Top 7 Family-Friendly Activities in Newport Beach This Summer

Summer in Newport Beach has a way of pulling you into vacation mode the moment you arrive! The sparkling coastline, the lively harbor, and the warm ocean air create the perfect atmosphere for families who want a blend of relaxation and adventure. Kids can hop on a Ferris wheel by the water, explore tide pools, rent kayaks, or spend an entire afternoon building sandcastles while parents enjoy ocean views and a slower pace of life. Newport Beach in summer feels bright, playful, and full of fun things to do.

Beachview Rentals helps families enjoy all of this with comfort and ease. Our homes and condos place guests in some of the most desirable areas of Newport, many within a short stroll of the sand. Visitors appreciate the reliability of a professional local team that knows the community well and can offer suggestions for dining, activities, and special requests. Staying with Beachview Rentals means a predictable and relaxing experience without the uncertainty that comes from unpermitted or peer-to-peer rentals.

This guide highlights seven of the best family-friendly activities to enjoy in Newport Beach this summer. These experiences include classic waterfront attractions, nature activities, neighborhood explorations, sweet treat stops, and relaxing places to wind down after a full day outside. Closer to the end of the article, we've also listed family-friendly restrooms to make your journey easier. 

1. Beach Day Fun at the Best Family Beaches in Newport

A trip to Newport Beach in the summer would not be complete without a day on the sand. This part of the California coast is known for its wide beaches, gentle waves, and soft stretches of shoreline that give families plenty of space to spread out. Many of the most popular beaches sit close to Beachview Rentals properties, which makes it easy to take a midday break, grab lunch, or head back for sunset.

Newport Municipal Beach and the surrounding area along the Balboa Peninsula offer a classic beach experience with shallow entry points, lifeguards on duty, and nearby restrooms. Families love how simple it is to set up umbrellas and beach chairs and then let the day unfold as kids play in the sand or splash in the surf. Another great option is Corona del Mar State Beach, known for its calm water and rocky tide pools where children can spot crabs, anemones, and small fish during low tide. The scenery is beautiful, and the atmosphere is peaceful, which helps everyone relax.

When the sun starts to heat up, this is the perfect time to pause for an ice cream or smoothie. Local favorites include Sugar 'n Spice, known for its Balboa Bars, and Cowafornia Ice Cream on the Peninsula. Families who want something refreshing often stop at Juice Crafters for fresh fruit smoothies or cold-pressed juices. Snack breaks like these add small moments of joy that make beach days even more fun.

Pack sunscreen, sand toys, plenty of water, and a sense of adventure! A beach day in Newport is effortless, refreshing, and one of the best parts of any summer vacation here.

2. Balboa Fun Zone: A Classic Newport Beach Experience

For decades, the Balboa Fun Zone has been a beloved place for families to spend a carefree afternoon by the harbor. It is one of the most recognizable attractions in Newport Beach and continues to charm kids with its festive atmosphere and simple pleasures. 

The Ferris wheel is the star of the Fun Zone. The ride offers sweeping views of the harbor, boats, and nearby beaches, especially beautiful in the late afternoon when the sun begins to soften. Families can then explore the arcade for a little friendly competition or walk along the marina to enjoy the seaside vibes. The atmosphere feels timeless, with a mix of music, laughter, and warm air drifting in from the water.

A short walk or ferry ride from the Fun Zone takes you to Balboa Island, which is famous for frozen bananas and Balboa Bars. Visitors often stop by Dad's Donuts & Bakery Shop or Sugar ‘n Spice to try these nostalgic treats. The waterfront walkway around the island is stroller-friendly and perfect for slow, scenic outings.

The Balboa Fun Zone blends a sense of history with summer excitement. Families can easily spend a few hours here riding attractions, snacking on sweets, and soaking up the harbor views. It is a simple yet truly unforgettable addition to any Newport Beach vacation. 

3. Marina Park: Playgrounds, Water Views, and Sailing Adventures

Marina Park is one of the best places in Newport Beach for families with children of all ages. The large nautical-themed playground is a highlight, with climbing features, slides, swings, and soft surfaces that make it fun and inviting. The open space and bay views add a calming element to the experience, and the park's layout makes it easy for parents to keep an eye on little ones.

The Marina Park Community and Sailing Center is another wonderful resource for families. Here, visitors can sign up for family sailing classes, youth programs, and seasonal camps. Kayak and small boat rentals are available, offering a fun way to explore the calm waters of the harbor. It is an ideal setting for children to learn something new while being safely guided by professional instructors.

The Lighthouse Café sits right inside the park and is a great place to take a break with coffee, pastries, smoothies, and kid-friendly meals. The outdoor seating looks out at the water, which makes it easy to relax between activities. Marina Park combines recreation, learning, and peaceful scenery, creating one of the top spots for families seeking variety in their day.

