Newport Coast with Kids Family Guide 2026
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I’ve always felt drawn to the sea, and Newport Beach has long been my happy place. It’s where I first tasted my favorite mint chocolate chip ice cream during a family vacation at just five years old. Years later, it became the backdrop for countless lazy summer days with my hubby when we were teenagers. Now, it’s where I get to watch my own children play, explore, and create beach memories that will last a lifetime.
While Newport Beach holds a special place in my heart, it also attracts millions of visitors each year. Yes, it’s home to a few of the famous OC Housewives, and many people associate the area with glitz and glamour. But the truth is, it’s surprisingly relaxed and incredibly family-friendly, especially when exploring the beautiful Newport Coast with kids.
From chic coastal spots to laid-back beaches perfect for little ones, this slice of Orange County truly offers something for everyone. And if you’re looking to discover even more sandy gems, be sure to check out my Orange County Beaches Guide for additional family-friendly inspiration.
Being a local, it’s a wonder I travel anywhere else! Without further ado, here are some fun things to do in Newport Coast with kids.
Things To Do In Newport Beach With Kids
Newport Beach Pier
70 Newport Pier, Newport Beach, CA 92663
A visit to the iconic Newport Beach Pier is a must when exploring the Newport Coast with kids. This classic coastal landmark offers the perfect blend of relaxation and seaside adventure for families.
At the base of the pier, you’ll find a lively hub of shops and dining options, making it easy to grab a casual bite, enjoy an ice cream treat, or pick up beach essentials. Convenient public restrooms are also located nearby, which is always a win when traveling with little ones.
From there, you can take a leisurely stroll along the pier, soaking in sweeping ocean views and watching surfers ride the waves below. It’s also a fantastic spot for dolphin sightings or catching a breathtaking sunset. If walking the pier isn’t on the agenda, simply settle in on the sandy beach and let the day unfold naturally.
Have fun in the sun, sand, and surf by bringing a cozy blanket, beach chairs, and a few favorite toys. Kids will be perfectly content building sandcastles, collecting seashells, and splashing in the gentle waves. Sometimes the best adventures are the unplanned ones, and this beach provides the perfect setting for carefree family moments.
With its easy access to amenities, vibrant atmosphere, and endless play opportunities, the Newport Beach Pier is an ideal spot for creating lasting family memories.
See some of our family adventures by the Newport Beach Pier:
Balboa Fun Zone Rides
600 East Bay Ave. #R Newport Beach, CA 92661
A visit to Balboa Fun Zone is like stepping into a nostalgic seaside carnival. This permanent beachside fair has been a beloved Newport Beach attraction since World War II, delighting generations of families with its classic charm and laid-back coastal vibe.
At the Fun Zone, there’s no shortage of entertainment for kids and adults alike. Families can enjoy vintage-style arcade games, charming rides, scenic harbor cruises, and even unforgettable whale-watching excursions. And of course, you’ll find plenty of tasty treats—because no beach day is complete without a sweet indulgence.
One of our family’s absolute favorites is the iconic Ferris wheel. Dating back to 1936, this historic landmark offers some of the best panoramic views in Newport. As you gently rise above the waterfront, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas of the harbor, coastline, and colorful boats below—a simple yet magical experience that kids never forget.
From the Fun Zone, it’s also easy to extend your adventure by hopping on the nearby Balboa Island Ferry, a short and scenic ride that transports you to charming Balboa Island for even more family-friendly fun.
Whether you’re seeking thrills, nostalgia, or simply a relaxing day by the water, Balboa Fun Zone delivers a perfect blend of classic seaside entertainment for families exploring the Newport Coast with kids.
👉 Want to plan your visit? Check out our complete guide to the Balboa Fun Zone for insider tips, must-do attractions, and dining recommendations.
