The 43 best things to do with kids in Newport Beach

It's a fun place to spend the afternoon with your family. Harbor cruise is a really good way to see Christmas lights. The food is OK priced and the rides are $6 a person per ride. There is a very strong fish/sulfur smell in between the boats docks and the fun zone. You can avoid buy walking out to the street if you get sick from bad smells. Also it gets very busy so make sure to get there extra early if you want to find parking or even better take a lift.

We had about 45 min to kill so we stopped here to take the grandkids on the ferris wheel whic ended up being kind of spendy. I think it was 6$ per person for about a 5 minute ride. It’s kind of fun. It’s right along the water by the ferry. The girls liked the trampoline more than the Ferris wheel but I think it was 8$. They had to weigh at least 30 pounds and they got to jump for maybe 5 minutes.

This place holds a special significance for me, as I've been coming here since childhood. Now, it's a joy to share these cherished memories with others by bringing them here and capturing their own experiences through my photography.

Really good experience for younger kids. They had a blast on the Ferris wheel, arcade and jumper.

I recommend bringing your kids here and letting them have fun, I see some other reviews of people saying this is “rundown” but i disagree this is a historic place and should be talked about / taught to kids that way, kids don’t see things that way and judge unless we put those views on them, let them enjoy the history and make memories here. We loved exploring the little shops and going on the Ferris wheel & playing some games we also rented a Duffy boat and watched the sunset on the Duffy, we saw dolphins & sea lions and beautiful views at sunset 🌅 Also love the ferry it’s so iconic and I mean where else can you take a 5 minute fun ferry ride

Fun time with your family. Weekdays are less busy. Lots of different shops to see and buy from or just walk by. Pay to park.

Okay place for family day out, not so much things to do though just couple of rides and arcade. Also Parking in the garage was 25 dollars for the whole day or 6 bucks an hour, and for the restaurants in the area Prices are kinda high but We all know family entertainment can be expensive. They do have Ferris wheel 🎡 I guess it's about $5 a person for the ride. Also they have a place to rent bikes, harbor cruises, whale watching. Overall it's fun place to go with family and friends specially when you have kids

We love this State park. Make sure to go at Low tide so you can enjoy the many tide pools. We have found some cool things in them from Lobsters and an Octopus once. The walk on the beach is awesome from pelican point south to Beachcombers and enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner on the beach. But make reservations or it’s an hour wait. The walking trails are awesome overlooking the ocean.

Crystal Cove State Park is absolutely stunning! From the moment you arrive, the views of the ocean and coastline take your breath away. The hiking trails are well-maintained and offer a mix of easy strolls and more challenging climbs, all with incredible scenic overlooks. Walking along the beach, especially at low tide, reveals tide pools full of fascinating sea life. The beach itself is pristine, with soft sand, clear blue water, and plenty of rocky areas for kids and adults to explore. There are several access points and parking lots, making it convenient to find a spot. The visitor center is helpful and welcoming, and the bathrooms are clean, definitely a plus! We enjoyed stopping at the nearby restaurants along the beach for a meal while soaking in the ocean views. Whether you’re hiking, exploring tide pools, or just relaxing by the water, Crystal Cove is the perfect getaway. Highly recommend bringing a camera. The sunsets here are unforgettable!

what to expect: follow your GPS to the location. It tells you where the state park is only to be stopped by a passive aggressive security guard who pointed out that there was a stop sign behind the tree. The guard will become a little nicer and then point out that there is parking across the street for a mere $15 but there is a shuttle. He fails to tell you that the shuttle cost two dollars each way so you take all of that and you eventually get down to a mediocre beach with a pretty good restaurant, not much else actually. There are some quaint houses that you can rent out and that seems appealing, but as far as the whole package is concerned, unless you’ve never been to the beach before, it is a pass.

What great beach. $20 a day pass. Clean, blue water. Rocks to climb on. There are several paths to get down to the beach. Upon entering, make a left and park at the end of the lot. Take the paved path next to the bathrooms down to the water. Its still pretty steep. Kids had a blast.

I love to go to this place. I went super early and got to see the sunrise. Beach was not too crowded when I got there in the morning. Water was very clear and clean. I saw about six different species of fish swimming in the kelp/ sea grass and rock reef while snorkeling. Be prepared to walk down to the beach and uphill back to the parking lot but it's definitely worth it.

Absolutely Serene. I visited on a weekday. This place felt very open to our sky, ocean and natural world. Crystal Cove was not crowded with people. Good place for relaxation & recreation with a view. Pack a picnic lunch or find nearby park concessions. Purchase a California State Park Day or Multi-Day Pass. Enjoy this beauty and other California state beach parks on a day journey along the Pacific Coast Highway. Tip: The stairs leading to beach have an uneven surface and are a bit wonky to walk down. There is a walking ramp located nearby that is a more stable alternative to provide better footing, if needed.

Very beautiful beach! Would highly recommend and go back. The birds are savages though but overall wonderful sight.

Condensed high-end fashion. A lot of high-end stores like Apple Store, Macy’s, Nordstrom‘s Lululemon, etc., and many small boutique stores I’ve never heard of. Restaurants and fast food for different price levels. Like five guys Chick-fil-A, panda express, etc.. Was there on a Saturday afternoon. Found parking but It took a little time. A nice food court area and some nice restaurants spread around shopping area. Check the Google site to see the list of great restaurants.

Nice views, some cool architecture, and the koi pond is very pretty and peaceful. Good place for people watching and strolling. I mostly get in some good walking/move goals - more so than actually buying anything.

Fashion Island is a lovely outdoor shopping destination! The stunning fountain displays are a real highlight, creating a beautiful and relaxing centerpiece. Adding to the charm are the adorable koi fish swimming in the surrounding ponds – they're delightful to watch. Plus, with its wide selection of great brand shops, it offers a truly enjoyable and stylish shopping experience

Not only a normal mall 🥹 first time seeing the architecture like this. Visited outdoor mall before Irvine spectrum but I think this place is 💯💯💯 love walking and sitting around here. Other people in the store also nice and helpful too. It's close to the beach if anyone want to combine short trip here

Such a nice mall! Great to hang out with friends and family. They have a cute little Koi pond to hang out around. I saw a lot of kids enjoying their time watching the fishes swim.

Fashion Island Mall has many of the big names in fashion along with two large department stores. Aside from a very pretty koi pond, the place doesn't have any character. The worst part is that the ladies' facilities have only 2 stalls. There was a line of 15 women waiting. For a mall that presents itself as upscale, it really didn't make me feel like coming back or to recommend it to visitors.

Fashion Island is a premier open-air shopping destination in the heart of Newport Beach, blending coastal California charm with a luxury retail experience. The center features a well-curated mix of high-end brands like Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, and Bloomingdale’s, along with designer boutiques, lifestyle stores, and popular fashion retailers. Beautifully landscaped with ocean views in select spots, the atmosphere is relaxed, walkable, and distinctly upscale. Dining options range from casual cafés to elevated restaurants like R+D Kitchen and Canaletto, making it easy to spend an entire day shopping, dining, and enjoying the coastal breeze. With its mix of fashion, food, and scenery, Fashion Island is more than a shopping center—it’s a refined destination for locals and visitors alike.

Great place to take kids. Lots of hands on activities for kids, beautiful nature, variety of different areas in the center. I’ve never seen so much green in Newport Beach lol. A great place for a field trip as well. Would happily come again.

Took our Daisy scout troop here for a field trip. Miss Hannah couldn’t have been better with the girls. She was so animated, silly and knowledgeable. She had the girls attention from the get go! Brought education to their level and kept them engaged and learning for more than an hour! Thank you Miss Hannah, and ENC for a great morning!

The Environmental Nature Center in New Port is an absolute five-star gem! My wife, daughter, and I had the most incredible time exploring this hidden treasure. The serene natural surroundings and well-maintained trails provided the perfect setting for a leisurely family adventure. The educational exhibits were both engaging and informative, making it an ideal place for kids and adults alike. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing our experience. We left feeling more connected to nature and with hearts full of gratitude for this fantastic resource in our community. A must-visit for anyone who appreciates the beauty of the outdoors!

Great place to stroll. We participated in the nature’s pharmacy talk, which was outstanding. Lovely place!

Great place to take your toddler for a nature walk. There is a creek and winding walking trails that loop around so you can’t really get lost. But only open to the public on weekends.

A fun little getaway for the family to walk, explore, & have a picnic lunch. That's what we did and had a great time. Staff was accommodating, and location was clean and well taken care of 😃

I live in California I breed insects. Food for animals! Food for human’s too! Black Soldier Fly Larvae Ala Mode! Sweet Churro’s treat! Savory treats! Taste like Chito’s Crunch! Organic 50 percent protein 35 percent fat! More protein than beef! I also grow mushrooms too! The buttons around the house! Don’t say nothing!

This is a small garden area that has a library, small store and even a restaurant looking out at the garden. There’s blooming flowers full of color, green houses, koi fish pond, and welcoming staff. It was fun walking around and checking out all the trees, flowers and fish and turtles. They even have a small scavenger hunt that kids can participate in which was really fun as we walked around. The store was cute but the library was closed. There was a small patio that you can just sit and enjoy the area and the bathroom are next to the store. The restaurant seemed busy during the week around 1:00 pm. Think it would be nice to return to visit the restaurant to sit out in the patio area enjoying our meal.

Love this beautiful botanical garden and library! Each time the magical environment transfers me to heaven and back. Exotic plants and flowers, beautiful gift shop that you can always find a unique souvenir and Dahlia 608 restaurant at the garden is a must to experience. Go there! You won’t be disappointed.

This place is absolutely stunning and breathtaking. The atmosphere is so lively and fun! The gift shop has a great selection of items. Make sure to take some time to visit this incredible garden! 🪏🪴

Lovely gardens! The best gift shop too! I’ll stop here for gifts in the future. Well curated. Nice variety. I don’t love succulents but their succulent garden is just gorgeous. Quirky, vintage, unique library featuring local city books and archives.

A great afternoon escape in Newport Beach. Perfect size to appreciate natural beauty of the gardens without having to do miles of walking.

Honestly one of the best $5 I have ever spent. This beautiful garden offers so much and every corner is breathtakingly gorgeous. There are so many different types of plants and decorations, everything is so colorful and aesthetic. Especially during Christmas time the decorations are incredible. This place is perfect for a date, you can take so many beautiful pictures.

Visited on a Thursday morning. Not a lot of people in the garden but the restaurant is busy as usual. Really cute garden with friendly people~ worth the 5 dollar entry fee definitely 👍

This was where I got my first taste for big surf as a kid. The Wedge has some unbelievable power- far beyond anything else in Southern California. Every wave barrels and when the sand and swell direction are just right- there is some makeable ones.

If you haven’t been to the wedge, put it on your bucket list during a big Swell. It’s a lot of fun to watch the surfers catch amazing waves.

Best spectator spot for big wave surfing. The waves jack up due to the presence of the jetty and wave refraction, launching bodyboarders and surfers into the air, like a cannon. One swell can 'bounce' off the jetty and merge with the larger swell, creating a larger, thrilling double wave. The result is a hollow, thumping closeout that breaks in as little as 6 inches deep and sends water flying. A strong backwash pulls swimmers in and it's hard to get out. Reserved for the experts. On bigger days, lifeguards will warn the spectators if they get too close. Images depict 4-6 foot swells.

One of the TOP Bodysurfing spots in the world. Unfortunately The Wedge was flat when we visited in April-2017. But the place is very beautiful. The way there even by car is fantastic. Extremely beautiful neighborhood. Nice houses, eyes for detail -> The people there are to be congratulated. Worth the ride. (Look for Newport Beach. The Wedge as I understand is the specific spot besides the river - that beach) Nice place!

