Discover the Charm of Balboa Island
Experience the enchanting beauty of Balboa Island in Newport Beach, CA, where charming shops and stunning waterfront views await your discovery.
Balboa Island in Newport Beach, California, is a picturesque seaside destination that offers a blend of stunning views, charming shops, and relaxing beach vibes. With its unique atmosphere and beautiful waterfront, it's a perfect getaway for tourists looking to enjoy the California coast.
A brief summary to Balboa Island
- Newport Beach, California, US
Local tips
- Visit during the weekday to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Don’t miss the famous Balboa Bars; they are a local treat you won’t want to skip!
- Consider renting a bike to explore the island and nearby areas easily.
- Check out local events or farmers markets happening during your visit for a taste of local culture.
- Bring a camera to capture the picturesque scenery, especially during sunset.
Getting There
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Bus
From Huntington Beach, head to the nearest bus stop. You can catch the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) bus route 1 from the Huntington Beach Central Park area. Board the bus heading towards Newport Beach. Stay on the bus for approximately 30 minutes. Get off at the 'Balboa Island' stop. From there, follow the signs to Balboa Island, which is a short walk away.
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Bicycle
If you prefer to cycle, rent a bike from one of the many rental shops in Huntington Beach. Start from the Huntington Beach Pier and ride south along Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Continue for about 6 miles until you reach the Balboa Island Ferry terminal. Park your bike at the terminal and take the ferry across to Balboa Island, which operates frequently.
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Walking
For those who enjoy walking, you can stroll from downtown Huntington Beach to Balboa Island. Start at the Huntington Beach Pier and walk south along the beach path. Follow the beach until you reach the Newport Beach area. From there, head west toward the ferry terminal at Balboa Peninsula. This walk is approximately 4 miles and will take about 1.5 to 2 hours, offering beautiful ocean views along the way.
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Rideshare
Use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Simply request a ride from your current location in Huntington Beach to Balboa Island. The driver will be able to take you directly to the ferry terminal on Balboa Peninsula, and from there, you can easily access Balboa Island.
Discover more about Balboa Island
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
70 Newport Pier
2.9 km
Experience the beauty and charm of Newport Pier, where stunning ocean views meet vibrant beach life in Newport Beach, California.
Corona del Mar Historical Society
3.0 km
Explore the captivating history of Corona del Mar at the Historical Society, where stories, artifacts, and community come together.
Paseo 17
3.6 km
Discover Paseo 17: Costa Mesa's premier shopping mall featuring dining, beauty, and wellness experiences for a delightful day out.
Triangle Square
4.4 km
Discover Triangle Square, Costa Mesa's premier shopping destination blending retail, dining, and entertainment for an unforgettable experience.
Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center (main entrance)
5.2 km
Explore the beauty of California's wetlands at the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center in Newport Beach, a nature preserve filled with educational experiences.
Costa Mesa Foundation
6.4 km
Explore the Costa Mesa Foundation - a cornerstone of community spirit, engagement, and local initiatives in the heart of Costa Mesa.
Crystal Cove State Park Historic District
6.4 km
Discover a captivating blend of history and natural beauty at Crystal Cove State Park Historic District, where vintage cottages meet pristine beaches and scenic trails.
Infinity Fountain
6.5 km
Discover the mesmerizing Infinity Fountain in Irvine, California—a beautiful oasis perfect for relaxation and stunning photography amid lush landscapes.
Talbert Regional Park
6.5 km
Explore Talbert Regional Park: A serene nature preserve in Costa Mesa, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and discovering diverse wildlife.
Google Irvine Building 1
6.7 km
Discover the architectural marvel and innovative spirit of the Google Irvine Building, an emblem of Silicon Valley's tech culture in sunny California.
Beall Center for Art + Technology
6.8 km
Experience cutting-edge art and technology fusion at the Beall Center, UC Irvine's innovative space for contemporary creativity.
Travel Costa Mesa
7.3 km
Experience the vibrant culture, shopping, and outdoor beauty of Costa Mesa, your ideal Southern California getaway.
