Your Perfect 7-Day Newport Beach Itinerary
Wake up to ocean breezes, sip coffee while watching harbor seals play in the distance, and spend your days discovering hidden coastal treasures that most tourists never find. Newport Beach isn't just another beach destination – it's where luxury meets adventure, where you can paddleboard through harbors in the morning and dine at rave-worthy restaurants by sunset. This 7-day Newport Beach itinerary will take you beyond the typical path of a tourist, and reveal local activities that residents cherish and visitors never forget.
Day 1: Arrival & Balboa Island Exploration
Take the Balboa Island Ferry and lose yourself in the narrow streets lined with million-dollar beach cottages and whimsical gardens. Take in the boardwalk’s old-California charm as you explore boutiques with everything from vintage surfboards to handcrafted jewelry. Next, head to Wilma's Patio to sink your teeth into their legendary Balboa Bars. As golden hour approaches, head to The Cannery where craft cocktails and harbor compliment the scene of million-dollar yachts drifting past as the sun sets into the Pacific.
Day 2: Beach Day at The Wedge
Wake up early and head to Newport's legendary beach (and one of our favorite spots to surf), The Wedge. Watch fearless bodyboarders tackle waves reaching up to 30 feet or simply spread your towel and become part of the most entertaining people-watching scene in Southern California. Listen to the sound of laughter and crashing waves until all you hear is your stomach rumbling. Then, venture to Bear Flag Fish Company where the day's fresh catch is the highlight of tasty tacos, burritos, and poke bowls. Head back to your rental for a nap and get ready to enjoy an unforgettable dinner at Nobu Newport Beach.
Day 3: Fashion Island & Crystal Cove
Begin your morning at Fashion Island, where palm trees sway between luxury boutiques as the ocean breeze carries hints of jasmine through the air from nearby gardens. If you’re left wanting more from nature, escape to Crystal Cove State Park, where rugged hiking trails wind through coastal sage scrub and reward you with views of an endless Pacific horizon. Cap off this perfect day at The Beachcomber, where your feet sink into cool sand while you dine on fresh lobster as waves whisper just yards from your table.
Day 4: Harbor Activities & Dining
Today, you’ll become captain of your own adventure by exploring the Harbor on a Duffy boat! These quiet vessels let you glide silently through Newport Harbor's hidden channels lined with waterfront mansions where celebrities once lived. Later, embrace your inner child at the historic Balboa Fun Zone, where the Ferris wheel has been delighting families since 1936 and the air smells of cotton candy and ocean salt. Save room for dinner at Bluewater Grill against the backdrop of harbor views so spectacular you'll find yourself planning your return visit before dessert arrives.
Day 5: Orange County Museum & Lido Marina
Explore culture at the Orange County Museum of Art, then spend your afternoon at Lido Marina Village, where boutiques sell treasures you won't find anywhere else. Later, take cooking classes at Sur La Table so you can recreate Newport's flavors at home. When evening calls, Mastro's Ocean Club elevates the steakhouse experience to new heights.
Day 6: Upper Newport Bay & Local Favorites
Discover the natural side of Newport at Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve, perfect for kayaking or bird watching. Grab lunch at local favorite Ruby's Diner on the pier, then spend your afternoon in the tide pools at Corona del Mar State Beach.
Day 7: Farewell Brunch & Last-Minute Shopping
Savor your final Newport Beach morning with an indulgent brunch at Snooze AM Eatery, where their signature pineapple upside-down pancakes and morning cocktails create the perfect send-off. Take one last leisurely stroll through Lido Village and find that perfect souvenir to remind you of your love affair with the California coast.
Your Newport Beach Love Story Begins Now
This isn't just a week-long itinerary – it's your gateway to falling deeply in love with one of California's most enchanting coastal destinations. There's one secret that makes all the difference between a good vacation and an unforgettable adventure: where you stay. At Newport Beach Vacation Properties, we give you the keys to live like a local in paradise. Book luxury vacation homes where you can rinse off the salt and sand in your own private outdoor shower, and end your evenings with wine on the deck as the harbor lights twinkle like stars.
Your perfect coastal escape is waiting, and it starts with choosing the vacation rental that will become your home away from home in one of our Newport Beach communities!
Published by Marketing
Wednesday, July 2, 2025