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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Newport Beach

Relaxing beach spots

A stretch of sand that offers genuine relaxation without the constant noise of the main tourist zones.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Newport Beach Pier image 1
Newport Beach Pier image 2
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Fishing pier

Fishing pier offers amazing ocean views and a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere with live music and fire pits on the beach. Amenities include bike rentals, volleyball courts, and nearby restaurants. The area attracts people for surfing, fishing, and relaxing while enjoying scenic sunsets.

Sands at sunset offer a peaceful, soul-soothing vibe. The beach near the pier is clean, safe, and great for surfing and fishing. Shops and restaurants line the area, making it easy to explore and relax.

Clean beaches offer great spots for walks, runs, or sunbathing. The pier area provides stunning coastal views and a calm atmosphere ideal for relaxing and watching sunsets.

People are saying

"This beach is beautiful, peaceful, and relaxing."

"The sunset views here are truly amazing and beautiful."

"It's a beautiful and peaceful place to unwind."

Good to know

1

Parking payment machine requires cash; cards are not accepted.

2

Parking is very limited and fills up fast near the pier.

3

Public restrooms are available but may not be well maintained.

02
Newport Beach image 1

Extremely large, clean sandy shoreline offers ample space for relaxing without crowds. Calm, family-friendly atmosphere blends with laid-back vibe and amazing Pacific Ocean views. Nearby shops and restaurants complement a wide boardwalk and bike path perfect for strolling or biking.

A large sandy shoreline offers plenty of space to relax without crowding others. The beach stays clean and well maintained with beautiful ocean views and a family-friendly vibe.

Spacious large sandy shoreline offers plenty of room to relax without crowding. The clean, relaxed atmosphere and light foot traffic make it easy to find quiet spots for walking or lounging.

People are saying

"This beach is beautiful, clean, and not too crowded."

"The waves at this Surf Spot are huge and great."

"It's a spacious Relaxing Spot where you can lay out without crowds."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tough to find during peak times, especially on weekends.

2

The beach is clean and well-maintained, with facilities available.

3

There are many restaurants and cafes within walking distance of the beach.

03
Newport Beach Balboa Pier image 1

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.

Clean sand and water meet close parking for easy beach access. The quiet atmosphere makes it great for family fun and watching sunsets from the pier.

Walking out on the pier offers relaxing ocean views and a calm atmosphere. The spot blends coastal vibes with activity from fishermen and surfers, making it great for a peaceful walk or fishing.

People are saying

"I found the beach to be beautiful."

"The sunset views here are absolutely stunning."

"It's a beautiful, serene spot to relax and take in the ocean views."

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.

04
Crystal Cove State Park image 1

Beachfront park offers breathtaking ocean views and peaceful, mellow atmosphere with beautiful rock formations and nostalgic 1930s bungalows. The area remains quiet and uncrowded, inviting relaxation and reflection. Trails lead to scenic viewpoints with benches, enhancing the tranquil experience.

Beautiful coastline offers a stunning beach experience with amazing access. This spot stands out as a favorite beach in Southern California, known for its natural charm and family-friendly vibe.

Chill beach with coastline views offers a great spot for picnics and unwinding. The environment feels peaceful and inviting for relaxing getaways.

People are saying

"I found the beach beautiful with stunning views."

"It's a quiet, natural spot, not overcrowded or trashed."

"The views of the ocean and coastline are beautiful and peaceful."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $15 at the entrance, but plan ahead as it's limited.

2

You need a California state pass to park there.

3

There are no stores at the park, so bring food, drinks, and sunblock.

05
North Star Beach image 1
Public beach

Calm bay with no waves offers a safe, kid-friendly environment for paddling and swimming. Free, abundant parking sits close to the water, supporting easy access. Quiet and peaceful atmosphere makes it ideal for families and water sports enthusiasts.

Calm water and no waves make it safe for kids to swim and play. The beach is clean and organized with free parking and easy kayak access.

Calm and quiet surroundings create a relaxing atmosphere. The spot offers a peaceful environment ideal for unwinding.

People are saying

"There was lots of free parking available."

"This beach is a great spot for kayaking and launching boats."