Original Irvine Ranch National Natural Landmark Plaque
7.9 km
Explore the beauty and history of the Original Irvine Ranch National Natural Landmark in Newport Coast, where stunning views meet rich cultural heritage.
Jack & Shanaz Langson Institute & Museum of California Art (Langson IMCA)
8.0 km
Explore the creative essence of California art at the Jack & Shanaz Langson Institute & Museum of California Art, Irvine's premier museum destination.
William R Mason Regional Park
8.2 km
Discover the natural beauty and recreational opportunities at William R Mason Regional Park, a perfect retreat in Irvine, California.
Unmissable attractions to see
Balboa Fun Zone
0.6 km
Experience the thrill of rides, games, and seaside fun at Balboa Fun Zone, the quintessential amusement park of Newport Beach.
Castaways Park
1.6 km
Explore the beauty of Castaways Park in Newport Beach, a serene escape with stunning ocean views and outdoor activities for all.
Newport Beach- The Wedge
2.0 km
Experience the thrill of surfing and stunning coastal views at Newport Beach's iconic The Wedge, a must-visit for beach lovers and adventurers.
Newport Beach
2.2 km
Explore Newport Beach, California – a coastal gem with beautiful beaches, shopping delights, and outdoor adventures for every traveler.
Sherman Library & Gardens
2.3 km
Experience the tranquility of Sherman Library & Gardens, a botanical paradise in Corona Del Mar, California, perfect for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Ocean Front W
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant coastal charm of Ocean Front W in Newport Beach, where sun, surf, and relaxation await you in Southern California.
Bunnyhenge
2.4 km
Explore Bunnyhenge, a whimsical installation of charming bunny sculptures in Newport Beach, California, perfect for family fun and memorable photos.
Corona Del Mar
2.5 km
Experience the stunning beaches, upscale dining, and vibrant atmosphere of Corona Del Mar, Newport Beach's coastal treasure.
Marina Park
2.5 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Marina Park in Newport Beach, a perfect destination for relaxation and family fun amidst stunning waterfront views.
Inspiration Point
2.9 km
Discover breathtaking ocean views and serene landscapes at Inspiration Point, a must-visit scenic spot in Corona Del Mar, California.
Newport Beach Pier
3.1 km
Explore Newport Beach Pier for stunning ocean views, local cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere that captures the essence of Southern California's coastal lifestyle.
Little Corona Beach
3.2 km
Explore the serene beauty of Little Corona Beach in California, a hidden gem with sandy shores, tide pools, and stunning ocean views.
Lions Park
4.3 km
Explore Lions Park, a serene Costa Mesa oasis with lush greenery, playgrounds, and scenic paths perfect for relaxation and family fun.
Costa Mesa Historical Society
4.6 km
Explore the rich history of Costa Mesa at the Historical Society, a captivating museum showcasing the city's vibrant past through engaging exhibits.
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve
5.3 km
Experience the beauty of nature at Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve, a scenic haven for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers in Newport Beach.
Essential places to dine
Wild Goose Tavern
2.8 km
Experience the lively charm of Wild Goose Tavern: where American cuisine meets vibrant nightlife in Costa Mesa.
Playa Mesa
2.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Playa Mesa - Costa Mesa's go-to spot for authentic Mexican cuisine and refreshing cocktails.
The Country Club
3.2 km
Experience upscale American dining at The Country Club in Costa Mesa—where culinary artistry meets vibrant nightlife.
Tabu Shabu Costa Mesa
3.2 km
Experience authentic shabu-shabu at Tabu Shabu Costa Mesa - where every meal is an interactive culinary adventure.
Restaurant
3.4 km
Experience authentic flavors in Costa Mesa's vibrant East Side at this cozy restaurant offering diverse culinary delights.
The Crack Shack - Costa Mesa
3.7 km
Experience gourmet chicken dishes in a vibrant atmosphere at The Crack Shack in Costa Mesa – where flavor meets fun!
Eat Chow
4.2 km
Discover culinary excellence at Eat Chow in Costa Mesa – where New American cuisine meets innovative flavors in a cozy setting.
