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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Balboa Peninsula

Fun activities with nice views

An activity that keeps you entertained while offering a view that is actually worth looking at.

Based on 801 Opinions
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01
Newport Beach Balboa Pier image 1
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Fishing pier offers roomy space for strolling and fishing with stunning ocean views and a peaceful atmosphere. Surrounding area includes family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and arcades, creating a relaxed coastal vibe.

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.

Expansive ocean views stretch wide from the pier, offering plenty of space to walk and fish. Cool sea breezes and sunset views add to the beautiful scenery.

People are saying

"The sunset views here are absolutely stunning, a breathtaking show of colors."

"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.

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Wide, clean beach offers stunning ocean views and a serene atmosphere with a mix of families, friends, and couples enjoying relaxed charm. Nearby bars and restaurants create an effortlessly cool vibe without pretension. A walkway for running and cycling runs along the shore, enhancing the active, social scene.

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.

Beachfront homes offer stunning ocean views and a serene atmosphere. The pier provides uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean and coastline, with breathtaking sunsets visible from the end.

People are saying

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

"The ocean views up and down the coast are amazing."

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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Waterfront shopping area offers picturesque marina views and stylish outdoor lounges with a calm, sophisticated vibe. Visitors find a polished, clean design blending European and California influences, attracting locals and those seeking a refined yet accessible atmosphere.

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.

Stunning marina views and ocean vistas surround a lively area with a great selection of restaurants. Renting a tiny boat offers a unique perspective of the water-bound scenery.

People are saying

"The marina views here are just unbeatable."

"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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Historic pavilion with big bay windows offers stunning seaside views and a spacious, relaxing atmosphere. Activities include boat rentals, harbor cruises, and nearby ferris wheel, attracting visitors who enjoy scenic waterfront experiences and casual outdoor spaces.

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.

Balboa Pavilion offers beautiful views of the seaside and bay. The scenery is consistently nice and relaxing, especially during happy hour.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed the nice scenery and the amazing views."

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.

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Newport Harbor Elks Lodge #1767 image 1
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Fraternal lodge on the water offers live bands every weekend and great harbor views from multiple levels. The atmosphere is friendly and lively, drawing a crowd for music, dancing, meals, and cocktails. Access requires membership, creating a close-knit community vibe with reasonable prices and an old-school bar feel.

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.

Views include the harbor and skyline from both downstairs and upstairs. Great spots to take in the scenery.

People are saying

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

"You get a nice view of the harbor and skyline."

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.

06
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Parasailing rides offer peaceful, serene flights with beautiful views of the harbor and surrounding areas. The atmosphere includes chill music played by the crew, enhancing the calm experience. Smooth rides and photo packages capturing the adventure add to the overall appeal.

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.

Peaceful parasailing offers full Catalina views including Avalon and the harbor. The experience includes amazing sunset sights.

People are saying

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

"The view of Avalon and the harbor is beautiful."

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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Boat parade features breathtaking lights on boats and houses, creating a festive atmosphere with Christmas music and decorations. Comfortable vessel offers indoor and outdoor seating with a bar serving drinks like hot chocolate with Rumchata. Crowds gather early, and parking can be challenging near the pier.

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.

Views from the top deck offer plenty of space to move around and take photos without feeling crowded. The boat stays out late to ensure everyone on the right side gets a full look at the parade, making for an immersive experience with nonstop sights and music.

People are saying

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

"I loved seeing the harbor lights on the boats and homes."

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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Balboa Peninsula, Newport Beach

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