Balboa Fun Zone
A nostalgic seaside amusement park offering classic rides, arcade games, and ocean views on the Balboa Peninsula.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Balboa Fun Zone
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A nostalgic seaside amusement park offering classic rides, arcade games, and ocean views on the Balboa Peninsula.
"Multi generational memories made here. Staff were so friendly. Highly recommend the Ferris wheel and the Ocean Motion ride."
🎯 Ride Tickets Cost
Rides are typically $6 per person. Consider combo deals if available!
🚗 Parking Tips
Arrive early or use ride-sharing. Parking can be tough!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Balboa Ferris Wheel
Waterfront
Iconic waterfront Ferris wheel offering scenic views of the harbor and ocean. A classic for a reason!

Balboa Arcade
Inside the Fun Zone
Classic arcade games and modern challenges for all ages. Perfect for a fun-filled afternoon.

Ocean Motion Ride
Waterfront
A thrilling ride offering dynamic views and a splash of excitement by the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Parking & Smells
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Ride Tickets Cost
Rides are typically $6 per person. Consider combo deals if available!
🚗 Parking Tips
Arrive early or use ride-sharing. Parking can be tough!
👃 Beware of Smells
A sulfur smell near the docks is common. Walk to the street to avoid it.
🎡 Ferris Wheel Fun
The Ferris wheel offers great views, but rides are short and can be pricey.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ride Tickets Cost
Rides are typically $6 per person. Consider combo deals if available!
🚗 Parking Tips
Arrive early or use ride-sharing. Parking can be tough!
👃 Beware of Smells
A sulfur smell near the docks is common. Walk to the street to avoid it.
🎡 Ferris Wheel Fun
The Ferris wheel offers great views, but rides are short and can be pricey.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture nostalgic moments with ocean backdrops and vintage charm.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Balboa Fun Zone for its nostalgic charm and multi-generational appeal, with friendly staff enhancing the experience. It's a great spot for younger kids, offering classic amusement park fun. However, some find the ride prices a bit steep for the duration, and operating hours can be inconsistent outside of summer. The occasional sulfur smell near the docks is also a minor drawback for some.
"Multi generational memories made here. Staff were so friendly. Highly recommend the Ferris wheel and the Ocean Motion ride. Hours online are not accurate! Hours after summer season are limited."
Hector Torres
"It's a fun place to spend the afternoon with your family. Harbor cruise is a really good way to see Christmas lights. The food is OK priced and the rides are $6 a person per ride. There is a very strong fish/sulfur smell in between the boats docks and the fun zone. You can avoid buy walking out to the street if you get sick from bad smells. Also it gets very busy so make sure to get there extra early if you want to find parking or even better take a lift."
Dom
"We had about 45 min to kill so we stopped here to take the grandkids on the ferris wheel whic ended up being kind of spendy. I think it was 6$ per person for about a 5 minute ride. It’s kind of fun. It’s right along the water by the ferry. The girls liked the trampoline more than the Ferris wheel but I think it was 8$. They had to weigh at least 30 pounds and they got to jump for maybe 5 minutes."
Mark Taylor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Balboa Fun Zone is located on the Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach, California. You can drive and find parking nearby, though it can be challenging during peak times. Alternatively, consider ride-sharing services.
Yes, there are parking lots and street parking options, but they fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during summer. Arriving early is highly recommended.
While direct public transport to the Fun Zone itself might be limited, you can explore Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) bus routes that serve the Newport Beach area, with potential transfers.
Yes, the Balboa Island Ferry is a charming way to reach the Balboa Peninsula, and the Fun Zone is a short walk from the ferry landing.
To avoid traffic, plan your visit for weekdays or during the off-season. If visiting on a weekend, aim for early morning. Ride-sharing can also help bypass parking hassles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry into the Balboa Fun Zone itself is generally free. However, individual rides and arcade games require tickets or payment.
Individual rides, like the Ferris wheel, typically cost around $6 per person. Some attractions, like trampolines, might be slightly more.
Occasionally, there are promotions, such as free Ferris wheel rides with a meal purchase at adjacent restaurants like Irv's Burgers. Keep an eye out for these deals!
Operating hours can vary, especially after the summer season. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information.
Tickets for individual rides are usually purchased on-site at the ticket booths. There isn't typically a need to buy them in advance unless a special event is occurring.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
The main attractions include the iconic Ferris wheel, a classic arcade, bumper cars, and other carnival-style rides. It's a nostalgic spot for family fun.
Yes, the Balboa Fun Zone is great for younger kids with rides like the Ferris wheel and trampolines. Many visitors find it a good experience for families.
The arcade features a mix of classic video games, redemption games where you can win prizes, and skill-based challenges.
Beyond the rides, you can enjoy the waterfront views, take a harbor cruise, or even catch a ferry to Balboa Island.
The Ocean Motion is a popular ride that offers a dynamic experience with views of the ocean and harbor, providing a thrilling yet family-friendly adventure.
🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining
You'll find classic amusement park fare like burgers, fries, and funnel cakes. Irv's Burgers is a notable new addition.
Yes, there are several dining options in Balboa Village, including Irv's Burgers right next to the Fun Zone, and various eateries along the peninsula.
While the Fun Zone is on the peninsula, the famous frozen bananas are a staple on Balboa Island, a short ferry ride away.
Food prices are typical for a tourist attraction, with meals generally ranging from $10-$20.
The focus is on classic amusement park food. For healthier options, you might need to explore further into Balboa Village or pack your own snacks.
📸 📸 Photography
The Ferris wheel with the ocean backdrop, the colorful arcade, and the vintage signage offer great photo opportunities.
Yes, the Ferris wheel provides excellent panoramic views, making it a prime spot for capturing photos of the harbor and surrounding areas.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional shoots might require permits, so it's best to check with management if you plan extensive filming.
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photos. Daytime provides bright, clear shots of the attractions and ocean.
The Fun Zone has been around since 1936, so many of its structures and the overall atmosphere offer a nostalgic, vintage feel perfect for historical-themed photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
This historic amusement park has been a backdrop for memorable moments, from childhood visits to sharing the experience with one's own children. Its enduring presence speaks to its ability to connect with visitors on an emotional level, offering a tangible link to the past. The Fun Zone's longevity is a testament to its ability to adapt while holding onto its core identity as a place of simple, joyful entertainment.
Navigating the Fun Zone Experience
For those sensitive to smells, be aware that a sulfurous odor can sometimes be present near the docks. This is a common occurrence in harbor areas and can be easily avoided by walking a short distance to the main street. Parking is another consideration; arriving early or utilizing ride-sharing services can save you time and frustration, particularly on busy weekends. The Fun Zone is a fantastic spot for younger children, offering rides and games that are both engaging and age-appropriate.
Beyond the Rides: Exploring Balboa Village
For a unique experience, consider taking the historic Balboa Island Ferry, a short walk from the Fun Zone, to explore the charming shops and famous frozen bananas of Balboa Island. This proximity to diverse activities makes the Balboa Fun Zone a great starting point for a full day of exploration in Newport Beach, offering a blend of classic amusement park fun with coastal adventures.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit