Newport Beach is the embodiment of Southern California healthy lifestyle, offering a variety of natural environments and wellness offerings to rejuvenate and restore. From high energy land and water activities to meditative and spa experiences, there are wellness opportunities for every kind of self-care you need.
SKINCARE THAT MAKES YOU GLOW
From perfumes, shower gels and men’s shaving products, Rituals has a natural, eco-friendly skincare collection inspired by the “wisdom and ancient traditions of Asian cultures.” Some of the brand’s most loved products — moisturizers and cleansing balms — are available as refills, so we can all show respect to mother nature.
When it comes to beauty, Cos Bar boasts merch that checks every category—skincare, makeup, hair, all the things. Here, you’ll find luxury brands by the likes of Dr. Barbara Sturm, one of the most sought-after names in the business.
Saje Natural Wellness disperses feel-good aromatherapy and 100% natural skincare that makes you feel your best.
LUSCIOUS GARDENS
Sherman Library & Gardens is a 2.2. acre horticultural oasis. The gardens are set among patios and a conservatory linked together by wide brick wall ways, beds blooming with seasonal flowers and decorative tiled fountains.
Roger’s Gardens is the ultimate creative home and garden leader and serves as the mecca for those seeking imaginative ideas and exceptional products for outdoor and indoor living.
Sculpture Exhibition in Civic Center Park
Nestled next to Newport Beach City Hall are the civic center gardens where guests can stroll 1.23 miles of walking trails around the sculpture exhibition which is the city’s largest display of public art, all situated among a variety of serene native plants.
HIKER’S PARADISE
Castaways Park
Miles: 1.3 (loop)
Difficulty: Easy
Views, views, views! This paved, flat trail is located on the bluffs above the Back Bay with amazing views of the bay and beautiful homes the entire way.
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve
Miles: 3.5 (loop)
Difficulty: Intermediate
Filled with diverse plant and animal life, the 3.5-mile leisure loop along the bluffs of the scenic Back Bay is perfect for joggers, walkers and bikers.
Crystal Cove State Park: Oceanfront Bluffs
Miles: 6 (roundtrip)
Difficulty: Intermediate
Crystal Cove State Park boasts three miles of dramatic coastline with tide pools and rocky coves. Along the cliffs, there is a path parallel to the ocean that is perfect for hiking and observing all of the natural beauty Newport Beach has to offer. After, walk down to the water to spot sea urchin, starfish and many more creatures who call the tide pools home.
Crystal Cove State Park: El Moro Canyon/Moro Ridge Loop
Miles: 9.5 (roundtrip)
Difficulty: Hard
Up in the canyons of Crystal Cove State Park, this challenging trek has an elevation gain of 900 feet and a variety of trails intertwining to make your trip longer and harder. The highlight of this hike is when you reach the peak at Emerald Bay Overlook. The rest of the hike is downhill with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Be sure to wear a good pair of hiking shoes and pack plenty of water, SPF and snacks.
SEASONAL, SUSTAINABLE AND LOCAL BITES
When thinking of Newport Beach cuisine, we like to consider the three S’s: sustainable, seasonal and sourced locally . Newport Beach restaurants take great pride in finding the freshest ingredients from local farmers. With over 450 restaurants, it’s easy to find healthy choices that make you feel your best. Check out our dining guide here!
At this modern yet casual eatery, healthy living and excellent food go hand-in-hand. The variety of menu items — all of which help cleanse the mind, body, and soul — range from edamame dumplings to spaghetti squash casserole to natural refreshments such as a carrot lemonade and my personal favorite, kale-aid (a rejuvenating mix of kale, apple, cucumber, celery, lemon, and ginger). And with plenty of gluten-free items to choose from, True Food Kitchen has become one of my favorite healthy dining spots in Newport Beach.
Innovation and adventure pave the way for the classy cafeteria-style restaurant that is Lemonade. The food is fresh, clean, and looks gourmet even in such a casual setting. There are several “stations” to grab food from: sides and salads, sandwiches and main courses, meats and hot portions, and desserts and lemonade. A lunch break at Lemonade wouldn’t be complete without sampling one of their many lemonade options. I usually go for the cucumber mint, but blueberry mint, pomegranate, guava limeade, and blood orange are just definite must-tries.
If you’re looking for a boost of nutrients to revitalize your spirits, head to Juice Crafters on Balboa Island. Their smoothies and juices combine the highest quality fruits and vegetables and give you the vitamins, minerals, and enzymes your body needs for improved health and enhanced metabolism. If juicing isn’t really your style (it can definitely take some getting used to), try their popular acai bowl and head to the end of Marine Avenue to enjoy it as you gaze out towards the water.
With a choice of two Bear Flag Fish Company locations in Newport Beach — one at Lido Marina Village, and another at Crystal Cove — there is no excuse to not pay them a visit. Only the freshest, most sustainable products are used to create the menu. Options are varied and often, you’ll find it difficult to settle on one particular item. Favorites here include the traditional Hawaiian-style Ahi Poke which sees large chunks of fresh ahi tuna tossed in a traditional soy marinade, or any of the seafood plates to tickle your fancy. There is even sushi and sashimi for those wanting a quick indulgence.
Located on PCH in Corona del Mar, Jan’s Health Bar is the perfect respite for those looking for tasty, guilt-free indulgences. Looking for a quick pick-me-up after your workout? There are a myriad of juices and smoothies to help quickly replenish.
DECADENT SPA
The Spa at The Resort at Pelican Hill
Rated a Forbes Five-Star Spa, The Spa at Pelican Hill is an oasis of serenity with luxurious spa treatments, relaxing steam rooms and sumptuous amenities. Spend the day relaxing by the Acqua Colonnade featuring herbal steam rooms, saunas and saltwater soaking tubs.
Pure Blu Spa at the Newport Beach Marriott Hotel & Spa
Pure Blue Spa is 14,000 square feet of pure relaxation and luxury. Featuring an array of massages, facials, body treatments and nail services, the spa also includes a eucalyptus steam room, dry sauna, salt water whirlpool jacuzzi and refreshing cold water foot plunge. Pure Blu Spa also has a private salt water lap pool surrounded by lounge chairs and cabanas with poolside service.
Spa Gregorie’s Day Spa offers guests a comfortable and relaxing setting where they can experience a full line of spa services. Spa Gregorie’s legendary service has earned Best Spa awards from Orange County Register, Citysearch.com, DaySpa magazine, American Spa magazine, My Fox LA, and Skin Inc. magazine.
