Newport Beach, CA: The Ultimate Luxury Guide

Land a helicopter on your private yacht

Trust me—this is the Newport flex. I’ve done it, and yes, it’s every bit as outrageous and exhilarating as it sounds. One moment you’re soaring above the coastline in a sleek private helicopter, the next you’re stepping onto the deck of a mega-yacht like it’s your natural habitat. Awaiting you: ocean breezes, fine champagne, gourmet bites, and a horizon that doesn’t quit. It’s adrenaline meets indulgence—and a story you’ll tell forever.

VIP whale & dolphin safari: A private ocean adventure

One of my favorite Newport memories was climbing aboard a private boat with my family for a close-up look at the wild beauty just beyond the harbor. We spotted dolphins racing alongside us, sea lions lounging on buoys, and even a whale’s tail disappearing into the blue. A certified naturalist kept us all engaged—sharing fun facts for the kids and surprising insights for the adults. With nothing but the ocean around us and that shared sense of awe, it became one of those rare moments.

Golf at Pelican Hill Resort

I’m not a golfer, but apparently all of our out-of-town guests are. And they cannot stop raving about Pelican Hill. Set on 504 acres of jaw-dropping coastline, the resort’s Ocean North and South courses—both designed by golf legend Tom Fazio—are basically playable postcards. Rolling greens, Pacific views, perfectly raked bunkers—it’s golf meets luxury spa day (minus the massages, plus the forecaddies). Even if you’re just tagging along in the cart, there’s rosé at the turn and scenery for days. Trust me, even non-golfers will be impressed.

Helicopter to Catalina & dinner at Wrigley Mansion

My husband and I lifted off from John Wayne Airport, the hum of the rotors fading beneath us as the coastline slipped away and the vast Pacific unfolded below. Watching the ocean shimmer beneath the helicopter—sailboats drifting, waves tracing the shore—it felt like we were floating through a dream. In just 15 minutes, we landed on Catalina Island, where a private transfer whisked us up to Mt. Ada, the historic Wrigley Mansion perched high above Avalon. It was once a retreat for presidents and magnates. Dinner on the terrace, with the island below and the sea stretching to forever, was nothing short of magical.

VIP shopping experience

These are the malls my friend and I used to run around in as teens—little did I know, we were playing on a luxury playground. Today, they’re the setting for an ultra-stylish day of indulgence. Start at South Coast Plaza, where Hermès, Chanel, and Cartier await, along with private lounges and personal stylists for a truly tailored experience. Reserve in-store private salons. Then head to Fashion Island, where coastal elegance becomes California couture.

Luxury beach picnic

Picture this: You arrive at a dreamy patch of sand, and waiting for you is a beautifully styled setup—think soft linens, sun-washed umbrellas, flickering lanterns, and cushy pillows in perfectly Instagrammable hues. Charcuterie? Of course. Sparkling rosé? Naturally. It’s a beach day reimagined—equal parts effortless, elegant, and totally swoon-worthy.

Mastro’s Ocean Club

Harbor views, live music, and white-tablecloth elegance make this Newport classic a go-to for special nights out. My favorite? The lobster mashed potatoes—rich, indulgent, and absolutely unforgettable.

Nobu Newport Beach

This iconic spot blends Japanese artistry with coastal glamor. Floor-to-ceiling windows and Lido Marina views set the scene, but it’s the Black Cod Miso that keeps me coming back. Silky, savory perfection.

Ocean 48

For those who love dinner with a little drama, the chef’s table here is a front-row seat to culinary magic. Watching my A5 Wagyu hit the grill just feet away? A total showstopper.

The Winery – Havana Lounge

Hidden upstairs and open to the sea breeze, this cigar-friendly terrace is as refined as it gets. After dinner, unwind with a bold red and a hand-rolled cigar under the stars.

The Cannery

If you go to one dinner in Newport Beach, this is the one! A Newport Beach icon since 1921 and originally a working fish cannery, this historic waterfront gem has been serving up coastal charm for over a century. Now a beloved Newport landmark, The Cannery blends laid-back elegance with harbor views and a lively local vibe. It’s my go-to for sushi happy hour (every day!), wine Wednesdays, and a plate of lobster pasta paired with something crisp and chilled.