Balboa Island Newport Beach
A charming man-made island in Newport Beach, known for its quaint shops, iconic frozen treats, and scenic ferry rides.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Balboa Island Newport Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming man-made island in Newport Beach, known for its quaint shops, iconic frozen treats, and scenic ferry rides.
"Balboa Island is an absolute treasure! From the charming waterfront homes and cozy shops to the peaceful boardwalk strolls with stunning harbor views, everything feels like a postcard."
🚗 Ferry vs. Driving
Take the ferry for a fun experience! It's cheap for pedestrians and avoids parking headaches.
🍦 Sweet Treats Galore
Don't leave without trying a Balboa Bar or a frozen banana!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Balboa Island Ferry
Connecting Balboa Peninsula and Balboa Island
A short, scenic, and affordable ride offering bay views and a nostalgic journey.
Marine Avenue Shops
Main street of Balboa Island
Charming boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Balboa Bar & Banana Split
Sugar 'n Spice and Dad's Donut & Bakery Shop
Indulge in the iconic frozen treats that are a sweet staple of Balboa Island.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry Fun & Parking Pointers
+1Island Charm & Balboa Bars
It's a quintessential Balboa Island experience!Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Ferry vs. Driving
Take the ferry for a fun experience! It's cheap for pedestrians and avoids parking headaches.
🍦 Sweet Treats Galore
Don't leave without trying a Balboa Bar or a frozen banana!
🚶♀️ Stroll Marine Ave
Explore the unique shops and galleries along the main street.
🅿️ Parking Patience
Parking can be tough, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to circle.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Ferry vs. Driving
Take the ferry for a fun experience! It's cheap for pedestrians and avoids parking headaches.
🍦 Sweet Treats Galore
Don't leave without trying a Balboa Bar or a frozen banana!
🚶♀️ Stroll Marine Ave
Explore the unique shops and galleries along the main street.
🅿️ Parking Patience
Parking can be tough, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to circle.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Vibes
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Balboa Island's charm, calling it a 'hidden gem' and 'absolute treasure' with postcard-perfect views and a nostalgic ferry ride. The iconic Balboa Bars and friendly atmosphere are frequently praised, making it ideal for families and a relaxing day out. Parking can be a challenge, but the overall experience is highly recommended.
"Had a great time, I loved the island, and the auto ferry was so cool and only paid 5 dollars for two with vehicle. Just loved the place. I will go back again."
M Q
"Balboa Island – A Hidden Gem in Newport Beach!
Balboa Island is an absolute treasure! From the charming waterfront homes and cozy shops to the peaceful boardwalk strolls with stunning harbor views, everything feels like a postcard. The ferry ride adds a nostalgic touch, and don’t miss the famous Balboa Bar—delicious and iconic! It’s the perfect place for a relaxing day with family or friends. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Orange County!"
Mufasa KC
"Great experience very clean. It gets busy and sometimes it’s kinda hard to find parking spots but eventually you’ll find one different restaurants, walkways, friendly neighborhoods. Like I said, it’s a good experience, especially for families you can rent bikes and more."
haidrick HHH
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Balboa Island via a bridge from the mainland or by taking the charming Balboa Island Ferry from the Balboa Peninsula. The ferry is a popular and scenic option, costing $1.75 for pedestrians and $5 for vehicles.
Yes, there is street parking available on Balboa Island, but it can be very limited and challenging to find, especially on busy weekends and holidays. Arriving early or utilizing the ferry can help mitigate parking stress.
You can walk or bike across the bridge to Balboa Island. The island itself is very walkable and bike-friendly, with many visitors enjoying leisurely rides around the perimeter.
The Balboa Island Ferry is the most iconic and convenient way to travel between the island and the peninsula. It's a short, frequent ride that offers great views.
While there isn't direct public transportation to the island itself, you can take OCTA buses to Newport Beach and then walk or take a short ride-share to the ferry terminal or bridge access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Balboa Island is a public area and does not require tickets for entry. You can freely explore the streets, shops, and public waterfront areas.
The Balboa Island Ferry costs $1.75 per pedestrian, $0.50 for children, and approximately $5 for a vehicle one way.
There are no entrance fees to Balboa Island itself. Any costs incurred would be for parking, ferry rides, or purchases within the shops and restaurants.
The Balboa Island Ferry typically operates daily from early morning until around 9:00 PM, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official schedule for the most up-to-date information.
The Balboa Island Museum offers free admission, though donations are gratefully accepted to support its operations.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You absolutely must try a Balboa Bar (ice cream dipped in chocolate and toppings) from Dad's Donut & Bakery Shop or Sugar 'n Spice. Also, consider Luke's Lobster for a delicious lobster roll.
Balboa Island features a variety of charming shops, including boutiques, art galleries, gift shops, and specialty stores like Sundance Thrift Shop. +1
Yes, Balboa Island offers a range of dining options from casual cafes like Huskins Coffee to seafood spots like Luke's Lobster and local favorites serving breakfast and lunch.
Absolutely! Marine Avenue is lined with shops selling unique souvenirs, local crafts, and island-themed gifts.
Popular spots include Huskins Coffee for a morning brew, Dad's Donut & Bakery Shop for iconic Balboa Bars, and Luke's Lobster for seafood. Many other local eateries offer diverse menus.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture picturesque waterfront homes, the charming streets of Marine Avenue, the iconic Balboa Island Ferry, and scenic harbor views. The entire island offers postcard-worthy moments.
Golden hour, both in the morning and late afternoon, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Evenings can also be lovely with the island lights.
Yes, the Balboa Island Ferry provides excellent opportunities for photos of the bay, the island skyline, and the ferry itself. +1
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful of private property and residents' privacy when taking photos of homes.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing both wide bay views and street-level details. A smartphone camera is also perfectly capable of capturing the island's charm.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Be sure to treat them to a Balboa Bar or a frozen banana from Sugar 'n Spice or Dad's – it's a childhood memory in the making! Marine Avenue offers fun shops to explore, and the waterfront provides lovely views. Consider renting bikes for a family cruise around the island. 💰 Budget Travelers
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Take a sunset ferry ride for picturesque views of the harbor. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Balboa Island Ferry
+1 It's incredibly affordable for pedestrians, making it an accessible adventure for everyone. Watching the ferry navigate the harbor, with its unique loading system for just a few cars, is a delightful spectacle in itself. Many visitors cite the ferry ride as a highlight, adding a nostalgic and fun element to their visit. For those driving, the ferry can be a great way to avoid the often-challenging parking situation on the island. However, if you're not in a rush, simply walking on as a pedestrian is the most popular and cost-effective method. The ferry runs frequently, so wait times are usually minimal. It's a perfect way to start or end your exploration of Balboa Island, offering lovely views of the harbor and the beautiful homes lining the waterfront.
Culinary Delights: Balboa Bars and Beyond
Equally popular is the Banana Split, another frozen confection that has become a beloved island specialty. These treats are not just snacks; they are a taste of Balboa Island's history and charm. Beyond the iconic sweets, Balboa Island offers a growing culinary scene. Luke's Lobster has opened its doors, bringing fresh, authentic Maine lobster rolls to the island, a hit among seafood lovers.
+1 For a casual coffee or breakfast, Huskins Coffee is a local favorite, perfect for people-watching along Marine Avenue. Exploring Marine Avenue: Shops and Island Life
+1 It's the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, where you can discover unique gifts, local art, stylish clothing, and charming home decor. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, reflecting the island's laid-back lifestyle. Beyond shopping, Marine Avenue is where you'll find many of the island's beloved eateries and cafes, making it a central hub for both culinary exploration and retail therapy. The architecture of the buildings adds to the quaint charm, with many featuring classic coastal designs. Whether you're looking for a specific souvenir or just enjoy window shopping, Marine Avenue offers a delightful glimpse into the unique character of Balboa Island.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit