Have you ever felt like a kid in a candy store? Just finding yourself faced with so many wonderful options, you almost don’t know what to do first? That’s what happens to a lot of folks when they arrive in Newport Beach. As one of Orange County’s top seaside destinations, the astounding array of diversions, both in and out of the water, can seem too good to be true. But it’s not! Families relocating here won’t have a problem finding awesome stuff to do. It often feels that the very air itself carries a sense of constant festiveness that is both inviting and rewarding. There really does seem to be a party happening everywhere, and often it’s good for all ages.

They say the sky is the limit, but in Newport Beach, it’s fair to say that the ocean is the limit too. Waves are dotted with surfers, placid waters are lazily traversed by kayakers and beaches are carpeted by tanners, volleyball players and cookouts. While the culture here is built around the bounties of the sea, there’s so very much to do on land here too. From shopping meccas to a diverse and delicious culinary culture, whatever your family is into, it will be found. Art galleries thrive across the city. Fabulous attractions and thrilling destinations await discovery. Take advantage of the awesome weather which blesses the area almost every day, or step into air-conditioned comfort for other types of experiences. Let’s take a look at some of Newport Beach’s greatest stops for family fun.

Take It Outside

First and foremost in the SoCal lifestyle is a love for all things outdoors. This is a place with warm temperatures, plenty of sunshine, and a great terrain blessed with amazing wildlife, trees, flowers and plants. Hiking is extremely popular and a great way to spend quality time with the family. In the wonderful parks and preserves within a stone’s throw lie a paradise for birdwatching, ascending to scenic views and a little canyon traversing. Sticking closer to the city, biking on the strand is a great way to get some salty sea air while the Sherman Library Gardens make for a wonderful afternoon stroll. Families into fitness will find wonderful places to jog, golf or play a few rounds of tennis.

But on the ocean, it’s a whole new world. Boogie boarding is a favorite for couples with younger kids in tow while the bolder among you will perhaps give surfing a spin. If you’re into kayaking and canoeing, there are all sorts of great spots to engage on an aquatic expedition while sticking close to shore. More motivated individuals can sign up for some whale watching tours or even scuba sessions in case you want to take your loved ones for a look beneath the waves. But you can also enjoy the ocean from a dry vantage point by taking advantage of the piers. They’re great for a little fishing, a great view of the Pacific and all manner of diversions from performers to vendors.

Artistic Delights

One thing that Newport Beach is extremely proud of is its community of local creators. Visual artists from painters to sculptors reside in this corner of Orange County in vast numbers and it shows. Galleries have flourished, allowing artists to connect with collectors and casual curators alike. Moms will marvel at the vivacious watercolors capturing sunsets and sailboats. Dads might be more into the photography exhibits which reflect the cityscapes and wildlife expertly caught in the camera shutter. And even kids will love what they see as pop culture works represent some of their favorite fictional universes in strange new ways!

Just Off the Coast

Think you’ve taken the family to every corner of Newport Beach? Not so fast! Balboa Island is a magical spot that you simply must bring the whole gang to enjoy. And getting there can be half the fun if you opt for the ferry over the two-lane bridge. Once there, you’ll find a delightful and colorful quaint village to explore. Main Street is the focal point when exploring the island, which features great shopping and restaurants. Seek out the chocolate-dipped banana, a frozen dessert which claims Balboa Island as its birthplace! There are also day cruises which launch from here in case you need another sea adventure. Or rent a kayak and paddle down the island’s own Grand Canal. More than a day trip, you’ll want to revisit Balboa Island again and again!