Black Knight Lounge
4.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at Black Knight Lounge in Costa Mesa—where great food meets live entertainment for an unforgettable night out.
Cafe Sevilla of Costa Mesa
4.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Cafe Sevilla of Costa Mesa - your ultimate destination for authentic Spanish cuisine and live entertainment.
Yard House
4.4 km
Experience the best of New American cuisine at Yard House in Costa Mesa – where great food meets craft beer in a lively atmosphere.
SOCIAL Costa Mesa
4.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of New American cuisine at SOCIAL Costa Mesa - where culinary creativity meets casual dining in Southern California.
Pasta Connection
4.8 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine with Argentinian flair at Pasta Connection in Costa Mesa – perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
NORMS Restaurant
5.4 km
Experience classic American breakfast delights at NORMS Restaurant in Costa Mesa – where family dining meets delicious comfort food.
Great Mex
5.5 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Great Mex in Costa Mesa – where vibrant dishes meet affordability and warmth.
Filomena's Italian Kitchen & Market
5.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Filomena's Kitchen & Market in Costa Mesa—where tradition meets taste in every delicious dish.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Open House Gifts
2.3 km
Explore Open House Gifts in Newport Beach for unique gifts and stylish women's clothing, capturing the essence of California's coastal charm.
Lovely Curated Things
2.7 km
Discover exceptional women's clothing at Lovely Curated Things, a chic boutique in Costa Mesa offering curated styles that inspire creativity and individuality.
Shop Common Thread
3.0 km
Discover the perfect blend of style and comfort at Shop Common Thread, Costa Mesa's premier women's clothing store offering unique fashion finds.
Fleur De Lys
3.1 km
Explore Fleur De Lys in Costa Mesa for unique gifts, stunning jewelry, and exquisite home goods that elevate your shopping experience.
The Latest Thing
3.7 km
Discover unique gifts and books at The Latest Thing, Costa Mesa's charming gift shop, perfect for memorable souvenirs and thoughtful presents.
Costa Mesa Shopping Center
3.8 km
Experience shopping and dining like never before at Costa Mesa Shopping Center, a hub of vibrant retail and entertainment in Southern California.
So-Lo Boutique Consignment
4.2 km
Explore the vibrant world of pre-loved fashion at So-Lo Boutique Consignment in Costa Mesa, where unique styles meet sustainable shopping.
Lil Posh Resale Boutique
4.2 km
Explore Lil Posh Resale Boutique in Costa Mesa for eco-friendly baby shopping with stylish finds at unbeatable prices.
Costa Mesa Courtyards
4.4 km
Discover diverse shopping, dining, and entertainment at Costa Mesa Courtyards - a vibrant shopping mall experience in sunny California.
Wicked Chamber Boutique
4.7 km
Explore your creativity at Wicked Chamber Boutique in Costa Mesa, where costumes, accessories, and unique fashion come together for every occasion.
Five Below
5.6 km
Discover unbeatable deals on gifts, toys, and trendy accessories at Five Below in Costa Mesa, where everything is $5 or less!
At Home
5.6 km
Explore At Home in Costa Mesa, your go-to destination for a wide range of stylish home goods, furniture, and unique décor options.
T.J. Maxx & HomeGoods
5.9 km
Discover unbeatable deals on stylish clothing, accessories, and home goods at T.J. Maxx & HomeGoods in Costa Mesa, a shopper's paradise.
Shop For Investors
6.3 km
Explore Shop For Investors in Irvine, CA for a diverse selection of trendy and classic clothing styles in an inviting shopping environment.
University Center
7.2 km
Explore the lively University Center in Irvine, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pie Society Bar
3.1 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Pie Society Bar in Costa Mesa, where delicious food and drinks meet a vibrant social scene.
The Harp Inn
4.0 km
Experience the warmth of Irish culture and spirited sports at The Harp Inn, Costa Mesa's beloved Irish pub and sports bar.
The Boulevard
4.2 km
Discover The Boulevard, a chic cocktail bar in Costa Mesa, California, where innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
Goat Hill Tavern
4.3 km
Explore Goat Hill Tavern, a vibrant cocktail bar in Costa Mesa, offering an unforgettable nightlife experience with great drinks and lively entertainment.