Haven’t seen it in four decades and The Wedge is still just as crazy beautiful! Don’t go in the water unless you’re a good swimmer!!

When it's on, look out! Great surf videos from this famous location

Went to the wedge and enjoy the morning. It was a small day and very quiet.

It is a nice beach with nice sand. There is a bathroom (with flush toilets) at the start of the pier. The lifeguards drove by several times in a truck. The water was cold, 68 degrees, but it was still swimmable. There is also a shower to wash off.

Such an amazing beach to go to. The boardwalk is very long and has a little bit of everything for every type of person! Great vendors, fresh markets, makers market, shops, food! Kid and dog friendly too. Highly recommend

Beautiful, clean beach. The staff at all the stores I visited were polite and pleasant. The cupcakes at Sprinkles were delicious. The auto ferry to the island was fun. I definitely recommend it for the kiddos. Perfect weather. Pricey parking, but the streets are clean and the infrastructure in general is well maintained, so it's worth it.. I look forward to my next visit

Newport Beach offers a quintessential Southern California beach experience, though a few practical considerations are worth noting for visitors. Without a doubt, the beach at Newport is a major draw. The sand is consistently clean and well-maintained, inviting long strolls, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. The ocean water is generally clear and enjoyable for swimming or surfing. A significant hurdle for many visitors is parking. It can be incredibly difficult to find a spot, especially on weekends or during peak season. Even with early arrival, prepare for a hunt and potentially a bit of a walk to the sand. For those really struggling, exploring options like parking at nearby establishments like Starbucks or other restaurants (with a purchase, of course) might be a last resort on exceptionally busy days, though this is not a guaranteed solution and depends on the specific establishment's policies. The proximity of the (near the 32nd Street pole) is a huge plus. It's incredibly convenient for grabbing snacks, drinks, or any forgotten beach essentials. Beyond the supermarket, the area boasts a good selection of restaurants and, of course, Starbucks, offering plenty of food and beverage options throughout the day. One notable positive is the visible and effective security presence, which contributes to a feeling of safety and well-being while enjoying the beach. However, a significant area for improvement lies with the public restrooms. They are consistently not clean, which can be an unpleasant experience for beachgoers. It's advisable to plan accordingly or be prepared for less-than-ideal conditions when needing to use the facilities. Newport Beach remains a beautiful and enjoyable destination with its pristine sands and convenient access to food and drink. While the parking situation and cleanliness of the restrooms are definite drawbacks, the strong security presence and overall beach experience still make it a worthwhile visit for those willing to navigate these challenges.

The thing I like the most about the beach is no spot Is really a bad spot when you are there to relax. We parked away from the busy pier, and were still able to enjoy a calming beach experience. I go to the beach to take naps

I wish I could have more time to enjoy it… seems very fun, a lot of local shops and the beach is beautiful 🤩 I will be back soon

Very clean. There was a major volleyball event happening, so might have been a little biased, but it was a very nice, family friendly atmosphere.

Great experience very clean. It gets busy and sometimes it’s kinda hard to find parking spots but eventually you’ll find one different restaurants, walkways, friendly neighborhoods. Like I said, it’s a good experience, especially for families you can rent bikes and more.

Balboa Island – A Hidden Gem in Newport Beach! Balboa Island is an absolute treasure! From the charming waterfront homes and cozy shops to the peaceful boardwalk strolls with stunning harbor views, everything feels like a postcard. The ferry ride adds a nostalgic touch, and don’t miss the famous Balboa Bar—delicious and iconic! It’s the perfect place for a relaxing day with family or friends. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Orange County!

Balboa Island is a charming and picturesque island located in Newport Beach, California. It's known for its beautiful waterfront homes, quaint shops, and friendly atmosphere. Visitors often enjoy strolling along the boardwalk, indulging in local restaurants, and taking part in various water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. The island has a cozy, small-town vibe and is famous for its historic carousel and delightful frozen banana treats. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach or explore the local culture, Balboa Island has something fun for everyone!

A Memorable First Visit to Balboa Island Over Memorial Day Weekend My first experience at Balboa Island was nothing short of amazing. It was truly an honor to be there during Memorial Day weekend — a time when the community was alive with celebration, reflection, and appreciation. This charming private community in Newport Beach has a special kind of magic that makes you want to come back again and again. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed by the peaceful, coastal atmosphere and warm, friendly people. The island feels like a hidden gem, filled with beautiful homes, clean streets, and stunning views all around. You get the sense that Balboa is more than just a location — it’s a lifestyle. While exploring the area, I had the pleasure of supporting a local small business — OC GS Down With Citrus, founded by Garrett Drew. I grabbed a fresh, delicious lemonade that was perfect for the warm holiday weekend. It’s always inspiring to see young entrepreneurs bringing great energy and quality products to the community. One of the highlights of the trip was riding the Balboa Island Ferry. It gave us a scenic route across the water where we got an up-close look at luxurious yachts and boats. It felt like the whole island was celebrating that extra Monday off, and the waterfront views were nothing short of breathtaking. The vibe on the island was elevated by the cars that lined the streets — I saw everything from Bentleys, Maybachs, and G-Wagons to a sleek Ferrari. The mix of coastal charm and luxury made for a truly unique atmosphere. Balboa Island is a place I’d absolutely recommend visiting, especially during a holiday weekend when the community spirit is high. Whether you’re taking in the views, enjoying the local food and drinks, or simply soaking up the ambiance, there’s something here for everyone. I’m definitely looking forward to returning in the near future.

Had a great time, I loved the island, and the auto ferry was so cool and only paid 5 dollars for two with vehicle. Just loved the place. I will go back again.

Omg. It’s beautiful island and beach around the island. First time we been here. Will be back again. Love it !

Fun to take the car ferry to the island for some shopping. Nice clothing shops, & some nicer souvenir type shops and also had coffee at a cute street shop. We went in October and finding parking was somewhat hard. I would hate to try & find parking during the summer vacation months.

This place keeps getting worse every year. To start, in the last five years they have closed ALL water side trails to hikers. This was the best part about coming here. 90% of the interesting native plants and animals are down in the tidal zone. Closing all single track hiking trails only makes the other hot and dusty road trails that much more crowded. When I am hiking I want to see no cars, bikes, or other people, just nature. Closing the water side trails makes this place a joke. On top of this they cemented the once nice crushed granite parking lot and made the spaces tiny. This is why locals now park on the street, they don't want dented cars! Just too many people at this place now. They should just close this whole park down and fence it off for just the wildlife if they are not going to let people hike down at the waters edge. All you are going to see on the dusty dirt roads are cars, bikers, and hikers surrounded by dry brown fields. I posted some pictures of the lower waterside trails to show you what you are now missing!

Amazing place to take a walk anytime if the day and even more beautiful during sunset! I wish it hadn't taken me 25 yrs to finally decide to explore the area. I was always deterred by the smell that sometimes accompanies the tide changes. Haven't noticed it at all now that I frequently ride my bike down the trails that go around the back bay.

This was a nice walk/hike. There are several trails to choose from so you can make your own trail. The weather was great and you get a nice breeze in this area. Would definitely come back.

If you’re looking for an easy to moderate walk, I highly recommend checking out the Nature Preserve. There are several trail options to choose from, including paved paths that are perfect for a scenic run. I’ve been coming here for years and love the peaceful atmosphere. There’s also a free parking lot available, but it tends to fill up quickly on weekends—so plan accordingly!

Open preserve on Santa Ana River that opens to the ocean. Nice trails - dirt and paved, with great lookouts.

There are two nature centers and a rest area with faded panels about wildlife. Plenty of walk out platforms. Two lane road and a bit of slanted gravel lakeside. Only thing is it isn’t a total loop. Had to cross via pch south side and jamboree north side with some diverted in residential streets.

First time here and I was blown away by the wide open views and variety of trail options. I wasn’t expecting such a peaceful escape in the middle of the city. You’ll see everyone here—from first-time visitors and families with strollers to runners, joggers, and even pet parents. It’s definitely a spot for all kinds of outdoor lovers.

One of the best and beautiful parts of Southern California. Corona del Mar is a beautiful and distinguished area. Wonderful estates and pristine beaches. A great family spot.

The only OC beach I know that has street parking without paying. Beautiful beach that the water is clean with some seaweed. Overall the sunset is nice and a place to go for a swim. Pay parking is available but I prefer street parking if available on the weekdays.

Such a beautiful beach! Close parking was a great plus. The variety It has to offer. Is that it's right by the Newport Harbor, giant rocks to climb on, bathroom accessibility and such a clean Beach! It's also a very cool hangout for youth because it's somewhat secluded in its area.

One of my favorite beaches that I’ve visited! Had a huge amount of parking, lots of beach’s space and the waves were awesome, definitely bigger than expected but still had a lot of people bogey boarding and swimming and restrooms on hand! Highly recommend this for a good beach visit if your in the area

beach is very beautiful. has space available for beach volleyball. has a good amount of bathrooms stalls but they dont have anything to dry your hands with, like air dryer or paper towels

Came on a weekend afternoon and was surprised to find plenty of parking — big plus! Maybe it’s just the off-season. The sunset was beautiful, but the beach feels more like a spot for family or friends to hang out than a quiet place to enjoy the ocean view.

This is our favorite place ever, we love to walk on the pier watch all the boats go by and walk in the sand from beginning to end and weighed in the water. It is gorgeous.

Quick and fun way to get to Balboa! My 2.5 year old loved riding the “car boat.” We walked on with a big stroller and the Captains helped us get onto the boat- super friendly guys! Very affordable ($2 total for myself and 2 little kids.) Two ferries are always running so we had no wait on either end of our trip. Cash only, pay on the boat. A fun & affordable way to experience the bay.

The best most fun thing on the Peninsula!!! I love how rain or shine. The ferry always runs you know during Covid. They never shut down. It was almost surreal, riding the ferry with no passengers or no boats on the ocean. It’s a Newport Beach tradition and very cool so ride the ferry people.!!!

Our ferry ride was incredibly smooth and efficient from start to finish. Boarding was quick and well-organized, and the staff were friendly, professional, and made sure everyone felt comfortable. The ride itself was fast and steady no bumps, no delays, just a relaxing trip with great views along the way. The seating was clean and comfortable, and everything ran right on schedule. It was such a pleasant experience overall. Whether you’re commuting or just sightseeing, this ferry makes traveling easy and enjoyable. I’ll definitely be choosing this route again!

I had such an amazing time along with unwinding and taking it all in after being away from home. It’s certainly not my first time but absolutely enjoy it and it’s my favorite every time I’m home. If you love the ocean as much as I do, this is it!

I LOVEEEE BALBOA ISLAND FERRY, it's incredible cheap!! My trip was only 7 dollars compared to 40 bucks a normal ferry would charge. It's honestly SOOOOO amazing, it reminds me of a punt ferry, so amazing, absolutely recommend!!

$2 each way. Cash only. Two ferries constantly run on most days. The best deal in these parts. Very efficiently run.

Such a fun experience! I love taking my car on the ferry and saves a lot of time from having to go all the way around to get on the island. MAKE SURE YOU HAVE CASH!! It’s such a quick ride I understand why they do cash. It’s a nice, little peaceful view of the harbor

Was really impressed with the experience! I debated going back for a second day in a row it was that good. It was easy to purchase my ticket online. Check-in was pleasant and a breeze, and the tour itself was amazing. 2:30pm sailing, saw tons and tons of dolphins, 2 sea lions, and whale spouts and whale tails at least 3 times. Staff were really pleasant. Lots of room to wander around the boat. Didn’t purchase any concession but it looked like there were lots of snacks and beverages available. Highly recommend.

