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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Newport Beach's best

Kid-friendly fun activities

Outings that actually engage the kids instead of just keeping them occupied.

Based on 850 Opinions
+847
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Updated May 2026
01
Marina Park image 1
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City park

Waterfront park offers calm beach with little waves and playground featuring a lighthouse slide. Families gather for safe children's swim area and picnic spots near open grass and water access. Kayak and paddleboard rentals add to the relaxed, family-friendly vibe.

A pirate ship-themed playground and a safe mother's beach with little waves make this spot great for kids. Open grass areas and a slide add to the fun for toddlers and small children.

A large yard offers space for dogs to play. The playground features a lighthouse slide, sand, and water elements that make it fun for kids and adults. Rides and a scenic slide add to the family fun atmosphere.

People are saying

"This playground is perfect for small children and offers less stress for parents."

"This place is super kid friendly with a fun playground and calm beach."

"The playground here is so fun, especially with the lighthouse slide!"

Good to know

1

Parking at Marina Park costs $3.75 per hour, with limited free street parking.

2

There is plenty of parking during non-summer hours, but it can be challenging to find a spot.

3

The beach at Marina Park is safe for kids with little waves and a designated swimming area.

02
The Dance Complex image 1
Dance school

Dance school offers clean, spacious studios with a warm, welcoming atmosphere that nurtures dancers of all ages. Classes balance structure and fun, creating a positive environment for learning. The space includes a comfortable waiting area and ample parking, supporting a smooth experience.

Instructors show great skill with kids, helping toddlers build confidence and coordination. Classes keep young dancers engaged and excited, with many kids attending regularly and enjoying their time.

Dance classes offer a fun and encouraging environment with energetic and warm instructors. Kids enjoy a perfect mix of structure and fun in clean studios with engaging routines.

People are saying

"The staff here is so warm and welcoming, making it feel really Kid Friendly."

"Ms. Hollis sparked joy and taught dance in a joyful, fun way."

"The instructors' joyful, gentle way with little ones makes it such fun activities."

Good to know

1

The studio offers a trial class before committing to a full enrollment.

2

There is plenty of parking available for visitors.

3

The facility is clean and well-maintained for a pleasant experience.

03
Tide Pools image 1
Public beach

Rock formations create unique tide pools that attract families and children exploring sea life. The beach offers a peaceful atmosphere with beautiful views and quiet surroundings, making it ideal for relaxation and photography.

Kids explore tide pools filled with crabs and small sea life. Toddlers wander freely while discovering the creatures of the sea in a fun, natural setting.

Exploring tide pools offers a fun and beginner-friendly activity for kids and adults alike. Watching crabs and tide life adds to the excitement during visits.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly place to explore and see sea creatures."

"The view here is breathtaking and beautiful."

"It's fun exploring tide pools and seeing all the sea life."

Good to know

1

Bring water shoes as the rocks can be slippery.

2

Check for low tide before visiting to see more sea life.

3

Parking is limited; avoid street parking before allowed times.

04
Gracie Barra Newport Beach Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts image 1

Martial arts school offers a welcoming, family-like atmosphere with supportive training partners and talented instructors who emphasize respect and discipline. The facility is clean and professional, providing consistent training times and a safe environment for all ages.

Classes keep kids engaged and having fun with patient, encouraging coaches focused on each child's growth. Kids show clear progress in confidence and discipline while enjoying the activities.

Classes mix structured training with engaging fun, keeping kids excited and focused. Coaches create a safe and encouraging environment that makes training enjoyable.

People are saying

"The coaches at this martial arts gym are so patient and encouraging."

"It's so Kid Friendly; the coaches are patient and caring."

"The coaches keep kids engaged and focused, making it fun."

Good to know

1

The facility is clean and well-maintained for training.

2

Training times are consistent, with many teammates showing up daily.

3

The coaches emphasize respect, discipline, and self-belief.

