Curator’s statement
I grew up in Newport Beach, so I may be biased, but I truly consider it the best place in the world. With its golden beaches, yacht-lined harbor, and a blend of chic restaurants and relaxed California ease, it’s a place where everyday life feels elevated. I love how the city seamlessly mixes resort-level indulgence with local gems, making it just as ideal for a weekend escape as a longer retreat. I have stayed at and regularly visit all of these hotels, so I know firsthand how special, beautiful, and relaxing they can be.
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Things to do in Newport Beach
A morning walk around Balboa Island is one of my favorite local rituals with charming shops, waterfront views, and nostalgic frozen bananas.
Balboa Island ferry and village stroll: Walking the island loop is a favorite local pastime, with waterfront views, charming shops, and the nostalgic frozen banana stands. Take the short ferry ride (cash only) across to the Balboa Fun Zone for a retro arcade, small rides, and classic carnival snacks or a stop at Ruby’s at the end of the pier before looping back for chocolate-covered strawberries near the ferry landing.
Harbor cruise by Duffy or yacht: Rent a Duffy boat for a casual afternoon or sunset ride, snacks and drinks in hand, or charter a yacht with a captain for a full day on the water. You can cruise past homes, dock at waterfront restaurants, or even anchor at Emerald Bay in Laguna for a swim.
Crystal Cove State Park: A stunning stretch of coastline with scenic hikes, tide pools, and preserved historic cottages right on the sand. Stop at the famous Shake Shack above the beach for burgers, fries, and milkshakes with a panoramic view of the Pacific.
Fashion Island: An elegant open-air mall with luxury boutiques, ocean views, and upscale dining all in one. It is the go-to spot for a little retail therapy paired with beautiful coastal scenery.
Golf at Pelican Hill: Play one of the most beautiful courses in California, where every hole comes with sweeping ocean views. Even non-golfers will appreciate the setting.
Lido Marina Village: A stylish outdoor space along the harbor filled with chic boutiques and inviting cafés. Shop at Loveshack Fancy, Le Labo, Stoney Clover, Frankie’s Bikinis, The RealReal, and more before dining at Malibu Farm, Zinqué, or Nobu. The setting is perfect for people-watching as paddle boarders, yachts, and Duffys pass by.
Places to eat & drink in Newport Beach
Dining at RH Ocean Grill on the rooftop of Restoration Hardware with ocean views, a beautiful atmosphere, and a fountain as the centerpiece.
RH Ocean Grill: Located on the rooftop of the new Restoration Hardware, this spot is stunning for brunch, lunch, or dinner. The design is as beautiful as the food, with sweeping views and a chic coastal vibe.
Mastro’s Ocean Club: A sexier take on the classic steakhouse, with nightly live music, a lively bar, and an open-air courtyard strung with lights. It’s the perfect spot for steak, seafood, and a night out.
Ocean 48 at Fashion Island: A newer addition by the Mastro brothers (creators of Mastro’s), this elegant steak and seafood restaurant features a dramatic pool room and an open kitchen framed by glass, where seafood is displayed on ice.
A Restaurant: The original location on PCH (not the newer Crystal Cove one) is a Newport institution. With dark interiors, red leather booths, and wood accents, it has a lively, buzzy atmosphere perfect for a fun night out with cocktails and consistently excellent food.
Gulfstream & Bandera: Both Hillstone favorites and both perfect for lunch or dinner. At Gulfstream, don’t miss the famous fresh biscuits, while Bandera is known for its addictive cornbread bites and cozy vibe.
Javier’s at Crystal Cove: One of the most iconic spots in Newport for upscale Mexican dining. With ocean views, a glamorous crowd, and a stunning design, it is just as much about the scene as the food.
Marché Moderne: A sophisticated Crystal Cove restaurant offering some of the best French cuisine—at least in Orange County, perfect for a refined evening.
Bear Flag Fish Co.: A casual Newport staple beloved for its fresh-caught fish, poke bowls, and sushi. Simple, fresh, and always reliable for lunch or dinner.
Malibu Farm: Located right on the harbor at Lido Marina Village, Malibu Farm is a healthier, California-casual option. It is especially lovely for a daytime meal with water views.
Modo Mio: A neighborhood Italian restaurant in the Crystal Cove Shopping Center. It is a simple, local favorite for comforting pasta and classic Italian fare.
Billy’s at the Beach: A longtime Newport staple. The food is fine, but people come here for the waterfront setting and the famous mai tais, which have become something of a local tradition.
Nobu Newport: On the water at Lido Marina Village, Nobu is always buzzing with energy. It is the ultimate scene for sushi lovers, while nearby Bluefin in the Crystal Cove Shopping Center offers a more local, low-key atmosphere with equally fresh and delicious fish.
Need to know
Newport is home for me and it is the perfect place for a relaxing week. You can make it as fun or as laid-back as you want with Duffy rides, beach days, ferry rides, shopping, nice dinners, and sunsets that never disappoint.
It is especially easy to get to, whether as a long road trip or a quick flight, which makes it ideal for both planned vacations and last-minute escapes. The weather is famously sunny year round, but the warmest and most enjoyable months are May through October. June often brings a bit of what locals call June gloom with marine layer clouds lingering during the day, so August and September are especially perfect times to visit.
Lastly, Newport is perfectly situated for day trips as it's just 15 minutes to Laguna Beach for more artsy coastal charm, or an hour to Los Angeles or San Diego for a change of scene. I would love to help you book your Newport Beach or Laguna Beach getaway and make sure you enjoy the very best of what each destination has to offer.
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Natalie Reid
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Newport Beach page.