Traveling with Kids

My favorite spot to take my daughter is Marina Park. There is a playground on the sand and the water is right there. You can set up your stuff on the sand and watch your kids near the playground. There aren’t waves here so it’s perfect for kids of all ages. There are bathrooms right next to the playground and showers for when you are done with the sand. There is a decent size parking lot as well as a lot of street parking. There is also kayak and paddle board rental in the community center. This park really has everything; large grass areas, cafe on site, community center, restrooms, playground, back bay, parking, etc. There is also a super cute cafe at the park. Lighthouse cafe overlooks Back Bay and has a variety of food options.

15th Street in Newport. If you have seen my recent posts of paddle boarding, this is where I am. I park near 15th street and if you get there early enough there is plenty of free parking :), I rent a paddle board from Paddle Board Newport Beach, and paddle in Back Bay. There aren’t many waves and the ones from the boats aren’t too intense so you are less likely to fall. This spot is perfect because the workers take the boards down to the water for you and pick them up. Super easy and hassle free. There are plenty of boats around but also plenty of open water to enjoy. I usually head across the water to Beach Drive which is a private beach. No one is usually there and in the morning you are less likely to run into anyone. You are able to swim in the water and enjoy the peace and quiet.

21st Street in Newport which is also known as Newport Pier. I love this spot because you can walk the pier, grab a bite to eat, rent bikes, grab a drink, etc. This is another spot that has a lot to offer. There are a few bars on this street like Stag Bar and Baja Sharkeez. If I am riding a bike, it is from the shop on 21st street.

32nd street in Newport. This spot is perfect because you are far away enough from the crowd of visitors and are in a more residential area. There is also a good amount of food options a block from the beach(walking distance). The parking is more limited here since it is residential but if you go near sunset or early morning, you are likely to find a spot. The food options near 32nd street are Chihuahua Cerveza, Chipotle, Wild Taco, Mama D’s, Porrovita, Gina’s Pizza, and Sanchos Tacos.