With the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Newport Beach Harbor on the other, the Balboa Peninsula is a collection of coastal homes, parks, restaurants, and most importantly, miles of soft sand beaches. It’s the go-to destination for a fun, relaxing time in the sun!

Here you’ll find that each neighborhood has its own unique flair and charm, so no matter what you’re looking for, you’ll be sure to find that perfect spot for enjoying Newport Beach’s beloved coast.

Here is a Local Guide to Newport Beach Neighborhoods

Upper West: The gateway to Newport Beach and home to world-class surf breaks, the Upper West side is a quintessential beach town filled with bohemian bungalows. Locals and tourists cruise on bikes to check out the waves, grab a bite at the Abbey or Chronic Tacos, and simply live the good life. 

Lower West: Situated in the middle of the Peninsula, this neighborhood is the epicenter to all activity in town. Lido Marina Village is just steps away, with plenty of brunching, dining, and pampering spots to choose from.

Beaches with tame waves, a bustling boardwalk, and even basketball courts make this part of town the perfect playground for all ages.

Cannery Village features a stretch of restaurants on the Bayfront that are all equally romantic and delicious, for a grown-up evening getaway. 

Lido Marina Village – https://www.lidomarinavillage.com

Pier to Pier: Flanked by the lively hubs of the Newport and Balboa piers, this stretch of beach town has it all. If the sparkling waves and sizzling sun aren’t enough to keep you entertained for the day, the Fun Zone is teeming with games and rides to keep you screaming with delight.

Return to simpler pleasures at Marina Park, where a playground featuring a larger-than-life lighthouse sits right at the bay’s edge. Eat at one of the many delicious seafood restaurants, like Hook and Anchor or Fly N Fish, or walk to the very end of the Balboa pier for some classic American diner food at Ruby’s. 

Peninsula Point: Lined with magnolia trees and beautiful single-family homes, this neighborhood will make you think you died and went to Cape Cod. The boardwalk doesn’t stretch into this area, so beaches here are typically peaceful and quiet, unless the world-famous surf break, the Wedge, is visited by a south swell. Surfers, camera crews, and bystanders will come from all over to gawk at (and maybe brave) the monstrous waves. 

The cherry-on-top is at the very end of the peninsula where you’ll encounter stunning views of the harbor entrance and the boats that criss-cross their way in and out of the Pacific. 

Balboa Island: Travel back to yesteryear by hopping on the Newport Beach ferry to explore the charming, postcard town of Balboa Island. The streets are small and quiet, with homes that burst with flowers and delightful gardens.

Stroll down Marine Avenue, the main street that features the island’s boutique shops and restaurants, and treat yourself to a Balboa Bar, a delicious ice cream creation unique to Newport Beach. Or walk along the path that outlines the island’s perimeter to watch the sailboats cruise along the harbor.

Lido Island: An island of posh homes along quiet streets and verdant stradas. Mostly residential, Lido Island is the perfect place to paddle or boat past. You’ll see opulent bayside homes with private docks that are home to gorgeous yachts and sailboats. It’s common, too, to spot the original Newport Beach local sitting atop the bow of these vessels: the sleepy sea lion. 

To truly experience the Balboa Peninsula, stay in one of the beachside homes that make this town so charming and timeless. Wake up to fresh ocean air, stroll along the coastline, and see for yourself why the Balboa Peninsula is the favorite destination for families from all over the globe.

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