Balboa Island
Discover the Charm of Balboa Island: A Coastal Gem in Newport Beach
Balboa Fun Zone: A Seaside Amusement Experience
Experience classic seaside fun at the Balboa Fun Zone in Newport Beach, offering rides, games, and harbor views since 1936.
The Balboa Fun Zone, located on the Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach, California, is a family-friendly amusement area offering a mix of ocean and harbor experiences. Established in 1936, it features a Ferris wheel, arcade games, and boat tours, providing a nostalgic glimpse into Southern California's coastal entertainment history.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Balboa Fun Zone
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
600 E Bay Ave, Newport Beach, Balboa Peninsula, California, 92661, US
Wednesday
12 pm-5 pm
Thursday
12 pm-5 pm
Friday
11 am-7 pm
Saturday
11 am-7 pm
Sunday
11 am-7 pm
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Getting There
Walking
From the Balboa Pier, walk east along Balboa Boulevard towards the Balboa Fun Zone. The Fun Zone is located across the street from the pier, a short 2-minute walk. There are no costs associated with walking.
Public Transport
Several OCTA bus lines serve the Newport Beach area. From the Newport Transportation Center, take bus line 1 or 71 towards Balboa. Get off at the Balboa-32nd stop, which is approximately a 10-minute walk to the Balboa Fun Zone. A single ride fare is $2. Alternatively, during the summer, the free Balboa Peninsula Trolley operates on weekends and major holidays, providing service along the peninsula.
Ferry
From Balboa Island, take the Balboa Island Ferry to the Balboa Peninsula. The ferry terminal is a short walk from the Balboa Fun Zone. The ferry operates from 6:30 AM to 12:00 AM, 365 days a year. The fare is $1.50 for adults and $0.50 for children (ages 5-11). The ferry ride is approximately 5 minutes.
Driving
From Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), turn onto Balboa Boulevard and follow it onto the Balboa Peninsula. The Balboa Fun Zone is located at 600 E Bay Ave. Parking is available in nearby lots, including the Balboa Pier Parking Lot. Rates vary depending on the time of year, with hourly rates ranging from $1.20 to $4.10. Daily maximums range from $17.50 to $24. Metered street parking is also available at $1.50 per hour. Parking availability can be limited during peak season.
Local tips
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Take a ride on the Ferris wheel for panoramic views of Newport Harbor and the Pacific Ocean.
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Enjoy a harbor cruise to see waterfront homes and playful sea lions.
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Visit the nearby Balboa Village for additional shops, restaurants, and attractions.
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Consider taking the Balboa Island Ferry for a unique and scenic way to reach the Fun Zone.
Discover more about Balboa Fun Zone
The Balboa Fun Zone is a classic amusement area nestled on the Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach. Since 1936, it has been a destination for families and tourists seeking seaside fun. The Fun Zone offers a unique blend of entertainment, combining traditional amusement park rides with stunning harbor and ocean views.
Originally built by Al Anderson, the Fun Zone started with a Ferris wheel and a merry-go-round. Over the years, it has evolved, survived multiple changes in ownership, and adapted to the changing times while retaining its nostalgic charm. Today, visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including the iconic Ferris wheel, arcade games, and several thrilling rides.
The Balboa Fun Zone provides a variety of activities. Visitors can enjoy rides on the waterfront Ferris wheel, play games in the arcade, rent a boat, or take a harbor cruise. The Fun Zone is located near the Balboa Village, which offers additional shops, restaurants, and the Balboa Pier. The Balboa Island Ferry provides convenient access to the Fun Zone from Balboa Island, adding to the area's unique coastal charm.
The Balboa Fun Zone has been featured in popular culture, including music videos and books. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to offer a simple, carefree enjoyment that is rare to find, blending history with modern-day fun.
A brief summary to Balboa Fun Zone
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