Newport Native

Hometown 101:

Nestled between the bustling beaches of Surf City U.S.A., and the quaint, artistic streets of Laguna Beach, is a shining, seaside town that is anything but sleepy. Newport Beach is one of the top travel destinations for summer vacationers around the world. From its perfectly lined palm tree streets to its laid back surf culture, upscale attractions, and endless dining options, this town is certainly a little slice of heaven. However, this well known, coastal community harbors some hidden gems. If you’re a true foodie (aren’t we all?) and you plan out your day around your meals, fear not, I’ve got you covered from your morning lattè to your insatiable late night cravings and all the go-to photo-opts and adventures in-between. These delicious eateries and beachside activities will make you feel like a true Newportianian for the day.

7:00am Start off your day at Alta Coffee in Cannery Village located near Lido Island. Once an old bookstore, this quirky, close knit coffee shop takes pride in every drink they make by freshly roasting their organic coffee beans daily.

Fan Favorite: The Toffee Lattè. Topped with whipped cream and toffee bits, this drink is sure to start your morning off with a smile. Sit down and enjoy the homey café’s atmosphere with any of their scrumptious breakfast plates for a perfectly filling breakfast. Not feeling a full on breakfast? No problem. Grab your coffee to go and head across the street where you can enjoy your morning cup of joe with your toes in the sand.

9:00am Continue on to one of Newport’s most renowned day spas, Spa Gregories, for some much needed R & R. Located near Fashion Island, enjoy a relaxing full body, 90 minute Swedish massage, or an elegant facial that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. The accommodating staff and tranquil setting combined with excellent amenities will leave you with a very satisfied feeling. It is the total relaxation package: soothing music and a warm, calming presence will have you feeling ready for the rest of your day. Plan Ahead: Reservations are required in advance, so plan accordingly; you don’t want to miss out on this spa experience.

11:00am After your luxurious spa treatment, indulge your shopping senses with some retail therapy at one of Newport Beach’s finest attractions, Fashion Island. This one of a kind, open-air mall houses high end department stores like Bloomingdales and Nordstrom’s, multiple fast fashion offerings such as Brandy Melville and Forever 21, and smaller boutiques like Johnny Was, American Rag and Joie. Grab a tasty frozen treat from Pressed Juicery and enjoy window shopping along the boutique lined pathways while soaking in the Southern California sunshine.

Just as the clock strikes one, cue meal number two.

1:00pm Yes, lunch. So many great local finds for our favorite meal of the day. Depending on what you’re having a hankering for, head down to the Balboa Peninsula and check out the following fantastic choices to curb the lunch time munchies.

If you’re feeling fishy, Bear Flag Fish Company is the hottest and trendiest fish market in Newport. Caught daily right off our coastline, these delectable dishes are sure to leave you satisfied. Local Tip: Lines can get long at peak hours so be sure to check out the menu before hand and call it in for take out. Surpass that line and get your lunch 20 minutes faster!

Craving Mexican food? Wild Taco is just a short walk down the street and serves the tastiest tacos around. The rustic, surfside vibe along with 13 different taco options and a long list of liquid libations hit all the marks for the perfect lunch. Vegetarian Heaven: Try the grilled kale and feta taco and the mexi-cauli taco for a flavor combinations you won't be able to get enough of.

If you’re looking for something lighter, grab an acai bowl from Porrovita.  Just a few paces from Wild Taco, this juice bar serves the most amazing acai bowls around. Topped with granola, coconut flakes and fresh fruit, these bowls are light yet filling. Fun Fact: You can have your acai bowl made inside a cracked open coconut! Grab some napkins and dive in to this delicious treat.

2:00pm Now it’s time for some early afternoon fun in the sun. A classic Newport Beach pastime is a Duffy harbor cruise on the beautiful, sparkling waters of the bay. Self navigate around little islands and channels and enjoy the company of your closest friends. These little electric boats are a great way to explore the waterways of the Newport Bay. The canvas top will keep you cool while the isinglass siding will make you feel like you’re right on the water. Rentals are available in various locations around the harbor but we recommend the Duffy Electric Boat Company on the Pacific Coast Highway. Grab 8-12 of your closest comrades and enjoy an hour or so of panoramic views that the harbor has to offer. Seaworthy Tip: Plan ahead, make a reservation and prepare a charcutière to enjoy while cruising, and don’t forget the tunes! Most boats come with an auxiliary connection so you can listen to all your favorite tunes while you cruise.

5:00pm The happiest hour. Get dressed up and head out to Crystal Cove and take your taste buds for a twirl. Javier’s Restaurant on Pacific Coast Highway is an upscale Mexican restaurant with sophisticated menu items, handcrafted cocktails and a romantic, Spanish ambiance. Sit beneath exposed wood beams and enjoy the coastal views Newport Beach has to offer. The lush vegetation and gorgeous scenery has been expertly enhanced with the open air style and giant windows that overlook the coastline. Not to mention, the portions are perfect and the cuisine is to die for. Local Tip: Get there early,  Javier’s fills up quickly, especially on weekends.

Want a quick bite to eat instead but don’t want to sacrifice quality and service? Try True Foods Kitchen located in Fashion Island. With a wide variety of seasonal vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options and an urban yet clean aesthetic, this restaurant is a sure fire hit. The outdoor seating area is lined with mature vegetation, a living succulent wall, comfortable seating and modern, concrete fire pits. Sit and enjoy their delicious appetizers and craft cocktails before diving into dinner. Fan Favorite: For a mouth watering meal, try the Braised Artichoke Flatbread made with spring onion, English pea and lemon ricotta: complete taste bud nirvana.

8:00pm Wrap up the day with a leisurely loop around Balboa Island. Lined with illuminated bungalows and high end homesteads, this island is a true slice of Newport Beach. Walk off dinner along the sandy seawall while soaking up the soft, sea breeze. Enjoy the picturesque views of the Balboa Pavilion from across the bay and stop to take a photo with a loved one for that picture perfect photo-opt. If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat after your stroll, stop by Dad’s Donut + Bakery Shop for a night cap. This little sweet shop has become a local sensation best known for their cute, colorful Hippo Cookies, world famous frozen bananas and chocolate dipped Balboa Bars. Fan Favorite: Try your Balboa Bar topped with nuts and sprinkles for that extra needed crunch to curb that last night craving.

From breakfast to dessert and everything in-between, this city has so much to offer and I’ve only just scratched the surface of the hidden local hot-spots. The coastal atmosphere, superb weather and excellent eateries combined with endless activities make Newport Beach a dream destination. Whether you are vacationing or stay-cationing, these stops make for one perfect day in paradise.

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