Newport Beach Neighborhood Guide
Like most cities, Newport Beach boasts an array of neighborhoods that–in their distinctive architecture, local businesses, and traditions–add depth and interest to our coastal town’s character. And from Balboa Island to Newport Coast, each of Newport Beach’s enclaves boasts a unique feel. Yet, understanding them–and discerning which is best tailored to your lifestyle–is a local’s job. Enter Founding Member of The Scout Guide Newport Beach and Scouted Real Estate Agent, Michelle Q. Linovitz.
Known for her white-glove approach and keen eye for design, Michelle Linovitz is one of coastal Orange County’s most sought-after real estate experts. A top producer involved in many of Newport Beach and Corona del Mar’s most notable sales, Michelle’s expertise is rivaled only by her deep roots in the community (read more about those roots here). Deeply ingrained in the fabric of coastal Orange County living, Michelle offers longtime locals and newcomers an unparalleled understanding of local neighborhoods.
Here, Michelle lends neighborhood-specific knowledge, breaking down her favorite Newport Beach communities to share the elements that attract buyers and make living local lovely–no matter where you choose to put down roots.
WESTCLIFF
When we talk about Newport Beach here, we’re talking specifically about Cliff Haven, Newport Heights, Dover Shores, Bayshores, and Castaways. Nestled against the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve, it’s a highly walkable area locals love.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT
Central location means you’re close to everything Newport Beach has to offer, from shopping to dining & docking.
Family-oriented neighborhoods with access to top-rated schools.
LOCAL FAVORITES
A RESTAURANT (3334 West Coast Highway) for the best martini and cheeseburger.
A’MAREES (2241 West Coast Highway) for splurge-worthy shopping.
BALBOA BAY RESORT & CLUB (1221 West Coast Highway) is a local favorite that gives guests access to 15 acres of waterfront views and luxe amenities. Membership is a must.
C’EST SI BON (149 Riverside Avenue, Suite A) for sandwiches and pastries.
JUXTAPOSITION (191 Riverside Avenue, Suite D) for home goods.
URBAN GARDENER (1811 Westcliff Drive) for fresh stems and last-minute gifts. Also a go-to florist for local weddings and events.
BALBOA PENINSULA & LIDO
Newport Beach’s Balboa Peninsula is flanked by beaches on the one side and Newport’s famed Harbor on the other, where locally-made Duffy Boats are often seen cruisin’ about. Generally known for its eclectic mix of property types, the Peninsula also claims two man-made islands, Lido Isle, known for its waterfront homes and close proximity to Lido Marina Village, and Bay Island, an exclusive island of luxury homes that does not allow cars. At the Peninsula’s tip is the aptly named Peninsula Point, a mix of charming cottages and waterfront estates, and “The Wedge” a renowned surf spot known for its powerful shore break waves.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT
Beach and waterfront properties with private docks abound.
Easy access to the boardwalk, beautiful beaches, and surfing.
LOCAL FAVORITES
ARC BUTCHER & BAKER (417 30th Street) for their chopped salad or (and!) chicken enchiladas.
BALBOA FUN ZONE (600 E Bay Avenue) is a nostalgia-filled Newport Beach landmark beloved by all ages.
BEAR FLAG FISH CO. (3421 Via Lido) for counter-service seafood caught by local fishermen.
LIDO MARINA VILLAGE (3434 Via Lido) for luxe waterside shopping and dining. Enjoy favorites like Alchemy Works, elysewalker and Malibu Farms.
THE WEDGE is a famous surf destination. It has the biggest swell in Southern California, after all.
BALBOA ISLAND
One of the area’s more popular tourist destinations and only accessible by bridge or short ferry ride, Balboa Island is a picturesque man-made island nestled in Newport Harbor, renowned for its small-town charm and scenic waterfront views. Its main thoroughfare, Marine Avenue, is lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and family-friendly restaurants. Pro Tip: Experience the lifestyle before you commit to a purchase by enjoying one of many summer rentals.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT
Highly walkable, and at just 2.6 miles in circumference, it’s the perfect place to stroll with dogs and littles.
Festive. Whether it’s Christmas or the Fourth of July, Balboa Island residents delight in holiday decor.
Easy access to Newport Harbor means easy access to Newport Beach’s favorite mode of transportation: boats. In that vein, docking and dining is part of daily life. Pro Tip: Not waterfront? Enjoy ample public dock access.
A charming mix of cottages and newly renovated homes means there’s something for everyone.
LOCAL FAVORITES
BALBOA ISLAND MUSEUM (210 Marine Avenue) celebrates Balboa Island and Newport Beach culture, preserving the community’s heritage and legacy. New to town? It should be your first stop to get acquainted with your new surroundings.
DAD’S DONUTS (318 Marine Avenue) is a Balboa institution. Grab a Hippo Cookie or Balboa Bar!
THE VILLAGE INN (127 Marine Avenue) is the neighborhood watering hole.
ONCE UPON AN ISLAND (118 Agate Avenue) is the ultimate immersive mermaid experience for kids. Highly recommend their holiday programming come winter months.
