Newport Pier Newport Beach
Iconic Southern California beach destination with a classic pier, vibrant boardwalk, and stunning ocean views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Newport Pier Newport Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Southern California beach destination with a classic pier, vibrant boardwalk, and stunning ocean views.
"Newport Beach offers a quintessential Southern California beach experience, though a few practical considerations are worth noting."
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive early on weekends to snag parking, or be ready for a walk. :parking_area:
🌊 Embrace the Ocean
The water is cool but swimmable, perfect for a refreshing dip. :ocean:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Balboa Pier
Newport Beach
Classic pier with a vintage Ruby's Diner, perfect for sunset views and a quintessential beach town vibe.
The Wedge
Eastern end of the peninsula
Witness massive waves and daring surfers tackle this iconic, powerful surf spot.
Marina Park
1600 W Balboa Blvd
Family-friendly park with a playground, splash pad, and direct beach access for summer fun.
Pirates Cove
Heliotrope Ave & Ocean Blvd
A beautiful, clear-water beach with golden sand, ideal for swimming and relaxing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Pointers
Restroom Realities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive early on weekends to snag parking, or be ready for a walk. :parking_area:
🌊 Embrace the Ocean
The water is cool but swimmable, perfect for a refreshing dip. :ocean:
🚶♀️ Boardwalk Strolls
Enjoy the long boardwalk with shops, food, and vendors. Kid & dog friendly! :walking:
🍽️ Dining Delights
Explore diverse restaurants and cafes near the pier. :forkandknifewithplate:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive early on weekends to snag parking, or be ready for a walk. :parking_area:
🌊 Embrace the Ocean
The water is cool but swimmable, perfect for a refreshing dip. :ocean:
🚶♀️ Boardwalk Strolls
Enjoy the long boardwalk with shops, food, and vendors. Kid & dog friendly! :walking:
🍽️ Dining Delights
Explore diverse restaurants and cafes near the pier. :forkandknifewithplate:
📸 Sunset Spectacles
Catch breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific from the pier.
🎣 Pier Fishing Fun
Try your luck fishing from Newport Pier for mackerel and more.
🚲 Bike the Beach Path
Rent bikes and cruise along the scenic beach path.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Newport Beach is celebrated for its clean, spacious beaches, stunning ocean views, and vibrant boardwalk filled with shops and eateries. Visitors appreciate the classic beach-town vibe, especially around Balboa Pier, and the family-friendly atmosphere. However, parking can be a significant challenge, and the public restrooms are frequently noted as being unclean.
"It is a nice beach with nice sand. There is a bathroom (with flush toilets) at the start of the pier. The lifeguards drove by several times in a truck. The water was cold, 68 degrees, but it was still swimmable. There is also a shower to wash off."
Shelly Kummer
"Beautiful, Relaxing, and Full of Life!
Newport Beach is one of my favorite places in Southern California! The beach is clean and spacious, perfect for long walks, sunbathing, or playing volleyball. The ocean views are stunning, especially at sunset. There are so many great restaurants and cute cafés nearby, plus shops and activities for everyone. I love the Balboa Pier area for its classic beach-town vibe and the ferry ride to Balboa Island is a must. Parking can be tricky on weekends, but it’s worth it. Whether you’re looking to surf, bike, shop, or just relax, Newport Beach has it all. Highly recommend visiting!"
Amelia Tran
"Beautiful, clean beach. The staff at all the stores I visited were polite and pleasant.
The cupcakes at Sprinkles were delicious. The auto ferry to the island was fun. I definitely recommend it for the kiddos. Perfect weather. Pricey parking, but the streets are clean and the infrastructure in general is well maintained, so it's worth it.. I look forward to my next visit"
Chris Caro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Newport Pier is located on the Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach, California. You can drive and find parking nearby, though it can be challenging on busy days. Public transportation options are limited, so driving or ride-sharing is often preferred.
Parking can be very difficult, especially on weekends and during peak season. Be prepared for a hunt and potentially a walk to the beach. Some visitors suggest parking at nearby businesses with a purchase.
Public transportation to Newport Pier is not extensive. While some bus routes may serve the general Newport Beach area, direct access to the pier via public transit is limited. Driving or using ride-sharing services is generally more convenient.
Yes, biking is a great way to reach Newport Pier, especially if you're coming from nearby areas. There are bike paths along the coast, and bike rentals are available.