4. Environmental Nature Center: Hands-On Fun for Curious Kids

For families who enjoy nature, the Environmental Nature Center is a peaceful escape filled with hands-on learning opportunities. The center features several acres of native plants, wildlife habitats, walking paths, and educational exhibits that help children connect with the natural world. It is a refreshing change of pace from the beach and provides a bit of shade and greenery on a warm summer day.

Families can explore themed gardens, spot butterflies, learn about local ecosystems, and participate in seasonal programs that introduce children to the environment in engaging ways. The center is both indoor and outdoor, which makes it a versatile stop if the weather shifts or if kids need a quieter experience between busier activities.

After visiting, you can stop by a nearby café or grocery store like Sprouts to pick up fresh snacks for a picnic or to enjoy in the car as you head to your next adventure.

5. Fashion Island: Shopping, Splash Pads & Family Dining

Fashion Island is more than a shopping destination. It is one of Newport Beach's most family-friendly outdoor centers and offers plenty of space to wander, shop, dine, and play. The open-air layout feels airy and relaxed, making it comfortable for strollers and easy to navigate with young children.

One of the highlights for families is the splash pad, which is a hit on warm days. Kids can cool off while parents relax nearby. Fashion Island also includes several family-friendly restaurants with outdoor seating. Visitors often enjoy places like Lemonade for healthy and colorful meals, or Gelato Paradiso, which serves some of the best gelato in Orange County.

Pet owners will appreciate that many areas of Fashion Island are dog-friendly, which makes it even easier for families traveling with pets to enjoy a day out together. With boutiques, shaded courtyards, and plenty of dining options, this is a great place to spend an afternoon browsing and treating the kids to something sweet. See an array of our dog-friendly rentals here.

6. Lido Marina Village: Chic, Walkable, and Perfect for Families

Lido Marina Village has a charming waterfront vibe that appeals to both kids and adults. The area is known for its boardwalks, boutique shopping, and gorgeous views of the harbor. The pace here is slow and peaceful, which makes it great for families who want a break from the busier beaches.

Parents can enjoy browsing small shops or grabbing a coffee from Blue Bottle while kids explore the waterfront or watch boats pass by. Malibu Farm, another favorite local spot, offers fresh and wholesome meals that are ideal for families who want a relaxed lunch outdoors. Lido Marina Village is perfect for wandering, taking photos, and enjoying simple moments together.

7. Crystal Cove: Fire Pits, Sunset Views, and S'mores by the Sea

Crystal Cove is one of the most magical places to end a summer day in Newport Beach. The Beachcomber Café rents fire pits that sit right along the sand, creating a cozy setting for families who want to gather, watch the waves, and roast s'mores as the sky begins to change color. The process is simple, but reservations are mandatory since these spots fill quickly, especially during the summer.

The views at Crystal Cove are stunning, and the sound of the ocean adds to the relaxing atmosphere. Families can bring their own s'mores kits or purchase one from The Beachcomber. Ruby's Shake Shack sits nearby and offers milkshakes, burgers, and fries with panoramic views from the cliffside. 

Tips for Visiting Newport Beach With Kids

A few simple tips can help families make the most of their time in Newport. Many attractions are stroller-friendly, but it is helpful to bring a lightweight model for easier navigation. Parking can be busy in summer, so arriving earlier in the day usually provides more options. Families who plan beach days may want to bring shade umbrellas, reef-safe sunscreen, and refillable water bottles.

Family-friendly restroom access can make any outing smoother, especially when traveling with young children. Newport Beach has several reliable locations with clean, easy-to-find facilities that are close to popular attractions. Helpful spots include Newport Municipal Beach near the pier, Corona del Mar State Beach near the main parking lot, Marina Park Community Center, the Balboa Fun Zone area near the pier, Crystal Cove State Park near the Beachcomber walkway, Fashion Island near the play areas, the Environmental Nature Center inside the main building, and Lido Marina Village near the parking structure. These locations are spread across the city, which makes it simple to plan comfortable and stress-free days out with the family.

Summer in Newport Beach offers a wonderful blend of outdoor adventures, family attractions, nature outings, and simple pleasures near the ocean. Whether your perfect day includes a ride on the Ferris wheel, a walk through a nature center, a beach picnic, or s'mores by the fire, there is always something special to enjoy with the people you love.

Beachview Rentals is here to help you feel at home throughout your stay. Our team can assist with special requests, larger gatherings, extended vacations, and even pet-friendly travel. When you are ready to plan your trip, we look forward to welcoming you to Newport Beach and helping you create a summer filled with comfort, fun, and lasting memories.