12 Things We’re Loving this Summer
4th of July is fast approaching which usually marks the halfway point of summer’s leisure-paced lifestyle. If a visit to Newport Beach was in your plans this summer, there’s still plenty of time to take advantage of the warm weather and the beautiful coastal scenery! It’s time to put down the remote and experience the height of summer in Newport Beach. We’ve rounded up 12 must things to add to your Summer 2020 bucket list that are social distancing safe and filled with open-air activities!
1. Discover the Tide Pools at Crystal Cove
With four tidepool viewing areas, there’s plenty of tiny sea creatures to discover at Crystal Cove State Park. Peak into the lives of Purple Sea Urchins, clusters of California Mussels, Giant Spined Sea Stars, Striped Shore Crabs and more.
2. Ride the Ferris Wheel at The FunZone
Sometimes life is about enjoying the little things. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel, grab two scoops of ice cream from Cowafornia, spend too many quarters on games at the arcade – life’s a beach!
3. Glow in the Dark Stand Up Paddleboarding
Available only during the summer, SUP Glow by Pirate Coast Paddle Company hosts a guided night tour through the calm waters of Newport Harbor. A magical experience that is not to be missed!
4. Shop ‘til You Drop at Lido Marina Village
Spend the day exploring the chic, coastal shops at Lido Marina Village. From trendy apparel boutique Elyse Walker to home décor go-to Bixby & Ball, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to check out their newest addition, LoveShackFancy, for boho femme finds!
5. Walk the Back Bay
Whether you take a shortcut or hike the entire 10.5-mile loop, the Back Bay is filled with fresh air and sweeping views. The Back Bay is family friendly, dog friendly and social distancing friendly no matter what time of day you go.
6. Stroll Sherman Library and Gardens
Spend a few hours getting lost amongst lush greenery, the sound of fountains and the smell of fresh flowers at Sherman Library and Gardens. This summer, be sure to check out Sculptura Botanica, an exhibit of botanically themed installation of sculptures from local landscape designer, Dustin Gimbel.
7. Hike Crystal Cove State Park
On the cliffs above the Pacific Ocean, three miles of stunning coastline is yours to explore at Crystal Cove State Park. It’s the perfect setting to work up an appetite to consume fluffy beignets at Beachcomber Café after!
8. Have a Beach Picnic
Things to pack for a perfect beach picnic: a thriller novel from Lido Village Books, sunscreen from Cos Bar, sandwiches from Malibu Farm and iced coffee from Herst Coffee Roasters. Or you can let the professionals take care of your picnic set up like the Picnic Collective. Easy peasy!
9. Attend Newport Beach Film Festival
Calling all film fanatics! Newport Beach Film Festival is back from August 6th-20th showcasing the best movies from around the world. Catch all the action at THE LOT in Fashion Island – more details on their site!
10. Dine at Mariner’s Mile
Go restaurants hopping along the harbor in Mariner’s Mile! Mama’s, Rusty Pelican, Billy’s at the Beach, Guacamigos, The Winery are all waterfront along PCH so you’ll never lose sight of the glimmering water.
11. Browse Balboa Island
Stroll the eclectic shops along Marine Ave. on Balboa Island to find summer trends, home décor and our favorite, the Balboa Bar! It’s our favorite way to satisfy our sweet tooth.
12. Wake Up to a Newport Beach View
Our hotel properties have the best views! Whether it be from up above from the Newport Beach Marriott Hotel and Spa, or harbor views from Balboa Bay Resort or sweeping ocean views from The Resort at Pelican Hill, there’s no better way to wake up.