Check out family travel videos from Balboa:
Newport Back Bay Preserve
600C Shellmaker Rd.Newport Beach, CA 92660
A hidden gem along the Newport Coast with kids, the Newport Back Bay Conservancy protects more than 1,000 acres of pristine wetlands, creating a vital habitat for a diverse array of wildlife. Officially known as the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve, this peaceful estuary offers families a refreshing escape from the bustle of the nearby beaches.
When visiting the Newport Back Bay Preserve, families can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Paddle through the calm waters by kayak or paddleboard, take in the scenery from a small boat, or explore the extensive network of walking, cycling, and even horseback riding trails. Along the way, keep an eye out for native birds, fish, and other wildlife, making it a fantastic spot for young nature lovers and budding photographers.
The trails wind through picturesque coastal landscapes and extend all the way to Newport Dunes, where the serene estuary meets a family-friendly waterfront recreation area. This connection makes it easy to combine a nature walk or bike ride with additional fun at Newport Dunes, including calm-water swimming, beach play, and waterfront dining.
With its tranquil atmosphere, scenic vistas, and abundance of outdoor activities, the Newport Back Bay is the perfect place for families to slow down, reconnect with nature, and experience a different side of Newport Beach.
See our family travel video from our walk around Newport Back Bay:
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina
1131 Back Bay Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660
One of our absolute favorite spots in Newport, and a place we return to time and time again, is Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina. Tucked along the calm waters of the Back Bay, this hidden gem offers the perfect blend of relaxation and family-friendly fun, making it an ideal base for exploring the Newport Coast with kids.
Whether you’re staying overnight in a charming beach cottage or simply visiting for the day, Newport Dunes has something for everyone. Kids love the gentle, wave-free lagoon, which is perfect for safe swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. There’s also an inflatable water park (seasonal), bike rentals, waterfront dining, and plenty of sandy space to spread out and enjoy a classic beach day. The laid-back atmosphere makes it easy to slow down and let the fun unfold naturally.
For our family, this is more than just a destination, it’s a place where some of our favorite Newport memories have been made. From sunrise strolls along the bay to sunset dinners by the water, Newport Dunes never fails to deliver that perfect coastal escape.
👉 Planning a visit? Be sure to check out my complete guide to visiting Newport Dunes for insider tips, the best activities, and everything you need to plan the perfect family getaway.
Watch what it's like to glamp at Newport Dunes:
Marina Park Newport Beach
1600 W Balboa Blvd, Newport Beach, CA 92663
If you’re looking for a peaceful beach day in Newport, Marina Park is a true hidden gem and a favorite among local families. Much like Newport Dunes, this bayside spot offers calm, wave-free waters, making it a safe and stress-free environment for younger kids to splash and play without the worry of strong surf.
One of the standout features of Marina Park is its beachside playground, where little ones can climb, slide, and burn off energy just steps from the sand. Parents can relax nearby while keeping an easy eye on the action, always a win for a family outing. The park also features grassy picnic areas, scenic walking paths, and convenient public restrooms, making it easy to spend an entire day enjoying the coastal atmosphere.
Another perk? Marina Park is within walking distance of the popular Lighthouse Café, a beloved local spot perfect for grabbing breakfast, lunch, or a casual bite with waterfront views. It’s the ideal way to round out a relaxing day by the bay.
With its tranquil setting, family-friendly amenities, and easy access to dining, Marina Park is a wonderful addition to any itinerary when exploring the Newport Coast with kids. It’s the kind of place where simple moments, building sandcastles, enjoying a picnic, or watching the boats drift by, turn into lasting family memories.
Watch our family travel videos from Marina Park:
Duffy Boat Rentals
2001 West Coast Highway Newport Beach, CA 92663
Be your captain as you cruise around the Newport Harbor in an electric Duffy Boat. These easy-to-operate boats can hold up to ten people and have a canopy cover with a window enclosure to keep you cool. You can pull up to enjoy the various restaurants on the harbor, bring your own food aboard, or even order a pre-made party platter with your reservation. It is a relaxing way to take in the scenery along Newport Harbor with your family.
