Eat & sip like a local
Skip the chains and buzzy tourist traps. These are the neighborhood staples that locals keep coming back to.Coffee & breakfast favorites
- Vacancy Coffee – Clean, minimalist, and expertly brewed. A peaceful neighborhood gem far from the weekend crowds.
- Herst Coffee Roasters – Female-owned and roasted in-house. Cozy, friendly, with a loyal following of serious coffee drinkers.
- Shirley’s Bagels – No-frills, authentic, and beloved by locals for its chewy perfection. Shirley was a New Yorker who took her bagels seriously, and her legacy lives on—with a few fun new twists.
- Moulin – Feels like Paris by the sea. Authentic French pastries made overnight, strong café au lait, and a tucked-away patio that’s easy to linger on.
- Cappy’s Café – A beachy American diner with hearty breakfasts, a full bar, and zero pretense. It’s been a local favorite for over 40 years, and for good reason.
Lunch & dinner gems
- The Cannery – Once a seafood processing plant, now a harbor front restaurant with sushi, oysters, and dockside views.
- The Royal Hen – Cozy, elevated comfort food and pub fare in the Balboa Island neighborhood where everyone feels like a regular.
- The Quiet Woman – Part steakhouse, part legendary late-night scene. Classic Newport with a side of live music.
- The Original Mama D’s Italian Kitchen – Family-owned, always packed, and known for its warm hospitality and seriously satisfying pasta.
- The Crab Cooker - No reservations and no nonsense. Iconic chowder, grilled fish, and a charmingly retro atmosphere.
- Javier’s – Tropical vibes meet upscale Mexican fare. Don’t miss the tableside guacamole, specialty margaritas or the open-air patio at golden hour.
Coastal strolls & secret beaches
This town isn’t just about sunbathing and yacht-spotting. There’s nature to explore and little slices of coastline you’ll want to keep all to yourself.- Crystal Cove State Park – One of the most scenic stretches of coast around. Walk the bluffs, surf the waves, or explore the old beach cottages.
- The Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve – Known by locals as “The Back Bay,” this natural preserve is home to more than 200 endangered species and 35,000 migratory birds. Kayak through calm waters, bike along nature trails, or simply breathe in the calm of this ecological escape.
- Newport Beach Pier – Excellent for a breezy stroll along the water, it’s surrounded by beach bars, restaurants, and classic SoCal energy.
- Corona del Mar – This neighborhood is home to some of the most beautiful beaches and bluffs in Orange County. Perfect for family picnics or romantic evenings.
- Little Corona del Mar Beach – A tucked-away treasure with tide pools, scenic rock formations, and an off-the-radar feel. It’s a popular spot with divers and locals looking to escape the crowds.
Culture, shops & coastal leisure
When you’re ready to brush off the sand, these local spots deliver history, charm, and a little retail therapy.- Sherman Library & Gardens – A lush, tranquil hideaway with botanical gardens, koi ponds, and an ever-changing lineup of art and exhibitions.
- The Lido Theatre – A beautifully preserved art deco cinema that feels like stepping back in time. Check out a classic film or simply visit their pop-up café.
- Newport Beach Farmers Market – Held every Sunday, market goers can stock up on fresh produce, artisan goods, and salty sea air.
- Lido Marina Village – Come for coastal-chic shopping, bayfront restaurants, and a laid-back atmosphere that you won’t want to leave.
- Fashion Island – High-end shopping meets laid-back California luxury. Don’t miss the outdoor cafes and sweeping views.
- Balboa Fun Zone - A little retro, a little kitschy, and very fun. Ride the Ferris wheel, grab an ice cream, and enjoy the waterfront buzz.
- Golf at Pelican Hill - Two ocean-view courses, perfectly manicured and designed by Tom Fazio. Scenic, challenging, and pure Newport luxury from first tee to final putt.
