Food & Activity Guide For Newport Beach, CA
Best Places to Eat & Things to Do in Newport Beach, California
With a permanent population of around 85,000 people, Newport Beach sees an influx of tourists and travelers in the summer that can double its population. This is no surprise if you’ve been to this beautiful coastal city yourself — there’s so much to see, eat, and do that makes it a premier vacation destination for people around the country and the world.
Best Food in Newport Beach
While it may be known for its incredible seafood the most, Newport Beach has an astounding variety of food. Whether you want to dress up for a fancy date night or just grab a quick bite to eat along the beach, you can find amazing spots that serve your favorite foods:
Best Burgers
Best Italian food
Best Brunch
Rendez Vous French Cafe & Bakery
Best Seafood
Best Mexican food
What to do in Newport Beach
The food isn’t the only reason people come to Newport Beach, however. The idyllic scenery and wide variety of activities, sightseeing destinations, and more caters to all interests and walks of life.
Crystal Cove State Park
If you’re looking to get out of the city and enjoy some nature, Crystal Cove State Park has it all. Warm beaches, quiet tidepools, rolling hills, and forested canyons make up this serene and picturesque area of Newport Beach. Whether you’re looking to hike, surf, ride horses, go scuba diving, bike, or paddleboard, you can do it all at Crystal Cove.
Sherman Library & Gardens
The Sherman Library and Gardens house a wide range of flowers, plants, art exhibits, photograph and book collections, and more from around the globe. They host classes, internships and summer camps, weddings, and educational activities for kids, so all ages can explore and learn. Perfect for enjoying the gardens outdoors or the exhibits and library collections indoors, it’s a great place to check out no matter the weather or who you’re with.
Spa at Pelican Hill
For those looking to relax after a long day (or just enjoy a vacation), The Spa at Pelican Hill will help you forget any stress or aches you walk in with. Nestled in the hills above Crystal Cove and fully equipped with 22 private treatment rooms, a salon, herbal steam rooms, saltwater soaking tubs, and even fitness classes, what more could you ask for?
Balboa Fun Zone
Once you’re ready for some adrenaline and excitement again, the Balboa Fun Zone should be at the top of your list of places to stop by. An iconic amusement area and family destination, the Fun Zone is packed with arcades, rides, and Balboa Village’s shops and food that are sure to entertain everyone. One of the most iconic landmarks on the Balboa Peninsula is the Ferris wheel, which is visible day and night next to the water.
Newport Pier
Speaking of iconic, Newport Pier (or McFadden's Wharf, as it was once called) might be the most recognizable sightseeing location in Newport Beach. It offers stunning views of the sunset as well as Balboa Pier to the south and Huntington Beach to the north. Whether you’re looking to fish, bike, or just soak in the view, Newport Pier is a common favorite.
Fashion Island
Another staple of Newport Beach is Fashion Island — essentially a miniature city dedicated to shopping of all kinds. At over 2.8 million square feet, Fashion Island is home to 182 stores, over 40 restaurants, a movie theater, and a hotel. This is a shopaholic’s dream, so get your comfortable shoes on and when you’re ready to take a break, stop by our Fashion Island location on the main floor by Macy’s!