Pirate Coast Paddleboarding
1131 Back Bay Drive Newport Beach, CA 92660
Paddleboarding is one of my favorite activities to do when in Newport Beach. I love that it is both relaxing and a great core workout. The kids love it too! There are no age restrictions, but children under 8 years old have to share a board with an adult. Paddleboarding anytime of day is great, but if you really want to try something exciting, try the SUP Glow paddleboarding tour. This tour is a lighted nighttime paddleboarding experience. It looks really cool!
Balboa Parasail
600 East Bay Rd Newport Beach, CA 92661
Soar high above Newport Beach, taking in the breathtaking panoramic views with a parasailing tour. Balboa Parasail takes you up 800 ft for a 10-minute ride. The minimum age to fly is 5 years old. For those who want to go on the boat to see your family fly, but don’t want to fly yourself, you can ride for half price.
Newport Landing Whale Watching
309 Palm St A, Newport Beach, CA 92661
Newport Beach is an ideal location for whale watching year-round. From November through April, you can view the Grey whale migration, and from May through December, the blue whale migration. In addition, you can spot dolphins, orcas, seals, sharks, and more! Spending the day on the beautiful waters of the Newport Coast, whale watching makes for a great outdoor activity for the family all year long.
Our Favorite Family Restaurants in Newport Beach
The Old Spaghetti Factory
2110 Newport Blvd, Newport Beach, CA 92663
This is my favorite, because it is the only place I can get my Mizithra Cheese & Browned Butter. My mouth is watering already! Our family loves The Manager’s Favorite, where you get to pair your two favorite sauces. For us, this always means meat sauce and mizithra. I recommend upgrading to the hearty portion, because it makes for a wonderful leftover or late-night snack!
All meals come with bread, salad, and ice cream, which makes this meal a great value for families. My kids LOVE the broccoli, which is slathered in mizithra and browned butter. I ordered the large portion of broccoli for my son and he will eat the whole platter. They also offer whole wheat and gluten-free noodles. The décor is unique with jewel-toned velvet oversized chairs, dark rich woods, Tiffani light fixtures, stained glass, and of course, the signature red trolley. It is the perfect place to end the day and to satisfy that beach hunger.
Crab Cooker
2200 Newport Blvd, Newport Beach, CA 92663
Serving Orange County since 1951, The Crab Cooker is a Newport Beach icon where the line out the door says it all: you’re about to eat something good. Featured in several publications and beloved by locals and visitors alike, this no-frills seafood spot has been a coastal staple for decades.
Founded by WWII veteran Bob Roubian, the restaurant is known for simple, high-quality seafood done right. One of the secrets? Their unique aging and preparation techniques that enhance flavor and texture in a way you don’t always find at the beach.
Inside, the vibe is ultra casual and perfect for families. You can come straight from the sand, grab a seat, and enjoy an easy, relaxed meal served on disposable plates. Kids love watching the open kitchen, and parents love not worrying about dress codes or sandy feet.
And the food? Fresh, flavorful, and generously portioned with plenty of melted butter for good measure.
As a self-proclaimed “part mermaid,” I can say this is one of my favorite spots to enjoy the coastal lifestyle I grew up loving and now get to share with my kids.
Simple, classic, and totally Newport.
Charlie’s Chili
102 McFadden Pl, Newport Beach, CA 92663
This restaurant is located right off the pier and has been in this location for over 50 years! They have fantastic chili (duh) which is even better over fries, but I really love the chef salad and tuna melt. It is always our first stop before we hit the beach and usually where Papa hangs out while the kids play on the sand. They serve breakfast as well and I recommend the chili omelet.
Harborside Restaurant and Ballroom
400 Main St, Newport Beach, CA 92661
Located inside the historic 1906 Balboa Pavilion, the Haborside Restaurant is one of our family’s favorite spots for casual waterfront dining. The bar has the longest happy hour in Orange County that runs from noon to 9:00 pm Monday through Friday and until 5:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday. That doesn’t just mean great drink specials for the adults, but it also means great menu specials! It is really fun to pop into Harborside with the family, order a bunch of small plates, and enjoy the marina views. Kids will like watching the whale-watching boats pulling in and out of the dock.
