As you cruise past beautiful waterfront estates, remember: you're sailing through the same waters where John Wayne captained the Wild Goose, where Buddy Ebsen won yacht races, where Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall entertained friends, and where Hollywood's elite have sought refuge for nearly a century.
Newport Harbor has a rich maritime history dating back over a century. The iconic Balboa Pavilion, built in 1906, stands as the harbor's most recognizable landmark and served as the original ferry terminal welcoming visitors to Balboa Peninsula. Just across the water, the famous Balboa Island Ferry has been continuously operating since 1919, making it one of California's oldest auto ferries and a beloved piece of living history that still shuttles cars and passengers on its quick three-minute journey. The harbor is also the home to the Newport Harbor Nautical Museum, which preserves and shares the area's deep connection to sailing, boating, and coastal life.
- Walk the shops of Marine Ave on Balboa Island for unique shopping & dining
- While on Balboa Island enjoy a frozen banana or a Balboa bar
- Enjoy time at the Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona Del Mar
- Dine at the Crab Cooker where the fish are kept in a bank safe
- Visit Fashion Island for shopping
- Eat at Ruby’s Diner at the end of the historic 1906 Balboa Pier
- Visit Roger’s Gardens America’s most beautiful home and garden center
- Visit the historic Balboa Pavilion and Fun Zone