Newport Harbor AKA Balboa Bay

Our beautiful Newport Harbor was formed by nature in the mid-19th century.  Over time it’s been home to shipping endeavors, boat building, fish canning, duck hunting, and more. The one constant from the very beginning has been its attraction to tourists and boaters.  Today it is home to over 9,000 pleasure boats making it one of the largest pleasure boat harbors on this coast. Many large yacht clubs and service clubs dot the bay, in addition to beautiful homes and restaurants.

Experienced sailors compete in summer races and year-round regattas. Sabots with crews of kids can be seen sailing the summer breezes.  Anglers of all ages fish from docks or head out the jetty to find bigger fish to fry. A fun way to see the bay and our eight islands, is from a rented electric boat. 

There are many companies around the ferry landings that rent by the hour and no driving experience is needed. Or, if you want to leave the driving to someone else, the Fun Zone Boat Company offers affordable harbor tours on their vintage boat, the Queen.  Balboa Island is the only island in the bay with a public “boardwalk” that completely surrounds it.  So at the very least, take a stroll around our island for a view that won’t cost you a penny.