Getting Around Newport Beach & Corona del Mar: A Local’s Guide
Navigating the coastal charm of Newport Beach and Corona del Mar is part of the experience. Whether you're staying for a weekend or settling into the lifestyle, getting around should feel effortless, scenic, and fun. From electric bikes and harbor ferries to yacht charters and coastal hikes, this guide highlights the best ways to explore every corner of these two iconic seaside communities.
Arriving & Getting Around
By Car
Fly into John Wayne Airport (SNA). Rental car services like Avis, Hertz, and Enterprise are available on-site. Newport Beach is easily accessed via the 55 and Pacific Coast Highway. If you use toll roads, check out The Toll Roads for info on FasTrak and one-time payments.
Public Transit & Shuttles
Use OCTA buses to navigate between neighborhoods like Balboa Island, Newport Center, and Corona del Mar. For private rides, check out Yellow Cab of OC or LAXcar.
Ferry & Trolley
- Balboa Island Ferry: A scenic 5-minute ride between Balboa Island and the peninsula for cars, bikes, and pedestrians.
- Balboa Peninsula Trolley: A free, seasonal 22-stop loop. Park for free at the Avon Street Lot and ride stress-free.
Fun & Unique Local Rides
- Newport Beach Moke: Rent these open-air electric cars for a retro, eco-friendly ride around town.
- Balboa Island Golf Carts: Cruise in comfort with a custom golf cart rental—perfect for island exploration.
- Duffy Electric Boats: Glide through Newport Harbor with a self-captained electric boat rental.
- Seaside Bike Rentals: Grab a beach cruiser or tandem bike from this long-time local favorite on Balboa Peninsula.
- Pedego Electric Bikes Newport Beach: For effortless cruising from Back Bay to Crystal Cove.
For water sports:
- Pirate Coast Paddle Company (SUP rentals at Back Bay)
- Endless Sun Surf School (Surf lessons on the peninsula)
- Erik Nelsen Surf Camps (Corona del Mar surf instruction)
Harbor & Coastal Adventures
Explore the coast from the water with these options:
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Private Charters & Boat Rentals:
- BayWatch Boat Charters: Custom cruises, Catalina trips, and harbor tours.
- Newport Coast Marine: Sleek powerboats, captained charters, and event cruises.
- Paradiso Yacht Charters: Luxury 85-ft yacht for private parties and harbor tours.
- Cruisin’ Tikis Newport Beach: BYOB floating tiki bar with a captain included.
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Self-Rentals:
- Southwind Kayak Center (for kayaks and stand-up paddleboards)
- Newport Fun Tours: Offers everything from paddleboards to surreys and electric bikes.
Outdoor Activities & Active Transit
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Hiking & Nature Trails:
- Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve: Scenic birdwatching and biking around the bay.
- Crystal Cove State Park: Tidepools, bluff hikes, and beachfront access.
- Buck Gully Trail: A hidden gem in Corona del Mar.
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Beaches & Surfing:
- The Wedge: Legendary surf break at the peninsula’s tip.
- Corona del Mar State Beach: Perfect for swimming, beach walks, and tidepooling.
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Golf:
- Pelican Hill Golf Club: 36-hole ocean-view course designed by Tom Fazio.
- Newport Beach Golf Course: A convenient and casual 18-hole executive course near the airport.
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Fishing & Ocean Excursions:
- Davey’s Locker: Whale watching and deep-sea fishing.
- Newport Landing Sportfishing: Half-day to overnight fishing trips.
|
Area |
How to Get Around |
What You’ll See & Do |
|
John Wayne → CDM |
Scenic drive along PCH into Corona del Mar |
|
|
Corona del Mar |
On foot, bike, or Pedego Bike |
Stroll Coast Hwy shops, hike Buck Gully, explore tidepools |
|
Balboa Peninsula |
Park at Avon Lot + ride trolley |
Visit Balboa Fun Zone, arcades, pier |
|
Newport Harbor |
Rent a Duffy Boat or charter with BayWatch |
Dock & dine, harbor cruise, spot sea lions |
|
Coastal Adventure |
Newport Moke or VanDutch Yacht |
Cruise PCH, yacht party, sunset sail |
Insider Tips
- Avoid traffic and parking stress by riding the Balboa Trolley or ferry.
- Pair water and land: paddle in the morning, hike Crystal Cove in the afternoon.
- Book ahead for yacht charters, surf lessons, or weekend bike rentals.
- Sunset timing: drive south along PCH late afternoon for ocean views.
Final Thoughts
From coastal bike rides to electric boat cruising, Newport Beach and Corona del Mar offer stylish, laid-back ways to explore. Whether on foot or ferry, boardwalk or yacht, every ride reveals a new slice of local charm.
Looking for help planning a stay, neighborhood tour, or coastal itinerary? VALIA Properties can guide you toward homes for sale or lease in the area, blending lifestyle with luxury real estate expertise.