7 Ice Cream Shops That’ll Melt Your Heart
Few things compare to ice cream on a hot summer day. Whether it’s a fruity sorbet or creamy scoop in a crunchy waffle cone, there’s a reason this summer treat is an American staple. Thankfully, Newport Beach is spoiled for choice when it comes to all that’s cold and creamy. From authentic Italian gelato to tasty soft serve and beyond, we’ve got the inside scoop on the best places for ice cream in Newport Beach. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to satisfy your summer sweet tooth!
Since its door first opened in 1945, Sugar ‘n Spice has remained a Balboa Island landmark. The quaint shop sits on the island’s bustling Marina Avenue and serves up delicious made-to-order, hand-dipped frozen bananas and Balboa Bars. And for those not familiar with the “Bal Bar” tradition, here’s how it works: first, select your dip (classic chocolate, dark chocolate, peanut butter or cherry); then, take your pick of toppings which include everything from rainbow sprinkles and Oreos to crushed almonds and toasted coconut. Whichever you choose, it’s sure to be love at first bite!
Summerland Homemade Ice Cream & Patisserie
Located in Balboa Village, Summerland Homemade Ice Cream & Patisserie is a go-to spot after a day at the Balboa Fun Zone. Each flavor is made in small batches using organic ingredients: Straus Family Creamery milk, organic cream, organic butter, organic eggs and organic sugar. Stop by after a ride on the Ferris wheel for a delightful scoop!
Crafted with real California milk, Cowafornia’s ice cream isn’t just your average scoop. This little shop in the Balboa Village serves up premium hand-scooped ice cream that comes in various flavors, including mocha almond fudge, huckleberry, banana walnut, cotton candy, and more! Cowafornia Ice Cream also offers fresh-baked cookies, classic coffee drinks, unique single-origin pour-overs and light snack fare. There’s a little something for everyone here!
The minute you step foot in this Fashion Island hotspot, you’re greeted with the sweet smell of fresh-baked waffle cones. In other words, you’re not leaving without indulging. Gelato Paradiso is known for its authentic Italian gelato, and let it be known: it does not disappoint. Choose between flavors like tiramisu, stracciatella, fragola cheesecake, dulce de leche, pistacchio, panna cotta and more. The shop also features a flavor of the month, and this month it’s S’mores! To create this flavor, Gelato Paradiso makes s’mores in-house, which they crush and layer throughout a marshmallow gelato, then top it off with melted chocolate.
Tucked in the quaint neighborhood of Westcliff is Salt & Straw—an artisan ice cream parlor known for its inventive, small-batch flavors that push the boundaries of traditional ice cream. Every scoop is crafted with high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients, making each bite a unique and delicious experience.
If you’re one to keep things classic, Handel‘s Homemade Ice Cream is a great spot to snag a summer scoop. This old-fashioned shop has been around since 1945 and offers all of the classics—from banana splits and double scoops to sundaes and malted milkshakes. Plus, the Newport Beach location is located just steps from the sand and Newport Beach Pier, so when the kiddos are craving a post-beach day treat, you know where to take ‘em.
With a large selection of sweets, ice cream, baked goods and candy, it’s no surprise B.Candy is a sweet tooth’s paradise. Stop by the Corona del Mar location and discover a bright and colorful shop chock-full of party supplies, toys, accessories and most importantly, ice cream! With nearly 50 flavors, you’ll be hard-pressed to make a choice, but don’t fret—all of them are worth the calories! And if you’re one to go big or go home, you’ll be delighted to know that B.Candy also offers mix n’ match ice cream cookie sandwiches, soda floats served in color-changing cups and customized milkshakes.
