Things to do in Newport Beach

From Learning to Surf with Newport Beach Surfing Lessons to Eating the Best Fish in Town, Newport Beach is a place where luxury, sophistication and relaxation meld together to form this beautiful seaside community. Dating back to the Victorian era, Newport Beach has been a stomping ground for the upper class and their lavish nautical lifestyles. But more recently Newport Beach has also gained recognition as being one of the top Surf destinations in California. Whether you’re looking to test out your sea legs on the watercraft of your choice (Surfing to Boating) or simple enjoying an exquisite dinner for two, here are the ten top recommendations to make you feel like you’ve had the time of your life!

1. Learn to Surf in Newport Beach - Considered a vibrant marine community, Newport Beach also offers a diverse and Beautiful coastline with some of the beast beaches to Learn to Surf. Check out "Newport Beach Surfing Lessons", which was founded by Sean Louden, Former Hawaii State Surfing Champion. This Surf School caters form Kids to Adult Kids and will have you riding waves faster than you can say "look honey I'm surfing!"

2. Rent A Boat- What is a better way to discover one of the country’s most prided boating communities, than getting behind the wheel? Not ready for your captains license quite yet? No problem. The ever-popular and easy to use Duffy boat will get you in and out of Newport’s infamous harbor. You’ll find several dockside restaurants, jut pull right up, park the boat and enjoy your new- found sea legs in one of the largest, smallest harbors in the world.

3. Whale Watching- During the summer months the Blue Whale migrates just off the sparkling Pacific Coast. Among the blue whales spotted are dolphins, sharks, killer whales and other marine life. Can’t make it in the summer to see the great Blue Whale? Check out the Grey Whale migration December-April. Contact local cruise tour companies for more information.

4. Fashion Island- A real shoppers west coast heaven. With over 200 boutiques, it’s literally shop-‘til you drop in Newport. Craving more of a vintage vibe? Head over to Corona del Mar for rare vintage finds that are sure to spark envy from all of your east coast friends.

5. Celebrity History- It should be no surprise that the most beautiful places attracts the most beautiful (and famous) people. There’s no shame in playing up your inner tourist and pretending to be Mischa Barton for the day. Check out past shooting locations from the widely popular show The O.C. – and while you’re at it, see if you can sneak a peek at John Wayne’s house.

6. Newport Harbor Nautical Museum- Located in what is known as the Fun Zone- a place where traditional family activities are found seaside, the Newport Harbor Nautical Museum, is where you can check of all your boating knowledge and learn a thing or two about being on the open water- while keeping your feet firmly planted on land.

7. Balboa Bar- Traditional vanilla ice cream, dipped in smooth, creamy chocolate, and then finished off with your favorite topping, this tasty treat originated on Newport Beach’s own Balboa Island. Stroll Marine Street, ice cream in hand for a classic American feel.

8. Sports fishing- Otherwise known as deep-sea fishing is a great way to spend a beautiful Newport afternoon. Bait a hook, sit back and watch the Sea Bass, Yellowatil and Tuna swim your way.

9. Eat! - Lots of Seafood that is. Newport Beach is known for the freshest, pacific seafood. You won’t find fish like this in Ohio-we guarantee it! Check out The Rusty Pelican for the Best of the Best here in Newport.

10. Rent a Vespa- Zoom around Newport and its surrounding islands (Balboa Island and Balboa Peninsula) and make sure to use the infamous and historic Auto Ferry to get across!

Whether your vacation calls for learning to surf or a little nautical aristocracy, Newport Beach offers every traveler a unique and sophisticated coastal getaway.