The beautiful, wide sands of Newport Beach stretch for 5km and are, unsurprisingly, home to some of California's most exclusive million-dollar homes!
In a nutshell
There's plenty of public access where you can soak up the sun or have a go at the most popular local pastime - surfing!
Don't miss a day trip to Catalina Island. Spot seals at Seal Rocks or take a glass-bottom boat at Lovers Cove Marine Reserve for underwater exploits.
Shopaholics can head to the Spanish-style open-air shopping mall, Fashion Island - it's almost opposite your hotel!
The hugely popular TV programme The O.C. is filmed here - have the OC experience when you stay in Newport Beach and watch out for those cast members!
Eats & drinks
Marine Avenue on Balboa Island has plenty of culinary delights and Mariner's Mile is famous for its harbourside restaurants.
Getting there
Newport Beach is quite spread out along that lovely 5km stretch of sand, while the harbour is further along the Balboa peninsula, ideal for exploring by car.