The crew were extremely welcoming, friendly, helpful, and professional. Even though the hurricane related waves proved to be too much and prevented us from going out into the ocean, they gave it a good college try but called it quickly when it became clear that it wasn’t going to work. I’m grateful they put Safety First! We spent some time on the way back in the harbor with the sea lions, and received free passes for another trip. Such a beautiful experience. Can’t wait to visit them again SOON.

My son and I had a wonderful time on our Whale Watching Cruise. Although we didn’t get to see any whales, this is a chance you take when viewing nature. We did get to see some dolphins and sea lions. The crew were great! They were knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. The boat was clean and there was plenty of seating. There was always someone at the bar when we wanted to order snacks and to answer questions. The instructions provided before our trip were easy to understand and made parking and checking in easy and stress free. Overall I would definitely recommend this trip! Even without seeing the whales, the value for the experience and the couple hours on the boat were well worth it.

My family and I went out on the Ocean Explorer ship today, and it was amazing! I can't for the life of me remember the captain's name, and I wish I could (Andrea, I think?), because she and her crew (Tanner and Alan and someone else I also can't remember) went above and beyond! I loved that we learned a little about dolphins and their biology, and got great info about where we were going and the common dolphin pod we saw. The dolphins were SO awesome, and the captain even took us a out a little further than normal to find them since we hadn't seen anything yet! It was literally a dream come true for me, and I was so happy I actually cried. I'm so happy with the effort, friendliness, education, and clear instructions and organization of the whole trip! To the 2:30 pm, Nov. 6th captain, crew, volunteers, amd staff-- thank you for literally one of the best few hours of my life that I got to share with my whole family!

Huge thank you to Captain Dani & Jill, they made my day with their extensive knowledge and overall positive, fun attitudes. I booked this trip the morning of (very spontaneously), not expecting much given the season, but I was so happy we found some adorable/playful dolphins. It was nice to be out on the water with such good company. Thank you again ladies!

Whale watching with Newport Landing Whale Watching was an incredible experience. The boat was clean and safe and the staff were beyond friendly. They had a full bar offering both alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages and snacks at a reasonable cost. The tour guide was upbeat and fun and captured the hearts of children and adults alike. We saw an array of wildlife… most notably a large pod of mother and baby bottle nose dolphin that came right up to the edge of the boat and made viewing easy and immersive. We had a great time and I would definitely recommend this activity to anyone looking for a unique day experience!

Amazing sunset! Views were spectacular. Our first trip to Newport. We got to see all of the harbor, giant yachts and beautiful homes, and enjoyed a relaxing, no frills trip. Great communication and details explained on parking and accessing tickets/boarding. We got in line early and were able to sit on the top in the front. My two teenagers loved it!

The campground was fantastic, another great stay at the dunes. Facilities were clean beach was clean. Pool was clean. Hot tub was nice and hot pool was warm. Everything was good. We stayed in the waterfront sites, which is an absolute luxury for this campground. As you get further back the sites get cheaper but also much tighter the front sites have an awesome grassy area with a fence and it just makes the trip. I have to say it was a little unexpected that the water was green and mucky. I don’t remember this being there so I’m guessing that this is because we stayed there in the off-season which ends May 1 hopefully they will clean all that out out of the bay before the season starts. It’s pretty gross.

Great views. Had a birthday party for my son, who turned 7 and it was actually really accommodating and enjoyable. Not too crowded and the atmosphere was definitely welcome. I highly recommend this vacation to friends as they too look for kids friendly summer spots!

We have come here for years and years and have always loved it. It has always been absolutely beautiful and peaceful. The camping sites are amazing. But we always stay in the cabins and it has always been amazing. This past time however our large cabin was infested with huge roaches, the floor was held together with packing tape, and the toilet backed up so easily and ended up coming out of the sink. I did call and complain and they were very nice. But no offer of any sort of refund or any sort of help. For how much money we pay for a large cabin this was so unacceptable. I'm only writing a review in hopes that they will take The state of their cabins seriously again and do something about how much they have gone downhill.

PROS: The location of this resort is just perfect for walking to Balboa Island, driving to both Long Beach and Laguna Beach. It is perfect to paddle board right into the bay from your campsite and be on the beach. The staff is wonderful and very friendly. It is a very safe campground. The store is great, the pool was clean and always busy. Laundry room is large with lots of machines ( all of them working) and clean; with the app it is reasonable to do laundry. The weekdays are wonderful, quiet and respectful neighbors and not too crowded. CONS: The showers need to have fans as they are sooo steamy and the floors are wet. The sites are tight, but the sites with a little grass would be wonderful. Hard to park the rig and truck at your site. Probably the biggest con is that the weekends are like party central. Our neighbors talked right outside our window all night and the music, kids under 10 driving golf carts in tight spaces was crazy. I love to talk with people and hang out, but the weekends are not peaceful if that is what you are looking for.

Newport Dunes is a wonderful place to vacation - camp spots and restrooms are extremely clean and well maintained, the pool area and club house are well managed and the kids loved having that space to hang out and for a change from the beach. The inflatables were a ton of fun and the bike path is perfect for leaving the grounds safely.

We rented one of the large cabins for two nights. Location and service great. Cabin was in need of some TLC. Very dirty and need of painting. Blinds were falling apart and scotch taped together. Had cockroaches running by in the bathroom. Bathroom faucets did not work well. With the amount of money they are pulling in daily they sure could keep it in better shape.

Went to see the fireworks on 4th of July. Fireworks were subpar, more smoke than lights. The place itself was nice . Very crowded but they had good music. Place was kept clean will. Dust Bins were regularly cleaned. Food trucks had good choice of food but way overpriced! 25$ for a box of fries!!! Not too many vegetarian options!

It was a gloomy day, but the area was still lovely for hanging out, shopping, and enjoying some delicious food. The boat show was a lot of fun, and there are various events where you can purchase tickets, which is a great feature. Parking can be a challenge, but aside from that, the entire area is quite nice.

One of the most upscale spots in the area for walking, eating, and drinking. Follow us on instagram @gemislist for more info and to discover other great spots!

This outdoor upscale mall-like location is a great place to enjoy the marina as well as visit a few luxury boutiques such as the Real-real, Le Labo and many others. After each visit we like to pass by Nobu, for a gastronomic stop. This location is definitely less crowded than the Malibu one. Overall Lido Marina village is a pleasant stop if you are in the Newport Beach area, ideal for some fun shopping and dining while not being too busy away from LA crowd.

We really liked this small, clean area with luxury shopping and restaurants along the marina. Public picnic benches and pedestrian walkways are available. Plenty of parking nearby = if you eat at a restaurant they will endorse the parking.

Wonderful place to hang out and listen to music drink coffee or have a delicious meal. The shopping is the best! Doen, Cynthia Rowley, Aleph, The Real Real, and sugar paper. Never have to leave. The French Buckets flower Stand well I’m a little partial but it is so fun and beautiful!!!!

Good place to visit. A lot of restaurants and goods shops.

It is hard to park near Lido Marina Village during weekends. However, if you can park near here, you can enjoy walking down the streets and the boat docks. There are lots of good restaurants and small beautiful shops. Also, you can find Blue Bottle Coffee. (only one in OC County)

This place is magical! We did the mermaid 🧜🏻‍♀️ experience & it was worth every penny. My daughter will never forget this, she saw this place on YouTube and wanted to go visit and have an experience with a mermaid. From the moment you walk in it’s an experience and the mermaids treat you mermazing and they are so cool, the makeup and teatime was so cute as well as going to the beach with a mermaid!

We had an absolutely incredible experience! It’s clear that the owner has a genuine love for children and a true passion for creating magical moments. Every detail was thoughtfully planned and beautifully executed. The mermaid took care of everything, allowing both kids and adults to fully relax and enjoy the experience. It was truly enchanting from start to finish—worth every single penny!

We had the most amazing time for the third year in a row at the Once Upon A Christmas North Pole experience!!! Words can't even describe how unique and magical this is. Every year this keeps getting better!! We took our twin nephews to see Santa & the elves. We were greeted by the most adorable elf who helped us write some letters for Santa. The boys stood on this special spot outside to test their Christmas spirit to open the enchanted doors with Santas patented Spirit-O-meter machine. Once we were inside our elf sugar plum guided us to stop at Santa's reindeer barn where we talked to his reindeer before we were transported to The Elf Workshop where they made toys magically appear! The boys were absolutely mesmerized by the talkative Northern Most Mailbox where they dropped off the letters to Santa. Finally behind the last magical door was Santa himself. I would highly recommend booking this experience, it is worth every penny and great for all ages because they have different packages that fit the age of the kids you have with you. 100 stars!!! Thank you once upon an island for putting together another magical Xmas!

We attended a birthday party there today. To say I was impressed is an understatement. While the set up is very girl forward, both my boys still enjoyed themselves at the birthday party we attended. The actors are great and they stay in character the whole party. They thought of every detail. If your a little family loves mermaids or under the sea, this is the place for you!

The once upon a Christmas experience really captures the holiday magic. We took our kids to the VIP experience again this year and it not only brought the same magical experience as last year, but also had new things. This experience goes above and beyond the typical meet and greet Santa experience. Instead of a quick chat and a photo with Santa they offer a totally immersive and personalized experience with Santa. My kids favorite parts were the official nice list certificates, the conversation with Santa about those favorite things (that Santa already knew before we got there) and reading with Santa by the fire. I was impressed with the ways they physically represented Santa's magic. Keeping that innocent magical experience alive yet another year for my littles. My kiddos are shy so you can't tell in the pictures but after they were talking about it nonstop. I would highly recommend this experience as a family tradition.

Once Upon a Christmas was a truly magical experience for both of my boys. Going in November really kicked off our holiday season & magical time in their lives. Book while you can! I can not say enough good things about the level of detail & professionalism of the staff. Thank you!!

I honestly loved the whole entertainment. All the performers and staff were attentive. Everyone had fun. The only thing I was disappointed was that I was promised a male pirate. When I was booking for my daughters bday, I spoke to someone over the phone and we were going through the IG posts and saw the one with the pirate man. I was under the impression thats what I was gonna get since I specifically told them I was bringing boys. Unfortunately, I got a female pirate. I do believe the boys would have been more involved if there was a male pirate. Other than that, I do recommend it.

What a wonderful museum that we stumbled upon! Free admission, donations encouraged to support the museum. Staff member was awesome in telling us about the history of the island and relayed information on why the island looks the way it does now through past history events.

Balboa Island Museum shares with you the history of how Balboa Island was developed in the past 100 years. It covers the Hershey family, the ferry business, the high schools (amazed to know that Newport Harbor High School was built in 1930), most importantly, John Wayne, the local resident of Balboa Island. Definitely worth spending a quality 30mins here if you're in town.

I took my 5 and 7 1/2 year-old grandsons here for a field trip to learn about Newport Harbor. The older one loved the scavenger hunt and there were hands-on things for the five year-old to explore. I think this would be a better museum for a bit older children, but we still had a great time, we’re going come back in a few years for sure. Best of all it’s free.

Pretty cool store with history on all the pictures posted on the wall, John Wayne history and unique gifts.

When visiting the island, a visit to the Museum is a must. It's small but has a rich collection of all-things Balboa Island. Admission is free, although donations are greatly appreciated. It's run by volunteers who are happy to answer any questions about the museum or the island itself. They have a piano on display, and if you're a good pianist, they may let you play. A local gentleman stops by and plays it randomly with permission. He seems like a lovely man who is very talented. Go learn some interesting facts about the Island and support a great cause.

