![Sherman Library & Gardens - Work area at the Johnson Wax Building, headquarters of the S.C. Johnson and Son Co., Racine, Wisconsin. Color transparency by Carol M. Highsmith, [between 1980 and 2006]. Library of Congress Prints & Photographs Division.
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Sherman Library & Gardens
A serene botanical oasis in Newport Beach, featuring diverse gardens, a research library, and a charming cafe.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Sherman Library & Gardens
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene botanical oasis in Newport Beach, featuring diverse gardens, a research library, and a charming cafe.
"Honestly one of the best $5 I have ever spent. This beautiful garden offers so much and every corner is breathtakingly gorgeous."
🎯 Affordable Admission
Only $5 to enter! A fantastic value for a beautiful botanical escape.
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Every corner is Instagram-worthy! Bring your camera for stunning shots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Succulent Garden
Southwest corner
A stunning collection of cacti and succulents, showcasing unique shapes and colors. A true visual feast!
Tropical Conservatory
Central greenhouse
Step into a lush world of orchids, gingers, and other exotic plants. A humid haven of vibrant blooms.
Koi Pond & Turtle Haven
Central garden area
Watch graceful koi swim and turtles bask in the sun. A peaceful spot to pause and observe nature.
Charming Library & Archives
Main building
Discover local history and unique books in this quirky, vintage research library.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Peaceful Stroll
Affordable Oasis in Newport Beach
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Affordable Admission
Only $5 to enter! A fantastic value for a beautiful botanical escape. +1
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Every corner is Instagram-worthy! Bring your camera for stunning shots. +2
☕ Cafe & Dining
Enjoy a meal at Dahlia 608 restaurant or grab a coffee. +1
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Affordable Admission
Only $5 to enter! A fantastic value for a beautiful botanical escape. +1
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Every corner is Instagram-worthy! Bring your camera for stunning shots. +2
☕ Cafe & Dining
Enjoy a meal at Dahlia 608 restaurant or grab a coffee. +1
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes!
🎁 Unique Gift Shop
Find curated, unique souvenirs and gifts.
👶 Baby-Friendly Outing
A great spot for a stroller-friendly outing with little ones.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sherman Library & Gardens as a beautiful, serene, and affordable escape. The diverse plant collections, especially the succulent garden, and the charming atmosphere are major draws. While some find the library section closed at times, the overall experience is highly recommended for its beauty and value.
"Love this beautiful botanical garden and library! Each time the magical environment transfers me to heaven and back. Exotic plants and flowers, beautiful gift shop that you can always find a unique souvenir and Dahlia 608 restaurant at the garden is a must to experience. Go there! You won’t be disappointed."
Sa Mo
"This is a small garden area that has a library, small store and even a restaurant looking out at the garden. There’s blooming flowers full of color, green houses, koi fish pond, and welcoming staff. It was fun walking around and checking out all the trees, flowers and fish and turtles. They even have a small scavenger hunt that kids can participate in which was really fun as we walked around. The store was cute but the library was closed. There was a small patio that you can just sit and enjoy the area and the bathroom are next to the store. The restaurant seemed busy during the week around 1:00 pm. Think it would be nice to return to visit the restaurant to sit out in the patio area enjoying our meal."
L. R.
"Lovely gardens! The best gift shop too! I’ll stop here for gifts in the future. Well curated. Nice variety. I don’t love succulents but their succulent garden is just gorgeous. Quirky, vintage, unique library featuring local city books and archives."
Theresa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sherman Library & Gardens is located at 2647 E Coast Hwy, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors arrive from other parts of Orange County and Los Angeles. +1
While specific parking details can vary, street parking is generally available in the vicinity. Some visitors mention finding parking easily, especially on weekdays.
From Los Angeles, you can drive south on the I-5 Freeway and then take the CA-73 South towards Newport Beach. Exit onto Jamboree Road and follow signs for Coast Highway.
Public transportation options might be limited for direct access. It's recommended to check local bus routes or consider ride-sharing services for the most convenient journey.
The gardens are generally well-maintained with paved walkways, making them accessible for many. However, some areas might have uneven terrain. It's advisable to contact the venue directly for specific accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee is very affordable at $5 per person, making it a great value for a beautiful experience. +1
Sherman Library & Gardens is typically open daily from 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website for any seasonal changes or holiday hours.
