Balboa Island is a favorite vacation destination for beachgoers across the country. The largest of the islands in Newport Harbor, Balboa Island is accessible by car, bicycle or walkway. Its year-round appeal, beautiful beaches and family-friendly environment draw about 10,000 vacationers each summer. With few hotels on the island, visitors often use Balboa Island weekly rentals as bases to explore the most popular things to do in this nautical paradise.
- Enjoy the Water
Balboa Island has multiple public beaches and five piers that are accessible from a paved boardwalk that circles the island. Beachgoers can keep an eye out for the region’s aquatic wildlife, including sea lions and whales, or enjoy recreational activities like kayaking, water-skiing or paddleboarding. Whatever your preference, it’s easy to enjoy the sun, sand and water.
- Shop on Marine Avenue
Marine Avenue, Balboa Island’s Main Street, is known for shops that appeal to every taste and age. The island has more than 100 stores, art galleries and dining options, including a wide selection of boutiques that range from high-end fashion to gift shops. You can find designer pieces at A’maree’s Sale Away, family beachwear at Balboa Surf and Style or the Persimmon Tree, and denim at Mode-ology. A quick trip on the Balboa Island Ferry to Balboa Peninsula presents even more shopping opportunities.
- Explore the Island’s Dining Options
The restaurants, cafes, and bistros of Balboa Island offer an impressive selection of dining options, including fresh seafood, burgers, Italian, Chinese, French and confections. In fact, Balboa Island is known for signature desserts such as the Frozen Banana and the Balboa Bar from local favorite Sugar ‘n Spice. Residents and vacationers alike flock to Wilma’s Patio Restaurant for comfort food and Ciao Balboa for Italian staples and pizza. If you’re in the mood for sushi, barbeque, or Vietnamese, you can head to Balboa Peninsula for additional options to satisfy any palette.
With all Balboa Island has to offer, it’s no wonder the island is beloved by residents and vacationers alike.