This a small, darling museum with great docents that share their knowledge freely. Its great to learn about the places you visit. Balboa Island was a single mans (familys)vision we are all enjoying today.

Really fun free ( donation requested) place of local history. Super rich in John Wayne history. But the whole set up is easy to read and has a retail part.

Disappointing experience for the price. The greens were bumpy and far too soft, making putting frustrating and unpredictable. Fairways looked tired and patchy — not what you’d expect from a premier course. Worst of all, there were actual rocks in the sand traps. For $400 a round, this is simply unacceptable. The only reason this gets two stars instead of one is because the views are undeniably beautiful. But don’t let the scenery fool you — the course conditions don’t come close to justifying the cost. Avoid Ocean South until they get serious about maintenance.

Great ambiance, extremely disappointing food. Did a staycation at Pelican Hill, and the goal was to lounge and relax the whole time. Our room was amazing, and had a great view of the ocean. It was quiet and peaceful. Being that our goal was maximum relaxation, we ordered room service our first night. The room service menu is scattered; all different types of food, no central theme, and no one item was particularly appealing. When we finally decided on food, it arrived and was... Ok. The same happened at breakfast the next two days and on a to go order from Colliseum Grille. It was all ok. Not bad, but at a resort as fancy and as expensive as Pelican Hill, I expected there to be a chef crafted amazing dishes. If the food was on par (no pun intended) then the rating here would be 5 stars. Also, there were many items around the resort that needed polish. Rusting items on our room's patio, peeling paint in the men's Jacuzzi room in the spa, etc. Details that would be minor on a modestly priced hotel, but I expected better from such a high end resort. The stay was great other than these points, but I don't know that we will be back.

This course is always memorable for its fresh breeze. The ocean wind here feels different from that at another ocean course, Trump National LA—it has its own character and always greets you with a refreshing touch. The course is in great condition and, while it’s often busy, the food is excellent and the staff are always friendly.

What an experience! Vacationed out in Newport Beach and played at Pelican Hill. Had such a great time. The scenery was amazing. Pace of play was perfect. I would definitely come back.

I absolutely love Pelican Hill, it’s one of the most relaxing and beautiful places in Orange County. The views are stunning, the atmosphere is peaceful, and everything feels so luxurious and well taken care of. Whether it’s for a walk, a drink, or just to unwind, this place is pure perfection. Highly recommend!

A incredibly beautiful golf course. It is a fair golf course but once you are in a native grass, your ball is gone. The greens are fast and the bunkers are deep, but it is immaculately maintained. We played the north course and thought it was a great course. The south course is prettier for views, but the north course is more of a skill course.

Pelican Hill North Course is my favorite of the two. The layout is stunning, with sweeping ocean views on almost every hole. The elevation changes make every shot interesting, and the course is always in excellent condition. Fairways are lush, greens roll perfectly, and the scenery is unmatched. I’ve played both courses, but I always find myself coming back to the North.

What a great day! We hosted our team on a Duffy cruise around the harbor as a great team building event & couldn’t be happier with the service. Our boat was clean, well maintained & in great condition. We loved the clear directions, map of the harbor & assistance in setting up the Bluetooth speaker to play our own music. They even provided ice to keep our beverages crisp! Our team had the best day & we all agreed we need to make this a regular team bonding ritual! I plan on gifting certificates to our team this holiday season so they can replicate the day and experience with their friends and family!

We were tickled pink with our whole experience with Duffy Electric Boats! They helped us plan and execute the perfect baby sprinkle for my daughter! It was so beautiful and so much fun! They didn’t miss any details!

Was visiting Newport for a friend’s bday celebration and she booked our group 2 hours on the boat. This was such a fun and cute experience. She told them the theme she wanted (tini bit older 🍸) and they decorated it so well! The banners, glassware, matches, table setting, charcuterie board was all included. 2 hours was definitely the right amount of time because there are no bathrooms abroad and I think anything longer and everyone would’ve needed to go to the bathroom. They also made cute posters on theme as well. Would 100% recommend!

We rented the “20’ Premium Duffy” for 4 hours on July 16, 2025. The boat was BEAUTIFUL! When we arrived, we were pleasantly surprised with the shaded patio waiting/seating areas. Nice touch! The main office also has many items including cooler bags, shirts, hats, and even drinks. So, if you make a last minute reservation, they can help you. I highly recommend the evening rental (5pm-9pm) as you will tour during the day, through sunset and into the evening where you can maximize the beautify of the bay. The Duffy had enough room to accommodate our rolling ice chest and all of the food and beverages we brought (fruit tray, sandwiches, charcuterie board and chips). Finally, the Bluetooth sound system worked flawlessly and sounded fantastic. Our party had a wonderful time and we will definately do this again.

Thank you, Duffy Electric Boats for a beautiful time boating on the bay! We had three generations, including two 2-year-olds, and had a fabulous two hour boat ride. The seating in the waiting patio was wonderful, which we actually enjoyed after our boat ride. There was a little treasure chest with little toys to entertain our babies, and the entire staff was professional and helpful. They helped us to unzip the plastic coverings to get full fresh air, and the outside seats on the sun cruiser were perfect for our party of eight.

We have tried them all and without a doubt, Duffy Electric Boats is the very best to rent from. They have the best boats, features and service without a doubt! We love a harbor cruise 3-4 times a year….always a treat!

The OG Duffy rental is the way to go! The boats are all clean, run great, and they even have a nice seating area while you're waiting for your group to arrive. The online booking was smooth and easy. The check-in and boarding the boat was like a well orchestrated event. Need ice??? They have an ice machine right there. Forgot cups??? You can buy some right there. The staff helps you load, board, unload and disembark. The best part??? They clean up and take out your trash. Great service! Great product! Great experience! If you don't know what a Duffy boat is, think large electric golf cart on the water that comfortably seats 10-12 people. Plenty of room for drinks and food on the tables while you are cruising Newport Harbor and looking at the multi-million dollar homes and yachts. The only downside like every place in Newport Beach is the limited and tight parking. So, make sure you carpool and plan on arriving early.

My favorite place to read and study. The people working at the front desk are always kind and helpful to me. I love this library!

This is a beautiful local city library. The staff here have been nothing but kind and helpful to me. What follows is long but has some great TIPs for you for visiting this beautiful library... Part of a civic city building complex located between Avocado and Mac Arthur street. North of PCH next to the ocean there is a market area with a Bristol Farms market anchor store. Lots of fufu ladies clothes with a few eateries. Parking for the library is to the immediate left of the market area (photo). This main parking will access the front south ocean side of the library. With overflow parking from the civic center structure to the rear north east (photo) at the back corner. TIP - The 1N OCTA bus route drops you on the Avocado street west side. A small bridge will get you on to the south west corner of the library. Straight ahead is the entrance. TIP - However, the west side of the library has a shady bamboo patio with alternate entances to the library. Inside the library has two levels. TIP - From the main entrance is the right east corner there is a Friends of the Library with great used book and media deals, nice people. Check out and customer service desk is next on the right. TIP - Past the desk is an amazing media center. Magazines, newspapers, music CDs, movies on DVD or Blu-ray. On this right side there is the children's book area too. TIP - Restrooms are marked down the hallway on the left or west side. There is an Admin area but further is the Media Center and elevator. TIP - The Media Center has been a great resource. It has its own Audio area. Through the main entrance center are stairs up. You'll find the main book stacks here. With a cafe (unknown hours) and a bank inside. Continue forward to exit rear center with sliding glass doors. There are study/eating tables here and outside on the deck. A nice rest area here protected by the ocean breezes. Again from top of stairs, go right 180 past the bank and restrooms are close on your right. The main resource desk is here a little more forward floor center. As well as self serve check out and computerized book and media lookups. This whole floor also has study desks with power and desks with computer stations. See the resource desk to learn more about computer rentals. TIP - The resource desk can get you registered with a library card. The card number and a password gets you on the computers. BiG TIP - There is a great library APP as well to download on your smart phone. Your library user number and password get you logged in to the APP. With the APP you can self serve book renewal extensions and reserve audio books, music other media and more!!! Very very useful if you like modern digital library services. TIP - 2nd floor south ocean side are a few private study rooms. You need to reserve in advance for study rooms at the resource desk. I've heard there is a room with a scanner on the 2nd floor also. Most questions seem to be handled by the resource desk where nice people can assist.--- If you made it this far you can tell this library is quite special to me. The resources, books and staff have been excellent. Bests~ UPDATE - DEC 2024 - BIG construction changes in the front parking lot. There still is a small lower lot and two rows of front parking left. TIP - It does get full, but the City Hall parking structure has some parking. It is often at 80-90% capacity so look around. To be honest, even with construction, I've found parking in front. TIP - The library back entrance is off the ground level corner, by the EV charging station. My deepest thx library staff for your kindness :)

I love everything about this facility. Extensive collections of books, audiobooks, research materials, audio labs, podcast labs, computers to borrow, study rooms, plenty of free garage parking, free Wi-Fi with fast internet, spacious, nice panoramic views for your creativity, children sections, very clean space, and academically stimulating atmosphere! Getting your library card is so quick and easy, the staff is helpful and hospitable. Perfect place to get things done and be in the zone of knowledge and productivity. Thank you for welcoming me into such an incredible visit, I will absolutely be coming back here soon.

My first time visiting this amazing library. + Modern + Plenty of free books, free magazines, free WiFi, free video, free audio and free video game rentals + Plenty of convenient parking + Very friendly and helpful staff + Dedicated children's section + Media room and audio recording room + Free Equipment rentals (cameras, GoPro, etc.) + Very clean! + Free access to online audio books via the Libby app

This is an independent library for the city that is NOT part of the county. So if you have an orange county public library card, that will not work here. That being said because Newport is one of the wealthier cities in Orange county, the library is magnificent. The architecture, share vastness of space, organization and decor are top notch for a public library. Also, behind there is an entire sculpture exhibition in the civic center park which houses the famous Bunnyhenge display. You do have to be a resident of California to a free Newport Beach library card. It's just a really quick sign up on a half sheet of paper and show your ID. There is a limit of 50 items checked out per card. (More restrictions on electronic media). There is a media lab on the lower floor, a copy center, a resource desk, 18 section, a children section, etc. A really great library and so glad I stopped by to sign up for a card finally

A great library for a smaller city, relatively speaking, with the look and availability of a moderately larger city library! Being this library is connected to the City Hall - Civic Center Complex, it benefits the attractive architectural and landscape esthetics. The same parking structure may also be used, if not with the open, west side parking lot.

Without a doubt the nicest, most organized and cleanest public library I have ever had the pleasure to visit and use. Newport Beach residents have a genuine jewel of a public space here. In addition to the wonderful selection of books, magazines and newspapers there is also a large selection of movies and music to check out. The architecture is splendid as well. Worth a visit. Plenty of comfortable seating too!

Arrived around 11 am the gate was locked so we had to find free street parking. There is a little walk-through entrance and you have a 5 minute walk to the tiki hut on the sand to purchase your kayak or paddle boards. There was another group before us who rented paddle boards, so we weren’t the only people out on the water. For $20 an hour you can easily make it paddling around the lower bay and back. With it being my first time kayaking the ride up was super easy but coming back with two different currents crashing together made me have to work a little harder but overall loved the experience!

Newport back bay is the perfect place to try out stand up paddle boarding with kids. It is a bit pricier than other paddle boarding places but I will always pay extra to not have to dodge boats zipping through the waterways. The peace of mind and relaxed atmosphere in the back bay are well worth the extra few dollars for rental here and it is a nice beach to hang out at after your rental is over. Service here was friendly and quick.

