful retreat with 382 RV sites, 24 charming cabins/cottages and an assortment of family-friendly activities like paddleboarding and boating. For those that enjoy the frills of a hotel, Newport Beach Marriott Bayview is an all-suites hotel on the Back Bay with modern-day amenities, while the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach (also on the Back Bay) features an on-site executive golf course, three pools and several farm-fresh dining concepts.
DINE
Sit down to a leisurely breakfast at Vista.Kitchen.Bar, or Moulin for some tasty and authentic French fare. And what’s a trip to Newport Beach without indulging in some fresh seafood? SHOR, located on the grounds of the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach, is known for dishes like its furikake-crusted ahi sandwich and grilled Scottish salmon. And when it comes to a splurge-worthy dinner, Bayside Restaurant is an elegant spot with a wrap-around patio. Dig into fresh oysters, steamed black mussels, crab cakes and more. Pro tip: Bayside also hosts a killer Champagne Sunday Brunch!
SHOP
Eager to revamp your fall wardrobe? Situated just minutes from the Back Bay is Fashion Island—Newport Beach’s go-to destination for all things shopping and entertainment. Shop for fall staples at stores like Anthropologie, Johnny Was, Free People, Rails, Splendid and more. And once you’ve shopped ‘til you’ve (nearly) dropped, catch a flick at THE LOT or sit down to dinner at one of the center’s many restaurants.
DO
Nature enthusiasts unite! The Back Bay is overflowing with natural beauty, making it one of the best places to get out on the water. Rent a stand-up paddleboard from Pirate Coast Paddle Company or embark on a guided kayak tour with the Newport Aquatic Center. If you prefer land over water, we recommend hiking or biking the Back Bay Loop trail (keep your eyes peeled for birds!) to visit the Peter & Mary Muth Interpretive Center and Back Bay Science Center.
DON’T MISS
Possibly one of the best-kept secrets in the city (shhh) is Newport Beach Vineyards & Winery’s Wine & Goats events that take place on the first Sunday of each month. Sip vino with goats Winnie and Evie, snack on lite bites and tour the sprawling vineyards and botanical gardens!
Written by: Kaylin Waizinger
