Newport Beach is an affluent community in Orange County on California’s southern coast. Situated south-east of Los Angeles, it is a popular enclave for the wealthier citizens, home throughout the years to some of film’s greatest stars. Made up of a number of lovely neighbourhoods, it sits right on the water and is a popular destination for surfers, sunbathers, and shoppers alike. Those seeking a relaxing and luxurious vacation will find it here. The perfect place for a sun-seeking family to stay, Newport Beach offers a laid back attitude and something for the whole family. Wimdu offers a variety of vacation rental options here. Stay in beach villas or luxurious holiday homes. By fully immersing yourself in the city, you will not only have a wonderful vacation, but you will really get a sense of what it is like to live in a fantastic ocean side community.
Where to Stay
Newport Beach has many wonderful little communities where you can lay your head after a day by the sea. Balboa Island is a man-made island and one of the most affluent areas in the country. Its picturesque streets are lined with beautiful houses. Stay at a bed and breakfast or villa rental here, and experience what it is like to live in one of America’s premiere residential areas. Corona del Mar is a quaint neighbourhood overlooking the ocean with many beautiful villa and holiday home rentals. Why stay at a hotel, when you can stay among the locals in one of these beautiful and affluent areas in Newport Beach. Why overpay for a room that is just like any other room across the country? Rent a house with Wimdu with your own kitchen, parking, and privacy for everyone in the group.
Fun Facts
- Newport Beach was the setting for the popular tv show The O.C.
- The Balboa Fun Zone has been attracting visitors since 1936.
- A spot at the end of Balboa Peninsula known as the Wedge is one of the hardest body surfing spots in the US.
- The largest recreational harbour on the west coast of the United States is Newport Harbor.
- Over the years, Newport Beach has been home to actors like Lauren Bacall, Humphrey Bogart, Stephen Fry, and John Wayne.
Things to See and Do
Newport Beach has plenty of activities for the whole family. The beach itself is a wonderful place to lay a towel and soak in the sun. Surfers will also love it here, as the breaking waves offer some of the best surfing in the area. You can also rent bikes at the beach and ride along the Newport Balboa Bike Trail, a great way to explore the beach’s full span. The waters off the shore are teeming with wildlife, and you are almost certain to spot some of it on a whale-watching tour. Some boast a 96% success rate in finding whales, which include the largest animal that has ever existed - the blue whale. You might also see humpback whales, orcas, dolphins, sea lions, and pelicans.Being a wealthy community, Newport Beach has a wide variety of upscale shopping options. Most of these are based around Fashion Island, a large shopping complex with designer labels, major department stores, and several restaurants. By just wandering through the many neighbourhoods of the area, you will stumble on hundreds of independent specialty shops selling all kinds of wares. Corona del Mar and Balboa Island are 2 beautiful areas to take a stroll past lovely cottages and waterfront. There is a wonderful Farmers’ Market in Corona del Mar as well. Perfect for families, the Balboa Fun Zone is a great place to spend a day. In addition to several retail shops, saloons, restaurants, a pier, and a boardwalk, it has a number of ocean-themed rides, and arcades. Ride the ferris wheel for a bird’s eye view of Newport Harbour.
Getting Around
If you are arriving by air, planes will either land at LAX, or the closer John Wayne Airport. The best way to get around the area is by car, and you will find car rental agencies in both airports. The Orange County Transportation Authority services Newport Beach with a number of bus routes and is quite convenient as well. Of course along the coastal parts of the city, the nicest way to get around is on foot or by bike. Whether you are on the beach or in one of the many charming communities, walking provides the most satisfying means of exploration.