Lighthouse Cafe
A block from the water but removed from the pier crowds. Order the cortado and the almond croissant. By 9 the regulars are already here reading papers at the corner tables. Come for their pace, not a view.
Cortado and the almond croissant. The pastry case is decent but those two are the move.
- Address
- 1600 W Balboa Blvd, Newport Beach, CA 92663
- Find it
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Inspiration Point
4.8★Walk · Heavy hitter
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Balboa Island Ferry
4.8★Activity · Heavy hitter
Board at the Balboa Island landing in late morning when the ferry isn't crammed. The crossing takes five minutes. Sit on the right side heading out and watch the water change color under your feet. Get off and walk the residential loops on the island. Local dogs outnumber tourists here.
Lookout Point
4.8★Walk · Heavy hitter
Pull off Ocean Boulevard at the small unmarked lot. Walk the short path to the bluff edge. The cove below clears out by 4, and the light hits the water different here than at the main beach overlooks. This is what locals know.