Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina
A premier waterfront resort in Newport Beach offering RV sites, beach cottages, a marina, and a popular inflatable water park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter, more peaceful atmosphere
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina
Best Time
Quieter, more peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier waterfront resort in Newport Beach offering RV sites, beach cottages, a marina, and a popular inflatable water park.
"The location of this resort is just perfect for walking to Balboa Island and paddleboarding right into the bay from your campsite."
Book water park tickets ahead
Secure your spot for the inflatable water park by booking online in advance, especially during peak season.
Rashguard for water park
Wear a rashguard for warmth and to protect against scratches on the inflatable park.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Inflatable Water Park
The Back Bay
Giant inflatable obstacle course on the water. Perfect for kids and adults seeking fun and a good laugh.
Waterfront RV Sites & Beach Cottages
Resort grounds
Enjoy direct bay access from your RV or a cozy cottage. Ideal for those who love waking up to ocean views.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
The Back Bay
Explore the calm waters of the bay. Rentals are available for all skill levels, offering a peaceful way to see the area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Aquatic Adventure Early
Weekend vs. Weekday Vibes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book water park tickets ahead
Secure your spot for the inflatable water park by booking online in advance, especially during peak season.
Rashguard for water park
Wear a rashguard for warmth and to protect against scratches on the inflatable park.
Weekdays for peace
If you prefer quiet, visit on weekdays. Weekends can be lively with parties and late-night noise.
Waterfront sites are prime
Waterfront RV sites offer luxury with grassy areas and fences, making for a better experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book water park tickets ahead
Secure your spot for the inflatable water park by booking online in advance, especially during peak season.
Rashguard for water park
Wear a rashguard for warmth and to protect against scratches on the inflatable park.
Weekdays for peace
If you prefer quiet, visit on weekdays. Weekends can be lively with parties and late-night noise.
Waterfront sites are prime
Waterfront RV sites offer luxury with grassy areas and fences, making for a better experience.
Cabin TLC needed
Some guests report cabins need maintenance and cleaning, with issues like cockroaches and broken blinds.
Bay water can be mucky
The bay water might appear green and mucky, especially in the off-season.
Laundry facilities available
The laundry room is large, clean, and has many working machines, accessible via an app.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina offers a prime location with beautiful bay views and a range of activities, particularly its popular inflatable water park. Guests praise the friendly staff, clean facilities, and the convenience of waterfront RV sites and beach cottages. However, some visitors note that weekend nights can be noisy, and certain accommodations may require maintenance.
"Great views. Had a birthday party for my son, who turned 7 and it was actually really accommodating and enjoyable. Not too crowded and the atmosphere was definitely welcome. I highly recommend this vacation to friends as they too look for kids friendly summer spots!"
Rick Gutierrez
"PROS: The location of this resort is just perfect for walking to Balboa Island, driving to both Long Beach and Laguna Beach. It is perfect to paddle board right into the bay from your campsite and be on the beach. The staff is wonderful and very friendly. It is a very safe campground. The store is great, the pool was clean and always busy. Laundry room is large with lots of machines ( all of them working) and clean; with the app it is reasonable to do laundry. The weekdays are wonderful, quiet and respectful neighbors and not too crowded.
CONS: The showers need to have fans as they are sooo steamy and the floors are wet. The sites are tight, but the sites with a little grass would be wonderful. Hard to park the rig and truck at your site. Probably the biggest con is that the weekends are like party central. Our neighbors talked right outside our window all night and the music, kids under 10 driving golf carts in tight spaces was crazy. I love to talk with people and hang out, but the weekends are not peaceful if that is what you are looking for."
Lisa Lund
"Great campground! We had a tent and RV on the site. Full hookup’s worked great. The pool was warm and the hot tub was hot! The cove was nice and calm, perfect for paddle boarding and kayaks. Kids had a blast riding around. The other campers drove carefully and were quiet at the right time. My only complaint was that a crow decided to complaint all morning one day. Not the parks fault, annoying still. All together an amazing time!"
Jonathan Vallette
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina is located at 1131 Back Bay Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available for RVs and day visitors. Public transportation options are limited in this area, so driving is the most convenient method.
Yes, parking is available at Newport Dunes. For RV sites, parking is typically included with your reservation. Day visitors can find parking, though it may be limited during peak times.
Newport Dunes' location is perfect for walking to Balboa Island, making it a convenient base for exploring the charming shops and restaurants.
Driving is the most straightforward way to reach Newport Dunes for a day trip. Consider carpooling if you're traveling with a group to manage parking and costs.
