Things To Do In Newport Beach
Anchors up on Adventure
Our idyllic weather and glittering harbor views set the scene for your next spectacular adventures. Discover fun and relaxing things to do in Newport Beach, from sailing your own Duffy boat to a curated beach picnic at Crystal Cove. Whether on land or sea, Balboa Bay Resort's Newport Beach activities are designed for those sun-kissed days you hope will never end.
Email [email protected].com or call 949-645-5000 to book your experiences.
At The Resort
Pool + Oasis Pool BarSpend a day of family fun or rest and relaxation at our courtyard pool. The pool features lounge chairs, daybeds and private cabanas, with a variety of options for food and beverage packages. Deck chairs are available on a first come, first serve basis. Enjoy lunch or a drink at the Oasis Pool Bar to make the most of your perfect pool day. See CABANAS/DAYBED offerings to learn more and make a reservation.
Shopping
Bayfront BoutiqueThe Bayfront Boutique offers apparel and accessories for men and women from local and well-known brands including Joes Jeans, Hammitt and Suzan. Also features stylish gifts, candles and home goods.
Hours: Monday - Sunday | 10:00 am – 6:00 pm.
On The Water, At The Resort
Duffy RentalsCruising isn't just a relaxing activity in Newport Beach—it's a lifestyle. Captain your own Duffy boat and glide through the sparkling waters of Newport Harbor, passing gorgeous coastal estates and magnificent yachts and sailboats. Meander past sophisticated Lido Island, catch views of the Newport Beach coastline, and soak up a sun-kissed afternoon. Easy to maneuver and lots of fun to drive, our electric Duffy boats invite you to cruise in classic nautical style and comfort.
Guests must sign waivers.
What To Wear: We suggest casual daywear. Bring a sweater in case of cooler weather. Guests will receive a map of Newport Harbor. Duffy boats can be docked at many waterfront restaurants or while shopping on Lido Island. Food is allowed on the boat.
Days Available: 7 days a week 10:00 am to dusk. Based on availability
Location: Balboa Bay Resort Marina
Restrictions: Must be at least 21 to rent. Children are welcome onboard
Length Of Time: 1-2 hours (Or longer if requested)
PRICE: $125 per hour
Cabanas + Daybeds
Poolside Cabanas
Cabana 1-3
- Monday-Thursday: $450 | Friday-Sunday: $650
*Includes 4 bottles of water and your choice of a bottle of house rosé or a bucket of beer (6) subject to change without notice. Seats up to 8 guests.
Cabana 4-5
- Monday-Thursday: $500 | Friday-Sunday: $700
*Includes 4 bottles of water and your choice of a bottle of house rosé or a bucket of beer (6) subject to change without notice. Seats up to 10 guests.
Call 949.630.4241 to book!
Cabanas + Daybeds
Poolside Daybed(2 Lower, 4 Upper)
Upper Deck (Monday-Thursday): $200 | Upper Deck (Friday-Sunday): $250
Lower Deck (Monday-Thursday): $300 | Lower Deck (Friday-Sunday): $350
*Includes 4 bottles of water, subject to change without notice. Seats up to 6 guests.
Call 949.630.4241 to book!
On The Water, At The Resort
Duffy ExperiencePrice: ($250-1 hour/$345-2 hours) ($250 for 4 people/$20 additional PP)
Cruising isn't just a relaxing activity in Newport Beach—it's a lifestyle. Captain your own Duffy boat and glide through the sparkling waters of Newport Harbor, passing gorgeous coastal estates and magnificent yachts and sailboats. Meander past sophisticated Lido Island, catch views of the Newport Beach coastline, and soak up a sun-kissed afternoon. Easy to maneuver and lots of fun to drive, our electric Duffy boats invite you to cruise in classic nautical style and comfort.
Experience will include:
- 1-2 hour Duffy boat ride
- Charcuterie board for four people
- Bottle of sparkling wine
- Keepsake Balboa Bay Resort blanket
Guests must sign waivers.
What To Wear: We suggest casual daywear. Bring a sweater in case of cooler weather. Guests will receive a map of Newport Harbor. Duffy boats can be docked at many waterfront restaurants or while shopping on Lido Island. Food is allowed on the boat.
Days Available: 7 days a week 10:00 am to dusk. Based on availability
Location: Balboa Bay Resort Marina
Length Of Time: 1-2 hours (Or longer if requested)
Add-on: Ultimate Duffy Boat Experience **add on to Duffy Experience-cost is in addition to the Duffy Experience**
Price: ($250 for 4 people/$20 additional PP)
- Small balloon arch on the Duffy
- Personalized place settings
- Personalized welcome sign
- Florals
- Bottle of sparkling wine
- Bluetooth speaker
- Ice and Light refreshments (flavored water, orange juice, and cranberry juice)
- Alcohol menu available for purchase
- 7-day cancellation
Restrictions: Must be at least 21 to rent. Children are welcome.
On The Go
Newport Beach Gondola AdventuresCruise through spectacular Newport Harbor in one of the world’s most beautiful gondolas. Create a memory with that special someone as you glide silently through quaint canals.
Cultural Activities
Orange County Art MuseumA modern and contemporary art museum, OCMA comprises more than 4,500 objects with a concentration of the art of California and the Pacific Rim from the 20th century to the present. www.ocma.art
Shopping
Lido Marina VillageJust a duffy ride or 10 minutes by car, Lido Village is a waterfront outdoor shopping experience with 29 stores, enjoy a fresco dining waterside explore a mix of charming boutiques and stylish shops.
Cultural Activities
Lyon Air MuseumAn aerospace museum located on the West Side of John Wayne Airport. The museum features military aircraft, rare automobiles, military vehicles and motorcycles and related memorabilia with a emphasis of World War II.
Attractions
DisneylandDisneyland Park and Disney California Adventure are about 25 minutes from Balboa Bay Resort. One of the happiest places on earth, Disneyland is fun for all ages and a very easy day trip from Balboa Bay Resort.
Shopping
South Coast PlazaHome of the extraordinary collection of 250 luxury and contemporary boutiques and 30 restaurants. A regional shopping mall in Costa Mesa, largest shopping center on the West Coast, 20 minutes from Balboa Bay Resort.
There’s nothing as breathtaking as a Southern California sunset. Let us transport you to one of Orange County’s most-loved spots to watch the sun go down—Crystal Cove. Savor a beach picnic with chocolate-covered strawberries and champagne, while you watch the sky fill with shades of pink and orange over the Pacific Ocean. It’s a stunning front-row show you’ll never forget.
*Image courtesy of Seaside Picnic & Party Rentals
Experience includes:
- Transportation to and from the beach
- 2 keepsake Balboa Bay blankets
- Chocolate-covered strawberries
- 2 split bottles of champagne
- 2 water bottles
- Throw pillows for your comfort
- Picnic basket
Guests must sign waivers
What To Wear: We suggest casual daywear suitable for the sand. Bring a sweater for cooler weather.
Days Available: 7 days a week
Location: Crystal Cove State Beach
Length Of Time Of Activity: 1-2 hours (Or longer if requested).
Price: $140 for 2 people $70 per additional person
Restrictions: Must be 21 years old
Attractions
Balboa Fun ZoneOne of Southern California's oldest and last great coastal amusement areas, enjoy the waterfront Ferris wheel, play games in the arcade or tour the nautical museum while enjoying your favorite beach treats. Rent bikes, book a harbor cruise, go whale watching, or enjoy a day trip to nearby Catalina Island on the Catalina Flyer. The Balboa Fun Zone is located on Balboa Peninsula across from the Balboa Pier.
Attractions
Knott's Berry FarmWhat started as a small berry farm soon began to grow into a family theme park destination thanks to famous fried chicken dinners, boysenberries and Old Ghost Town. Knott's Berry Farm now bursts with attractions and entertainment for all ages, including first class roller coasters, stage shows, interactive experiences, delicious food creations and family friendly fun featuring Snoopy and the Peanut Gang.
Attractions
Universal StudiosUniversal Studios Hollywood™ , The Entertainment Capital of L.A., includes a full-day, movie-based Theme Park and Studio Tour plus Universal CityWalk®, an entertainment, shopping and dining complex, which includes the Universal Cinema and the “5 Towers” state-of-the-art outdoor concert venue.
Attractions
LegolandInteractive family rides, live shows, building workshops, and amazing attractions, including inspiring miniland areas reflecting ionic buildings and attractions from the recent location all built using the ionic Lego Brick.
Cultural Activities
Sherman's GardensSherman Gardens is an inspiring horticultural oasis and nationally renowned botanical garden. There are over 100 species of palms from around the world, 130 unique varieties of begonias, A lush tropical conservatory featuring a koi pond, carnivorous plants and an extensive orchid collection, An artistic succulent garden, A formal garden, A tea garden with numerous hanging baskets of fuchsia, begonias, and seasonal favorites.
Shopping
Fashion IslandOcean views highlight the extraordinary Fashion Island just minutes from Balboa Bay Resort. This outdoor shopping plaza that is the core of Newport Center in Newport Beach.
Shopping
Rogers GardensThe Gardens offers an incredible array of botanical beauty and natural inspiration that you can truly pick up and take home with you! Our outdoor environment inspires its visitors with beautiful foliage, flowering plants, creative plantings, seasonal herbs and vegetables, designer fountains, pottery, outdoor furniture and accessories. Also enjoy The Farmhouse restaurant supporting local artisinal and boutique products.
