One Family. Three Days. A Whole Lotta Fun! A Family Friendly Weekend in Newport Beach

You made it. You’re in the best beach town this side of the Mississippi. Nice work! But now what? With so many options in and around town, choosing which activities to do with the kids can get overwhelming. Which restaurants should you try? Which beaches should you visit?

There’s so much to do, with so little time. As lifelong locals, we’ll help you stop the guesswork by breaking down our must-see, must-eat, must-try, cream-of-the-crop Newport Beach 3-Day Guide.

Day 1: 

Dive into Vacation with a Memorable Friday Evening

For quick getaways, it’s important to immediately get into that vacation frame of mind. There’s no easier way to do this than to head to the beach – specifically the Newport Peninsula.  There, you’ll find a boardwalk that stretches from one end of town to the other. Walk it on foot or cruise on bikes. Enjoy views of the Pacific, while heading to either the Newport or Balboa pier for an early dinner. Rockin’ Baja, Dory Deli, and the Lighthouse Cafe are our favorite family spots for dinner by the Newport Pier. Ruby’s Diner, BJ’s Restaurant, and Cruisers Pizza Bar & Grill are the go-to’s next to the Balboa pier.

Round out your evening with a trip to the Fun Zone.  Ride the classic ferris wheel that overlooks the harbor; challenge your kids to one of the arcade games; or, take the ferry across the bay to Balboa Island. You can ride the ferry on foot, bike, or by car.

Once on the island, grab a delicious Balboa Bar from Sugar’n’Spice on Marine Avenue, an ice cream dipped in chocolate and then dipped in whatever toppings you can imagine. Your tummy and your kids will thank you!

Balboa Fun Zone Ferris Wheel

Day 2: 

Shred your Saturday Morning Surf Sesh

The first full day of vacation deserves a surf sesh.  Rent surfboards from Beachview Bikes & More or book a lesson from Endless Summer Surf School. The waves in Newport – especially at Blackie’s – are mellow and perfect for beginners. After catching a wave or two, it’s sure to become the family’s new favorite hobby. Towel off and recharge with a donut or breakfast sandwich from Seaside Donuts & Bakery. 

Saturday Afternoon at Crystal Cove

We promised you the best of the best of Newport Beach and Crystal Cove is the city’s gem. A short drive down PCH, Crystal Cove State Beach has an easily accessible parking lot with a trolley that will take you to the most stunning beach cove you’ve ever laid eyes on. The waves here are mild and perfect for all ages.

The sprawling white sand beach will beckon you to walk along its shore. You’ll find tidepools on the left side of the cove that are perfect for exploring with the kids. Crabs, sea cucumbers, and sea anemones are the typical creatures that will greet you.

Enjoy lunch on the patio of the Beachcomber, a picture-perfect restaurant at the center of the cove. Or, take a short walk to the Crystal Cove Shake Shack for burger, fries, and of course, a delicious shake. 

Saturday Evening Harbor Cruise

A trip to Newport isn’t complete until you’ve explored the extensive Newport Harbor. Put on your deck shoes and captain your own electric duffy boat. Duffy boats couldn’t be easier to navigate and are your ticket to views of the bayside mansions that line Lido and Balboa Islands.

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, head to the harbor entrance where you’ll be greeted by a red buoy that’s the favorite sunning spot for the local sea lions. End your cruise by docking your duffy at one of the many bayfront restaurants like The Bluewater Grill, Woody’s Wharf, or Newport Dunes Resort & Marina, and enjoy a delicious dinner with unbeatable ambiance. 

Rent a Duffy Boat and Cruise the Bay

Day 3:

Sunday Morning Slow-Down

Simplify your Sunday morning with a walk to the Farmer’s Market at the Newport Pier. Here you’ll find booths boasting local produce and house plants, tantalizing dips and sauces, and of course, fresh buttery pastries. Snap a photo of the iconic Dory Fleet Fish Market before heading to Lido Marina Village for some retail therapy.

Your kids will love the treasures at Lido Village Books and the adults will swoon over the luxury goods at Aesop, Le Labo, and Serena & Lily. If you’ve worked up an appetite with all that shopping, be sure to try Malibu Farm Lido. Their California cuisine is divine and will re-energize you for the trip back home. 

As they say, all good things must come to an end. While three days is certainly enough time to enjoy a jam-packed getaway, we guarantee you’ll want to come back to hit more of the sights and delights in town. For a curated list of some of the best vacation homes for hosting families in Newport Beach, click here. You’ll be sure to find the perfect beach house for your next trip to Newport.

FEATURED NEWPORT BEACH RENTAL PROPERTIES