Discover the Charm of Balboa Island
Experience the idyllic charm of Balboa Island in Newport Beach, a perfect blend of relaxing beaches, historic sights, and delightful culinary treats.
Balboa Island is a picturesque gem in Newport Beach, California, known for its stunning waterfront views, quaint shops, and vibrant community. Perfect for a leisurely stroll or a day of exploration, this island offers a delightful escape with its sandy beaches and charming atmosphere, ideal for tourists seeking a relaxing getaway.
A brief summary to Balboa Island
- Newport Beach, California, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and stunning sunrise views.
- Don’t miss trying a frozen banana from one of the local stands; it's a Balboa Island tradition!
- Take the ferry to Balboa Peninsula for a different perspective of the coastline.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll want to walk around and explore every corner of the island.
- Check out local events happening during your visit; Balboa Island often hosts fun community activities.
Getting There
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Bus
From your current location in Irvine, head to the nearest bus stop. Look for the OCTA bus line 1 or 29. Board the bus heading towards Newport Beach. Stay on the bus for approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Once you arrive at the Newport Beach stop, walk south towards the beach, and you will find Balboa Island. Follow the signs that point towards the ferry for a scenic approach to the island.
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Bicycle
Rent a bicycle from one of the local rental shops in Irvine. Start your ride heading west toward the Santa Ana River Trail. Follow the trail south until you reach the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Turn left on PCH and continue until you reach the Balboa Island ferry area. The ride will take about 50 minutes to 1 hour, and you'll enjoy beautiful views along the way.
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Walking
If you are staying near the center of Irvine, you can take a long walk to Newport Beach. Head west towards Jamboree Road, then walk along Jamboree until you reach the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Follow PCH south, enjoying the coastal views. The walk will take around 2 hours, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
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Rideshare
Use a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft. Input 'Balboa Island, Newport Beach, CA' as your destination. The driver will pick you up from your location in Irvine and take you directly to the island. The trip usually takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
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
Explore the picturesque Crystal Cove State Park Historic District, a blend of natural beauty and rich history along California's stunning coastline.
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
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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
Discover the joy and excitement at Balboa Fun Zone, an iconic amusement park on Newport Beach's picturesque Balboa Peninsula.
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 the beauty of the coast at The Wedge, Newport Beach's iconic surfing destination with stunning views and vibrant beach culture.
Newport Beach
2.2 km
Discover the coastal charm of Newport Beach, California, where sun, surf, and scenic beauty await 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 unmatched beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Corona Del Mar, Newport Beach's gem with stunning beaches and delightful local culture.
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
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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
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The Crack Shack - Costa Mesa
3.7 km
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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
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Yard House
4.4 km
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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
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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
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Lil Posh Resale Boutique
4.2 km
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Costa Mesa Courtyards
4.4 km
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Wicked Chamber Boutique
4.7 km
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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
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T.J. Maxx & HomeGoods
5.9 km
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Shop For Investors
6.3 km
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University Center
7.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pie Society Bar
3.1 km
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The Harp Inn
4.0 km
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The Boulevard
4.2 km
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Goat Hill Tavern
4.3 km
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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
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Three-13 Bar
5.2 km
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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.
