view of the Back Bay from the trail
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Castaways Park

4.7
·441 reviews·Newport Beach, United States

Scenic park with paved trails offering sweeping views of Newport Bay and Harbor. Features a seasonal Field of Honor.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful strolls, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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view of the Back Bay from the trail

Castaways Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful strolls, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Scenic park with paved trails offering sweeping views of Newport Bay and Harbor. Features a seasonal Field of Honor.

4.7
(441 reviews)

"Beautiful, Peaceful Trail with Amazing Views! A hidden gem in Newport Beach."

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TIP

🎯 Beat the Crowds

Visit on weekdays for a more serene experience. Weekends can get busy, especially during events.

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Paved paths are great, but good walking shoes are recommended for enjoying the full trail system.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Field of Honor

Field of Honor

Castaways Park

A poignant display of 1,776 flags honoring service members, especially impactful around Memorial Day.

Back Bay and Harbor Views

Back Bay and Harbor Views

Along the paved paths

Sweeping vistas of the Newport Back Bay and Harbor, perfect for photography and quiet contemplation.

Scenic Walking Trails

Scenic Walking Trails

Throughout the park

Well-maintained paved and dirt paths offering a mix of sun and shade, ideal for strolls, jogs, or bike rides.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

Beat the crowds by visiting Castaways Park on weekday mornings or late afternoons. Weekends, especially during events like the Field of Honor, can get busy. Early mornings offer serene ocean views and cooler temperatures for a peaceful walk.

Embrace the Outdoors

Castaways Park is an outdoor haven. Wear comfortable shoes for its paved paths and consider bringing a hat and sunscreen, especially for midday visits. It's a dog-friendly spot, so your furry friends can enjoy the scenic trails too!

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful strolls, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons/Sunset
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium
When
Around Memorial Day
Why
Field of Honor display
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I’m fr. #newportmansion #newportbeach #california #mansion #westcoast #beach
@jennniferdaily
581K likes • 3.4M views

🎯 Beat the Crowds

Visit on weekdays for a more serene experience. Weekends can get busy, especially during events. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Paved paths are great, but good walking shoes are recommended for enjoying the full trail system. Instagram

Having people rate each others favorite songs in Newport Beach, California! Who has the best music taste here?
@slickpup
103.2K likes • 1.4M views
I N /// memory of all those who gave their life defending our freedom. . Please take the time this weekend to walk through the Field of Honor at Castaways Park in #newportbeach . #newportbeach #localeoc #castawayspark
localemagazine
775 likes • 16.3K views

☀️ Sun Protection

Bring sunscreen and a hat, as some areas are exposed. Early mornings or late afternoons offer cooler temps. Instagram

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Leashed dogs are welcome! It's a great spot for a walk with your furry friend. Instagram

A random moment at Castaways Park you didn’t know you needed. Watch the full episode on all platforms. #GoodMorningMarco #CastawaysPark #KarateKidEnergy #YoureTheBest #MarcoIsland #239Vibes #NaplesFL #PodcastClip
goodmorningmarcopod
17 likes • 430 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Beat the Crowds

Visit on weekdays for a more serene experience. Weekends can get busy, especially during events. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Paved paths are great, but good walking shoes are recommended for enjoying the full trail system. Instagram

☀️ Sun Protection

Bring sunscreen and a hat, as some areas are exposed. Early mornings or late afternoons offer cooler temps. Instagram

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Leashed dogs are welcome! It's a great spot for a walk with your furry friend. Instagram

📸 Capture the Views

The park offers stunning views of the bay and harbor, perfect for photos, especially at sunrise/sunset. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(441 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Castaways Park for its beautiful, peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of the bay and harbor. It's lauded as a well-maintained, safe, and accessible spot for walks, jogs, and bike rides, with many appreciating its dog-friendly nature and the seasonal Field of Honor display.

"Beautiful, Peaceful Trail with Amazing Views!

I loved my walk on the Castaway Park Trail. It’s a hidden gem in Newport Beach with stunning views of the Back Bay and plenty of spots to sit and take in the scenery. The trail is well-maintained, perfect for an easy hike, jog, or leisurely stroll with family or friends. There’s a good mix of shade and sun, and benches along the way if you want to rest or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Great place for sunrise or sunset walks. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a quiet spot with gorgeous coastal views!"

Amelia Tran

"Neat little park. Went for a walk on a weekday evening in May around sunset time after dinner at Bayshore Cafe. Liked it. Saw a bunch of bunnies running around. Well paved path with some dirt options too. Easy to get to."

Vipul Singh

"Very awesome walking/hiking/biking trail to enjoy a scenic view of Newport Harbor. Also has a War Memorial at the top with stunning views. Great place to take the dog or kids if they enjoy heights."

