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.
A brief summary to Balboa Fun Zone
- 600 E Bay Ave, Newport Beach, Balboa Peninsula, California, 92661, US
- +1949-662-0193
- Visit website
- 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
Local tips
- Take a ride on the Ferris wheel for panoramic views of Newport Harbor and the Pacific Ocean.
- Enjoy a harbor cruise to see waterfront homes and playful sea lions.
- Visit the nearby Balboa Village for additional shops, restaurants, and attractions.
- Consider taking the Balboa Island Ferry for a unique and scenic way to reach the Fun Zone.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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