Balboa Island Ferry Newport Beach
A historic, family-owned auto ferry offering quick, scenic, and affordable rides between Balboa Peninsula and Balboa Island in Newport Beach.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Balboa Island Ferry Newport Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic, family-owned auto ferry offering quick, scenic, and affordable rides between Balboa Peninsula and Balboa Island in Newport Beach.
"The Balboa Island Ferry is a must-do for its charm, affordability, and unique Newport Beach experience."
Bring Cash for the Ferry
While some may accept cards, cash is often preferred and quicker for the ferry fare. :moneybag:
Dogs Ride Free!
Your furry friends are welcome aboard the ferry at no extra cost. :dog:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Ferry Ride
Connecting Balboa Peninsula and Balboa Island
A quick, scenic auto ferry ride offering great views and a unique Newport Beach experience. Dogs ride free!
Balboa Island Charm
Balboa Island
Explore charming streets, unique shops, and delicious treats like the famous frozen banana.
Balboa Fun Zone
Balboa Peninsula
Classic amusement area with arcade games, rides, and waterfront views. A nostalgic stop for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry Fun: Quick & Scenic
Cash is King (Mostly)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash for the Ferry
While some may accept cards, cash is often preferred and quicker for the ferry fare. :moneybag:
Dogs Ride Free!
Your furry friends are welcome aboard the ferry at no extra cost. :dog:
Short & Sweet Ride
The ferry crossing is very brief, perfect for a quick hop between the peninsula and the island. :stopwatch:
Explore Marine Avenue
Wander down Balboa Island's main street for unique shops and iconic treats like frozen bananas. :ice_cream:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash for the Ferry
While some may accept cards, cash is often preferred and quicker for the ferry fare. :moneybag:
Dogs Ride Free!
Your furry friends are welcome aboard the ferry at no extra cost. :dog:
Short & Sweet Ride
The ferry crossing is very brief, perfect for a quick hop between the peninsula and the island. :stopwatch:
Explore Marine Avenue
Wander down Balboa Island's main street for unique shops and iconic treats like frozen bananas. :ice_cream:
Check Ferry Schedule
While frequent, it's good to have an idea of the ferry's operating times, especially for sunset rides. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Balboa Island Ferry as a charming, affordable, and historic experience. The short, scenic ride and the opportunity to explore both the island and the Fun Zone are major highlights. Some note that cash is preferred for fares and parking can be challenging.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Balboa Island Ferry operates between the Balboa Peninsula and Balboa Island in Newport Beach. You can drive your car onto the ferry or walk on. The ferry docks are located at 410 South Bay Front on the peninsula side and on Balboa Island. Signs will guide you to the ferry terminals. +1
Parking can be found on both the Balboa Peninsula and Balboa Island, though it can be competitive, especially on weekends. Some visitors suggest parking on a random street near the beach and ferry terminal.
Yes, the Balboa Island Ferry is an auto ferry, meaning you can drive your car onto it. It's a very short ride, fitting only a few cars at a time. 
The ferry ride itself is very short, typically only a few minutes. It's more about the experience and the convenience of hopping between the peninsula and the island.
Absolutely! Dogs are welcome on the Balboa Island Ferry and ride for free. It's a great way to explore the island with your furry companions. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cost for the Balboa Island Ferry is very affordable. As of recent information, it's around $1.50 to $3 per person for walk-ons and per car, with cash often being the preferred payment method. Always check for the most current pricing.
No, tickets are typically purchased at the ferry terminal just before boarding. It's a pay-as-you-go system, so no advance booking is usually required.
The ferry generally operates daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official schedule or social media for the most up-to-date operating times, especially if you plan to visit early in the morning or late in the evening.
There is no entrance fee to visit Balboa Island. The ferry ride has a small cost, but exploring the island's streets, shops, and beaches is free.
While the ferry is already very inexpensive, specific discounts are not widely advertised. However, children and pets often ride for free or at a reduced rate.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Balboa Island offers a charming experience with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants along Marine Avenue. You can also enjoy a stroll along the waterfront, admire the beautiful homes, and of course, try a famous frozen banana from Sugar 'n Spice.
The Balboa Fun Zone is a classic amusement area located on the Balboa Peninsula, near the ferry terminal. It features arcade games, a Ferris wheel, and other family-friendly attractions.
