Destination Spotlight – Newport Beach, CA
A wise man once said, “If you’re lucky enough to live by the sea, you are lucky enough”. Those words could not ring more true for the lucky residents of Newport Beach, California. This spectacular beach city is not your everyday quiet surf town. While the surf culture is extremely popular, Newport Beach is better known as one of the most desirable places to live and visit, boasting extravagant resorts, incomparable shopping, unforgettable coast lines and nature parks, as well as award-winning cuisine. It goes without saying that there is something for everyone in a city as amazing as Newport Beach.
If your group has a flair for the finer things in life or simply prefers a casual beachside soiree, Newport Beach is right up your alley. The coupling of some of California’s best five star resorts along with the beautiful scenery Newport Beach provides makes for an unforgettable destination for meetings and events. Whether you group chooses one of the named locations such as Fairmont, Marriott or Hyatt or opts for an upscale boutique property such as Balboa Bay Resort or Island Hotel, the coastline and harbor are just moments away. Newport Beach resorts are home to acclaimed dining, fabulous spas and fantastic amenities and offer plenty of indoor and outdoor function space. Island Hotel for example, is located adjacent to Newport Beach’s prized possession, Fashion Island. This famous outdoor shopping extravaganza hosts over eight department stores such as Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdales along with several smaller, yet chic, fashion boutiques and, of course, boasts some of the finest dining in the area. With ocean views, outdoor bistros and gorgeous fountains, Fashion Island is a must see.
If your group is more of the outdoorsy type don’t think that Newport Beach can’t fit your needs as well. With a handful of hiking trails to choose from, you’re sure to never get bored. El Moro Canyon is a hugely popular area for hiking and mountain biking. The canyon can be hiked year round and overlooks the Pacific with dazzling views of the ocean and vibrant wildlife, perfect for afternoon group adventures. It’s not unusual to spot migrating California Grey Whales or the majestic Blue Whale from the top of El Moro Canyon.
It’s been said that El Moro is the California of yesteryear. Beautiful, pristine and virtually untouched it’s located in the backcountry of Crystal Cove State Park. This park sits on 3.2 miles of beach and 2,400 acres of undeveloped and conserved woodland that was sold back to the state of California in 1979 as part of the state’s preservation program. In the 1930’s this area was filled with colorful beachside cottages, which eventually grew to become a hallmark of the city. When the land was returned to the state, Newport Beach restored the cottages and today they dot the hillside behind one of the most picturesque beaches in the area, Crystal Cove. The beach is also home to a 1,140-acre underwater park, which was developed just offshore, making it the ideal location for snorkeling and scuba diving.
If that caught your attention and you have a group of avid beach enthusiasts you definitely came to the right place. Although Newport Beach is one of the most extravagant destinations in Southern California, thanks to a number of astounding properties that can reach a staggering $40 million and the West Coast’s largest harbor amply filled with luxury yachts, Newport Beach is clearly more than just a simple beach town. But, if it’s the beach you’re after – no worries there are plenty, in fact ten remarkably beautiful miles of coastline stretches along Newport Beach. The Wedge, Newport’s most notorious spot for high surf is located at the tip of Balboa Peninsula. The Wedge takes its name from the wedge shaped area formed by the swells and backwash crashing together. This spot, where the peninsula ends and the jetty begins, causes some of largest waves in the area. When the surf is up – it’s not unusual to see waves reaching 15 – 25 feet at the Wedge. But beware; this spot is only meant for proficient swimmers and body surfers, it’s a remarkable sight and one worth capturing. There are many other beaches in Newport Beach that aren’t quite as intimidating as the Wedge. Among these are Little and Big Corona, Pirate’s Cove, Crystal Cove and the Peninsula beaches that precede the Wedge, all of which offer plenty of space for beachside teambuilding activities.
Whether you are looking to visit Newport Beach for the first-time, or you are familiar with the area, you are certain to fall a little more in love each time you take a step into the area. Come smell the beach air, unwind at a fabulous resort, relax either beach, pool, or boat side, dine on award-winning cuisine, and remember to take a deep breath and look around, you’re in one of California’s most loved destinations.
Need some help locating the ideal property for your next group meeting or simply want to get a feel for all that Newport Beach has to offer? Connect with Visit Newport Beach, as a destination specialist and partner, Visit Newport Beach offers meeting planner incentives and sponsorships that can extend the meeting budget.