ROYAL HEN (311 Marine Avenue) is a cozy neighborhood favorite perfect for date nights – and a founding member of TSG Newport Beach.
RUBY BEACH is a small stretch of sand at the end of Ruby Street popular amongst local families in-the-know.
SAPORI (1080 Bayside Drive) is an Italian restaurant at the island’s entrance where locals opt for dinner when trying to escape the crowds.
CORONA DEL MAR
Stretched along the Pacific coast between Newport Beach and Laguna Beach, Corona del Mar is home to some of the area’s most exceptional real estate, often with captivating ocean views. Most notable to the area is Corona del Mar Village, locally referred to as the “Flower Streets” for the streets’ flower monikers, where restaurants and shops straddle both sides of PCH.
LOCAL FAVORITES
Ocean views and high-end homes.
Walk to buzz-worthy favorites including shops and restaurants.
Easy access to local beaches, Big Corona and Little Corona, which boast kid-friendly tide pools.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT
CDM FARMERS’ MARKET (3201 East Coast Highway) for local goods and produce, open every Saturday from 9:00 to 1:00.
ELWOOD CLUB (690 Newport Center Drive) is an exclusive members-only social club, the first of its kind rolled out by the luxury hospitality group behind the Montage and Pendry Hotels. Saturday nights in the Cabaret are a scene to be seen.
HILLSTONE RESTAURANTS (Multiple Locations) including all the favorites, Gulfstream, Bandera, and R&D Kitchen.
LAGUNA SUPPLY (210 Beach Street) for shopping. Think local-approved wardrobe staples.
ROGERS GARDENS (2301 San Joaquin Hills Road) is a CDM institution with a storied history of gorgeous greenery and a beautiful farm-to-table restaurant.
THE QUIET WOMAN (3224 Pacific Coast Highway) for drinks and live music.
ZINC CAFÉ & MARKET (3222 East Coast Highway) for coffee and marketplace salads.
NEWPORT COAST
Just south of the main body of Newport Beach and north of Laguna Beach atop a hillside that overlooks the Pacific Ocean, Newport Coast is often described as the “Pacific Riviera.” Find ample open space, estate-style homes, and easy access to resort amenities, state parks, and world-class golf courses.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT
Unparalleled views of the Pacific. Expect jaw-dropping vistas from many properties!
Open spaces reign. In fact, of the approximately 9,432 acres that comprise Newport Coast, 75% is dedicated to open space and golf courses.
Easy access to Corona del Mar, Laguna Beach, and John Wayne Airport (ETA: give or take 10 minutes).
LOCAL FAVORITES
CRYSTAL COVE STATE BEACH (Access from I-5, 405 and 73) for beach days, hikes, and walks. Pro Tip: Grab a post-beach burger and shake at the Crystal Cove Shake Shack.
JAVIER’S (7832 Pacific Coast Highway) for margaritas and high-end Mexican. Note the recent renovations, which make it a swank spot.
MODO MIO RUSTIC ITALIAN KITCHEN (7946 East Coast Highway) for locally-owned, family-style Italian.
PELICAN HILL RESORT (22701 S Pelican Hill Road) consistently ranks among the top golf resorts in the country, making it a major pro for golfers.
THE BEACHCOMBER (15 Crystal Cove) for the traditional martini flag raising – 5:00 pm sharp!
EASTSIDE COSTA MESA
Eastside Costa Mesa leans young and hip. In addition to post-war and ranch-style homes, you’ll find tons of young professionals and their generation’s essentials, namely hip bars, coffee shops, and restaurants. Just two-ish miles from the beach, Eastside Costa Mesa offers easy access to the best of Newport Beach living (including access to top-rated schools) without the Newport Beach prices.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT
Urban-meets-suburban feel. Think family-friendly neighborhood vibes with easy access to 17th Street favorites and hidden gems.
Great mix of bars, trendy coffee shops, restaurants, and parks.
Speaking of parks, enjoy easy access to Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve.
NEIGHBORHOOD FAVORITES
BIRDIES BODEGA (333 E 17th Street) for local seasonal produce, fresh bread, dairy, curated pantry staples and more. Located in Sections Fine Meats.
GOOP KITCHEN (1750 Newport Boulevard) is Gwyneth Paltrow’s ghost kitchen intended for take-out and delivery only, but a popular go-to for dinners at home. Bonus that it can deliver in less than 15 minutes!
HI-TIME WINE CELLARS (250 Ogle Street) for hard-to-please oenophiles, a family-owned wine store.
MAMA BIJOUX (234 E 17th Street, Suite 203) for the 14k pick-me-ups and diamond treats.
MILLIGRAM COFFEE & KITCHEN (234 E 17th Street, Suite 107) for coffee or brunch (or both).
SIDECAR DONUTS (270 E 17th St, Suite 18) for gourmet donuts and coffee. Definitely a Saturday morning favorite.
WHERE’S THE PARTY (270 E 17th Street) for festive goods.
Business in bold appear in The Scout Guide Newport Beach Volume 2. For more insider information on Newport Beach neighborhoods and expert guidance on buying or selling in Coastal Orange County, reach out to Volume 2’s Michelle Q. Linovitz. And don’t forget to tell her Scout sent you!
