Balboa Island is a community of not one but three islands off the coast of Southern California featuring some of the most expensive real estate in the country. It wasn’t always that way though. The three islands, Balboa Island, Little Balboa Island, and Collins Island, were man made, created through dredging.
Over time, as the area’s cache rose, the island grew popular with tourists, yachters, and jet-setters. Balboa Island is located in the heart of Newport Harbor. Locals simply call it “The Island” a place widely known as one of the best places to live and visit in the United States. All three are surrounded by picturesque Newport Bay. The Big and Little Islands are encircled by paved walking paths and divided by the enchanting Grand Canal – A smooth passage of waterway reminiscent of the famous canals in Venice Italy.
The Island offers an array of luxury real estate properties, fabulous shopping, award winning dining and scenic views in an atmosphere not easily found anywhere along the coast. Balboa Island is a place where luxury meets relaxation and where “going to the beach” is given a whole new meaning.
For many beachgoers, a day at the shore means sun, sand and surf. For others, it’s a trip back in time to fishing piers, boat rides, harborside villages, Ferris wheels, corn dogs and ice cream. Perhaps no other seaside community in Southern California offers such a nostalgic setting for walking as the Balboa Peninsula and Balboa Island in Newport Bay.
Protected by the sandy Balboa Peninsula, the bay’s tranquil waters provide shelter for both a fleet of pleasure craft and an ecological preserve, as well as eight islands.
Known for its many unique shopping and dining choices, Balboa Island is a mecca for tourists and locals alike. Many flock to the man-made island during the summer months to take in sandcastle building competitions, enjoy a ferry ride or water sports, or just to stroll along the storefront-filled avenues, enjoying the boutiques and eateries.
An ideal spot for waterfront activities, Balboa Island provides a variety of choices for every adventure seeker. Visitors can go on whale watching tours or take Hollywood-themed cruises to view old movie stars’ seaside retreats. Parasailing, water-skiing and stand-up paddle boarding are also popular island activities. The chic coastal shops of Marine Avenue offer a break from the beach and a chance to buy one-of-a-kind souvenirs. A short, scenic ferry ride across the harbor leads to neighboring Balboa Village & Fun Zone, where a Ferris wheel, arcades and a nautical museum offers fun for the whole family.
No trip to Balboa Island is complete without indulging in a famous frozen banana or Balboa bar at Sugar ‘n’ Spice, which also offers sundaes, shakes, and other treats. Ciao Italian Restaurant is known for simple and delicious comfort food while Wilma’s Patio Restaurant is classic American beach vacation food, complete with breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For something a little more elegant, Pas.Tu features international fare with a French and Mediterranean twist. The Village Inn, the island’s only bar, offers a lively happy hour and nightly live entertainment. #balboaisland #newportbeach #boatcruise
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