Advance booking is generally not required for regular visits, as tickets can be purchased upon arrival. However, for special events like 'Nights of 1000 Lights,' booking in advance is highly recommended.
The standard admission is already very low at $5. While specific discounts aren't widely advertised, the value for money is exceptional. Consider checking their website for any membership or group rates.
The library is part of the overall garden experience, and admission is required to access all areas, including the library and archives.
📸 📸 Photography & Art
Absolutely! The gardens are incredibly picturesque with diverse plant life, colorful flowers, and charming nooks, making it a photographer's paradise. +2
Yes, Sherman Library & Gardens often hosts art exhibitions. They have featured mosaic exhibitions and other art installations inspired by nature.
Yes, the gardens are a popular spot for wedding and engagement photos due to their beautiful scenery. +1
You can find various art forms, including mosaics, sculptures, and floral arrangements, often integrated into the garden's natural beauty.
Generally, personal photography is allowed and encouraged. However, for professional shoots like weddings or commercial photography, it's best to inquire about specific permits or fees.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Dahlia 608 is a restaurant located within the gardens, offering a dining experience surrounded by beautiful flora.
Dahlia 608 offers seasonal menus, often featuring fresh, garden-inspired dishes. They have been noted for their fall menu.
While there isn't a designated picnic area, you can enjoy meals at the on-site restaurant or cafe. Some visitors enjoy sitting on patios.
Yes, there is a cafe available, offering coffee and other refreshments for visitors. +1
Dining hours can vary. The restaurant can get busy, especially around lunchtime during the week. It's advisable to check their specific hours or make a reservation.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the stunning succulent garden, the lush tropical conservatory, the peaceful koi pond, and the unique library. +1
Yes, they offer a small scavenger hunt for kids, which adds an element of fun to the exploration.
This is an annual holiday event where the gardens are beautifully illuminated with thousands of lights, creating a magical festive atmosphere.
Generally, pets are not allowed in botanical gardens to protect the plants and wildlife. It's best to confirm their pet policy directly.
The library is described as quirky and vintage, featuring local city books and archives, offering a unique glimpse into the area's history.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With its affordable admission and beautiful, safe environment, it's an ideal place for a relaxed family visit. The on-site cafe also offers convenient refreshments for parents and children alike.
💖 Couples and Date Ideas
+2 Visitors love taking cute pictures together amidst the flowers and lush greenery. Enjoy a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand, discover hidden nooks, and perhaps share a meal at the on-site Dahlia 608 restaurant for a complete date experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Whether you're interested in macro shots of flowers, landscape photography of the garden's layout, or portraits against a beautiful botanical backdrop, you'll find plenty of inspiration. The gardens are also a popular venue for wedding and engagement photography, highlighting their picturesque appeal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Diverse Plant Collections
The gardens are meticulously curated, with displays that change with the seasons, ensuring a fresh experience with each visit. Whether you're a seasoned botanist or a casual admirer, the diversity and beauty of the plant collections are sure to impress. The attention to detail in the landscaping and the health of the plants are frequently highlighted by visitors.
Beyond the main collections, keep an eye out for smaller, charming details like the koi pond where turtles bask and fish glide, adding to the serene atmosphere.
A Haven for Photography and Art
The gardens also embrace the arts, often hosting exhibitions that complement the natural beauty. Past exhibits have included mosaic art installations inspired by nature, adding another layer of visual interest for visitors.
Whether you're capturing the delicate petals of a flower, the intricate patterns of succulents, or the serene reflections in the koi pond, Sherman Library & Gardens provides a picturesque backdrop. The 'Nights of 1000 Lights' event during the holidays transforms the gardens into a magical wonderland, offering a spectacular, albeit crowded, photographic experience.
The Unique Library and Research Aspect
This library aspect sets Sherman Library & Gardens apart from typical botanical gardens, providing a space for learning and discovery alongside the appreciation of nature. It's a place where you can wander through beautiful landscapes and then delve into the stories and heritage of Corona del Mar and Newport Beach.
For those interested in local history or seeking a quiet moment of reflection among books, the library offers a unique complement to the outdoor gardens. It's a reminder that the gardens are not just about plants, but also about preserving and sharing the heritage of the region.
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