Joe Revette

What People Like

Beautiful bay and harbor views
Peaceful and serene atmosphere
Well-maintained paved trails

What People Dislike

Parking can be limited

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Castaways Park is located at 700 Dover Drive, Newport Beach, CA. It has a small dedicated parking lot. Many visitors find it easily accessible by car. Instagram

Yes, there is a small dedicated parking lot available at the park. It can fill up quickly, especially on weekends or during special events. Instagram

Absolutely! Castaways Park is a popular spot for biking, with paved paths that make for a pleasant ride. Instagram

While specific public transport routes directly to the park might be limited, checking local Orange County transit schedules for nearby stops is recommended. Many visitors opt for ride-sharing services. TikTok

Using GPS with the address '700 Dover Drive, Newport Beach, CA' is the most reliable method. Some locals suggest it's a bit outside the main hustle and bustle. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Castaways Park is a public park and entry is free for all visitors. TikTok

As a public park, Castaways Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific hours may vary, but it's typically accessible throughout daylight hours. Instagram

There's no need to book tickets as Castaways Park is a free public space. You can visit anytime during its operating hours. TikTok

Yes, Castaways Park hosts events like the Field of Honor around Memorial Day, which draws larger crowds. It's also a popular spot for organized walks and community gatherings. Instagram+1

Yes, Castaways Park is a great spot for a picnic. There are some trees that provide shade, and the scenic views make for a lovely dining experience. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Enjoy walking, jogging, biking on paved trails, taking in scenic views of the bay and harbor, and visiting the Field of Honor (seasonal). It's also a great spot for dog walking. Instagram+1

The park features well-maintained paved paths, with some dirt trail options also available for a varied experience. InstagramReddit

Yes, Castaways Park is very dog-friendly! Leashed dogs are welcome to enjoy the trails and scenery with their owners. Instagram

You'll experience stunning panoramic views of the Newport Back Bay, Newport Harbor, and the ocean. It's a prime spot for enjoying coastal scenery. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's a great spot for families. The paved trails are suitable for strollers and bikes, and the open space is enjoyable for kids. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour, around sunrise and sunset, offers the most beautiful lighting for capturing the scenic bay and harbor views. InstagramReddit

Popular subjects include the sweeping bay and harbor vistas, the Field of Honor (seasonal), coastal landscapes, and wildlife like bunnies. InstagramReddit

The war memorial at the top of the bluffs offers particularly stunning views encompassing the city, bay, and ocean. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local ordinances and park rules regarding drone operation before flying. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Castaways Park is a fantastic, free outdoor destination for families. The paved trails are perfect for strollers and young children learning to ride bikes or scooters. It's a safe environment with plenty of space to explore and enjoy the fresh air. Pack a picnic to make the most of the scenic spots, and keep an eye out for the bunnies that often make an appearance! Instagram

Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid larger crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone. The park's accessibility and natural beauty make it an easy win for a family outing without breaking the bank. It's a place where kids can burn energy while parents can enjoy the beautiful coastal views. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Strollers & Dog Walkers

For those seeking a peaceful solo escape or a refreshing walk with their canine companion, Castaways Park is ideal. The well-maintained trails offer a sense of security, and the dog-friendly policy means your furry friend can join the adventure. Many visitors appreciate the park's calm atmosphere, making it perfect for a mindful walk or a chance to decompress. Instagram

Weekday mornings or late afternoons are particularly serene, offering quiet paths and beautiful light for photography or simply enjoying the scenery. The availability of benches allows for moments of rest and reflection, making it easy to spend an extended period soaking in the coastal ambiance. Reddit

📸 Photographers & View Seekers

Castaways Park is a gem for photography enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates stunning views. The panoramic vistas of the bay, harbor, and ocean are truly spectacular, especially during sunrise and sunset. The Field of Honor, when present, offers a unique and impactful subject. Instagram+2

Bring your wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscapes. The park's accessibility and the variety of scenery – from water views to the patriotic displays – provide ample opportunities for creative shots. It’s a location that consistently delivers beautiful backdrops for both casual snapshots and more serious photographic endeavors. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Field of Honor: A Tribute

Each year, leading up to Memorial Day, Castaways Park transforms into the Field of Honor. The Exchange Club of Newport Harbor meticulously places 1,776 American flags to commemorate the men and women who have served the country. This powerful display creates a deeply moving atmosphere, offering visitors a chance to reflect and pay their respects. It's a significant event that draws many people to the park, making it a particularly poignant time to visit if you wish to honor veterans. Instagram+2

While the Field of Honor is a prominent feature, the park's natural beauty remains a constant draw. The paved loop path winds through the park, offering unobstructed views of the surrounding bay and harbor. This makes it an ideal location for a reflective walk, allowing visitors to appreciate both the scenic landscape and the patriotic tribute. The presence of numerous flags against the coastal backdrop creates a unique and memorable visual experience. Instagram

Exploring the Scenic Trails

Castaways Park boasts a network of well-maintained trails, primarily paved, making them accessible for a variety of activities. These paths are perfect for a leisurely stroll, a brisk jog, or a family bike ride. The trail system offers a pleasant mix of sun and shade, ensuring comfort for visitors throughout the day. Many find the 1.3-mile loop particularly enjoyable for its scenic rewards. Instagram+2

Beyond the paved routes, some dirt trail options are also available, adding a touch of adventure for those seeking a slightly more rugged experience. The trails are known for being safe and easy to navigate, with benches strategically placed along the way for rest and to simply soak in the tranquil atmosphere. The park's location provides a sense of being slightly removed from the city's hustle, contributing to its calm and inviting ambiance. InstagramReddit

Capturing Coastal Beauty

The sweeping views from Castaways Park are a photographer's delight. The park offers a unique vantage point where you can see the Newport Back Bay, the bustling Newport Harbor, and the expansive ocean all in one panorama. This makes it an ideal spot for capturing stunning coastal landscapes, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The interplay of light and shadow on the water and the coastline creates breathtaking scenes. InstagramReddit

Beyond the grand vistas, the park also offers opportunities for capturing smaller details. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as the bunnies frequently spotted hopping around the trails. The Field of Honor, when displayed, provides a powerful and patriotic subject matter. Whether you're using a smartphone or professional camera gear, Castaways Park offers a diverse range of photographic subjects to explore. Instagram+1

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