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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Newport Beach's best

Kid-friendly relaxing spots

You need a space where your children are welcome and you can actually sit down. You should not have to sacrifice your own peace of mind to keep the family occupied.

Based on 825 Opinions
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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.

Calm waters and a happy crowd create a peaceful atmosphere. Families relax while kids play, making it a solid spot to unwind and watch boats pass by.

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."

"It's a calm, relaxing spot perfect for families with young kids."

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
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 with no waves makes it safe for young kids to swim and play. The beach suits families well and supports activities like kayaking for children.

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.

03
Pirates Cove Beach image 1
Tourist attraction

Quiet cove with soft sand, rocky walls, and sea caves offers a private beach feel. Calm waters and breathtaking views create a peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere ideal for relaxation and photography. Visitors often find it a hidden gem with a romantic and serene vibe.

Calm waters create a safe environment for kids to play and explore. The beach offers easy access and a relaxing atmosphere suitable for young children.

Calm water and warm sun create a peaceful atmosphere. The spot offers natural beauty that helps with relaxation for all ages, including children.

People are saying

"This beach is beautiful, serene, and perfect for photos."

"This relaxing spot has breathtaking views and beautiful water."

"It's super easy and relaxing for kids here."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $25, and a ticket for not paying is $70.

2

There is free parking above on the street after 6 pm.

3

Visitors should arrive early to avoid crowds, especially in summer.

04
Borto Hair & Co image 1
Barber shop

Barber shop blends vintage vibe with modern style in an immaculate, cool interior. Atmosphere stays chill and welcoming with carefully chosen music and friendly energy. Parking availability adds to a smooth, relaxed experience.

Kids get mid-length haircuts and styling for thick curly hair. Haircuts come out steezy and well done.

A calm atmosphere creates a relaxing vibe where haircuts feel unhurried. Skilled hands blend energy and culture to keep you at ease throughout.

People are saying

"This barbershop gave me the perfect haircut, exceeding all my needs."

"Patrick is a sculptor of style, a true hair whisperer."

"It's a truly relaxing spot where they pay close attention to detail."

Good to know

1

Parking is always available in front of the shop.

2

The shop offers a razor shave, hot and cool towels, and a scalp massage.

3

Prices for haircuts are reasonable and competitive.

05
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.

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."

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

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

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.

06
The Rich Beard Barber image 1

Private space offers a relaxed, premium atmosphere with a vibe that invites comfort and calm. Skilled barber uses advanced grooming techniques and provides a line of quality beard and hair products. Environment feels more like a thoughtfully curated hangout than a typical shop.

Kids get fresh haircuts they enjoy, leaving with smiles. The environment feels professional and welcoming for both children and adults.

A relaxed, premium atmosphere sets the tone here. Precise grooming services come with a vibe that invites you to unwind.

People are saying

"This barbershop gives sharp, modern haircuts and perfectly shaped beards."

"I got a perfect beard trim; the barber was so professional."

"Chad's attention to detail made for a truly relaxing spot."

Good to know

1

Chad offers a great line of skincare products, beard balm, and oil.

2

The cost is reasonable and worth the experience.

3

Chad provides advice on how to properly take care of beards at home.

07
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.

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.

08
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.

Scenic views of the beach and pier create a peaceful atmosphere. Walking paths and open spaces make it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy a calm day.

People are saying

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

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

"It's a beautiful and peaceful relaxing spot with great views."

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.

09
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.

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."

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

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

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.

10
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.

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.

11
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.

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."

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

"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.

12
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.

Beautiful outdoor mall features well-kept scenery and a koi pond that adds to the calm. The atmosphere blends sophistication with relaxation for a pleasant shopping experience.

People are saying

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

"It's a beautiful outdoor mall with a relaxing vibe and ocean views."

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

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.

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.

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."

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

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

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
Habibi Time image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with modern Middle Eastern decor featuring neon signs and artistic lights. The space feels family-friendly and warm, enhanced by friendly staff and a clean, stylish setting.

Kids enjoy the shawarma bites and find them easy to eat. The spot welcomes families and offers a relaxed atmosphere for all ages.

Clean and casual atmosphere creates a relaxed vibe. Friendly setting adds to the easygoing feel.

People are saying

"I found the Mediterranean food here fresh and tasty."

"The chicken and lamb here are so juicy and flavorful."

"The shawarma bites are perfect for kids, they loved them."

Good to know

1

Expect generous portions, ensuring you won't leave hungry.

2

Parking is easy and convenient for visitors.

3

Prices are considered high for the portion sizes offered.

15
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.

Smooth, peaceful cruises offer a relaxing boat ride with beautiful views of holiday lights. Guests enjoy easy boarding, hot chocolate, and Christmas music for a calm, festive atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"It's a beautiful and relaxing spot to enjoy the Christmas lights."

"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.

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