Yes, the auto ferry to Balboa Island operates from the Balboa Peninsula, which is easily accessible from Newport Pier. It's a fun and convenient way to explore the island.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to walk on Newport Pier. Access to the pier itself is free for everyone.
Newport Pier is generally open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, individual businesses on or near the pier, such as restaurants and shops, will have their own operating hours.
No, there is no cost to access the beach at Newport Beach. You can enjoy the sand and ocean freely.
Newport Beach often hosts various events, especially during summer and holidays, including block parties and celebrations. It's best to check local event listings for specific dates.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity on Newport Pier. You can bring your own gear or rent equipment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can walk the pier, enjoy ocean views, fish, visit Ruby's Diner, explore nearby shops and restaurants, and relax on the beach.
There are restrooms with flush toilets at the start of the pier. Showers are also available nearby to wash off sand and saltwater. However, be aware that public restrooms can be consistently unclean.
Yes, the ocean water at Newport Beach is generally clear and enjoyable for swimming, though it can be cool.
The pier itself offers great vantage points, especially during sunset. The playground at Marina Park also provides iconic OC photo opportunities.
Absolutely! Marina Park has a great playground, and the beach is kid-friendly. The boardwalk also offers activities for all ages.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Ruby's Diner is a classic spot on Balboa Pier. You'll also find various restaurants, cafes, and shops along the boardwalk and nearby streets offering diverse cuisines.
Yes, Newport Beach is known for its seafood. Restaurants like Flyn's Oysters and Shorebird are recommended for seafood lovers.
Yes, Handel's Ice Cream is a popular spot for sweet treats near the pier.
Newport Coffee Company is a recommended spot for coffee lovers in the area.
You can find New York-style pizza in Newport or Balboa, with a focus on crust and flavor.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset is a prime time for photography, offering stunning golden hour light. Early mornings can also be beautiful with fewer crowds.
The pier itself, with its classic structure and ocean backdrop, is a great subject. The playground at Marina Park offers unique shots, and the waves at The Wedge are dramatic.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with the Newport Beach Police Department or relevant authorities regarding drone operation in the area.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Be mindful of private property and individuals' privacy.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both wide ocean views and details on the pier. A tripod can be useful for sunset shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Strolling along the boardwalk is enjoyable for all ages, with plenty of space for kids to run around and discover various vendors and shops.
Consider taking the auto ferry to Balboa Island for a fun short excursion. 💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid peak crowds and potentially find more affordable parking options, though parking can still be a challenge.
Focus on the natural beauty and free activities like beachcombing and sunset watching to maximize your budget. couples
Consider a bike ride along the coast followed by a delightful meal at one of the many restaurants, perhaps with a focus on seafood or a cozy cafe. For a unique experience, explore the charming streets of Balboa Island via the auto ferry.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Piers: Balboa vs. Newport
It's also adjacent to Marina Park, making it a great hub for families. Newport Pier, located further south on the peninsula, offers a slightly different atmosphere. It's a popular spot for fishing and provides excellent vantage points for watching surfers and enjoying the coastline. The McFadden Building at its base is a historic landmark, adding a touch of local history to your visit.
Both piers are fantastic for sunset strolls and soaking in the quintessential Southern California beach scene. When planning your visit, consider which pier aligns best with your interests. Balboa Pier might appeal more to families and those seeking a classic diner experience, while Newport Pier is ideal for anglers and those interested in a more active beach environment. Both offer beautiful ocean vistas and are central to the vibrant Newport Beach experience.
Waves of Wonder: Surfing and Ocean Activities
For the more adventurous, The Wedge is a world-famous surf spot known for its massive, unpredictable waves that attract professional surfers. Witnessing surfers tackle these powerful shore breaks is a thrilling spectacle.
+1When engaging in ocean activities, always be mindful of safety. Check surf reports, be aware of rip currents, and never swim alone. Lifeguards are present on many of the beaches, providing an added layer of security.
Culinary Delights of Newport Beach
For those seeking fresh seafood, options like Flyn's Oysters and Shorebird Restaurant are highly recommended. Beyond the piers, the Balboa Peninsula and surrounding areas are dotted with charming cafes and eateries. Newport Coffee Company is a great spot for a morning pick-me-up, while Handel's Ice Cream is perfect for a sweet treat.
Visitors can also find excellent pizza, with some reviewers praising New York-style options available in the area. When exploring dining options, consider the convenience of nearby establishments. The proximity of a supermarket and various restaurants to the beach makes it easy to grab snacks, drinks, or a full meal without venturing too far.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit