Your Guide to a Family-Friendly Spring Break in Newport Beach
Spring break is nearly here, and if you’re craving some family fun in the sun, look no further than the city of Newport Beach. With its sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters and endless sunshine, our coastal city is the ultimate playground for families looking to make the most of their spring break in Newport Beach. From boating and paddleboarding to shopping and dining, our coastal paradise has everything you need to make some epic vacation memories. So grab your sunscreen, slip on your swimsuits and get ready to float with us!
Where to Stay In Newport Beach This Spring Break
Balboa Bay Resort
For families looking to make the most of spring break in Newport Beach, Balboa Bay Resort offers the ultimate bayfront escape. Set on 15 pristine acres, this AAA Four-Diamond resort blends luxury with laid-back family fun, featuring 159 newly renovated guest rooms with contemporary furnishings and plush Frette linens. Beyond the cozy accommodations, families can enjoy an array of on-site activities, from lounging poolside in a private cabana to renting Duffy boats, kayaks, and paddleboards for a sun-soaked adventure on Newport Harbor. Dining is also a delight at the newly refreshed A+O Restaurant | Bar, where sea-to-table dishes and a waterfront patio set the scene. Plus, with outdoor games like ping pong and cornhole, along with breathtaking bay views at every turn, boredom is never an option at this family-friendly hotel in Newport Beach.
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina
Newport Dunes offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation on Newport’s scenic Back Bay. This sprawling 100-acre coastal retreat offers the freedom of an RV getaway with the perks of a full-fledged resort—minus the sky-high hotel prices. However, despite the no-frills vibe of this escape, there are still resort-style amenities to enjoy, like hydrotherapy pools, beach access and waterfront dining. Families can paddleboard across the bay, embark on a Duffy boat cruise, or unwind together in a private poolside cabana. Whether glamping or cozying up in a cottage, Newport Dunes guarantees an unforgettable spring break in Newport Beach, CA.
Lido House
With its Cape Cod-inspired design and nautical touches, Lido House hotel is a dreamy spot to dwell this spring break. The property features 130 guest rooms and five three-story cottages, which are extra spacious and perfect for families. During the day, your kiddos will love splashing around in the pool while you unwind with a massage at the spa. Plus, the hotel’s prime location in the heart of Newport Beach means that you’ll have easy access to all the best local attractions, from the beach to the boardwalk. Whether you’re looking for a family vacation full of adventure or just some quality time to relax and recharge, Lido House is the perfect place to unpack your bags.
Family-Friendly Activities in Newport Beach
Rent an Electric Boat
One of the most popular family-friendly activities in Newport Beach, boating on the bay is a great way to take in the city’s coastal scenery. The best part? You don’t have to own a boat to do so! Vision Electric Boat Rental in Lido Marina Village offers a selection of colorful electric boats for rent. Simply make a reservation online and enjoy a two-hour cruise around the harbor with your family—keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like birds and sea lions.
Visit the Balboa Fun Zone
Entertain the kiddos with a trip to the historic Balboa Fun Zone! One of Newport Beach’s biggest family-friendly attractions, this time-honored amusement area sits on the harbor’s edge and is home to a Ferris wheel, arcade, nautical museum and numerous places to dine and shop! Grab a slice of pizza from Pizza Pete’s, and explore all that this 80-year-old landmark has to offer.
Catch a Movie at THE LOT
Wind down after a day of sun and fun by catching a flick at THE LOT at Fashion Island—one of our favorite family-friendly activities in Newport Beach. This luxury movie theater offers a one-of-a-kind movie experience, featuring everything from recliner seating to in-seat theater wait service! Snack on tasty bites like flatbreads, sushi and fresh salads as you cozy up together and enjoy a unique cinematic experience. Then, once your movie is over, grab something sweet for dessert at Fashion Island’s Gelato Paradiso or See’s Candies store.
Rent a Moke
Getting around town can be a challenge, especially during the busier spring and summer months, so we recommend renting an electric Moke! These cute cars come in a variety of colors and can go up to 40 miles on a single charge. Plus, they’re street-legal and smaller than your typical car, making parking that much easier. Enjoy a sea breeze as you zip around town with your fam in one of these adorable cars from Newport Beach Moke Rental!
Family-Friendly Restaurants in Newport Beach
Lighthouse Cafe
For a family-friendly dining experience with stunning waterfront views, Lighthouse Cafe by Marina Park is a must-visit. This airy eatery boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, a spacious patio, and an upper deck overlooking the bay, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed meal with the whole crew. While it’s open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, it’s especially popular for brunch, where favorites like the Lighthouse Benedict and Lemon Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes steal the show. Parents can sip on a signature bloody mary while kids enjoy a delicious start to the day—all with a front-row seat to Newport’s scenic marina.
The Crab Cooker
If you and your family are craving some tasty seafood, you can’t go wrong with a meal at The Crab Cooker. This historic restaurant has been serving up fresh fish and its famous clam chowder since 1951, making it a staple on the bustling Balboa Peninsula. Enjoy the charming, old-school ambiance of this family-run restaurant as you dig into crab cakes, calamari and skewers of seared shrimp and scallops.
Avila’s El Ranchito
What’s a spring break in Newport Beach without some authentic Mexican food? For over 55 years, Avila’s El Ranchito has been a beloved, family-owned gem that serves up authentic recipes passed down through generations. Every location is run by a member of the Avila family, ensuring a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes diners feel like part of the tradition. The Newport Beach and Corona del Mar outposts are perfect for a lively family meal, where parents can sip on handcrafted margaritas while indulging in flavorful classics, from sizzling fajitas to savory enchiladas. Meanwhile, the little ones can dig into kid-friendly favorites like quesadillas and burritos.
Newport Landing Restaurant
Newport has no shortage of waterfront restaurants, but Newport Landing is a classic spot that always delivers—especially when you’ve got the whole family in tow. Sitting right on the harbor next to the Balboa Fun Zone, this spot is a total win for a laid-back lunch or sunset dinner with a view. The kids can watch the boats cruise by while munching on crispy fish and chips or buttery shrimp, and parents can kick back with fresh oysters, crab cakes and a chilled glass of wine. The second-story deck is where it’s at for the best harbor views, and if you time it just right, you’ll catch the golden hour glow over the water.