"It's a calm, quiet, and relaxing spot."

Good to know

1

Parking at North Star Beach is free and abundant, especially during weekdays.

2

The beach is family-friendly and safe for kids to swim.

3

Entry to North Star Beach is free.

06
Corona Del Mar State Beach Park image 1

Beach features soft sand and framed cliffs with a rock jetty offering stunning ocean views. Atmosphere shifts from relaxed and friendly to chaotic on busy days with tents and loud music. Fire pits and volleyball courts add to the active, social vibe.

Calm waves and a beautiful beachside view make this beach a great spot for open water swimming. Paid parking sits right in front, and the area stays quiet on weekdays.

A clean and safe beach offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere perfect for unwinding. The area combines a charming neighborhood with pleasant spots for walking and swimming.

People are saying

"The beach here is beautiful with amazing views."

"The calm water makes it really kid friendly for playing."

"This is a beautiful, clean relaxing spot with stunning views."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $9 per hour or $35 for the whole day.

2

Free parking is available on nearby streets.

3

Expect crowds on weekends, especially after 9 AM.

07
Newport Beach Municipal Beach image 1

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.

Waves roll along a long, clean beach with plenty of volleyball courts and lifeguards patrolling. Parking sits close to the beach and bathrooms, making access easy even with a big car.

Soft waves and beautiful sandy shores create a calm setting for picnics and family time. Nearby restaurants offer delicious meals with a perfect ambiance for a laid-back day.

People are saying

"The beach here is beautiful, especially at sunset."

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

"It's a beautiful, relaxing spot with a salty breeze and ocean views."

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.

08
Balboa Island image 1

Island offers quaint seaside charm with friendly, laid-back atmosphere and scenic ferry rides showcasing waterfront views. Streets feature luxury cars and classic candy shops, creating a nostalgic yet upscale vibe. Locals use bikes and golf carts, enhancing the relaxed, retro feel.

Clean beach air and beautiful surroundings define this island's beach. Families enjoy the relaxing atmosphere and nearby attractions all day long.

Stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere make this spot ideal for unwinding. Clean beaches and a coastal vibe offer peaceful walks and chances to enjoy local culture.

People are saying

"It's a charming, coastal escape with simple, coastal fun."

"It's a charming, picturesque island with beautiful waterfront views."

"I found the beach to be beautiful and clean."

Good to know

1

Traffic and parking on Balboa Island can be very congested, especially on weekends.

2

The Balboa Island Ferry operates every few minutes, carrying people and cars across the harbor.

3

Parking can be a challenge during summer months.

09
Balboa Beach image 1

Beach stretches wide with clean sand and crystal-clear water, offering powerful waves suited for strong swimmers. Fire pits and a grassy area provide spots to relax, while bicycle rentals support family activities. Parking includes both free roadside and paid lots with app payment options, accommodating visitors efficiently.

Huge, clean, and endless sand stretches along the shore with crystal-clear water. Plenty of parking and fire pits make it easy to relax and enjoy the sun with friends and family.

A nice and tidy beach offers a calm atmosphere with few crowds. A grassy area nearby provides a quiet spot to relax away from the sand.

People are saying

"I found the beach here to be beautiful and amazing."

"Parking is available and easy to pay for with an app."

"It's a peaceful beach day at this relaxing spot."

Good to know

1

The rip current can be quite strong, so be cautious if you're planning to swim.

2

There is paid parking available at Balboa Beach, costing around $9 for two hours.

3

There are not many lifeguards at Balboa Beach, so exercise caution.

10
Newport Beach Hotel image 1

Quaint, historic building with early American style and oceanfront views sets a charming scene. The atmosphere is intimate and lively, with nearby nightlife contributing to a noisy environment. Complimentary beach gear and bike rentals support easy access to the beach and local attractions.

Steps from a soft, clean beach with free towels, chairs, umbrellas, and sunscreen provided. Bikes are available to ride along the coast, enhancing beach access and exploration.

Views and multiple spots to relax stand out here. Bikes, chairs, and towels are available for use at the beach, making it easy to unwind.

People are saying

"I loved staying right on the beach, close to everything."

