Balboa Peninsula + Balboa Island
Stroll the peninsula or ferry to Balboa Island with our Lido beach cruisers
BALBOA FUN ZONE
Entertaining since 1936
Balboa Fun Zone is a family-friendly destination on the Balboa Peninsula that attracts almost seven million visitors a year. The Fun Zone features an iconic 45-ft. Ferris wheel, boardwalk, rides, and Cape Cod style shops and restaurants. It's home to ExplorOcean, an organization that educates children on ocean literacy through hands-on activities, field trips and their various attractions. A part of life in the area since 1936, the Fun Zone is easily one of Newport Beach’s most popular attractions. It’s also the starting point for the many ocean-side adventures Newport Beach offers, including whale-watching tours and day trips to Catalina Island.
BALBOA ISLAND
A one-of-a-kind man-made treasure
Whether you drive, walk, bike or take the iconic ferry, Balboa Island is a delightful man-made gem that you won’t want to miss. Start your tour along Marine Avenue, with its chic coastal shops featuring unique nautical designs, stylish beach fashions, art and jewelry. You’ll also want to explore its many quaint restaurants and bistros. And whatever you do, make sure you try the island’s famous Balboa Bar and Frozen Banana. These two delightful desserts — dipped in chocolate and covered with a variety of toppings, including cookie crumbs, nuts and sprinkles — have been local mainstays for nearly 75 years.
BALBOA FERRY
A scenic crossing with historic charm
Since 1919, Balboa Island Ferry has provided continuous service for drivers, their vehicles and passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians between Balboa Island and Newport Beach’s Balboa Peninsula. The ferry's direct route allows passengers to enjoy a scenic crossing with historic charm, avoiding the additional six miles it takes to reach the island via bridge.