Corona del Mar: Crown Jewel of Newport Beach
Discover Corona del Mar: Newport Beach's charming seaside village with stunning beaches, upscale shops, and breathtaking ocean views.
Corona del Mar, translating to "Crown of the Sea," is an affluent and picturesque neighborhood in Newport Beach, California. Known locally as "CdM," it boasts a unique blend of coastal elegance and a vibrant lifestyle. Originally part of the Irvine Ranch, it transformed from a small ranching community into a chic coastal enclave in the early 20th century. CdM is famous for its stunning beaches, including Corona del Mar State Beach (Big Corona), Little Corona, and Pirate's Cove. Corona del Mar State Beach is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and volleyball, while Little Corona offers tide pools and snorkeling opportunities. Pirate's Cove, near the harbor entrance, features unique rock formations and dramatic cliffs. The neighborhood's charming village atmosphere is enhanced by its flower-named streets, a nod to its development in the early 1920s. These streets are lined with boutique shops, upscale restaurants, and art galleries, creating a delightful experience for visitors. Sherman Library & Gardens provides a serene escape with its curated gardens and historical research library. Inspiration Point offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Catalina Island, and Newport Harbor, making it a favorite spot for sunset viewing. Corona del Mar's rich history includes hosting the Pacific Coast Surfboard Championship in 1928 and being home to celebrities like John Wayne. Today, it remains a sought-after destination for its natural beauty, luxurious homes, and community events.
Local tips
- Arrive early at Corona del Mar State Beach to secure parking, especially during the summer months.
- Explore the tide pools at Little Corona during low tide to discover marine life.
- Stroll along Ocean Boulevard to enjoy the scenic coastal views and visit Inspiration Point.
- Visit Sherman Library & Gardens for a peaceful escape and to admire the diverse plant collections.
- Check out local events like the Corona del Mar Christmas Walk or the Garden Tour for a taste of community life.
A brief summary to Corona Del Mar
- Newport Beach, Corona Del Mar, California, US
Getting There
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Walking
From the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and Marguerite Avenue in Corona del Mar, walk south on Marguerite Avenue towards Ocean Boulevard. Turn left onto Ocean Boulevard and continue to Corona del Mar State Beach. The walk is approximately 0.3 miles and should take about 5-10 minutes. Free street parking is available along East Coast Highway, but is limited to 2 hours. Alternatively, paid parking is available at the Corona del Mar Main Beach Parking Lot. Parking here costs $2.50-$4.00/hour, with a daily maximum of $15.
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Public Transport
The OCTA bus route 1 stops near Corona del Mar at Coast-Iris. From the Coast-Iris stop, walk south on Iris Street to Ocean Boulevard, then turn left and continue to Corona del Mar State Beach. A single ride on the OCTA bus costs $2. The bus runs frequently throughout the day, with the first bus arriving at 5:53 AM and the last at 10:02 PM.
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Ride Share
From John Wayne Airport (SNA), a ride-share to Corona del Mar State Beach typically costs between $20 and $30, depending on traffic and the time of day. The ride is approximately 10 miles and takes about 15-20 minutes. Be sure to confirm the fare and route with your driver before starting the trip.
Attractions Nearby to Corona Del Mar
Landmarks nearby to Corona Del Mar
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Corona del Mar Historical Society
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Crystal Cove State Park Historic District
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70 Newport Pier
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Original Irvine Ranch National Natural Landmark Plaque
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Paseo 17
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Infinity Fountain
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Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center (main entrance)
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Beall Center for Art + Technology
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Triangle Square
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Google Irvine Building 1
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Costa Mesa Foundation
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Heroes Hall Museum
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Irvine Historical Society
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Jack & Shanaz Langson Institute & Museum of California Art (Langson IMCA)
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Travel Costa Mesa