Came here for a work gathering, the staff are very friendly and courteous, they were kind enough to waive the 5$ dog fee (dont tell anyone 😉) but I had a great time, saw a lot of children and families enjoying paddle boarding, there is a private little picnic area for customers that made it feel secluded. Lots of fun , will be back.

Always a good experience! Great place for first time paddlers! It's nice that they have the boards right next to the water and always ready to launch! Super friendly and chill staff. Also good affordable prices!

Great place, great location, great price on a kayak rental. We'll go back. The people there are super nice and friendly.

Great place to try paddle boarding. Friendly service, fairly new equipment. The bay is very safe and easy to paddle around. This is a must do if visiting the area.

Our family had an absolute blast and a wonderful experience with Pirate Coast Paddle. They were so friendly and helped us get situated. Highly recommend!

Johnny was an awesome surf instructor! I was a little nervous to get back out there but he set me up for success. I was able to catch some great waves, had a lot of fun, and got a great workout. I liked that there was an option for one hour surf lessons, which some of the other surf schools didn’t offer. The communication, scheduling and meet-up was all easy. Thanks Johnny!

This surf camp is the epitome of a California Dreamin’ vibe! My 8yr old son and my 16yr old daughter attended their 5 day summer camp this week and they both loved it! The instructors were absolutely wonderful and to those parents who worry about water safety, they have so many instructors actively monitoring in the water, specially with the younger groups. My son’s instructor was absolutely brilliant with him. She was so engaged and made every day a fun experience for him. They played tons of games with the kids and encouraged them to ride the waves as often as possible while still keeping it fun and chill. I love that their location is away from the crowded section of Newport Beach. They’re on 28th street which was totally secluded in the mornings. This made it easy for drop off and pick up. I loved watching all the kids go from newbies to feeling confident enough to ride the waves. This was a fantastic experience for our whole family and we’ll definitely be back next year!

Elijah was a great instructor for me & my friends first surf lesson! He was so kind & patient with us & our irrational fears of the water. Definitely didn’t think I’d have as much fun as I did.

I highly recommend Newport Surf Camp! I took two 6 week sessions of the 'Never 2 Late Grownup surf camp" and I would give Johnny and his crew of coaches six stars if I could! I feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to be in these classes. We started at the very beginning, practicing our position on the board and popping up on on the sand. From the first day they helped push us into waves and stand up. By the end of the six week session, we were catching our own waves and having a blast the entire time! Johnny and his coaches impart so much knowledge about how to be a surfer including surf etiquette and how to read waves, not to mention sharing the stoke! I now feel confident going out on my own and calling myself a surfer, thanks to Newport Surf Camp!

The Newport Surf Camp is one of the best experiences I've had. The crew were very attentive, they took extra care for my daughter to learn and feel comfortable before getting in the water. And they have the best overall camp experiences with games, and food, and prizes for the kids. Highly recommend

Coach Johnny was a great teacher. He encouraged me to be relax and calm when facing big waves. He was spot on the detail technique for me to work on each time. I progressed a lot and will definitely take more lessons with him. Highly recommended Newport surf camp!

My son did a full week of surf camp and had the best time! He not only learned to be more comfortable in the ocean, but is now comfortable on a surfboard. We will definitely be signing up for more camps in the future!

Went here to grab lunch after some whale watching and it was such a great decision! Our waiter Felix was so polite and attentive. The food was amazing too, especially the Coconut Shrimp in the Half and Half and the Italian Cherry Margarita 🍒🫶🏻 The ocean view is an awesome bonus 🌊

Pretty restaurant on the harbor. Went with a group of 15 with a reservation and we were seated fairly quickly however the service after that was not great. We were out of water the whole time. Also when they brought out our food they just yelled what the food item was and had us call out who ordered it. Not very organized and not what I would expect with how expensive the food was. Also they wouldn’t split the tab at all. The redeeming factor was the clam chowder in the bread bowl was very very good. Also VERY filling. I liked how they really emptied the bread bowl.

We were excited to try this restaurant for our first dinner stop in Irvine, but were left very disappointed. First, the hostess sat us right next to the noisiest dinner party of about 20-30 or so people. The rest of the restaurant was practically empty so I’m not sure about the reasoning for that. We promptly asked to be moved to a different spot since we could barely hear each other talking. Next, our server never introduced himself, offered any kind of guidance to the menu, or even really greeted us at all. As soon as he brought our waters he simply asked “are you ready to order?” The food did come very quickly and was quite delicious - we got the clam chowder and split the fish and chips with garlic truffle fries, which was all more than enough for two people. After that, our server never checked on us and it took about 30 minutes to receive a to-go box and the check once we had asked. 30 minutes for the check? That’s insane. We will not return. Very poor service.

Very clean and fancy bar and restaurant, came and got the house beer and a Mahi taco and the harborside blonde draft and both were on the happy hour menu (everyday 11:30am-6pm) and they were both very good! and they had a lot of great options of food and drinks is for happy hour which was a plus, server named was Allison who was super cool and very nice and awesome at giving me top recommendations for what to eat and she was awesome 👏 They definitely have an awesome view of the water and the environment was a bit quiet but chill and respectful, highly recommend trying this place out! Also they have gift shops and other good spots right near here as well!

Celebrated my mom’s birthday and retirement and we all enjoyed our meals and service we received. Definitely recommend seat with a view. Was originally recommended by family to check out happy hour in the bar. The restaurant surprised us with a small birthday dessert as well which was great!

My wife and I attended a wedding anniversary party for long time friends. We were in the upstairs ballroom which had ample room for the 60 or so guests. The venue served a sit down dinner of chicken, beef, salad, a pasta dish, rolls and dessert. The food was the best event food I think I've ever had. They obviously have a very capable cooking team. The very complete open bar was icing on the cake.

Good place to take your family to bay front dining. Servers are very nice.

We just had a birthday celebration at the beach and decided to eat here since it was close and convenient. What a pleasant surprise! The Ruby burger I had was fresh and delicious. The garlic fries were hot, crispy, and flavorful. The service was extremely friendly and welcoming. Literally everyone in our group kept raving about how much they enjoyed their food. It was a beautiful and novel experience dining outside on the pier with the beautiful ocean all around us.

Beautiful location on the end of the Balboa Pier. This is the original Ruby's location. Possibly the best malt I've ever had! Seriously. Atmosphere was incredible. If you opt to dine outside, like we did, you are surrounded by people fishing from the pier. We watched a guy catch and land (and subsequently release) a skate while we were eating. Lots if fun!

Tough to beat sitting outside on a sunny day at the end of the pier, looking out over the ocean. Word of caution though, everything that adds to the charm may turn off certain folks. Seagulls, fish smell, etc. This is not fine dining, but the food is very good. Highly recommend the Asian Chicken salad and the burgers, fries and milkshakes!

Walking along the pier, one immediately notices the laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere. Families gather to fish, couples stroll hand-in-hand, and surfers paddle out to catch waves that roll in near the shoreline. The salty breeze, the sound of gulls, and the rhythmic crash of the waves create an immersive experience that feels both calming and invigorating. The pier is particularly striking at sunset, when the sky is awash in warm tones of orange and pink, making it a prime spot for photographers and romantics alike. The surrounding Balboa Village and Fun Zone further enhance the pier’s appeal. Just a short walk away, you’ll find arcades, boat rentals, and ferry rides that connect to Balboa Island. The area buzzes with energy during the summer months, offering everything from street performers to local shops selling beach gear and handmade souvenirs. Despite the lively atmosphere, the pier itself retains a sense of calm, serving as a peaceful escape from the busier boardwalk.

Ruby’s still going strong in 2025 the classic taste is still there & $14.99 for burgers & fries is a deal! Beautiful views, OG location highly recommend

Get in the grove and have a burger and double vanilla shake. The calamari appetizers are worth having. Restrooms are only at the head of the putter so be sure to go before walking out over the waves to Ruby's. Stay after you eat and chat with the fishermen. They will show of their best catch to you. The mackerel's are famous here.

Ruby's is my go to place for my son and I and I'll always take my clients there when we get a chance as well specially, the one in the Newport Beach Balboa Pierre love that view and wherever we go, the food is always great and it just reminds me of act back in the day! Please Don't shut any more of your locations down as it's been a little bit of an issue for us to find ones that are close to where we live, but thank God there's still a few left!

It was my first time being at the old spaghetti factory and I was very shocked how amazing the whole place was. And besides the food was pretty good!

Two friends and I went to The Old Spaghetti Factory in Newport Beach two weeks ago in order to celebrate my birthday. The host quickly seated us at a booth, and within minutes our server came over. I explained that it was my birthday and asked how to use the birthday coupon that had been emailed to me. He rolled his eyes and explained it to me. He never once wished me a happy birthday or acknowledged that it was my birthday. Instead, as he explained the coupon, he watched the much larger group that was being seated at tables right next to us, who also had a birthday to celebrate. Needless to say, he focused all of his time and energy on that much larger party. He completely neglected and ignored us, in spite of us waving and calling to him when he was with the large party. In fact, he only returned to us once during the entire time we were there, and that was to return our check and credit card. The rest of the time, we had to flag down any employee we could for drink refills, ice cream and to-go boxes (which we waited for, but never received either of), and even to get our bill. Overall, it was a very aggravating and unpleasant experience, and certainly put a damper on what was supposed to be a happy evening. While we may decide to return to the restaurant in future because we enjoy the food, we will never again go there to celebrate a special occasion.

I came here recently and while the pasta itself was just okay — pretty standard and nothing that really stood out — the staff absolutely made the experience worth it. Everyone was so warm, attentive, and genuinely friendly that it turned a mediocre meal into an enjoyable visit. Sometimes service makes all the difference, and that’s definitely the case here. If you’re looking for a spot with amazing people who make you feel welcome, this is it. I’d come back just for the staff!

This is the first time I have come to this old establishment across the Newport pier in 7-8 years. As I entered I felt nostalgic as it brought a ton of memories back. As we sat down, we saw the menu which has remained pretty much the same other than the prices. Most dishes run you around $20. I was torn between the chicken Parm and the spaghetti Vesuvius as I wanted some protein but based our servers recommendation I went with spicy spaghetti that come with chunks of chicken sausage and meatballs. Salad came out fairly quickly and so did their hot bread loafs. Our food took a bit but the place was packed on a Friday night so it was understandable. I was disappointed with the spicy Vesuvius and the sauce only covered a third of the spaghetti which was well cooked. I was also disappointed in the sauce as there was literally one piece of chicken. Most of the mean was the meatballs pieces but can’t imagine that there was more than 3 ounces of meat. The food was barely 3 stars for me. Our meal was topped off with a scoop of the spumoni ice cream. It was a nice walk through the past but given what the prices are now and the disappointment in the quality of the food, it will likely be another 7-8 years before I visit again.

I have been coming to this location for years. I started going to the OSF in Tacoma, Washington as a small child, and have loved it ever since. When I moved to Long Beach, CA in 1999, I found out about the one in Newport Beach, and have been driving down ever since. Lots to do in the area too, either before or after dinner. Nice portions, tasty food, combined with good service and a nice atmosphere always make for a pleasurable experience.

Yummy! Anything with brown butter has my vote! Everything was delicious and I'll definitely be returning!

The food was so preppy and delicious 😋 our favorite food was the garlic cheese bread. Brendan our server was so kind. 10 out of 10! (Moana, age 11) The shrimp and pasta were so good🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🥳🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩 (Zeke, age 8) Thanks for a great dinner! Always a comforting experience when we’re in Newport. (Courtney, age 41)

My absolute favorite Mexican restaurant. I’ve been coming here since I was just 10 years old. I’m now 39 and I still see some of the same faces (always with a smile) working here! The food is stellar, the flavors off the charts, and the service is fantastic. My favorite are the chicken enchiladas with rice and beans. Plus the salsa is perfection. If you’re craving great Mexican food, do not hesitate to stop in.

