Top 10 reasons to discover Newport Beach, California

Situated on 10 miles of coastline, Newport Beach is California at its best.

The city is made up of more water than land and divided into 10 distinct neighbourhoods, each offering unique experiences for visitors. Think surfing, yachting and whale watching to dining at some of Southern California’s best restaurants.

Golden Beaches

With 10 miles of pristine coastline, the golden sands of Newport Beach are some of the finest in California, perfects for swimmers, surfers and sunbathers alike. Beaches range from small coves such as Corona Del Mar, flanked on both sides with rocky reefs for spectacular diving, to spacious Newport Municipal Beach, a five-mile stretch backed by a boardwalk for strolling, skating and cycling.

Whales and Wildlife

The waters surrounding Newport Beach are home to an array of whale species, including grey whales, most often spotted in winter and spring, and blue whales, in the warmer months. A spectacular attraction for families, couples and solo travellers, visitors can watch from the land or head out by boat for face-to-face sightings.

A Surfer’s Paradise

Renowned as one of the surfing capitals of the world, Newport Beach attracts both pros and beginners. First-timers can enjoy the gentle waves just north of Newport Beach Pier, while more seasoned surfers should try popular spots such as 15th Street and 56th Street. Only the most experienced surfers should brave The Wedge, the biggest swell in Southern California with the potential for 30ft waves.

Dock & Dine

Brimming with enticing restaurants, those enjoying the nautical lifestyle of Newport Beach can savor incredible menus without needing to leave their boats thanks to the city’s Dock & Dine initiative. Sail through the harbour and dock at one of the many waterfront restaurants to enjoy delicious meals onboard with a cool ocean breeze. Crowned Orange County’s best culinary community, Newport Beach features everything from freshly caught seafood and beach bites to farm-to-table feasts and gourmet dining.

Back-to-Nature Adventures

The historic Crystal Cove State Park stands in contrast to the immaculate architecture of Newport Beach, allowing visitors to stay at rustic campsites in an undeveloped woodland setting. On its southern edge sits El Moro, a 2,200-acre chaparral canyon with 18 miles of hiking, biking and horse-riding trails, whilst just offshore lies a 140-acre underwater park, ripe for discovery by snorkelers and scuba divers. Elsewhere, Upper Newport Bay is one of the largest, most pristine coastal wetlands in Southern California.

Move Over, Rodeo Drive

Situated in central Newport Beach, Fashion Island is Orange County’s premier shopping centre, home to designer labels and iconic American stores such as Macy’s and Bloomingdales. Visitors can also find unique treasures at Balboa Island’s independent outlets, or head to Lido Marina Village for a chic collection of boutique and designer stores.

Ancient Meets Modern Wellbeing

Relax and rejuvenate in unique ways at state-of-the-art spas, medi-spas and salons. Village Tea Hut hosts calming Tea Ceremonies, harnessing the centuries-old healing power of tea to provide wisdom and clarity, whilst Sacred Healing Sessions’ meditative sound baths put mind and body at ease using resonant music to create a full-body listening experience.

At WAM care, a medical clinic located near Fashion Island, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy combines pressure and high-dose oxygen to hyperoxygenate the brain and body. The Hydration Room provides IV vitamin treatments for hydration and detoxification.

An Action-Packed Calendar of Events

The city hosts an array of exciting events throughout the year, including the star-studded Newport Beach Film Festival, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this October and recognizes the best up-and-coming acting talent in partnership with Variety. The destination is transformed over the festive period, with a showstopping Christmas Boat Parade taking place annually for over 100 years.

Hollywood Connections

Not only is Newport Beach a destination of choice for A-Listers, but the city also has a long and illustrious relationship with Hollywood, having been the setting for many films. These include Jerry Maguire and All Quiet on the Western Front. The destination is no stranger to the small screen either, with hit TV shows such as The OC and Arrested Development taking place on its sandy shores. Both shows celebrate their 20th anniversary this year.

Luxury Hotels & New Openings

Visitors to Newport Beach are spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation, with a combination of legendary hotels and new openings providing something for every type of traveller. Perched on 504 acres, Pelican Hill is a five-star sanctuary with a collection of villas and bungalows offering unbeatable views across the hotel’s golf course and the Pacific Ocean. Set to open in 2023, The Pendry will bring a stylish urban CHIC, located near Fashion Island and featuring the city’s first private members’ club.

Also new to the scene, VEA Newport Beach is a hub for dining, wellness and poolside relaxation in an unbeatable central location, whilst Lido House is an intimate beach house-style hotel on the site of the former City Hall.

For more information, visit www.visitnewportbeach.com

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