The Pleasures of Newport Beach Harbor

The largest small craft harbor in the Unitedm.p.h.. Fuel docks can be found next to both ferry
States, Newport Beach Harbor in Newport Beach,landings on either side of the bay. A boating launch
California is not only picturesque, but also full oframp is located at in the Back Bay.
recreational boating opportunities, from taking aThere is a Harbor Department guest anchorage
harbor cruise to renting a kayak. It's evendock near the Harbor Patrol and Coast Guard
enjoyable from land, whether strolling aroundBase. For marine weather updates, including surf
Balboa Island or along the bayside of the peninsula.and water reports, call 949-673-3371.
Newport Harbor is in the lower section ofDINING AROUND THE HARBOR
Newport Bay in Newport Beach, California. It isFor dining in Newport Beach Harbor, there are
about 4 miles long, running parallel to the Balboaseveral restaurants on Lido Island. More can be
Peninsula and the ocean. The harbor is filled withfound near the ferry landing on the Balboa
everything from pedal boats to large oceanPeninsula. Balboa Island has restaurants on Marine
vessels. There are over 9000 boats berthed here.Ave. (which are not on the water). For
Within Newport Beach Harbor there are 7 islands,waterfront restaurants with outstanding views,
mostly filled with lovely houses and flowerycheck out the area of Pacific Coast Highway that
porches. The boater can leisurely take alines the inland side of the harbor. This section is
self-guided tour of these homes from the water.sometimes referred to as Mariner's Mile.
On the other side of PCH (Pacific Coast Highway)NEWPORT HARBOR NAUTICAL MUSEUM
the Newport Back Bay and Upper Bay extendLocated in the Balboa Marina off of Pacific Coast
well inland.Highway, the Newport Harbor Nautical Museum is
THE ISLANDS IN NEWPORT BEACH HARBORlocated on a riverboat. It features artwork and
The biggest island is Balboa, accessible by bridgeexhibits, which pertain to all things maritime. Many
from Jamboree Road and Pacific Coast Highway,of the exhibits are interactive and there is a touch
or by car ferry from the Balboa Peninsula neartank. They also have hundreds of ship models to
the Balboa Fun Zone. This charming little beachperuse.
community has a scenic walkway that encirclesThe tall ship Lynx docks here and gives tours as
the island, with the picturesque homes on one sidewell. The museum's address is 151 East Coast
and small sandy beaches and boating slips on theHighway, Newport Beach. There is a store and
waterside. Boutique shops, restaurants, and tworestaurant to enjoy after your visit. Their phone
stands famous for their balboa bars and frozennumber is 949-673-3377
bananas (both dipped in chocolate and rolled in theDescription: Newport Beach Harbor. Discover all
topping of your choice) line Marine Avenue.the scenic pleasures Newport Beach Harbor has
The other islands consist of Lido Island, Littleto offer, whether from a boat on the water or
Balboa Island, Linda Isle, Collins Island, Harborstrolling around Balboa Island or the peninsula.
Island and Bay Island.CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE
The other major island for visitors is Lido Island.Every December, Newport Beach Harbor hosts a
Here you'll find Lido Marina Village, with shops, artChristmas Parade of Lights. This is a great family
galleries, boutiques and boardwalk cafes.event. Boaters and homeowners alike go all out in
THE BALBOA FUN ZONEdecorating their houses and/or boats. Viewers
This historic little area on the peninsula side of thestroll or sit along the bay front on Balboa Island,
bay offers a small Ferris wheel, carousel, arcadeenjoying the show of passing lights reflecting off
and even bungee jumping. The Balboa Pavilion,the water.
which used to be a Big Band showcase is aSpecial tip: you can grab a hot cocoa or
restored local landmark dating from 1905. Todaycafé mocha at the local Starbucks on
it houses special events and wedding functions.Marine Avenue to keep your hands and innards
Catalina boats leave from here daily (less inwarm, as December nights can be quite cool by
winter). Call 800-830-7744 or 949-673-5245.the bay. For more information, call 949-494-3030.
BOATER'S INFORMATIONA vacation in Newport Beach means more than
Whether you are renting a boat or visiting withjust the beach; you have the Newport Beach
your own yacht, the following information may beHarbor to enjoy as well.
of use. The speed limit within the harbor is 5