There are plenty of beaches up and down the coast of Southern California, but the beach towns of Newport Beach and the Balboa Peninsula offer much beyond just having fun on the waves and in the sand. (Although those are very good things on their own.) A visit to this area offers the chance to enjoy restaurants that are unique to the area, fun shops on the boardwalk and activities on the sand or in the famous “Fun Zone.” Vacationers can get close to all the action by renting houses in the area and blending in with the locals.
Dining and Beach Treats in Newport Beach
While in Newport Beach and the Balboa Peninsula, one has the chance to eat above the Pacific Ocean at the end of a pier at Ruby’s, order up a bowl of the “World’s Best Clam Chowder” at the Crab Cooker or eat homemade Mexican recipes at Avila’s El Ranchito. Those who are in the mood for something sweet can just walk up the boardwalk for Newport’s signature beach treats – frozen bananas and Balboa bars. The boardwalk is also the perfect place to find a slice of pizza, donut holes and corndogs.
Renting a Beach House in Newport Beach
A great way to enjoy the area is to rent a beach house for a week or longer. Local realtors act as brokers for rentals, but there are also do it yourself options for finding just the right place. The beach side of the peninsula goes for premium prices but good prices can be found for those who rent on the bay side. Either way, a rental allows visitors to park the car and be within walking distance of everything they want.
Beaches and Piers in Newport Beach
Newport offers miles of white sand beaches that are open to the public. At the north end of the area is the Newport Beach Municipal Beach and Newport Pier which is a great place to watch surfers at sunrise while enjoying food from the corner shops on the boardwalk. Moving further south, the Balboa Beach and Balboa Pier offer fire rings for enjoying a bar-b-cue and bonfire after the sun goes down. Finally, at the southern end of the area is the world famous “Wedge,” where travelers can walk the rocks of the jetty and watch body surfers and boogie boarders.
On Vacation But Right at Home
Newport Beach and the Balboa Peninsula is the perfect place to take a vacation, yet feel like part of the community while living amongst the locals in a beach house and enjoying the area’s special eateries.
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