05
Little Corona del Mar Beach image 1

Small beach cove offers spaciousness and tranquil ocean with tide pools full of sea life. Quiet and less crowded, it features steep paved access and rocky shores requiring care. Views include beautiful houses and green areas with flowers, creating a cozy, relaxing atmosphere.

Kids explore tide pools and climb on rocks looking for crabs. Marine biologists bring animals and pictures to teach children about ocean life.

Tide pools offer a lot of fun exploring small marine life. The beach itself provides plenty of opportunities for fun activities.

People are saying

"This small beach is beautiful with clear water and amazing views."

"It's kid friendly, with tide pools perfect for exploring."

"Exploring the tide pools and seeing sea animals is a lot of fun."

Good to know

1

Parking can be limited, especially on weekends; arrive early for the best spots.

2

The beach is dog-friendly before 10:30am and after 4:30pm.

3

Access to the beach involves a steep paved incline, which may be challenging for some.

06
Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center image 1

Nature preserve offers serene trails and stunning views of a watershed and lagoon. Exhibits include live sea animals and engaging educational programs for children. The atmosphere stays quiet and contemplative, with plenty of seating and easy access to picnic areas.

Hands-on nature experiences and a discovery room for kids make this place engaging for small children. The kids' activity room includes reptile terrariums and offers many educational programs.

Interpretive center offers fun exhibits and watching cliff swallows darting in and out of nests adds lively entertainment.

People are saying

"The bathrooms here open early at 6am for trail users."

"The trails and picnic area are great for a kid-friendly outing."

"It's got fun activities like a big tank with a ray and a shark."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and available on-site.

2

Entry to the museum is free for all visitors.

3

The center offers easy access to trails and picnic areas.

07
Peninsula Park image 1

Large city park offers scenic ocean views and a family-friendly playground. The atmosphere balances peaceful relaxation with vibrant community activity, featuring picnic areas and easy access to a nearby pier. Parking can be challenging during busy times.

Playground offers variety of play structures and sand area with toys for young kids. Plenty of green space supports picnics and soccer, making it great for family outings.

Kids enjoy watching tractor work and playing in a clean, fun environment. The park offers a variety of activities that keep the day engaging.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful beach, especially at sunset."

"The restrooms here were free and in good shape."

"The views here are amazing, perfect for sunset strolls."

Good to know

1

Parking lots near the park are free after 6 pm.

2

Public restrooms and showers are available at the park.

3

The park features a playground with various play structures for kids.

08
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.

Tide pools offer hands-on exploration for kids. Spacious areas with rocks, shells, and driftwood provide fun and easy play spots for little ones.

Hiking in Moro Canyon offers fun, easy trails for kids. Exploring tide pools and walking among cute cottages adds variety to the day.

People are saying

"I found the beach beautiful with stunning views."

"It's really kid friendly, with tide pools and beaches for exploring."

"You'll find the tide pools full of interesting sea creatures."

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.

09
Newport Beach Pier image 1
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.

Playgrounds and a small pier offer safe spots for kids to explore. Gentle family-friendly waves keep children entertained, while treats like kids chili cheese fries and ice cream add to the fun.

Lively pier draws crowds enjoying fun and relaxation. Beige granite sand and cool breeze create a memorable day. Activities suit the entire family for a calming, fun time.

People are saying

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

"It's kid friendly with calm waves and lots of sand."

"It's a really fun place to walk and enjoy the atmosphere."

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.

10
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.

Sandy beach offers plenty of space for kids to play and chase seabirds. Bicycle rentals add a fun way for families to explore together.

Lots of family fun with easy access to conveniences makes this spot lively. The fun zone and pier lunch options add to the enjoyable activities for kids and adults alike.

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 so much fun for the kids playing in the sun."

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.

11
Crystal Cove State Beach image 1

Public beach with cozy wooden cabins on the sand and captivating rock formations creates a charming, village-like atmosphere. The vibe is peaceful and quiet, offering beautiful oceanfront views and a serene setting for walks and sunsets.

