BALBOA PENINSULA

Newport Beach, California

In the rush of daily life in southern California we forget the local destinations that can give us respite from the hustle and bustle of our busy schedules.  We all need a place to relax, breathe, and take a break from the daily grind.  The Balboa Peninsula is a destination that is close, affordable and offers something for everyone.

          Located on the ocean side of the peninsula is the Balboa Pier.  This is a great spot for a stroll on a sunny afternoon.  Pelicans are often found lounging on the pier, in hopes of a treat from the benevolent fishermen who dot the length of the pier.  Pods of dolphins are frequently seen from the pier and the occasional whale is spotted on its yearly migration to the warm waters off Mexico. 

          Fishing off of the pier is a favorite pastime for many people.  Multi-generational families gather here in a multicultural melting pot, to fish for crab and mackerel.  Some days the loaded lines are pulled up, teeming with fish, almost as soon as they are dropped (no overhead casting allowed!).  Other days, with nary a bite to be had, you can watch families talk, read, or nap in the fresh pacific breeze.  Fishermen are always willing to display their catch for the curious and children love to see the variety of sea life that ends up on the pier.

At the end of the pier, with views of the ocean, the coastline, the mountains and Santa Catalina Island sits Ruby’s Diner (See California, 2012). This 1940’s style restaurant features burgers, fries and shakes with indoor dining and an expansive patio upstairs with a 360 degree view.  This was the first Ruby’s, opening its doors in 1982 in the old bait shack at the end of the pier. The food is classic Americana and the prices are reasonable.  A word of caution:  There are no restrooms available in the restaurant, so make sure that you stop at the ones near the front of the pier before heading down to eat! (City of Newport Beach)

After a stroll along the pier it is time to take in the sand and surf.  Stretching west to the Newport Pier and east to the jetty and entrance to Newport Harbor is an expanse of sand that is usually sparsely populated.  Skim boarders hang out by the pier in the hopes of catching a few good waves while kids play in the sand or in a nearby playground.  Sitting on the sand you can close your eyes and hear the cacophony of sound that is the beach.  The noise of the kids playing is heard against a backdrop of crashing waves creating a kind of white noise that instantly transports one to a distant time and memory. 

Bike rentals are readily available and the boardwalk on either side of the pier is bicycle friendly (but with a strictly enforced 8 mph speed limit).  It is an easy ride to the east end of the beach to the jetty and peninsula point park.  This area offers access to the jetty that serves as the entrance to Newport harbor.  Ride a couple miles in the other direction and you will find the Newport Pier.  Bike trails connect the peninsula with the mainland trails along the coast.  You can’t beat the location for a leisurely ride.

Fire rings are available on either side of the pier, although rumor has it that they will disappear after this summer due to local resident complaints.  On any weekend night you will see the glow of the fires from the pier, as families and friends gather for the evening.  Hot dogs and marshmellows are roasted over the open flame and inevitably someone breaks out a guitar for an impromptu concert.

          Don’t feel like lazing on the beach?  Then a quick walk across the street (past a couple of noteworthy watering holes, like BJ’s and the Shorehouse) brings you to the iconic Balboa Pavilion.  In 1906 the Newport Harbor historical landmark was built to attract tourists to the area.  Accessed by the electric Red Car Line it quickly became a seaside destination that put the peninsula on the map. Today it plays host to the Harborside restaurant and Grand Ballroom and is a popular wedding venue.  Sunday brunch is a “must” experience! (Balboa Pavilion Company, 2005)  

          The Fun Zone stretches east from the pavilion and houses activities for the entire family.  Arcades and restaurants are tucked away on the harbor side of the peninsula.  Kids (of all ages) can play in the arcade, take a ride on the ferris wheel or touch the sky with the help of the giant bungee swing.  Restaurants and coffee shops dot the landscape. Sweet treats are plentiful at the Fun Zone, ice cream, frozen bananas, and a candy store are standard fare.  

          One of my favorite things to do is to walk from the pier to the harbor with my husband and two dogs.  The dogs love the beach and there are always birds to chase, seals to bark at and occasionally hamburgers from Rubys! (Don't tell anyone because dogs aren't allowed on the pier!)  The dogs sit politely in their chairs and watch the people go by.


            In Southern California there are many public beaches to choose from but the Balboa Peninsula offers family friendly activities, and miles of uncrowded beaches.  A walk on the harbor, a quiet dinner for two, or a stroll along the harbor are just samples of the activities that we are lucky enough to have in or own backyard!  If you are looking for a place to simply be, to enjoy the beach and all that it offers, this place can't be beat!

            Balboa Pavilion Company. (2005). History of the Balboa Pavilion. Retrieved from balboapavilion: www.balboapavilion.com

           City of Newport Beach. (n.d.). Beaches and Parks in Newport Beach. Retrieved from visitnewportbeach : www.visitnewportbeach.com/things-to-do/beaches-and-parks

  

Newport Beach. (2012, September). Retrieved from See California: http://www.seecalifornia.com/dining/newport-beach-rubys.html

 

 Photos:  Trish Sharkey