Top 23 Exciting Things to Do in Newport Beach, US

A visit to the Natural History Museum is like a time capsule, where you can delve deep into the past of many fascinating creatures. With its extensive collections that include over 35 million specimens and artifacts, it's a wonder for history buffs and curious minds alike. Visit Dinosaur Hall, a world-renowned exhibit of impressive dinosaur skeletons. Don't miss the stunning Butterfly Pavilion, a spectacle any time of year. Just a few miles away, you should also visit the California Science Center.

Heisler Park is a paradise on the stunning Newport Beach shoreline, offering breathtaking views of the tranquil Pacific Ocean. Admire the vibrant tide pools, hike along artfully landscaped trails, and enjoy a picnic amid chic gardens. The park is also known for its beautiful sunsets that bathe the horizon in dramatic color.

Crystal Cove State Park in Newport Beach is a fascinating mix of rustic wilderness and tranquil seashore that's a must-visit. The 3.2-mile beach and 2,400 acres of backcountry wilderness let you reconnect with nature. An insider's tip: The Historic District is located here, with its cottages dating back to the 1920s. Another nearby spectacle is Balboa Island, famous for its stunning coastal views, marina, shopping and restaurants.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Redondo Beach Pier in Newport Beach! A seafood lover's paradise, you'll find fresh delicacies around every corner. From eclectic boutiques to live music shows, there's something to experience at every turn.

A visit to the iconic Newport Beach Pier is an unforgettable experience! Immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Newport Beach as the pier offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, breathtaking sunsets, and an abundance of dining options. It's a pleasure to watch surfers from the pier. In the mood to go fishing? This pier is a hub. Don't miss the opportunity to stroll through the quaint historic district nearby, where local boutiques offer a unique shopping experience. Just a short walk away, you'll find the lively Balboa Fun Zone, which offers plenty of seaside fun for all ages.

A trip to Newport Beach is incomplete without a visit to the spectacular Oceanside Municipal Fishing Pier. Imagine casting your line amidst breathtaking views of the turquoise expanse lapped by the surf. This 1600-foot-long wooden marvel also offers intriguing restaurants and quaint stores. It's not a commercial tourist hotspot, so it's often not as crowded. Nearby is the California Surf Museum - a tribute to the state's rich surfing heritage. Don't miss the lively Oceanside Sunset Market, a pedestrian-friendly street fair just steps away. Experience a slice of local life!

Experience the iconic Manhattan Beach Pier in Newport Beach, a must-see landmark that offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy the quintessential California beach experience and don't miss a magical sunset. Don't miss the little-known Roundhouse Aquarium at the pier - a fascinating attraction for marine life lovers. Nearby, you'll find fishing opportunities and charming seafood restaurants at Newport Pier.

Visit Main Beach Park in Newport Beach, an idyllic mix of golden sand and lush greenery ideal for family gatherings. Enjoy a picnic under giant palm trees or play a friendly game of volleyball. Don't miss watching the spectacular sunsets from the iconic lifeguard tower! Just a stone's throw away is the Balboa Fun Zone - an old-school amusement park with thrilling rides and sweet treats. The Ferris wheel offers breathtaking views of Newport Harbor.

Shoreline Aquatic Park in beautiful Newport Beach is a must for nature lovers and picnic fans. With its breathtaking view of the ocean, the park is an ideal place for bird watching and unforgettable photos. Don't miss the famous lighthouse, which is a special attraction due to its picturesque location. The Queen Mary, a historic ocean liner converted into a hotel, is also just a stone's throw away and promises an intense experience of maritime history.

If you're a fan of the great outdoors, Doheny State Beach is a must! It's perfect for camping and picnicking, and is a popular spot for surfing and whale watching. Enjoy the tranquility as the ocean breeze rustles through the palm trees and take in the diverse wildlife. Don't miss the interpretive center with a whale skeleton! Just a short drive away, explore the chic boutiques and galleries of Newport Beach's Balboa Island for an alternative city vibe.

The "Huntington State Beach" is an idyllic paradise for those who love sand, sun and surf. The two-mile beach is ideal for sunbathing, playing beach volleyball, picnicking and even fishing. Get involved with the vibrant beach culture and enjoy bonfires, delicious food from beach vendors and breathtaking sunsets. This is the epitome of California beach life! A little further west is Huntington City Beach, known for its surf culture and attracting enthusiasts from all over the world thanks to the name "Surf City, USA".