Cultural Activities
Marconi Automotive MuseumDiscover an impressive 30 million dollar collection of historical, exotic and classic cars.
Curated Experiences
Family Beach DayGet ready for sand, sun and fun! Leave the video games and electronics behind for a fun-packed beach day. Experience a laid-back family excursion on the sunny shores of Newport Beach, full of laughter, splashing, and sand castle-building. The only thing on your agenda? Savoring good eats and making great memories.
Experience will include:
- Transportation to and from beach
- Four packed lunches
- Four beverages (sofa, water, etc)
- Beach towels, chairs and an umbrella
- Beach toys
- One boogie board
Guests must sign waivers
Cancellation/Refunds: 72 hour cancellation. Full refund.
Location: Newport Beach Peninsula
Length Of Time Of Activity: 2-4 hours (Or longer if requested)
Price: $125 for 4 people. $30 for each additional person
Golf
Oak Creek Golf ClubTom Fazio designed 18 hole course with ambience of authentic Spanish Architecture, Rustic Stone Terraces, and Lavish Grounds.
Golf
Tustin RanchLocated in the heart of Orange County, Tustin Ranch Golf Club is a premiere golf facility offering public play with a private feel. The signature Ted Robinson designed course has repeatedly been voted “Best Orange County Golf Course and Range” by Orange County Register readers.
Golf
Strawberry FarmsStrawberry Farms Golf Club combines the rural beauty and tranquility of the surrounding area with the challenge of true championship golf. The 18-hole, par-71 course is set amid canyons and wetlands and offers stunning vistas across the 35-acre reservoir, and rolling greens surrounded by wildlife and natural vegetation.
Golf
Monarch Beach Golf LinksMaster golf architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr., has fashioned a one-of-a-kind golf course design – challenging and fair, with views of surf breaks on every hole. With commanding & sweeping views of the sea and beyond, the par-70 championship resort golf course offers an unending variety of play.
At The Resort
Spa ExperienceTurn your getaway into the ultimate escape at the Balboa Bay Spa. Indulge in any of our luxurious spa treatments and therapies, including rejuvenating facials, massages, and exfoliations. Afterwards, savor a day of decadence swathed in our fluffy spa robeswhile enjoying chocolate-covered strawberries and champagne. Soak in the calm and relax—this is your time.
Experience includes
- Two split bottles of champagne
- Chocolate-covered strawberries
- Spa treatment of your choice
- Two keepsake Balboa Bay robes
Guests must sign waivers. Robes will be delivered to room.
Price: $120 in addition to the price of the treatment. Does not include gratuity.
Restrictions: Must be 21 years old
On The Water
Whale Watching ExperienceThe thrill of a lifetime awaits. Cruise alongside magnificent whales and dolphins in the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of Newport Beach. Learn more about the wonderful, gentle mammals that live in our waters and see them in their natural habitat. Get your cameras ready to spot giant blue whales, humpback whales, dolphins and more!
Experience will include:
- Ticket for whale watching experience
- A keepsake Balboa Bay blanket to stay warm on the breezy ocean waters
Guests must sign waivers
Days Available: 7 days a week.
Length Of Time Of Activity: 3-4 hours (Or longer if requested)
Price:
- Adults - $50
- Children 3-12 - $42
- Children infants to 2 - $10
Restrictions: Children must be accompanied by an adult.
On The Water, At The Resort
KayakingSingle Kayak ($30 per hour)
Paddle along the exciting waterways of Newport Harbor, while exploring this scenic waterfront enclave. Glide along past magnificent yachts and sailboats, while soaking up abundant sunshine and scenic wildlife.
Double Kayak ($40 per hour)
Paddle and explore the exciting waterways of Newport Harbor together. Glide past colorful yachts and sailboats, while soaking up abundant sunshine and scenic wildlife.
Kayaks are not allowed for dock and dine.
On The Water, At The Resort
Paddle BoardingPaddle Boards ($30 per hour)
A top active adventure in Newport Harbor, paddle boarding is the ideal way to experience our spectacular scenery and gorgeous weather, while combining outdoor fitness.
On The Go
HikingLots of amazing hiking opportunities in the local area. One of our favorite locations is Crystal Cove, one of the most expansive and beautiful beaches in Newport Beach.
On The Go
BikingBikes
Let the bike do the work! Hop on our electrical bikes for a smooth and effortless SoCal adventure. Pedal along the famous Pacific Coast Highway, take your bike onto the Balboa Ferry, then explore all the sun-drenched sights of the Balboa Peninsula.
$15 - 2 hours
$25 - 4 Hours
$30 - 6 hours
Electric Bikes
$30 per hour
Where do you ride bikes? Our favorite routes include riding the Pacific Coast Highway, crossing onto the Balboa Island Ferry and onto Balboa Peninsula.