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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Balboa Peninsula

Fun activities

Something to do that is actually engaging instead of just another way to kill time on a weekend.

Based on 739 Opinions
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01
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Jet skiing offers high-adrenaline fun with fast, stable machines in excellent condition. Families and adventure seekers enjoy this exhilarating water sport. Atmosphere stays consistently exciting for creative outings.

Jet skis provide a high-adrenaline and consistently fun experience. This activity offers a creative way to spend time, making it suitable for exciting outings.

People are saying

"The staff here are super friendly and helpful with the fun activities."

Good to know

1

Seadoos are in excellent condition and well-maintained.

2

Booking in advance ensures a smooth check-in process.

3

The equipment is easy to use and user-friendly.

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House shows loving detail and staged water scenes for a fun mix of characters. Visitors enjoy picture spots with pirate figures and boats. Neighborhood feels quiet and friendly with scenic walks and dogs.

Many things to discover and a fun mix of characters create an engaging atmosphere. Plenty of picture opportunities exist on the building's sides and top, plus with boats in the waterway behind.

People are saying

"It's fun taking pictures with the statue and staged scenes."

Good to know

1

Parking on the street is limited around the Pirate House.

2

Look for parking space as soon as you get close.

3

The neighborhood offers a lovely walk along the water.

03
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Wide, clean beach offers stunning ocean views and a serene atmosphere perfect for families and couples. Walking the pier provides relaxed charm and great spots for people watching. Nearby bars and restaurants add a fun atmosphere with an effortlessly cool vibe.

Lots of fun activities happen at the beach and pier. Walking the pier and people watching offer relaxed charm alongside great restaurants and bars with a fun atmosphere.

People are saying

"I loved strolling the pier and people-watching for some fun activities."

Good to know

1

Parking is free after 6 pm every day.

2

Expect parking difficulties; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The beach area is clean, safe, and well maintained.

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Fishing pier offers roomy space and stunning ocean views for a peaceful stroll or catch. Nearby playgrounds and arcades create a family-friendly vibe. Sunny days bring safe beaches and fun spots for kids, plus ferry rides and local shops for more adventure.

Sunny days bring family fun with safe, clean beaches and spots for kids to hill jump. Nearby, arcades, ferry rides, and local shops add more ways to enjoy the day or night.

People are saying

"It's a fun beach with activities for the whole family."

Good to know

1

Parking at the pier costs over $40 for all day.

2

The parking lot is large and located right next to the pier.

3

The pier and Ruby's at the end are free to access.

05
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Beachfront bar with surf-themed decor creates a relaxed dive vibe where shirt and shoes are optional. Multiple TVs and two pool tables keep the fun going late. Cold beer at 29ยฐ pairs well with classic bar snacks, making it a lively spot with fair prices.

A fun dive bar right next to the beach offers a unique atmosphere and fair prices. It attracts a lively crowd and stays enjoyable late into the night.

People are saying

"It's a fun dive bar right on the beach."

Good to know

1

Blackie's By the Sea is located right on the beach.

2

The prices at Blackie's By the Sea are affordable.

3

Blackie's By the Sea is dog friendly.

06
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Historic pavilion with big bay windows offers stunning seaside views and a spacious, relaxing atmosphere. Visitors enjoy sightseeing cruises and exploring old shops for fun activities. Nearby ferris wheel adds to the casual outdoor charm.

Sightseeing cruises offer a fun way to explore the area. The pavilion features old shops that are interesting to check out and plenty of activities that make it a very fun place to visit.

People are saying

"It's a fun place with lots to do and interesting sites to see."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm daily with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant offers buy one get one free cocktails during happy hour.

3

Expect a surf competition on August 3rd, which may affect parking.

07
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Fraternal lodge offers live bands and harbor views for a lively weekend. Membership unlocks retro fun with music, dancing, and cocktails. Friendly, close-knit vibe keeps prices reasonable and the atmosphere old-school.

Fun, fun, fun vibes fill the space with activities that make celebrations lively. Access requires membership, so joining unlocks the chance for some retro fun.

People are saying

"It's a fun place for dancing and music."

Good to know

1

Membership is required for entry, so join beforehand or find a member.

2

Live bands perform every Friday and Saturday night.

3

Karaoke night is on Thursdays starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

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Boat parade dazzles with breathtaking lights and festive music. Harbor cruises by Davey's Locker offer well-organized fun with a lively crew. Enjoy drinks like hot chocolate with Rumchata on a comfortable vessel with indoor and outdoor seating.

The Christmas Boat Parade offers a beautiful and fun experience on the water. Davey's Locker provides well-organized harbor cruises with a kind and lively crew.

People are saying

"I had so much fun seeing the beautiful Christmas lights and parades."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tough during the event; arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Expect long wait times for parking during peak hours.

3

The ramp leading to the boat has a steep slope, which may challenge those with mobility issues.

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Classic dive bar with two pool tables and a large jukebox offers fun activities and a chill vibe. Walls with John Wayne throwback pictures create a unique atmosphere. Outdoor patio and nearby taco truck add to the relaxed, friendly scene.

Great bartenders create a fun and chill environment with local vibes. Pool tables add to the fun activities, making it a lively spot to pop in for a drink.

People are saying

"I had fun shooting pool here."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging due to its location in the Fun Zone.