We love Avila's and usually frequent our local restaurant in Lake Forest but today we were in Newport and wanted a margarita. The drinks were great and our table was terrific. They have large open windows which allow a nice ocean breeze. Our table was right next to the street giving us a fun view for people watching. My complaint and the reason for 3 stars was the food. Today the carnitas tasted like someone in the kitchen poured a bag of salt in the meat. I like salt but not this much. Wife had a salad with the shredded beef and the same. We managed to get it down but definitely not a great experience. This is not the norm for Avila's and have never had this experience in Lake Forest but on this day it was blah.

This is the best Mexican food I've had in a long time. In fact it's one of the best meals I've had in a while. We knew it would be great when as soon as we sat down they gave us piping hot fresh tortilla chips with homemade salsa. Both were awesome. The mango margarita was excellent. Highly recommend the skirt steak and Mazatlan shrimp combo: it was beyond delicious. Very nice people on the place It's been in the same family for 50 years. Highly recommend a visit here.

My family loves Avila's in general, but this was our first time at the Newport location. It has a really nice atmosphere and the server was so nice. Everything that I have ever had off the menu has been great. They also have the best salsa!

The atmosphere was great and the service was quick and friendly. The food was just alright. I am from AZ so we get a lot of really good Mexican food and this didn't live up to the hype. The chips and salsa was good though!

First time eating at Avilas El Ranchito in Newport Beach! Celebrated my mom’s 60th birthday here and she really enjoyed the food. Customer service was great and staff was very friendly. Will come back again next summer!

I have been going to this location for over 20 years. You can't go wrong ordering any of your traditional favorites. Do yourself a favor, try the Avilas Soup and add the condiment plate.

Of all the places I’ve ever been with my grandsons, this is by far, my absolute, absolute, absolute favorite! The ingenuity, imagination, touch, ability, accessibility, interaction, there are just not enough words to describe all the types of play that Pretend City encourages and allows! I wish we could duplicate this place in every major city, I saw so many toddlers and young children working and playing together, no screens, no fancy electronic devices, just clean, imaginative, fun! If I could give a suggestion, just one suggestion, have a great place to take your toddler to Southern California families this would be the place I would recommend! Bravo to the amazing builders planners and workers here!!! I hope that other communities have a chance to visit and find a way to replicate this beautiful world in their world!!

We took our class on a field trip to Pretend City, and it was an absolute hit from start to finish! Every child found something they loved—from the grocery store and post office to the construction zone and art studio. It’s like a mini city built just for kids, and they had the freedom to explore, learn, and play all at once. The staff were welcoming, organized, and great with kids. Everything was clean and well-maintained, and the exhibits encouraged creativity and cooperation. It was amazing to watch the kids fully engaged—working together in the restaurant, checking out books in the library, and even learning about traffic safety. Perfect for preschool and early elementary ages—both educational and just plain fun. We’ll definitely be back!

Tip: get there early, because your pass allows you to re-entry for the day before 4pm. Tip: there is a water play section, bring a change of clothes for the kids POV: great place for children to learn and pretend play. But I feel they force the message of diversity a bit. The "Diversity" bridge was a bit much.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Pretend City Review Overall, a great experience! The pricing is on the higher side, but it’s definitely worth visiting once in a while for the unique learning-through-play opportunities it offers. Pretend City has almost every real-life scenario for kids to explore — from changing a tire, grocery shopping and checkout, farming, and performing in a theater, to working in a mechanic shop, delivering packages at UPS, being a police officer, doctor, or librarian. There’s even a fun water play area to cool off and splash around. It’s a fantastic way for kids to pretend, play, and learn practical skills in a safe and engaging environment. My only wish? That they open a branch in the South Bay Area near San Jose or Fremont — it would be a huge hit here!

This place is sooooo awesome!! If this place was close to my home, I'd be here with my daughter at least once a week. That's how much my daughter had The staff, the environment and the vibe were all great

We came for a birthday party and had a good time. Definitely a place that toddlers will enjoy. The staff were very courteous and helpful. The play area is clean and tidy. There is an infant play area but I couldn't use it because parents were letting their older children use it without taking off shoes or cleaning up after. The rest of the play areas are nicely designed, though I observed that children older than 6 or 7 may get bored with the areas and turn rowdy. Overall it was a good experience.

Kid Heaven! We recently visited Pretend City in Irvine with our kids and their cousins for the first time, and it was awesome! The kids were all about it. Every new thing they stumbled upon, their eyes lit up. Pretend City is like this mini wonderland where the kids can let loose with their imagination. We had a blast at the farm area – super detailed, felt like the real deal. The fire station was a hit, and the grocery store was like a tiny shopping spree. But the water area stole the show – lots of splashing. For us parents, it was chill. The interactive stuff kept the kids busy, and we got to kick back and watch the fun unfold. Only downside? The hours of operation are limited and it does get busy plus they shut down at 4 pm, which is a bit of a bummer if you're trying to swing by after work during the week. But honestly, the good times made up for it. We're already planning a weekend comeback. So, if you're on the lookout for a spot for some family fun and learning, Pretend City is where it's at. Our crew had a blast, and we're definitely making it a regular thing

If you have the time, take the trip. The views are stunning. The dogs can walk down the trails and hunt for lizards. Once you get to the beach, you'll need to hike back up the hill. The trail is something that a wheelchair could handle.

I love inspiration point! There is always street parking available and it’s a gorgeous view. I recommend going to the Corona Del Mar farmers market on Saturday, pick yourself up a little treat and enjoy the view. The farmers market is about 2 blocks from inspiration point!

Had some time to kill and wanted to drive around since the weather was so nice! Stopped here and then continued up to “the viewpoint” on the Newport Coast road. This is an easy 1hr round trip to kill some time and see the most beautiful views of the ocean I have seen yet. Absolutely stunning and the homes are nuts!!! After the viewpoint I went to “Top of the World” in Laguna beach and drove back to the airport via the canyons. Even during rush hour this was an easy trip to make and was a highlight of my trip!

One of the best places to enjoy the southern California sunset and the boats into or out of Newport. Plenty of street parkings with walk ways going down to the beach.

Totally proposed here and she said yes! It’s a great view, especially at night. I would recommend bring a romantic partner here.

It's absolutely beautiful! There were a lot of people. At the entrance there was more seaweed than I preferred to touched so I shyed away from getting in the water. However, when I took the walk to the otherside that stopped me with a wall... there was much less stuff in the water. I stepped on a carpenter bee and a nice gentleman caught out help from a life guard. He also helped me get the stinger out of my toe after I used my fingers to pull the bee off of my foot. The lifeguard was as helpful as he could be. I appreciate the kindness from them both.

Every time I find myself in the enchanting Newport Beach area, I make it a point to visit and take in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Coast. Although today was blanketed in a soft, mysterious fog, the charm of the shoreline remained captivating. The muted colors of the ocean and the gentle sound of the waves created a serene atmosphere that made my visit truly enjoyable.

It is a beautiful park, it has beautiful sighting, lakes, ponds, squirls, ducks, cute small bridges, hills and the playground is perfect for little kids. I have a 21 month old who is so energetic and daring. He isn't afraid of heights, and this playground was perfect for him. I didn't have to be all too cautious and worried. I was able to get on the playground with him. And so did many other parents. The only thing is the restrooms were very dirty and the diaper changer was broken.

Absolutely stunning park. Lots of great places to sit in the shade, ducks, geese, squirrels, plenty of restrooms, and picnic tables. Easy access and plenty of parking. Across the street is the tennis center.

Lots of shade, ample parking. Great spot to set up a picnic and enjoy the lakes and water features. Tons of Geese (and I mean *tons*), Ducks, Squirrels, and a few Turtles, so keep that in mind when you're choosing where to lay your picnic blanket. Lots of winding paths and bridges for lovely walks, rocks for climbing, large grassy areas, athletic fields, picnic areas, restrooms, and a playground.

Spacious, well maintained with a large playground with play equipment for toddlers to older children. Love that they have inclusive swings and wheelchair friendly areas. My kids also enjoy the lake and squirrels, ducks, geese and other birds. They have shelters to use to throw parties and decent bathrooms but they are still park bathrooms.

Visited the baseball complex again today. As always, very clean, lots of free parking, and great atmosphere. Baseball fields are very, well kept. My sons team played on the regulation size field. MLB dimensions at the corners and center field fence. Infield grass to dirt to outfield grass transitions so flat they're nearly flawless. No bad hops here. Missing a 5th star because the snack shack isn't open, which is usually the case when travel teams are playing.

Great kids playground. Baseball fields, a pond with ducks and turtles,and decent bathrooms. Skate park and for-rent tennis courts across the street from the main park. It's a little skimpy on picnic facilities and there are a lot of squirrels that I would not go near. Overall a very nice park

Leah loves playing at the Angles park and Tewinkle Park with her daughter Griselda and she does like look forward to taking meeting looking at Gwendollyn to also take alongside her Mom Leah with my children Griselda and Gwendollyn alongside my boyfriend James. Yes please be so proud kind so sweet safe careful love you guys and gals and reading the signs is fun and lovely allowed to be cutie and pack a stroller and a picnic for walking around the park alrighty cool very beautiful weather day and kids look forward to seeing you which is cute of them.

20250924: VEA is very convenient when working with PL since it's a short walk away. My room was quiet, clean and in working order (shower, outlets, lights, which I make a point to note in reviews). The view was also nice, with a window that allowed for fresh air. The front desk agents were friendly, and helpful, and not pretentious. Also, the restaurant served a respectable omelet. The shower had a window to the bedroom, which could be for natural light or something couples might find more playful.

Loved the rooms and pool area. Outdoor bar was large and relaxing on a Monday. Here for 5 nights and the service was consistently friendly and accommodating. The location is near the mall which has surprisingly decent restaurants. We were here for an event so hard to speak for the broader area. But would stay here again. Stayed in the Panorama suite...plenty of room. Also spent a night in a balcony suite which was great as well (nice spots to sit outside).

Really nice resort except we got a room with a view of a trash can and a little bit of the golf. They have free shuttle to the beach and other places up to 3 miles radius. Also the food was good too. The spa was also great.

My wife and I had nothing but good things to say about this resort. Everyone is super friendly. Rooms are clean and the location is amazing. Highly recommend using their amenities that's included with your stay.

Exceptional Stay at VEA Newport Beach! From the moment we arrived, the experience at VEA was nothing short of amazing. The staff was incredibly friendly, attentive, and genuinely helpful—going above and beyond to make our stay memorable. The property itself is stunning, with breathtaking views, a gorgeous pool area, and impeccably maintained grounds. The decor is both elegant and inviting, creating a perfect coastal luxury vibe. We especially enjoyed the delicious cocktails and the fantastic menu options for poolside dining—every bite and sip was spot-on. VEA is the perfect blend of relaxation, service, and style. We can’t wait to return!

Someone by the name of Anthony was serving lemonade and another alcohol drink in the lobby tonight. He was amazing. Once he found out my wife was pregnant he went and got her a kids book he had. Great ambassador. Service is awesome here

Stayed at VEA Newport Beach and loved it! The rooms are clean and stylish, the stuff is friendly, and the views of ocean is beautiful. Great pool area and spa, and its easy walk or short drive to neaches, restaurants, and shopping. Perfect spot for a birthday getaway.

