Introducing Newport Beach
Newport Beach has two things going for it: a superb stretch of coast and lots and lots of money. Its citizens, uniformly fresh-faced and sun-kissed, are the last word in resort wear. You’ll be hard-pressed to find even one brooding, pimply-faced smoker in a too-large sweater. And if you’re seen walking along one of the access roads, don’t be surprised if a passing SUV recommends that you ‘Get a car, loser!’
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Why have all these rich people chosen to live here? Because, despite all the glitzy development, the local environment is particularly lovely. The city surrounds a pretty natural harbor that doubles as one of the largest pleasure craft harbors in the US. Balboa Peninsula, which faces the harbor on one side and the open ocean on the other, is less ritzy than the rest of the city, but its wide beaches are terrific.
Newport Beach Conference and Visitors Bureau (800-942-6278; www.newportbeach-cvb.com, 110 Newport Center Dr, Suite 120; 8am-5pm Mon-Fri) provides maps, brochures and other tourist information at its main office near Fashion Island.
Last updated: Jul 22, 2009