"The rooms are clean and comfortable."

"It's a relaxing spot, literally steps from the beach."

Good to know

1

Parking is only suitable for small cars like a Fiat or motorcycle.

2

The hotel is just steps from the beach and local restaurants.

3

Expect noise from the nightclub until 2am on weekends.

11
The Resort at Pelican Hill image 1

Resort offers breathtaking ocean views and luxurious, peaceful atmosphere with extraordinary Coliseum Pool and scenic golf course. Spaces feel quiet and private, ideal for relaxation or elegant events. Rooms and outdoor areas present immaculate beauty and comfort.

On-demand shuttle and car service make beach access easy and stress-free. Staff provide thoughtful picnics and set up beach gear, while a less crowded beach offers excellent service and a relaxed vibe.

Expansive pool areas create a peaceful oasis for sunbathing and unwinding. The environment feels relaxed and welcoming, blending community vibes with resort comfort.

People are saying

"The views here are absolutely breathtaking and stunning."

"The staff's warm, attentive service makes this a truly relaxing spot."

"I couldn't find the beach chairs and umbrellas anywhere."

Good to know

1

Daily parking costs $50, which can be a surprise for visitors.

2

The resort hosts large events, which may cause noise disturbances.

3

Valentine's Day experiences are offered, providing special romantic packages.

12
Marriott's Newport Coast Villas image 1

Upscale resort features breathtaking ocean views and beautiful, expansive grounds. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxing, ideal for families seeking peace. Multiple saltwater pools and shuttle service to nearby beaches add convenience and leisure options.

Shuttle service runs regularly to nearby beaches like Crystal Cove and Laguna Beach. Beaches are within walking distance or a short ride, with Crystal Cove offering a quiet, private atmosphere.

Relaxing by the main pool offers peaceful views and a quiet atmosphere. A shuttle bus to the nearby beach adds convenience for unwinding and enjoying the surroundings.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful views from the balcony."

"It's a beautiful, peaceful spot with breathtaking ocean views."

"The free shuttle to the beach was perfect."

Good to know

1

The pool bar stops live music at 8 pm on Saturdays.

2

Taco Tuesday features great tacos and live music near the bar area.

3

The poolside grill opens at 11 a.m. daily.

13
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina image 1

Waterfront RV park offers private beach access and beautiful harbor views with renovated cottages featuring lawns. The atmosphere is family-friendly with calm coves ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking. Amenities include a warm pool, hot tubs, and a water playground exclusive to guests.

Clean beach offers a sense of private space despite being public. Beach fire pits add to the experience, and hot showers nearby make it easy to freshen up after time on the sand.

Quiet mornings in the cottages set a calm tone for the day. The spot suits relaxing getaways and private events, offering a peaceful vibe while kids enjoy nearby activities.

People are saying

"It's so kid friendly with an obstacle course and inflatables!"

"I observed that the beach and facilities were clean."

"The cottage doors had flimsy locks, making it hard to feel like a relaxing spot."

Good to know

1

The resort hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts and family activities.

2

Inflatable slides are available for kids during winter snow day events.

3

Parking costs $50 for one hour, which is important to know beforehand.

14
Lido House, Autograph Collection image 1

Hotel combines nautical decor with stunning rooftop views and a heated outdoor pool. Atmosphere is lively and noisy at night, with music and crowds around bars and pool areas. Space balances romantic and kid-friendly vibes, attracting diverse guests.

Easy access to the beach comes with included chair and towel rentals. A Trolley shuttle offers a unique way to reach the shore, paired with a nearby New American restaurant for dining.

A balcony with a pool view offers a quiet place to unwind. A large green lawn adds an open, calming vibe. The setting feels clean and energetic yet still relaxing.

People are saying

"The Hotel staff are wonderfully attentive and helpful."

"The staff's hospitality made my stay even more enjoyable."

"The staff's hospitality made this a truly relaxing spot."

Good to know

1

Check-in starts at 4 PM; early check-in is not available.

2

Reservations are required for yoga and Pilates classes on Sundays.

3

The hotel offers a rooftop bar that is popular for gatherings.

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Newport Beach, California

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