The ferry ride itself offers great photo opportunities with the water and coastline. On the island, the colorful houses, charming streets, and waterfront views provide picturesque backdrops. The Fun Zone also offers classic amusement park photo ops. +2
Yes, Balboa Island is very family-friendly. The short ferry ride is an adventure in itself, and the island offers a relaxed atmosphere with shops and treats that kids will enjoy. The nearby Fun Zone is also a big hit with families.
The Balboa Island Ferry has a rich history, operating for over 100 years and remaining family-owned. It's considered a piece of Newport Beach history and a beloved local tradition.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Balboa Island is famous for its frozen bananas, often dipped in chocolate and covered in sprinkles, particularly from Sugar 'n Spice. You'll also find charming cafes and restaurants along Marine Avenue.
Yes, Balboa Island has a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale eateries. Marine Avenue is lined with places to grab a bite, coffee, or a sweet treat.
There are no specific restrictions mentioned about bringing food onto the ferry. However, it's a short ride, so most people enjoy their snacks on the island or at the Fun Zone.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset offers beautiful golden hour light for photos of the ferry and the bay. Mid-morning can also be lovely with softer light and fewer crowds.
Capture the colorful beach cottages, charming storefronts on Marine Avenue, the iconic frozen bananas, and scenic waterfront views. The ferry itself makes for a great subject. +1
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. While some aerial shots exist, it's crucial to check current FAA and local park rules regarding drone operation in the area to avoid any issues.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider bringing a stroller for younger children, as exploring the island involves walking. The ferry is very short, minimizing any potential for boredom. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, making it an easy and enjoyable outing for a day trip. Remember to bring cash for the ferry to keep things moving smoothly.
🐶 Dog Owners
Once on Balboa Island, dogs are welcome to stroll along the streets and sidewalks. While they may need to stay leashed and can't go into shops or restaurants, the outdoor environment is perfect for a walk. It's a great way to include your dog in your vacation activities without extra hassle or cost.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1Beyond the ferry, Balboa Island offers free exploration of its charming streets and waterfront. While there are shops and restaurants, you can enjoy the atmosphere without spending a lot. Grabbing a famous frozen banana is a relatively inexpensive treat, and the Balboa Fun Zone offers affordable arcade games and rides.
+1📸 Photographers & Content Creators
On Balboa Island, focus on the colorful architecture, quaint storefronts on Marine Avenue, and scenic harbor views. The iconic frozen bananas are also a popular subject. The Balboa Fun Zone provides a different aesthetic with its classic amusement park vibes, including the Ferris wheel.
+1Remember to check local regulations regarding drone usage if you plan to capture aerial footage, as restrictions may apply.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Balboa Island Ferry: A Historic Commute
+2Many visitors highlight the ferry's charm and its role as a local tradition. The short ride offers lovely views of the bay and the surrounding coastline. It's a simple yet memorable experience that many travelers recommend as a must-do when visiting Newport Beach. The fact that dogs ride for free is also a significant plus for pet owners looking for dog-friendly activities.
+1While the ferry is a highlight, it's also a practical link to explore both the Balboa Peninsula's Fun Zone and the quaint shops and eateries of Balboa Island. The ease of hopping on and off makes it ideal for a leisurely day of exploration, combining classic amusement park fun with island charm.
+1Exploring Balboa Island: Shops, Treats, and Charm
No visit to Balboa Island is complete without trying its most famous treat: the frozen banana. Shops like Sugar 'n Spice are legendary for these chocolate-dipped, sprinkle-covered delights. Beyond the frozen bananas, you'll find ice cream parlors and other sweet spots that make for a perfect afternoon indulgence.
+1The island also offers beautiful waterfront views and a chance to admire the impressive architecture of the homes. While the ferry is the most exciting way to arrive, you can also access the island via a bridge. It’s a destination that offers a taste of classic California coastal living, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
The Balboa Fun Zone: Nostalgia and Entertainment
The Fun Zone is home to arcade games, carnival-style rides, and the iconic Ferris wheel, which provides panoramic views of the harbor and the coastline. It’s a place where families can create lasting memories with classic seaside fun. Some visitors mention that certain establishments offer deals, like a free ride on the Ferris wheel with lunch.
This area serves as a great starting or ending point for a trip involving the Balboa Island Ferry. You can easily spend a few hours here playing games, enjoying the rides, and then hop on the ferry for a quick trip to the island, or vice versa. It’s a vibrant hub of activity that adds another dimension to the Balboa experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit