Top 10 Things to Do in Nature in Newport Beach
When it comes to outdoor activities, Newport Beach has some of the best. Whether it’s a hike, an ocean adventure or a laid-back ride along the coast, our stunning slice of Southern California has something for every nature lover. From tide pools teeming with marine life to biking trails with unbeatable views, here’s your ultimate guide to exploring the scenic side of Newport Beach.
Hiking at Crystal Cove State Park
If you haven’t gone hiking in Newport Beach, you’re missing out. Crystal Cove State Park boasts over 18 miles of trails that wind through rolling hills and coastal bluffs and even lead to hidden beaches. Open year-round, this hiking haven is best explored in the cooler months of spring and fall, when wildflowers bloom and the weather is just right. Keep your eyes peeled for mule deer, hawks and even the occasional bobcat as you soak in one of Newport Beach’s most picturesque landscapes.
Kayaking in the Back Bay
For a serene escape, rent a kayak and glide through the peaceful waters of Upper Newport Nature Preserve. Also known as the Back Bay, this protected estuary is a must-visit for birdwatching Orange County enthusiasts, with herons, egrets and stingrays making regular appearances. Early mornings and late afternoons are prime time for paddling, offering calm waters and stunning golden-hour views. Year-round access means you can experience this natural gem whenever the mood strikes. Simply rent a kayak from Pirate Coast Paddle Company or the Newport Aquatic Center and get ready for a fun day on the Back Bay!
Standup Paddleboarding in Newport Harbor
Standup paddleboarding is the quintessential Newport Beach experience. Picture yourself gliding past multi-million-dollar waterfront homes, docked yachts and curious sea lions sunbathing on buoys. Summer is the best time for first-timers, thanks to calm waters, but seasoned paddlers will tell you Newport Harbor is a year-round playground. The mix of urban and coastal scenery makes it a paddleboarding paradise.
Tide Pooling in Corona del Mar
There’s something magical about exploring California tide pools, and the ones in Corona del Mar are some of the best around. A favorite activity for families, tide pooling is a fun and educational way to get up close with marine life. Cameo Shores Beach, tucked below the Cameo Shores community in Corona del Mar, is home to several tide pools perfect for exploration. Getting there requires a walk along a rugged shoreline, so durable shoes are a must. Another fantastic option is Little Corona Del Mar Beach, where rocky reefs flank both sides of the shore, revealing sea anemones, starfish, crabs and even the occasional octopus during low tide. Little Corona also offers convenient amenities, including public showers, restrooms, free street parking, and easy access to tide pools. Winter is the best season for tide pooling, as lower tides make marine life easier to spot. It’s the perfect way to connect with nature without getting too wet.
Biking With a Breeze in Newport Beach
If ocean breezes and stunning views are your thing, hop on two wheels and hit one of Newport Beach’s bike trails, such as the Newport Balboa Bike Trail. Stretching from the Newport Pier to the Balboa Pier, this coastal route offers a relaxed ride with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the sights. Rent an electric bike and ride year-round! But for the ultimate experience, cruise early in the morning when the boardwalk is peaceful, and the sun is just beginning to rise over the Pacific.
Whale-Watching off the Coast
Newport Beach is one of California’s top whale-watching destinations, and trust us—you don’t want to miss it. Gray whales migrate through from December to April, while blue whales make an appearance in the summer months. Add in playful dolphins and the occasional orca sighting, and every whale-watching Newport Beach boat tour feels like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether you go in the winter or summer, there’s always something incredible happening offshore.
Exploring the Back Bay Loop Trail
If you’re looking for a scenic and peaceful Newport Beach walk, the Back Bay Loop Trail is where it’s at. This 10.5-mile path winds through one of Southern California’s most important estuaries, home to over 200 species of birds. Fall and winter are peak seasons for migratory birdwatching, but the views here are stunning all year long. Whether you’re walking, jogging or cycling, the Back Bay delivers a dose of nature just minutes from the hustle and bustle of Newport Beach.
Surfing at The Wedge
Surf culture runs deep in our city, and The Wedge is its most legendary surf spot in Newport Beach. Known for its pyramid-shaped waves that can reach up to 30 feet, this isn’t your average surf break—it’s a spectacle. While summer and early fall bring the biggest swells, watching surfers tackle these towering waves is just as thrilling as riding them. Even if you’re not paddling out (and only strong swimmers should), this iconic Newport Beach experience is worth the trip.
Walking Along the Newport Pier
Nothing beats a classic Newport Beach walk along the pier—especially during golden hour. Whether you stroll the Newport Pier or Balboa Pier, you’ll be treated to endless ocean views, fresh salty air and maybe even a dolphin sighting. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical times to visit, as the sky explodes in shades of pink and orange. It’s the perfect way to take in Newport Beach beaches at a slower pace.
Camping at Crystal Cove State Park
For an overnight adventure, set up camp at Crystal Cove State Park’s Moro Campground. With 59 campsites to choose from (28 of them have water and electric hookups for RVs!), starry night skies and trails leading straight to the beach, this is as close to nature as you can get in Newport Beach. Summer reservations fill up fast, but fall and winter offer a more peaceful experience. There’s nothing quite like waking up to the sound of waves crashing just steps from your tent.
Newport Beach isn’t just about luxury and high-end shopping—it’s a nature lover’s paradise. Whether you’re hiking Newport Beach trails, biking the boardwalk or exploring Corona del Mar’s tide pools, there’s an outdoor adventure waiting for you. So grab your gear, get outside and experience the wild beauty of Newport Beach firsthand.