Mama D’s Italian Kitchen
3012 Newport Blvd Newport Beach, CA 92663
Mama D’s is a very popular family-owned Newport Beach family restaurant that draws crowds nightly. Opened in 2005, they are known for great homemade Italian cuisine and lively friendly experiences. It is a great option if you love Italian food, hearty portions and good time.
The Blue Beet
107 21st Place Newport Beach, CA 92663
This building once served as a blues, jazz, and rock n’ roll club back in 1912 and is known as the oldest bar in Newport Beach. Now, The Blue Beet is a fun Newport Beach family restaurant and a happening live music venue, complete with a rooftop bar. The Blue Beet features lunch specials, daily dinner specials, happy hour, and a kids’ menu. Check the calendar for daily live music times and additional specials.
Avila’s El Ranchito
2800 Newport Blvd. Newport Beach, Ca
Opening in 1975, Avila’s El Ranchito is a popular family-owned Newport Beach restaurant known for their Taco Tuesday. They have fantastic Mexican cuisine, cocktails as well as breakfast served all day every day!
Billy's On The Beach
2751 West Coast Hwy, Newport Beach, CA 92663
For a laid-back meal with unbeatable waterfront views, Billy’s on the Beach is a fantastic family-friendly dining option in Newport Beach. Located right on the water, it’s the kind of spot where parents can unwind with an ocean breeze while kids stay happily entertained by the boats in the harbor.
The vibe is casual and welcoming, making it easy to come straight from a sandy beach day without feeling out of place. Families love the relaxed tiki bar atmosphere and hearty Hawaiian-inspired dishes. It’s a great place to refuel after exploring the Newport Coast with kids, especially when everyone’s hungry from a full day of sun, surf, and sandcastles.
Whether you’re stopping in for a casual lunch or a sunset dinner, Billy’s delivers that classic Southern California beach dining experience, easy, fun, and perfectly unpretentious.
Lighthouse Cafe
1600 W Balboa Blvd, Newport Beach, CA 92663
Just steps from Marina Park in Newport Beach, Lighthouse Café is a relaxed waterfront gem that’s perfect for families. With beautiful harbor views and a casual, come-as-you-are vibe, it’s an easy stop whether you’re coming straight from the beach or wrapping up a morning by the bay.
The menu covers all the crowd-pleasers, think hearty brunch favorites, fresh seafood, burgers, and kid-friendly options, making it a great fit for everyone in the family. The outdoor seating is especially popular, letting you dine while watching boats drift by on the harbor.
Its location inside Marina Park makes it extra convenient for families visiting Marina Park or Newport Coast with kids, since you’re just steps away from playgrounds, open green space, and calm-water beach areas.
It’s the kind of spot where you can slow down, refuel, and enjoy that easy Newport Beach lifestyle, no fuss, just good food and a great view.
Newport Beach Family Hotels & Rentals
Hyatt Regency Newport Beach
1107 Jamboree Rd, Newport Beach, CA 92660
If you’re planning a trip to Newport Beach with kids, the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach is one of those easy “yes” stays. It sits in a prime spot right behind Newport Dunes and just minutes from the beach, the pier, and all the best Newport attractions, so you’re never far from your next adventure.
This is a hotel that gets families. The pool situation alone is a win. It is large, spread out, and designed for real family chaos in the best way. Kids will also love the splash park and waterslides, while parents can actually relax (rare, I know). Nothing screams family-friendly like a hotel with a waterslide, am I right?
When you’re not in the water, there are lawn games to keep everyone entertained, plus plenty of space to just breathe and slow down between outings. And the little touches here are what really stand out, like complimentary plushies for the kids and s’mores kits handed out after dining at the on-site restaurant. Yes, actual s’mores that you can roast by a firepit under the party lights.
It’s the kind of place that makes family travel feel easy instead of exhausting, which is basically the holy grail when you’re exploring the Newport Coast with kids.
