5 Ways to Explore Newport Beach’s Most Serene Natural Spaces

Newport Beach is full of natural beauty—from the calm waters of the beautiful Back Bay to the rugged shores of Crystal Cove. And for many, January is a month to focus on health, wellness, movement and inner peace. So in honor of those new year intentions, we’ve rounded up five of our favorite ways to connect with nature and explore the city’s most serene spaces. Here’s how to stay active this month and relish the beauty of the great outdoors.

Hiking

Beach walks aren’t the only way to get your steps in this season. Newport Beach is home to several hiking trails, perfect for a breath of fresh air. For a relatively easy stroll, the Back Bay Loop features flat terrain and sweeping views of the Upper Newport Bay Nature Reserve and is good for all skill levels. If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, El Moro Canyon is a path in Crystal Cove State Park that features a variety of intertwining trails and an elevation gain of 900 feet. But once you reach the peak at Emerald Bay Overlook, you’ll agree that it was well worth the trek.

Kayaking

Hop on a kayak for an upper body workout and some time out at sea! Several companies in Newport Beach, such as Pirate Coast Paddle Company and Newport Aquatic Center, offer rentals by the hour.  Paddle around the Back Bay and keep your eyes peeled for unique birds, or cruise around Balboa Island and admire the quaint homes. There’s no better way to get a workout in while enjoying our city’s coastal beauty!

Standup Paddle-boarding

If you prefer to stand than sit, a SUP tour is for you! Pirate Coast Paddle Company, located on the Back Bay, offers everything from rentals and lessons to special events and group excursions. Paddle-boards can be rented by the hour or day, and Pirate Coast Paddle Company even partners with SoCal Paddle Yoga to bring SUP Yoga classes to Newport Beach! Check the schedule to see when classes begin for the 2023 season.

Tide Pooling

A popular activity for families, tide pooling is a fun way to see marine life up close! Cameo Shores Beach sits below the Cameo Shores community in Corona del Mar and is home to several tide pools ready to be explored. Getting here requires a walk along a rugged shoreline, so bring durable shoes and be sure to visit at low tide. Another option for tide pooling is Little Corona Del Mar Beach, which is flanked on both sides by rocky reefs but features convenient amenities, like public showers and restrooms, free street parking and easy access to the tide pools.

Biking

Zip around town this month via bike! Newport Beach has several bike rental companies, like 20th Street Beach and Bikes, Beach View Bikes & More and Seaside Bike Rentals. Peddle your way down the Balboa Peninsula while taking in views of the pier and waves rolling in. If you prefer a little more efficiency, Pedego Electric Bikes allows riders to zip from place to place with ease. You can spend the day in Balboa Village, see the surfers at The Wedge and go shopping at Lido Marina Village all in one afternoon!

Written by: Kaylin Waizinger