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Fun scenic activities in Newport Beach

An activity that lets you engage with the landscape without feeling like you are just another tourist in the way.

Based on 838 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Crystal Cove State Park image 1
Crystal Cove State Park image 2
Crystal Cove State Park image 3
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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.

Excellent ocean views stretch along the coastline with many lookout points and benches to sit and relax. The park offers beautiful cliff side views of Laguna, Newport, and the coast.

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."

"The ocean views from the cove are absolutely amazing."

"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.

02
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.

Stunning ocean views stretch wide from the pier, offering a big and beautiful Pacific backdrop. Sunsets here turn the sky into a vivid display, making the views especially amazing.

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."

"The pier offers stunning views, especially at sunset."

"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.

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.

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.

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."

"The sunset views here are absolutely stunning."

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
Bunnyhenge image 1
Tourist attraction

Outdoor space features whimsical bunny sculptures with colorful eyes along a short loop trail. Visitors find a spacious, chill atmosphere with breathtaking ocean views and places to sit or picnic. The area includes a dog park, native landscaping, and art installations near a library and civic center.

Breathtaking views come from the hanging balcony and the pedestrian bridge overlooking the coast. The spot offers gorgeous bird's eye views and nice sights of a small park nearby.

Whimsical art structures and fun statuaries line a sweet little walking trail. The park offers a silly, enjoyable stop with plenty of kid-friendly fun.

People are saying

"You'll find multiple beautiful sculptures along winding pathways."

"It's a fun and whimsical place for activities."

"The views here are gorgeous and really impressive."

Good to know

1

Parking is generally free and available nearby.

2

No tickets are required to visit Bunnyhenge.

3

The park is suitable for picnics and family outings.

05
Newport Aquatic Center image 1

Spacious aquatic center offers peaceful back bay views and clean, calm waters ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding. Rental process is quick and hassle-free, with a family- and pet-friendly atmosphere. Free parking and well-maintained facilities support a relaxed, beginner-friendly environment.

Beautiful location with easy access to the water offers stunning views that create a relaxing environment for water activities.

Group paddle and kayaking stand out as fun activities here. The location offers a beautiful setting for aquatic sports and a day of enjoyment in the bay.

People are saying

"I found kayaking here to be a lot of fun."

"The parking here is free and plentiful."

"The scenic views here are beautiful and relaxing."

Good to know

1

Parking and access to the beach are free.

2

The rental process for paddle boards and kayaks is quick and simple.

3

Expect wait times of about 20 minutes for rentals on busy weekends.

06
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.

Spectacular views surround the island, including from the Ferris wheel at the Fun Zone and the Bay Front Walkway. The ferry ride offers breathtaking waterfront views of yachts and boats, while the pier provides a fantastic view of the waters.

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.

07
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.

Breathtaking views of the beach and tide pools create a memorable scene. The natural beauty stands out with incredible scenery and nice views throughout the area.

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."

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

"The scenic views here are breathtaking and beautiful."

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.

08
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.

Small size does not limit the spot's amazing views and clear water. Benches above street level offer a good view of beautiful houses and the beach, creating a scene like art on a great day.

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."

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

"It's a great little spot with beautiful scenic views."

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.

09
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.

Beautiful ocean views stretch along nearly 3 miles of shoreline with stunning sunsets and peaceful trails. The restaurant offers amazing views all around, overlooking the beach and ocean waves.

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."

"The ocean views here are beautiful and picturesque."

"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.

10
Lido Marina Village image 1
Shopping mall

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.

Stunning marina views surround the area, with water and boats visible from many spots. Restaurants offer dining with waterfront scenery, and tiny boats rent by the hour for a water-level perspective.

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

"The marina views here are just unbeatable."

"It felt so classy and clean, like a European city."

"The marina views here are unbeatable, with fancy yachts and boats."

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.

11
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.

Quiet walks lead to stunning views of the Back Bay and watershed area. Trails offer beautiful scenery but lack shade.

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

People are saying

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

"I loved the amazing, stunning views of the bay."

"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.

12
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.

Stunning ocean views stretch across clear blue skies and soft sandy beaches. The sunset over the water creates a beautiful scene, complemented by cozy fire pits along the shore.

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 ocean views here are stunning, especially at sunset."

"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.

13
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.

Views include the pier, waves, and a palm-lined horizon with distant mountains. Green areas add to the relaxing atmosphere and photo opportunities.

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."

"I loved the amazing ocean views here."

"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.

14
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.

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.

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

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

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

"The ocean views from the pier were breathtaking and 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.

15
Balboa Pavilion image 1
Beach pavillion

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.

Views include beautiful bay scenes and a wonderful waterfront panorama. The bar offers a nice happy hour with clear views of the water.

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."

"The food here is really good."

"I enjoyed the wonderful, amazing, beautiful, nice scenic 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.

16
California Parasail image 1
Parasailing ride operator

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.

Parasailing offers a peaceful way to see the full Catalina view. The sunset over Avalon and the harbor creates amazing sights.

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 staff made our parasailing date comfortable and wonderful."

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

"I saw dolphins and seals from way up high."

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.

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.

Views include ocean vistas and magical sunsets. Outdoor escalators add to the open, scenic feel.

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."

"I loved the beautiful ocean views and relaxing vibe."

"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.

18
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.

Views of the harbor appear from almost anywhere in the RV lot. Numerous walking areas offer beautiful and private waterfront scenes.

Water obstacle course offers a lively challenge. The bay area provides a relaxing and fun spot for the whole family.

People are saying

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

"The water obstacle course was so much fun!"

"The scenic views here are beautiful and private."

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.

19
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.

Nonstop views unfold from spacious decks where everyone can move freely and snap photos. The crew stays flexible, extending trips so all guests catch the full parade, even in rainy conditions.

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."

"The holiday lights on boats and homes create magical scenic views."

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.

20
Cabo Cantina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with colorful decor and ocean breeze from open windows creates a lively, party-like atmosphere. Multiple TVs show sports games, attracting a mix of young and middle-aged crowds. Known for giant margaritas and generous nachos, it offers a fun beachside vibe.

Phenomenal views of the Balboa pier area stand out here. The bar offers great views that make it a spot to enjoy breakfast or drinks.

A lively spot with a fun atmosphere that attracts a mix of tourists and locals. It offers a social hangout vibe, popular for drinking and meeting people across different age groups.

People are saying

"You have to try the giant margaritas with the Mexican food."

"It's a fun, lively place with lots of activity, especially on the beach."

"The ocean views here are simply phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 PM with buy one, get one free beers.

2

Two-for-one cocktails are available during happy hour.

3

Expect confusion around happy hour promotions; they may not always apply.

21
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.

Ocean-facing rooms on top floors offer excellent views. Pools and main areas provide beautiful ocean vistas and some rooms overlook the golf course as well.

Lots of fun activities fill the day, including complimentary wine and cheese tastings. The kids club and pool area add to the lively atmosphere near scenic spots like Crystal Cove and Pelican Golf Course.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful views from the balcony."

"The scenic views from the room were beautiful."

"The pools and kids club were so much fun."

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.

22
Marina Park image 1
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.

Waterfront views at Marina Park offer beautiful scenery with a clear sight of the surrounding beaches. The view of the yachts is less striking compared to the natural beach backdrop.

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."

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

"The playground here is amazing, with a pirate ship!"

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.

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Newport Beach, California

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