Kids enjoy crossing the tunnel with tile paintings on the way to the beach. Tide pools offer a fun way to explore, and the beach has plenty of space for digging and playing.

Kids have a blast playing on the sand and in the water. The whole spot buzzes with fun energy and lively activities for everyone.

People are saying

"I found the beach beautiful and peaceful."

"It's so kid friendly, the tunnel with tile paintings is a hit."

"You'll have so much fun here, it's amazing for kids."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $15 for one day, and only credit cards are accepted.

2

The shuttle costs $2 per person each way to access the beach.

3

Access to the beach requires a long walk or shuttle ride.

12
Once Upon An Island image 1

Event venue offers an immersive magical atmosphere with interactive princess and pirate characters who stay in character throughout. Decor includes a pirate cove with toys and a giant clam seat, creating a playful, girl-forward setup. Activities feature puppets, music, bubbles, and free treasures, engaging both kids and adults.

Birthday parties often feature themed experiences like mermaids and pirates that captivate kids. Staff stay in character, creating magical moments and including every child in activities like story time.

Magical decor sets a fun scene while welcoming characters like Anna and Elsa bring excitement for kids and adults. The event keeps everyone engaged with mermazing fun throughout.

People are saying

"It's a magical place for kid-friendly birthday parties with sweet characters."

"The mermaid princesses made the party magical and the girls loved them."

"The characters made the fun activities a dream come true for the kids."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for birthday parties to ensure availability.

2

The venue provides interactive entertainment with characters like mermaids and pirates.

3

Every child is included in activities like story time during events.

13
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.

Kids jump off docks and enjoy arcades and rides. Neighbors chat while sunsets turn the harbor golden, creating a family-friendly vibe.

A boat toll road leads to a park with basketball courts for group fun. The area features a Ferris wheel, arcade games, and amusement rides that keep things lively and busy.

People are saying

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

"I loved the peaceful boardwalk strolls with stunning harbor views."

"It's so kid friendly with parks and arcades for fun."

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.

14
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.

Small, calm waves make swimming safe and fun for kids. Soft sand provides a great spot for children to play and families to relax.

Fishing at the jetty offers great views and a fun time. Boat watching on the north end adds to the enjoyable activities. The beach park provides a family-friendly spot for various fun experiences.

People are saying

"The beach here is beautiful with amazing views."

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

"I found the fun activities, like scuba diving and fishing, really enjoyable."

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.

15
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.

Playground for kids sits right on the sand, offering a fun spot to climb and jump. The pier adds extra excitement with areas designed for children to explore and play.

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

"I found the beach to be beautiful."

"The sunset views here are absolutely stunning."

"It's a kid-friendly spot with a great playground."

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.

16
Christmas Boat Parade Newport Beach image 1

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.

Boat tours showcase festive lights that kids find more exciting than typical light shows. The event suits a wide age range, from preschoolers to teenagers, and creates a memorable holiday tradition for families.

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."

"This is a magical and romantic spot for a date night out."

"It's a beautiful, magical experience that's kid friendly."

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.

17
Fashion Island image 1
Shopping mall

Open-air design combines multiple mall sections with stunning architecture and scenic ocean views. Atmosphere feels classy and spacious with relaxing koi ponds and plenty of outdoor seating. Family-friendly features include kid playgrounds and accessible amenities.

Koi pond with stepping stones draws kids in, letting them walk across and watch fish. Small playgrounds and open areas offer space for running and play, making it a clean, family-friendly spot.

Fun activities include entertainment options for all ages and a fun atmosphere that appeals especially to kids and families. Events happen regularly, making it a spot for consistent enjoyment.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, upscale outdoor mall with a great vibe."

"The fish pond area is so kid friendly and relaxing."

"It's a wonderful place for fun outdoor walking and shopping."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky during peak hours; arrive early.

2

Security measures are heightened due to recent incidents.

3

High-end stores feature a variety of luxury brands.

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