The largest small craft harbor in the United States, Newport Beach Harbor in Newport Beach, California is not only picturesque, but also full of recreational boating opportunities, from taking a harbor cruise to renting a kayak. It & # 39; s even enjoyable from land , while strolling around Balboa Island or along the bayside of the peninsula.
There is over 4 miles long, running parallel to the Balboa Peninsula and the ocean. The harbor is filled with everything from pedal boats to large ocean vessels. 9000 boats berthed here.
Within Newport Beach Harbor there are 7 islands, mostly filled with lovely houses and flowery porches. The boater can leisurely take a self-guided tour of these homes from the water.
On the other side of PCH (Pacific Coast Highway) the Newport Back Bay and Upper Bay extend well inland.
THE ISLANDS IN NEWPORT BEACH HARBOR
The largest island is Balboa, accessible by bridge from Jamboree Road and Pacific Coast Highway, or by car ferry from the Balboa Peninsula near the Balboa Fun Zone. This charming little beach community has a scenic walkway that encircles the island, with the picturesque homes on Both sides shops, restaurants, and two stands famous for their balboa bars and frozen bananas (both dipped in chocolate and rolled in the topping of your choice) line Marine Avenue.
The other islands consist of Lido Island, Little Balboa Island, Linda Isle, Collins Island, Harbor Island and Bay Island.
Here you find the Lido Marina Village, with shops, art galleries, boutiques and boardwalk cafes.
THE BALBOA FUN ZONE
The Balboa Pavilion, which used to be a Big Band showcase is a restored local landmark dating from 1905. Today it houses special Call 800 800 - 830 - 7744 or 949 - 673 - 5245.
BOATER & # 39; S INFORMATION
The speed limit within the harbor is 5 mph. Fuel docks can be found next to both ferry landings on either side of the bay. A boating Launch ramp is located at in the Back Bay.
There is a Harbor Department guest anchorage dock near the Harbor Patrol and Coast Guard Base. For marine weather updates, including surf and water reports, call 949-673-3371.
DINING AROUND THE HARBOR
For dining in Newport Beach Harbor, there are several restaurants on Lido Island. More can be found near the ferry landing on the Balboa Peninsula. Balboa Island has restaurants on Marine Ave.. views, check out the area of Pacific Coast Highway that lines the inland side of the harbor. This section is sometimes referred to as Mariner & # 39; s Mile.
NEWPORT HARBOR NAUTICAL MUSEUM
Located in the Balboa Marina off of Pacific Coast Highway, the Newport Harbor Nautical Museum is located on a riverboat. It features art and exhibits, which pertain to all things maritime. Many of the exhibits are interactive and there is a touch tank. have hundreds of ship models to peruse.
The museum & # 39; s address is 151 East Coast Highway, Newport Beach. There is a store and restaurant to enjoy after you visit. Their phone number is 949-673-3377
Description: Newport Beach Harbor. Discover all the scenic pleasures Newport Beach Harbor has to offer, from from a boat on the water or strolling around Balboa Island or the peninsula.
CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE
Every December, Newport Beach Harbor hosts a Christmas Parade of Lights. This is a great family event. Boaters and homeowners alike go all out in decorating their homes and / or boats. Viewers stroll or sit along the bay front on Balboa Island, enjoying the show of passing lights reflecting off the water.
For more information, call 949-494-3030. Special tip: You can grab a hot cocoa or cafe mocha at the local Starbucks on Marine Avenue to keep your hands and innards warm, as December nights can be quite cool by the bay.
A vacation in Newport Beach hotel more than just the beach; you have the newport beach Harbor to enjoy as well.