2

No food is served, but a taco truck is available on weekends.

3

Expect a fun, lively crowd, especially on weekends.

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Old school arcade games and a Fun Zone arcade offer great entertainment. Bayside views with dolphin sightings add natural beauty. Nearby kayaking and paddleboarding provide active fun, while classic treats like frozen bananas complete the small town charm.

ExplorOcean offers a beautiful arcade experience with plenty of games. Riding the Ferris wheel and playing in the Fun Zone arcade add to the fun activities available.

People are saying

"Exploring here is so much fun, especially the arcade!"

Good to know

1

Games are available for children of all ages.

2

The area offers a variety of shopping and dining options.

3

The historical harbor amusement park is a fun spot for families.

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Waterfront shopping area features picturesque marina views and stylish outdoor lounges for a calm vibe. Visitors enjoy fun eats and shops plus events like the boat show and movies at the theater. Clean design blends European and California influences for a polished, accessible feel.

Clean, cute area offers a mix of fun eats and shops for a leisurely stroll. Activities include watching movies at the theater and enjoying events like the boat show and a colorful flower stand.

People are saying

"I loved the variety of shops and restaurants for a fun day out."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a challenge in the area, especially on weekends.

2

Live music at the Lido Deck occurs every Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday from noon to 3 pm.

3

There are great restaurants with stunning marina views.

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Parasailing offers serene flights with stunning harbor views and chill music for a calm vibe. Friendly guides like Simon and Captain Nick make it a fun adventure. Smooth rides and photo packages capture every moment perfectly.

Staff like Simon, David, and Captain Nick make the experience friendly and fun. Activities include cruising the water and sky with professional and knowledgeable guides.

People are saying

"The guides were so friendly and fun on our activities."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak times.

2

The photo package costs $40 and includes numerous pictures of your experience.

3

Photos are delivered via email shortly after the activity ends.

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Small group classes focus on compound lifting with heavy weights and personalized coaching. Workouts are fun and challenging, keeping energy high and results clear. The welcoming vibe and supportive environment make strength progression enjoyable for all levels.

Classes combine fun and challenges with efficient workouts. Instructors focus on results while keeping the vibe welcoming and energetic. Regulars create a friendly, engaging atmosphere.

Good to know

1

The gym offers small group classes with a maximum of 8 participants.

2

Classes last 55 minutes and focus on strength training.

3

All ages and fitness levels are welcome at the gym.

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Sports bar buzzes with numerous TVs and a beach theme that lifts spirits. Unlimited self-serve chips and strong drinks like margaritas fuel the lively crowd. Fun vibe with good music and energetic service makes it perfect for hanging out.

Fun atmosphere and beach-friendly vibe create a relaxed spot for hanging out. Good music and energetic service add to the inviting experience.

People are saying

"It's a fun spot with a lively atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink specials.

2

Monday Night Football features happy hour pricing for drinks.

3

Minors are not allowed after a certain time.

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Mexican restaurant boasts a retractable roof and island-like giant table for open-air dining with Cabo vibes. Lively, loud atmosphere features perfect lighting and a DJ, creating cozy energy. Communal bar table offers a fun spot to hang out and people watch.

A great bar with a communal table offers a fun spot to hang out and people watch. The atmosphere stays relaxing and lively, making drinks and bites enjoyable.

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant is often crowded.

2

Valet parking is available for $8, making access easier.

3

The restaurant turns into a bar at night with house and electronic music.

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Mini carnival shines with vintage rides and a fast Ferris wheel for fun. Bright colors and a nostalgic atmosphere make it great for families and teens. Boat rides and e-bike rentals add lively, playful activities along the beach.

Ferris wheel rides offer a fun experience for families and kids. Renting e-bikes to ride along the beach path adds another enjoyable activity. The place has a historical vibe that brings back childhood memories.

People are saying

"It's a playful place with arcade games, rides, and colorful setups."

Good to know

1

Balboa Fun Zone is closed from Monday to Wednesday.

2

Parking is easy to find; arrive early or consider a lift to avoid issues.

3

The ferris wheel ride costs $6 per person for about 5 minutes.

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Bar offers live music and a rooftop patio for a chill vibe. Nights get packed and lively with a younger crowd, while weekdays stay quiet. Late night food and a hidden gem feel near the beach add to the fun and social scene.

Live music creates a vibrant atmosphere that makes exploring the venue enjoyable. Meeting new people adds to the social fun of the experience.

People are saying

"You can catch live music here; it's a fun place to see and hear."

Good to know

1

The bar offers late night food options until 1am on weekends.

2

Drink specials are available on Wednesdays to attract more visitors.

3

The menu is limited, so check online before visiting.

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Modern arcade offers digital-only games in a clean, spacious setting. Staff create a fun experience for groups like youth teams and corporate events. Friendly vibe near ice cream shops and beach adds to its appeal.

A clean arcade with modern games offers fun for groups like youth sports teams and corporate events. Staff go the extra mile to create a fun experience, and winning tickets costs less than $10.

People are saying

"The staff here makes the fun activities so helpful and nice."

Good to know

1

The arcade requires a $10 minimum playcard to play games.

2

Games are more expensive than before, with some costing twice as much.

3

The venue is suitable for private events and celebrations.

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Balboa Peninsula, Newport Beach

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