Getting the Most Out of Your Newport Beach Vacation Rental
Southern California has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Staying in a Newport Beach Vacation Rental is an ideal way to enjoy the beaches, but there is much more to do. I’ve lived in Orange County most of my life and have been fortunate enough to have done it all. Below is a list of things you must do while staying in your Newport Beach vacation rental.
Ride the ferry boat to Balboa Island and get a Balboa Bar. For those who don’t know, a Balboa Bar is a vanilla ice cream bar hand dipped in chocolate and rolled in a topping of your choice (e.g., sprinkles, nuts, etc.). They are a Balboa Island tradition. Dad’s Donuts is pretty much recognized as setting the standard for these treats, but there are many shops on the island where you can get them. The island is very small so you can’t miss these treats.
Rent a paddle boat and cruise around the bay. This is a great way to enjoy the area. Newport beach looks different when viewed from the water. If you’re lucky you’ll even be able to get up close with one of California’s most famous acquatic residents - the California Sea Lion. From your Newport Beach vacation rental, head to the ferry stop and you’ll find several paddle boat rental shops.
Eat at Joes Crab Shack on Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). This restaurant has a great family-friendly atmosphere. The food is great and the prices are reasonable. It’s not fine dining, but you’ll have a good time.
If you’ll be staying in your Newport Beach vacation rental during December, don’t miss the boat parade. Days and times vary year to year. The parade takes place around Newport Harbor and features everything from yachts to dingys all decked out for the holidays.
Of course you Newport Beach vacation rental stay would not be complete without visiting the beach. You can’t go wrong anywhere along Newport Beach. I recommend going near the Newport Beach Pier. There are a few shops next to the pier so it’s convenient to grab lunch during your stay.
That’s it for the “must do” list. Now for a listing of some of my other favorite things to do around Newport Beach: go deep sea fishing from Davey’s Locker in Balboa, visit the OC Marketplace (swap meet), eat at The Old Spaghetti Factory, have a Pizookie at BJ’s Pizzeria in Balboa (this probably should be on the must do list), go to the OC Fair (in July/August), walk or bike alongside the sand on the bike path.