Tiki Bar
4.5 km
Experience the vibrant Tiki Bar in Costa Mesa, where tropical vibes meet live music and delicious bar and grill cuisine for a perfect night out.
Our Bar and Kitchen
4.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of grilled cuisine at Our Bar and Kitchen, a cozy Costa Mesa hotspot for food lovers and socializers.
Three-13 Bar
5.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Three-13 Bar in Costa Mesa, where grill specialties meet a lively atmosphere and exceptional service.
Landers Liquor Bar
5.3 km
Experience vibrant dining and refreshing drinks at Landers Liquor Bar, the perfect Costa Mesa destination for brunch and nightlife.
Madeleine's
5.5 km
Discover the inviting atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Madeleine's, a must-visit bar in Costa Mesa, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
Anthill Pub & Grille
6.9 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and delicious cuisine at Anthill Pub & Grille, the perfect spot for tourists in Irvine, California.
Patrick's Pub
7.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and craft cocktails at Patrick's Pub, a must-visit destination in Costa Mesa for an unforgettable night out.
Ruin Bar
7.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Costa Mesa at the Ruin Bar, where eclectic decor meets masterful mixology for an unforgettable experience.
Kitsch Bar
8.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Costa Mesa at Kitsch Bar, where eclectic decor meets an exciting drink menu.
The Huddle
8.1 km
Discover the vibrant ambiance and friendly atmosphere at The Huddle, Costa Mesa's go-to bar for craft drinks and great company.
Mesa
8.1 km
Discover the sophisticated blend of gourmet dining and vibrant nightlife at Mesa in Costa Mesa, California.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sevilla Nightclub of Costa Mesa
4.4 km
Experience the pulse of Costa Mesa's nightlife at Sevilla Nightclub, where music, dance, and vibrant energy come together for an unforgettable evening.
Time Nightclub
4.4 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Time Nightclub, Costa Mesa's premier venue for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
STRUT Bar & Club
4.9 km
Discover the lively STRUT Bar & Club in Costa Mesa, where vibrant nightlife, live music, and an inclusive atmosphere create unforgettable experiences.
The O Lounge
6.7 km
Experience the luxurious ambiance and vibrant nightlife at The O Lounge in Newport Beach, where unforgettable moments await.
Legacy Nightclub and Lounge
7.6 km
Discover Newport Beach's vibrant nightlife at Legacy Nightclub and Lounge, where affordable drinks and an exciting dance floor await.
Tin Lizzie Saloon
7.9 km
Discover the inclusive nightlife at Tin Lizzie Saloon, a vibrant gay bar in Costa Mesa, offering cocktails, entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Arena OC
8.0 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Costa Mesa at Arena OC, where unforgettable nights of music and dancing await you!
Access
9.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Access, a chic lounge in Costa Mesa offering handcrafted cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Plush Karaoke Lounge
10.7 km
Unleash your inner star at Plush Karaoke Lounge, the ultimate destination for karaoke enthusiasts in vibrant Irvine, California.
SULTANA Ultra HOOKAH LOUNGE
12.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Huntington Beach at SULTANA Ultra HOOKAH LOUNGE, the ultimate destination for premium hookah and lively entertainment.
Surf City Hookah Lounge
12.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Surf City Hookah Lounge, where flavorful hookah meets a welcoming atmosphere in Huntington Beach.
3AM
12.6 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit at 3AM Night Club in Huntington Beach - where unforgettable parties and vibrant music collide.
Focus
13.8 km
Discover the electrifying atmosphere and dynamic nightlife at Focus Night Club in Huntington Beach, the ultimate destination for unforgettable nights out.
Rooftop Lounge
14.0 km
Discover the stunning Rooftop Lounge in Laguna Beach, where breathtaking ocean views meet exquisite dining and vibrant nightlife.
The Circle OC
14.0 km
Experience the thrill of nightlife at The Circle OC, where live music, dancing, and socializing come together in the heart of Huntington Beach.
