When we’re visiting a new place and want to discover a taste of the local culture and people, the first place we often head to is the corner coffee shop.

Whether you’re traveling alone and desire to blend in with residents or you’re with a group and are seeking some alone time, coffee shops in Newport Beach beckon as the perfect destination to get some R&R.

No matter where you are staying in Newport Beach, we have you covered. Give yourself an hour or two, grab your favorite book or laptop, and head to one of the local coffee shops or bakeries located in each Newport Beach neighborhood:

Balboa Village

Located in Newport Beach’s beloved Fun Zone, Mermaid Coffee Bar is the perfect place to grab a cup of coffee before making your way around Balboa Village or boarding the auto ferry to go to Balboa Island. The shop offers a variety of specialty drinks as well as traditional caffeinated beverages and has plenty of bagels, pastries, and baked goods to choose from.

Balboa Peninsula

Satisfy your cravings for savory croissants and delectable doughnuts (or cronuts, if you’re feeling adventurous) at Seaside Bakery on Balboa Peninsula. Locals know this small bakery as a go-to stop not only for breakfast, but also for late-night snacks. My recommendation? The Jalapeno Ham & Cheese Croissant for a savory snack with a kick.

Cannery Village

Alta Coffee Warehouse is a personal favorite of mine. Full of intrigue and charm and tucked away on a side street in Cannery Village on Balboa Peninsula, Alta’s atmosphere is ideal for a relaxing day of reading or catching up with friends. Their Iced Toffee Latte is a local favorite and their menu is full of delightful baked goods. Alta enforces a no-cellphone policy, which only adds to their unique personality. Be sure to join them for open mic nights on Tuesdays and a variety of other performances and exhibits throughout the week and weekend!

Corona del Mar

Beyond the bustling boutiques and ocean breeze, CdM boasts quaint cafes that are perfect for a quick bite or shopping pick-me-up. Rose Bakery Cafe is known for its breakfast burritos, pastries, and lattes. Outdoor, dog-friendly seating abounds, making it the ideal stop for you and your furry friend. You can also make your way to Rendez Vous for delicious, beautifully crafted French cafe food and freshly brewed coffee. Grab your drink and fresh-baked pastry and mosey towards the water to enjoy them beside the ocean.

Fashion Island

Looking to take a trip to a French cafe that exudes elegance and modern artistic flare? Look no further. Nestled in the Design Plaza of Newport Beach’s Fashion Island, Wild Strawberry Cafe gives visitors an unparalleled dining experience. Whether you desire a warm cup of coffee or a decadent dessert, this cafe is the place for you. And as you stroll around Fashion Island, be sure to stop at Le Pain Quotidien for organic breads that are baked daily and served with organic jams, butter and spreads.

Mariner’s Mile

A family-owned bakery known for its fresh baguettes, cheeses, and pastries, C’est Si Bon Bakery is a hidden gem frequented by locals. Their sinfully sweet treats and warm baked goods (including gluten-free goodies) make C’est Si Bon a must-stop shop for a morning or afternoon treat. It’s an inviting atmosphere offering a casual feel and baked goods straight from the oven. What more could one need? And fresh croissants with coffee — is there a better combination?

Westcliff Dr.

The true definition of coffeehouse culture, Kean Coffee boasts coffee that is always roasted in-house, a variety of loose-leaf teas, pastries that are baked fresh daily by local artisan bakeries (gluten-free and vegan options available), and most importantly, a warm, community-centric atmosphere. Kean does not have Wi-Fi, and while others may view this as an imperfection, I find it to be a charming way for them to emphasize the importance of community and connection. This quintessential coffee shop is a must try.

Wherever you choose to spend your day, you are guaranteed to have a wonderful time immersing yourself in one of Newport Beach’s coffee shops or bakeries.

Cheers!