A visit to "Dog Beach" is a must when you are in Newport Beach. This hidden gem is known for being dog-friendly and offers the perfect place to create unforgettable memories with your furry friend. Here, dogs can play off-leash, bask in the sun, and make new friends. Don't forget about the breathtaking sunsets! Just south of the beach, you'll find Balboa Village - a hub full of charming boutiques, delicious restaurants, and a classic ferry ride that guarantees a well-rounded California experience!

Visit Aliso Beach and relax on the romantic sandy beach, loved by locals for its beautiful sunset views. It is a hotspot for surfers, skimboarders, sunbathers and everyone who likes to walk on the beach. It also has fire pits for a cozy bonfire on the beach. Just a stone's throw away is Treasure Island Park, another hidden gem with stunning ocean views and scenic picnic areas.

A visit to Corona Del Mar State Beach Park in Newport Beach is a must. This picturesque beach offers an exceptional blend of soft sand, rugged cliffs, and breathtaking panoramic views. Enjoy luxurious sunset views as the waves crash against the shore. Want an insider's tip? Visit Pirate's Cove, a hidden treasure where the area's sea lions congregate. From here, it's just a short walk to the famous Inspiration Point, where you'll have a panoramic view of the coastline.

The Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve is a must-see in Newport Beach, offering a unique variety of wildlife and panoramic views. Discover the splendor of a fragile ecological preserve that is home to over 200 species of birds. Don't miss the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center, which makes your visit educational, too! You're just a hop, skip and a jump away from bustling Newport Harbor, where tranquil nature experiences can be effortlessly combined with lively beach activities.

Get ready for an unparalleled shopping experience at Fashion Island! This open-air lifestyle center is a paradise for fashionistas and offers a unique mix of luxury, designer and boutique stores. In addition to shopping, there are also world-class restaurants and a movie theater. Admire the koi fish in the charming Italian-designed garden.

You can enjoy a breathtaking view of Newport Harbor and the Pacific Ocean on a trip to Inspiration Point. This idyllic spot is perched on a cliff and offers a beautiful view, especially at sunset. Bring your camera to capture the most beautiful images. If you time your visit just right, you might see a passing dolphin or a migrating whale. And just a short walk down the street is the famous historic landmark "The Wedge" where extreme surfers ride epic waves in the summer!

A visit to El Dorado East Regional Park in Newport Beach is a must for nature lovers. Explore the park's 800 acres of serene lawns, sparkling lakes and lush gardens, all located right on the Pacific coast. For the initiated: Try to spot the native wildlife - red-backed shrikes, red-tailed hawks and Belding's savannah sparrows. Be sure to pack a picnic, enjoy the barbecue grills, and let the little ones run wild at the pirate playground. Nearby attractions include the famous Huntington Beach Pier, just a 20-minute drive away.

A visit to the iconic Balboa Pier is a must on your trip to Newport Beach. This lively hub is full of restaurants, ice cream parlors, and arcades, and offers stunning ocean views. Try Ruby's Diner at the end of the pier, a local favorite for a burger overlooking the ocean. Nearby is the Balboa Fun Zone, another must-see for the whole family, with its Ferris wheel offering breathtaking panoramic views. An additional gem is nearby Balboa Island, a beautiful place for a stroll.

Rosie's Dog Beach is a dog owner's paradise, where your furry friends can romp freely off-leash! Admire the picturesque sunset while your dog has fun with new friends. If you're lucky, you'll see the resident dolphins! Just a short walk away is the lively Belmont Shore with its eclectic restaurants and stores. At the nearby Long Beach Museum of Art, you can immerse yourself in local culture and spend a relaxing day.

The Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is a hidden gem amidst the purity of Newport Beach. Showcasing a variety of marine life from the Pacific Ocean, the aquarium is a paradise for all ages. It features interactive exhibits and hands-on tanks that connect visitors directly to the mysterious charm of the underwater world. It is also located right on Cabrillo Beach, which is known for its tide pools. Just a short drive away is the world-famous USS Iowa Battleship Museum. A perfect day trip for ocean lovers!

Immerse yourself in the charm of West Jetty View Park in Newport Beach. This popular secret spot offers mesmerizing views of Newport Harbor. In addition to the colorful sunsets, you can experience the rhythm of the famous wedge surf spot. Be enchanted by the sight of sailboats and surfers while having a picnic! Just a stone's throw away is historic Balboa Island with its charming boardwalks and the must-see Balboa Island Ferry.

Get a bird's eye view of Newport Beach by visiting "Top of the World," one of the locals' favorite lookout points. Take in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, neighboring beaches and Catalina Island. Don't forget to bring your camera and capture the breathtaking sunsets! Just a short drive away is Crystal Cove State Park, with its pristine beaches and tide pools teeming with marine life. An adventurous yet tranquil experience awaits!