Crab Cooker in Newport Beach looks charming at first, but sadly, the food tells a different story. This isn’t a proper seafood restaurant — more of a casual diner setup, but with restaurant-level prices and low quality. All plates, glasses and cutlery is single use and thrown away. We ordered 2 crab cakes $18 per plate, deep-fried in what tasted like reused oil — soggy and lacking flavor. The *clam chowder* (tomato-based, not creamy) was honestly the worst I’ve had anywhere, Wholefoods is even much better. Our server was friendly and upfront about the chowder being different (tomato base), but it still didn’t taste like clam chowder at all — just a bland tomato broth with tough pieces of clam. We also had fried calamari and 3 lemonades. Total bill $90 before tip. For that price, you’d expect fresh seafood. Sadly, this felt more like a (tourist) trap with nostalgic branding. Our waiter was kind, but it doesn’t make up for food that just doesn’t deliver. Many reviews mention the same issues — poor food quality, small portions, and high prices. Plenty of better seafood spots in Newport Beach. Skip this one.

I love this place. Normally I just get a point of the smoked albacore and cooked shrimp cocktail to go but this time I ate I. The restaurant. Clam chowder was excellent as was the fish and skewers pictured.

Category: Fish House and Local Icon. This place is so much of a Newport Beach institution that it’s featured in a painting on the wall, the original of which hangs in the Hilbert Museum on the Chapman U campus in the City of Orange, and was even acted out in Newport’s annual Pageant of the Masters. So what’s the restaurant like? It’s sharkingly good (there was a huge taxidermied Great White shark hanging over our table). The first thing you see upon entering is the fish counter/display for purchase and home cooking. From there, proceed to the shark-dominated dining room with the aforementioned painting, the photo of Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra dining there, seafood-themed stained glass above the street level windows, hardwood floors, Tiffany-ish hanging lamps, lifesized mermaid lamp, and fun, fish-related things wherever you look. There’s a similarly themed dining room perfect for private parties, and beyond that the rear dining room with raftered ceiling and fans, and a wall of nautical mementos. All of this, combined with booths and tables with banquettes throughout, make this neighborhoody seafood joint exactly like you would expect. You can even view the busy kitchen through the glass to see the giant, namesake cookers. The crabs and all of the other seafood are sharkingly fresh: crab (of course), shrimp, fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. I can vouch for the clam chowder (Manhattan), shrimp skewer, soft shell crabs, crab cocktail, and grilled halibut special. All delicious and all well prepared. Almost all wines were under $40 (our sweetspot for restaurant wines), with a couple under $30. Excellent service. YouTube’s Chef’s Apprentice

Delicious and fresh seafood with a wonderful atmosphere! Standout dishes were the fried calamari and the cheesy potatoes. The mosaic tiles and stained glass throughout the building are beautiful, and the shark hanging from the ceiling was the icing on the cake.

First time in and I loved it! I was here with a relative that had been coming here for 60 years an and it still lived up to his hype! It starts with a great atmosphere. Very clean and nice surroundings and it has every right to be pretentious, but it’s a perfect casual beach town seafood place. The staff was friendly and efficient, but the food was the star of the show! I had the scallops on a skewer with the potatoes and cole slaw, but I want to come back for half the menu. If you’re anywhere near Newport, do yourself a favor and stop in to The Crab Cooker!

I wanted to round up on this one, but couldn't bring myself to give it a 5. This is a Newport Beach classic. However, with so many more restaurant options these days, the bread is just OK and you have to pay separate for it. The salmon meal was fine, but the tartar sauce isn't my favorite. The King Crab was actually really good, but expensive (although fairly priced for the quantity). I have to agree with the overall consensus that this is a below 4.5 star experience. But, above 4 keeps you on the list in my book. Especially with all the nostalgia.

A couple friends and my wife and I enjoyed a fantastic meal here the other night. We had oysters, clam chowder, lobster, and scallops. Everything was very good! It was our first time trying non-new England style chowder, and while I do prefer New England style, this was very very good. Highly recommend anything off of the grill as that’s what the groups consensus was the best. And the potato side was phenomenal!!

I really enjoyed my visit to Centennial Farms at the Orange County Fair. I learned about oxen, saw newly born piglets, and watched a cow milking demonstration.

Tiny but plenty of species. Both animal and plants. Kids having fun here, a nice place to learn how plants grow and observe the animals.

If your child has any interest in gardening, nature, farming this place is a must go for the family! There are so many fun experiences for inquisitive children including some hands on experience. Highly recommend!

The cutest little farm. My toddler enjoyed seeing the baby lamb, piglets, bunnies, and cows! It’s very clean and kept up. They have hand washing stations all around to make sure you’re staying clean.

Great place for the kids to get a farm type experience. Grounds are well maintained and clean. See the farm animals and farm produce grown on site. Parking is free as long as there aren't any events going on. There are picnic tables by hero hall if you need to take a quick snack break

Awesome place to take your kids for a good time and have interactions with animals walk in the garden and learn about different vegetables planted in the farm they can pet the animals, learn how to milk a cow, learn about the rabbits, peacock and chickens. The best part that is free from 1-4pm Monday to Friday free parking too.

It's a FREE little farm to go visit if your in the OC. They have sheep, goats, pigs...... They have a very interesting museum too. It's free to go in. They open at 1. But check their website for more info.

What a great little beach tucked away under a cliff side. Go check out this beach and their awesome tide pools. So cool to see sea urchins, crabs, and all kinds of other aquatic creatures. Ocean is so tranquil. The morning was the best for the tide pools and the crowds. Kids loved it there.

Absolutely stunning beach. Explored around to find a good spot to swim in but the waves were harsh that day. Expected to find tide pools but I believe I went too late (afternoon/evening). It’s a rocky beach so be careful with your feet.

This review is long overdue as LCdM has been my favorite local beach for over a decade. - It’s small and beautiful with plenty of texture, including tide pools - Parking is residential and as a result free but also limited - There are restrooms onsite - This beach, being small, is best enjoyed during low tide - Accessing the beach requires going down a steep paved incline, which may be challenging coming up for some - If that is the case, visit and enjoy the views from the benches located above on the street level Happy exploring!

Little Corona Del Mar Beach is just about in the same area and stretch of beach as the Corona Del Mar State Beach, give or take some rocky cliffside passages to go with the tides! This little sanctuary is furthermore connected via the south end of Beach Blvd. Street level parking may be more convenient here by the junction of Poppy Avenue, where the paved inclined footpath connects with the beach. The beach here has advantages of the larger beach, tho less crowded. There’s lifeguards in attendance, restrooms and outside showers available. Swimming, boogie-boarding and beach-combing may be the intended purposes, tho there’s other fun things to do! It is a small beach, so due to the lack of width, I wouldn’t recommend surfing here, especially with the rocks on both sides and the danger of colliding with swimmers and boogie boarders. Common activities also include exploring the unique landscape and tide-pools. I’ve enjoyed this beach on slower weekdays, whereas weekends here become a popular alternative to the busier parks. Just being able to set down a beach towel may be all that’s needed for many visitors, once they make it down yonder!

Been going to this beach for many years since my kids were little. Enjoy the tidepools and the space on the beach.

Beautiful small beach with amazing views and clear water. It feels quieter and less crowded compared to the main Corona del Mar beach, which makes it more relaxing. Great spot for tide pooling, sunset watching, or just a peaceful walk. Parking can be a bit limited, but totally worth the visit.

Even in the cold days of March, I made the trek to this amazing oceanfront view 😍 and man it did not disappoint in the slightest. With quick and easy access parking right on the beach and plenty to explore and immerse yourself in. And yes I definitely still swam and even bodysurfed the frigid waters because you only live once. The rocky terrain hid many life and adventure to explore and it definitely a great spot to start my morning!

It is a beautiful park! I had a great experience going there! I would 5/5 recommend going!

Pretty good park. Some people don’t have respect for the area and throw cans into the bushes. I pulled out a can from the bushes not even 30 feet from a trash can. If park goers have more respect for nice public places then this would be an easy 5 stars

I love this place to see the sunset and it is really close to newport beach.

All I can say is wow, what a gorgeous breath taking view of Newport Beach. Also looks like a great soccer field for honing your skills. The park is within walking distance to numerous shopping, restaurants and of course THE BEACH.....

Very nice park for walking and watching the sunset with ocean view! Clean restrooms 🙏 Parking is on the other side of Superior Avenue. Search for Sunset View Park for parking (free after 6pm). Watch for pedestrians and bikers when driving in this area. Drive Slow! Enjoy!!

This is a very beautiful park. Right by the beach. It's quite and regardless of the weather it's a great place to go walking, jogging, or just unwind. There was a group playing soccer, some riding their bikes, and some people walking their dogs. It's super clean definitely a place to visit more often.

This park is amazing, it’s located on the corner of PCH. For the people who are not local, it’s a little bit confusing, you should park your car in the other side of Pacific Coast Highway and payment starts from 1 hour $2.80 It’s first time I’m visiting this park, I love it!

Very convenient spot to have a picnic after a morning at the LDS temple.

Great picnicking spot! Clean bathrooms, too!

This park is located in a wealthy neighborhood and is excellent in its amenities. It features very clean restrooms, a pleasant playground for children, a half basketball court, a baseball field, and a soccer/football field.

Pickleball...even if you come alone, you will pick up a game here.

Beautiful park that covers several blocks. Usually you see people playing baseball or some other organized sport. So quiet and peaceful.

Not enough for my 3 year old to do, the playground needs some love it's seen better days. My son spent more time playing in the sand then the actual playground, no slides or anything interesting at all really for the 2-5 crowd, just some tubes.

Restrooms are always clean. Grass looks pretty green . Small playground but two big fields that couple of leagues use for competing. No gas station near by. Not near the beach. Quiet but not secluded kinda like a rest area.

The park is really good. I like the view of the boats.

Great but parking is horrible. Had to go around for 45 minutes before I could get a spot to park in.

A beautiful park for everyone.

Great place for the kiddos. Brought my 1 year old and he had a blast! This place is huge! They had an area for veggie picking, pumpkin picking. Tons of photo op spots, little corn maze, food stands (which may only be open on weekends) little petting zoo. Tractor rides. Really cute place. Kept my baby entertained.

I really enjoy Tanaka Farms. I have been to the farm four times and I enjoyed every trip. The last time I went to Tanaka Farms was on October 12, 2025 with my mother and we encountered a rude and harassing employee name Laura. We were picking the carrots in the field and the area that we were picking at did not have good carrots to pick so we decided to go up a row. We were at the row we moved to for a minute and other people were already on the same row as us when she yelled at my mom ma’am you need to move down a row. My mom told her there’s better carrots to pick up here. She yelled again ma’am you need to move down a row. My mother told her there are other people on this row don’t they have to move to and we can’t move through them to get to the row down. She than repeated the same thing that we must move down the row at us. After that she told the other groups next to us to move down a row. The people who were still on the row below were watching and probably thought she was crazy. I felt harassed and discriminated. Tanaka Farms is fun and very enjoyable. But beware the tickets are pricy and so are the activities they have. I would come back but I will not go out in the field again bc that is where Laura works and I do not want to encounter her again. Laura was the only problem we had and I had out of all times I went to Tanaka Farms. Beware of Laura she is harassing and discriminating. Be careful while out in the field bc that is where she was working.

Fun! Fun! Fun! Took my mom and grandma for Mother's Day, and they had a great time picking strawberries and the veggie of the day, which was brussel sprouts. If you're concerned about mobility, you have to bend a bit for the veggies, but the strawberries are grown vertically, so everything can be done standing, and the walkways are flat.