The Resort at Pelican Hill
22701 S Pelican Hill Rd, Newport Coast, CA 92657
Situated on over 500 acres of the Newport Coast, The Resort at Pelican Hill is a true family luxury escape. Families have the option of staying in private Villas or Bungalows with access to exciting resort activities. The Coliseum Pool is an amazing 136 feet diameter round pool overlooking the Pacific ocean. The pool is only three-feet deep throughout, so it is nice and safe of kids.
There are three restaurants and two quick service cafes located on the property of Pelican Hill Resort. Andrea serves up North Italian cuisine while Pelican Grill celebrates California Coastal fare. For casual poolside eats, the Coliseum Pool & Grill has pizzas, pastas and salads as you overlook the pool, golf courses and sea! Check the events calendar for resort and kids’ activities.
Little Inn By The Bay
2627 Newport Blvd, Newport Beach, CA 92663
Little Inn By The Bay is that it is located within walking distance from Newport’s beach and pier, which makes it super convenient for families. Not only is Little Inn By The Bay in a great location, it is budget friendly, which can be hard to find in a city like Newport Beach. They even offer complimentary bike rentals and beach equipment, like beach chairs, umbrellas, beach toys, towels and more. The Beach Family Guest Room offers two queen beds, microwave, refrigerator as well as other amenities to help families feel comfortable during their stay.
Lido House Hotel
3300 Newport Blvd, Newport Beach, CA 92663
Dream about the ultimate beach house experience while staying with your family Newport, but love the amenities of a hotel? I suggest the Lido House Hotel, located on the Newport Peninsula within the Mariner’s Village. What was once the former city hall, The Lido House is an adorable Cape Cod-style hotel that is also walking distances for great restaurants and shopping along the Newport Harbor. They offer large accommodations, which is perfect for large families, including two queen guest rooms to large two bedroom cottages. In addition, they have an on-site restaurant, a rooftop bar and a large outdoor pool.
Beach House Rentals
Another great option is beach house rentals. It is great for large families and an easy way to keep the cost in check with meals at home. The more people you have, the cheaper the financial burden on each adult. Plus, it is a casual way to make Newport Beach feel like home. There are options for rentals all over Newport, with several right on the beachfront. This is perfect if you want to hang out on the patio while the kids play in the sand.
Newport Dunes RV Resort
1131 Back Bay Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660
You don’t have to have an RV to enjoy a stay at the family-friendly Newport Dunes RV Resort. In addition to several amazing RV lots, they have cozy beach cottages for rent. The rates are the highest during the summer, but Newport Beach has beautiful weather all year long, so I suggest booking during off-season for best rates. We stay in March every year and have great weather every time. What is great about the Newport Dunes RV Resort is that it is located on the Back Bay with calm, waveless waters, perfect for kids, paddle-boarders and kayakers.
There is a walking/biking trail that encircles the property, which makes for a lovely family stroll around the beach, to the playground, the pool, the convenience store, or one of the two dining options. Mobby B’s is a beachside quick-service dining option that serves up pizzas, burgers, hot dogs, and more. Back Bay Bistro is the lovely waterfront dine-in option that has a great happy hour, yummy food, and great views of the bay.
Several water activities and rentals are available for right on the beach, so if you stay here, there is no need to go anywhere else. If you would like to see what staying at the Newport Dunes is like, click to see our full guide on RVing at Newport Dunes and our vlogs featuring drone footage and things to do at Newport Dunes.
Newport Coast with kids is one of the easiest and most rewarding family beach getaways in California. From Balboa Fun Zone and Marina Park to Newport Dunes and iconic local dining, this coastal escape is packed with kid-friendly beaches, outdoor fun, and unforgettable family memories.
If you’re planning a trip, explore my California travel guides for more must-visit destinations, and don’t miss my Orange County family travel guides for even more beaches, hotels, and activities near Newport Beach.
Newport Coast is just the start—California family adventures are waiting.
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