Ten miles. Of Beaches. 

And not just any beaches…Newport Beach is home to some of the nation’s most insanely gorgeous beaches ranging from small, intimate coves to sand-covered meccas with expansive boardwalks just begging for walkers, skaters and cyclists. 

Not only that, but the Southern California gem is a surfer, shopper, animal lover and foodie’s dream. Read on to see why. 

Newport Beach musts:

• Stay at the amenity-rich Pendry Newport Beach (with stunning beach views)
• Experience dock and dine restaurants — on or near the dock — for the ultimate in oceanfront dining
• Take advantage of the many whale watching and watercraft opportunities available

Newport Beach travel routes

Newport Beach is conveniently just miles from John Wayne Airport, Orange County (SNA) in Orange County, but can also be accessed by Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to the north, Long Beach Airport (LGB) also to the north, and San Diego International Airport (SAN) to the south, and Ontario International Airport (ONT) to the southeast.

Places to stay

While myriad marvelous accommodations, Pendry Newport Beach is the new kid on the block and already making waves (in a good way!). Opened in 2023, it oozes a sophisticated and stylish urban feel with sweeping ocean, harbor and bay views. Visually, the hotel juxtaposes the beach and water nearby with lush, garden-inspired interiors, effortlessly blending the natural beauty of Newport Beach with elegant architectural elements.

Beyond its look, it has location, location, location, as Pendry Newport Beach is just steps from premier outdoor coastal shopping mecca Fashion Island not to mention amenities of a five-star resort. 

Pendry perks  

The hotel boasts both the expansive Spa Pendry and a 24-hour fitness center, offering everything from eucalyptus-infused steam rooms and a cryotherapy chamber to Pelotons and even the MediSpa® Silver Facial Experience. There are also ultra-romantic couples treatment options and a slew of packages for those looking to make a day out of pampering. 

Oh, and then there is the food…and drinks. (swoon)

Whether staying at the hotel or not, make a reservation for SET Steak & Sushi, a vibrant blend of the American steakhouse, modern coastal cuisine and Asian delights — especially hand-rolled sushi, sashimi, and specialty rolls. Either before or after dinner, it’s also worth a stop at Bar Pendry, one of the most seductively sexy spots for cocktails in Southern California. And if staying, take advantage of Tree Shack Pool Bar & Grill as it especially excels at showcasing the flavors of Baja through locally sourced Southern California ingredients. Insider tip: do not miss their vegetable-forward offerings. 

Newport Beach culinary quests

Speaking of food and drink, Newport Beach’s epic culinary options are kissed with some of the best sips and tastes in the whole of California (and that is saying something!). 

One important thing to know: the region is all about a concept called dock and dine. Just like it sounds, many restaurants are positioned directly on or near the dock to allow for the ultimate in oceanfront epicurean opulence. Many even encourage folks to ride up to the dock in boats to grab takeout to enjoy on their vessel. Just some of the best dock and dine options in town include Bluewater Grill, A+O Restaurant and Bar, Woody’s Wharf, The Cannery, Billy’s at the Beach and The Dock.

If looking to dress up or thinking of somewhere special for a date, Newport Beach has its glamourous gals and guys covered as well thanks to Louie’s by the Bay, an Italian-style steak house; Mastro’s Ocean Club, a celebrity favorite with mouth-watering steak and seafood; Lido Marina Village Malibu Farm, a true farm-to-table concept located directly on the water; Nobu Newport Beach, the world-renowned fine dining icon from chef Nobu Matsuhisa; Red O, a killer spot from celebrity chef Rick Bayless; Topside Lido House Roof Deck, Newport Beach’s only rooftop bar experience and The Quiet Women, of Real Housewives of Orange County fame and far more delicious than even the reality show pictures.

Activities, shopping and more

With a place to stay and rest one’s head, as well as restaurant reservations set, the final piece of the Newport Beach puzzle is choosing attractions and activities to enjoy while in town. Here are some best bets: 

• Newport Beach Whale Watching: Embark on an exciting sea adventure and witness majestic whales, playful dolphins and sea lions in their natural habitat. There are several amazing outfitters from which to choose, including Newport Coastal Adventure, which specializes in  intimate dolphin and whale watching expeditions to better connect guests to the ocean and sea life. 
• Rev Up on the Water: From pontoons to sailboats and speedboats to yachts, Newport Beach offers a variety of watercraft for every taste. Of note are the yacht charters, which offer tours, captained boats and rentals featuring vessels that look straight out of a movie. There are a slew of excellent options for bookings daily, including Newport Beach Sailing Charters, Anchor Yacht Charters and South Coast Yachts. 
• Balboa Fun Zone: This family-friendly amusement area is home to a Ferris wheel, old-school arcade, nautical museum and plenty of places to snack.
• Surfing: There is a little something for every level of surfer (even the novice) in the waters around Newport Beach. For gentle waves, head just north of Newport Beach Pier. Seasoned pro: opt for the big swells near 15th Street and 56th Street. If truly experienced and well-seasoned, Newport Beach also boasts the Wedge, which is the biggest swell in Southern California and can produce waves of up to 30 feet. 
• Shopping: Definitely plan to visit both Fashion Island and Lido Marina Village if interested in some of the best charming boutiques and stylish shops in Southern California. 
• The Back Bay: This section of Newport Beach has its own ecological preserve for animal viewing, board watching, and much more. This is also a killer spot for paddleboarding, kayaking and hiking. 
• Balboa Island: Visit Balboa Island to experience its quaint streets, festive decorations and inviting cafes. Don’t miss the Balboa Island Ferry for spectacular views of the bay.
• Cycling: Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the scenic boardwalk known as “The Strand.” 
• Duffy Boats: These quiet electric boats, invented right in the area, offer harbor cruises daily. Dog-friendly Sea Senoritas offers Duffy Boat tours with added flair. The mother-daughter owners have decked out one of their Duffys for the ladies, enveloping it in pink for an ultra-instagrammable experience. They even have charcuterie boards available. 
• Golfing: Professionally designed courses with ocean views for days? Yes, please! Newport Beach offers the ultimate in golf options, notably the one-and-only Pelican Hill Golf Club. 

For more information, visit visitnewportbeach.com.