This pumpkin patch is nice, but it is NOT worth the cost! It cost 30 dollars just to get in + 13 to park AND on top of that they charge for EVERYTHING! Why are you charging 30 dollar admission and then expect people to pay for all the games & activities?! That’s so ridiculous. The only thing that is “ free “ is the petting zoo, but to feed the animals you have to buy tickets! 12 tickets = $30 this patch is not worth it at all. Someone asked me which one I went to on instagram and I told them the name & it’s not worth it . Definitely won’t be recommending this one to anyone I know. There are other free pumpkin patches that don’t charge to get in & you just pay for games + activities at a lot cheaper price . I don’t mind paying to enter but if you’re going to charge to enter we shouldn’t have to pay to do everything . It would be like going to Disneyland and charging to go on every ride! You shouldn’t charge admission if you’re making the activities inside cost money . It’s one way or the other for me. But I spent over 150 dollars. Could’ve taken the kids to Disneyland.

Recently attended their hilltop afternoon tea and had a great time! The staff were incredibly courteous and did their best hosting this type of event for the first time in the hilltop space. The event ran an hour longer than they intended for but I think staff wasn't expecting how long food service would take or the amount of attendees. Regardless, all the food was well-made and the tea station was regularly stocked throughout the day. Marshalle created a great menu! Props to her and Sarah for leading the event. My family and I are happy to support Tanaka Farms going to events like these :)

I’ve been to Tanaka Farms a few times now, and honestly, it just feels good to be there. The people who work there are incredibly kind and down-to-earth. You can tell they really care about what they’re doing. There’s a sense of history and family behind the place. I’m always happy I went.

We had an ok time here. It was pretty and we liked the farm animals. We came for the Halloween event. Everything was nicer quality than other pumpkin patches we have been to, except for the corn maze, which was beyond disappointing. Not sure if we will be back because it is difficult to get there for us and they told us we couldn't take public transportation since they don't allow walk-ins.

Championship stadium is an awesome place for families. My boys always have a blast for the OCSC matches, super family-friendly. My boys run around, free, running into a mix of their soccer & school friends once inside. An extremely safe and secure venue.

This park was incredible, a must-see little adventure with your kids, and great for adults as well. If you're looking to let your little one run free without worry this is the place. If you and your partner want to take a nice stroll this is also very relaxing and scenic with some fun facts of history along the way!

Great Park in Irvine is a good spot for a relaxing day out. Whether you’re here for a walk, a picnic, or one of the many events they host, the park is always clean, spacious, and beautifully maintained. One of the best things about this place is the abundance of free parking — there are plenty of lots available, so you never have to worry about finding a spot. It’s a good place for families, couples, or anyone just looking to enjoy the outdoors.

Ome of the best open air concerts that I've been to in a long time!! Nothing good vibes!! Definitely a family-friendly area in Irvine. More communities need Parks like this where you can throw events and open air concerts. Watching the legendary Burning Spear and Ziggy Marley at this location was well worth the money that I spent. Which honestly wasn't a lot and even the vendors that were there were not that expensive which was very surprising to me. Highly recommend attending a live event there!

This is a massive park very awesome for large ski sporting games. We went there for the first time for soccer tournament and although it was a lot of walking it actually was a good walk and there were countless soccer fields and softball fields so there was a lot to do it even had so many food trucks so if you ever have a chance to go here for a tournament or even just to go and hang out at a park this is one of the parks to go to cause there’s a lot to do and a lot of room for things to be moved in to do.

Great Park is becoming bigger and bigger. It is wonderful to discover and see its different courts, spaces, benches, areas, trees, flowers, birds, rabbits, lizards at every visit. It is so very well equipped and relaxing at the same time.

What a experience love this place hot air balloon and the history walk was great to learn about the world's history they had conert stage a museum a nice waiting are soccer ⚽️ field so nice wildlife a great family or by your self

This nice little spot was pretty quiet the weekday morning we were there, which also meant we easily found a spot parking along the street at the top of the hill. The beach got pretty busy by lunchtime. Bring water shoes; the tide pools are fun but the rocks hurt my bare feet. I also scraped up my feet playing around in the waves because of the rocks. They make such a beautiful sound when the water moves them in and out with the tide, but -- ouch.

Our favorite beach in Orange County! This beach has it all - nice soft sand, comfortable waves you can swim in, rocks and arches for beautiful pictures, and a nice cliff view to get you inspired. We discovered this place incidentally while on our way to Corona Del Mar. However, we loved it so much that we now go here way more! There’s street parking at the top (which can be difficult to find at times) and then a wide paved walkway to the bottom. It is handicap accessible because of the walkway, but I imagine it will be difficult to go back up due to its steep incline. Overall a must-visit while you are here in Orange County :)

This beach is awesome. The tide pools are so much fun to explore that you could look for hours. The beach itself is clean and has excellent views.

Great place to come and experience the awesomeness of nature! Come and see the rocks and tide pools. Bring the kiddos and let them explore and learn stuff. 😎

Really nice place we had a little incident with sting rays my dad got sting by one 😩

I love this beach! It’s a small cove with calm surfs for boogie boarding and swimming. There are rocks to climb on and tide pools to explore, which are great for helping kids learn about the ocean’s sea life. There is a steep hill but no stairs to climb and everything can be wheeled down to the beach. Bathrooms and showers are available as well. My kids grew up coming here and still love it as adults. It’s not usually as crowded as the picture below portrays-this was Labor Day weekend, 2019.

This is a great little out-of-the-way beach. It's our favorite to visit when in southern California!

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Irvine Spectrum Center Mall, and I am absolutely delighted to share my glowing 5-star review of this shopping haven. From the moment I stepped foot into the mall, I was captivated by its vibrant atmosphere and impressive array of shops and attractions. The mall's modern design and inviting ambiance created the perfect setting for a day of leisurely shopping and entertainment. The variety of stores at Irvine Spectrum Center Mall is truly impressive. From well-known brands to unique boutiques, there is something to cater to every style and preference. Whether I was searching for the latest fashion trends, home décor items, or specialty gifts, I found myself spoiled for choice at every turn. In addition to its extensive selection of shops, Irvine Spectrum Center Mall boasts an abundance of dining options to satisfy every craving. From casual eateries to upscale restaurants, there is a culinary delight awaiting every palate. I particularly enjoyed taking a break from shopping to indulge in a delicious meal or refreshing beverage at one of the many restaurants and cafes scattered throughout the mall. Beyond shopping and dining, Irvine Spectrum Center Mall offers a variety of entertainment options to keep visitors entertained. From catching a movie at the state-of-the-art movie theater to enjoying live performances at the outdoor amphitheater, there is never a dull moment at this bustling destination. The mall's convenient layout and ample parking make navigating the complex a breeze, while its picturesque surroundings provide a delightful backdrop for leisurely strolls and people-watching. Overall, my experience at Irvine Spectrum Center Mall exceeded all expectations, earning it a well-deserved 5-star rating. Whether you're a local resident or visiting from out of town, I highly recommend paying a visit to this shopper's paradise. Thank you, Irvine Spectrum Center Mall, for a truly memorable experience--I can't wait to return!

The Irvine Spectrum is an open-air mall that has retail shops, restaurants, and boutiques. Some highlights I think worth noting about this outdoor mall is it has a ferris wheel, large easy-to-read sign when driving round the area, it’s a well-maintained mall, and it is spacious. I stopped by here on a weekday to purchase a couple gifts for family members and happened to drop by the Hello Kitty Cafe (oh so nostalgic). It wasn’t too busy or crowded mid-week so it was great to walk around and enjoy some shopping. It was also a beautiful day. There are plenty of shops here - something for everyone!

Irvine Spectrum Center is a visually appealing and well-maintained destination with a vibrant atmosphere. The layout is pleasant for walking, and the architecture gives a relaxed, open-air feel. It’s a great place to spend time with friends or family, especially if you’re looking for dining options — the center offers a wide variety of restaurants and cafes to suit different tastes. However, when it comes to shopping, the selection is somewhat limited. While there are a few well-known brands, it doesn’t offer the variety or depth you’d expect from a major shopping destination. If you’re planning to browse or do serious shopping, you may find the options underwhelming. Overall, Irvine Spectrum is more of a social and dining spot than a true shopping hub. It’s perfect for an evening out, a movie, or a casual stroll — but don’t expect a full-scale retail experience.

Came by to watch wrestling at the Irvine Comedy Club. Had comp tickets. There is a two item minimum, per person. Had pepperoni pizza with a side salad and nachos. Food was very good. With drinks was 68 dollars. The show was great. Fake but fun, also very athletic. Jumping, flying out of the ring. Great night.

A beautiful place to spend an evening in Irvine. There are many restaurants, cafés, and stores to explore, along with a movie theater and relaxing outdoor spaces. The place is clean, lively, and well-organized. Parking is easy and digital maps help you find your way around.

This shopping center offers a wide variety of dining options, including restaurants, cafes, and branded stores. However, the restroom facilities require immediate attention due to their poor hygiene and unpleasant odor.

It's a fun shopping mall in the area! You can get items from reasonable to high end!! It's just enjoyable walking around as window supper as well! :)

beach is very beautiful. has space available for beach volleyball. has a good amount of bathrooms stalls but they dont have anything to dry your hands with, like air dryer or paper towels

The only OC beach I know that has street parking without paying. Beautiful beach that the water is clean with some seaweed. Overall the sunset is nice and a place to go for a swim. Pay parking is available but I prefer street parking if available on the weekdays.

One of my favorite beaches that I’ve visited! Had a huge amount of parking, lots of beach’s space and the waves were awesome, definitely bigger than expected but still had a lot of people bogey boarding and swimming and restrooms on hand! Highly recommend this for a good beach visit if your in the area

Such a beautiful beach! Close parking was a great plus. The variety It has to offer. Is that it's right by the Newport Harbor, giant rocks to climb on, bathroom accessibility and such a clean Beach! It's also a very cool hangout for youth because it's somewhat secluded in its area.

One of the best and beautiful parts of Southern California. Corona del Mar is a beautiful and distinguished area. Wonderful estates and pristine beaches. A great family spot.

Came on a weekend afternoon and was surprised to find plenty of parking — big plus! Maybe it’s just the off-season. The sunset was beautiful, but the beach feels more like a spot for family or friends to hang out than a quiet place to enjoy the ocean view.

It has a beautiful ocean view and much to do at the beach. The sand is clean, and there are many fire pits for people if you want to grill. Public toilets are available. There's one place to order food, but they close early by 5 pm. Paid parking is $21.00 for three hours on a Saturday.

This was an awesome find near Newport Beach. Great little walk/hike spot with lots of incredible art. We spent the day at the beach and then walked from Fashion Island to Civic Center Park. There are dozens of really cool sculptures along the trail, and the bridge offers a nice view of the beach. Definitely check it out!

A new group of statues, different from our last visit. This is a pleasant walk with beautiful scenery.

A veey nice park adjacent to the civic center with various sculptures surrounded by landscaped paths and seating areas. There is a nice overlook platform too. Don't miss bunny stonehenge!

An awesome hidden park with tons of art, from statues to the awesome architecture, defiantly well worth the trip. Personally, I think the bunny statues are the highlight of the trip, they are so unique and carry an energy to them that makes you just.....want to like them....and serve them....let's just say the bunnies are very mysterious creatures, so be careful.

First time. Had fun. Some really great art pieces. The illusion bridge is my favorite. I heard a rumor that the art is constantly changing...? I'll check back later to see.

Love the modem design and concept of harmony

Amazing! Wonderful! Gorgeous! The most beautiful and authentic Civic Center in the USA! Highly recommend to visit!