Absolutely! The resort's location is ideal for driving to nearby Long Beach and Laguna Beach, offering diverse coastal experiences.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A 1-hour pass for the inflatable water park is typically around $18 per person. A 30-minute pass is also available for a lower price.
It is highly recommended to book your tickets for the inflatable water park online in advance, as they can sell out, especially during busy periods.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Newport Dunes website or their social media for the most up-to-date information on hours of operation.
While not explicitly stated in all content, the water park is very popular with children, suggesting it's family-friendly. It's always wise to check for specific restrictions on their website.
Yes, kayak and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rentals are available in the Back Bay for visitors of all skill levels.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Newport Dunes offers a wide range of activities including an inflatable water park, kayaking, paddleboarding, RV camping, beach cottages, a pool, hot tub, dining, and a marina. 
Yes, Newport Dunes is very family-friendly. The inflatable water park is a huge hit with children, and the calm bay is perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking.
The resort offers waterfront RV sites with amenities like full hookups. Sites further back can be tighter, but waterfront sites often have a nice grassy area.
While the campground facilities are generally clean, some reviews mention that the showers can be steamy with wet floors and may need better ventilation.
Weekends can be quite lively, described as 'party central' with noise and activity. For a more peaceful experience, weekdays are recommended.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Newport Dunes offers dining options for guests. You can also find a store on-site for convenience items.
Many of the beach cottages are equipped with kitchenettes, and RV sites allow for cooking. The resort also provides fire pits for roasting s'mores.
Specific details on the type of cuisine are not widely available, but the resort offers waterfront dining experiences.
There is a store on-site at Newport Dunes that is described as 'great' and offers convenience items for campers.
Guests are generally welcome to bring their own food and drinks, especially if staying in RVs or cottages with kitchen facilities.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfront RV sites and beach cottages offer stunning views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The calm bay is also picturesque for water sports shots.
Yes, the beach setting, water activities, and resort amenities provide a great backdrop for family photos. Capturing moments on the inflatable water park or during paddleboarding can be very dynamic.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for waterfront photography. Midday can be bright, but good for capturing action shots on the water.
The Back Bay area is known for birdwatching, so bring your telephoto lens if you're interested in capturing local bird species.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other guests' privacy and avoid intrusive photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many reviewers highlight the resort's kid-friendly atmosphere and the accommodating nature of the staff during family events. Consider booking a beach cottage for a comfortable base with kitchenette facilities, or opt for an RV site if you prefer a more traditional camping setup. Weekdays are generally recommended for a less crowded and more relaxed experience with younger children.
💰 Budget Travelers
For those on a tighter budget, consider tent camping if available, or look for deals on RV sites further from the prime waterfront locations. While some cottages may require significant investment, exploring different accommodation tiers can help find a more affordable option.
couples
The resort offers a romantic setting, especially during sunrise and sunset, which are perfect for photography and quiet moments. While weekends can be lively, a weekday visit offers a more serene atmosphere. Consider booking a beach cottage for a cozy, private retreat. Enjoying a meal at one of the waterfront dining spots can also add a touch of romance to your stay.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Newport Dunes Inflatable Water Park Experience
Visitors are advised to wear a rashguard for both warmth and protection against potential scratches from the inflatable surfaces. The cost is typically around $18 for an hour of play, with shorter sessions available. Due to its popularity, booking tickets online in advance is strongly recommended to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment, particularly during peak season.
While incredibly fun, it's worth noting that the park can get crowded, especially on weekends. Some reviews suggest that the water can appear a bit 'mucky' or green, particularly in the off-season, which might affect the visual appeal for some photographers.
Accommodation Options: From RVs to Cottages
For those seeking a more traditional lodging experience, beach cottages are available. These range from cozy studios with bunk beds to larger units, often featuring kitchenettes and outdoor decks. While offering a 'glamorous' camping experience, some guests have noted that certain cottages are in need of TLC, with reports of cleanliness issues and minor repairs needed.
Whether you choose an RV or a cottage, the resort emphasizes an unplugged experience focused on making memories. The variety of options allows visitors to tailor their stay to their comfort level and budget, from full-service RVing to a more curated cottage getaway.
Navigating Weekends vs. Weekdays
However, weekends transform Newport Dunes into a lively hub, often referred to as 'party central.' This can involve late-night music, chatter, and a general increase in activity. While some enjoy this energetic atmosphere, others find it disruptive if they are looking for a peaceful retreat.
Travelers seeking a more serene visit are strongly advised to plan their trips for weekdays. This allows for a more relaxed enjoyment of the amenities, including the water park and bay activities, without the heightened noise and crowds associated with weekend gatherings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit