Things to do in Newport Beach
Environmental Nature Center
Native-habitat trails and a seasonal butterfly house tucked behind the city — a quiet, free nature fix close to the coast.
Free (donation); butterfly house seasonalTheme Parks & RidesBalboa Fun Zone & Ferris Wheel
A pint-sized bayfront boardwalk with a historic Ferris wheel, arcade, and the original frozen-banana stand. Pure nostalgic fun.
Ferris wheel ~$5; arcade pay-per-playBeaches & CoastBalboa Island Ferry & Frozen Bananas
Ride the tiny three-car ferry across the harbor, then stroll Marine Ave for frozen bananas and Balboa bars. A classic cheap thrill.
Ferry ~$1.50/person; treats extraAnimals & NatureUpper Newport Bay Nature Preserve
A wide back-bay estuary with flat trails and kayak launches — paddle past egrets and learn at the interactive nature center.
Free; kayak rentals extraBeaches & CoastCorona del Mar State Beach
Soft sand framed by rocky jetties and tide pools, with fire rings for a sunset cookout. One of OC's prettiest family beaches.
Parking ~$15/dayBeaches & CoastNewport Pier & McFadden Square
Watch the dory fishing fleet, walk the pier, and rent bikes or surreys along the boardwalk — quintessential easygoing beach-town fun.
Free (paid parking)Farmers markets in Newport Beach
Newport Beach Certified Farmers' Market
At the base of the Newport Pier in McFadden Square — combine fresh produce with a beach-and-boardwalk morning.
Corona del Mar Certified Farmers Market
Relaxed, family-friendly neighborhood market with produce, flowers, and hot food.
Local restaurants in Newport Beach
The Crab Cooker
A Newport institution since 1951 serving mesquite-grilled seafood on paper plates — casual, nautical, and easy with kids.
Sgt. Pepperoni's Pizza
Since-1976 scratch-dough pizzeria with an arcade — a classic family pizza night.
Mario's A Taste of Italy
Neighborhood Italian with pizza and pasta — a local family go-to.
Cappy's Cafe
Newport breakfast institution since 1982 with a kids menu and chocolate-chip pancakes.
Bear Flag Fish Co.
Counter-service sustainable fish market doing fresh tacos, poke, and sandwiches.
Local shops in Newport Beach
Lido Village Books
Tiny beloved indie bookstore in Lido Marina Village with a curated selection for all ages.
Balboa Candy
Family-owned Balboa Island candy shop famous for saltwater taffy and in-house fudge.
Alchemy Works: Harbor House
Lifestyle and gallery boutique in an all-black 1940s house with heirloom jewelry and home accents.
Rye Goods
Local provisions and goods shop at Lido Marina Village.
Etc. Etc.
Seaside women's boutique, a Balboa Island staple for 30+ years.
Balboa Surf & Style
Surf-and-beach shop mixing brands with postcards, sand toys, surfboards, and skateboards.
hjom.
Home goods shop with furniture, lighting, candles, coffee-table books, and pillows.
Magnolia Charlie
Children's clothing boutique sourcing classic and chic European kids' styles.
The Persimmon Tree
Family beach-apparel store serving Balboa Island since 1965.
Listings are curated and may change — confirm hours and details before you go.