Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina is nestled along the shores of Newport Bay. It has cottages/cabins and an RV park, but the beach itself is open to the public. There’s a long stretch of sandy beach with calm waters and no waves, making it the perfect spot for babies, toddlers, and young children.
Newport Dunes also lot water-based activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding, which you can rent. There’s also an inflated playground floating in the middle of the bay. You need to buy a ticket to play on it, and they can sell out pretty quickly.
On the beach is a pirate-ship-themed playground that’s fun for kids. There’s also a restaurant and convenience store serving hamburgers, hot dogs, pizza, and ice cream.
Where is Newport Dunes?
Location and Address
1131 Back Bay Drive
Newport Beach, California
Parking & Cost
Newport Dunes is completely free to the public to visit. However, there is paid parking, which varies by the hour. Visit the website for the latest parking rates >
What’s at Newport Dunes?
Bathrooms & Drinking Fountains
Newport Dunes ensures that visitors have access to clean and well-maintained restroom facilities. Restrooms are conveniently located near the beach, playgrounds, and recreational areas, providing families with easy access during their fun-filled day by the water. Additionally, drinking fountains are available throughout the resort to keep everyone hydrated during their adventures.
Available Food Nearby
Moe B’s Munchies, located on the beach, has basic American food available, including hamburgers, sandwiches, hot dogs. The Marketplace is a convenience store that as snacks and packaged quick meals, along with ice cream.
What to Bring with You
To make the most of your trip to Newport Dunes with kids, make sure you bring all the essential beach items:
- Towels
- Sunscreen (the beach can sometimes be overcast, but you can still get sunburned!)
- Beach Toys
- Floaties, floatie vests, or life jackets
- Snack Packs
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Newport Dunes is during the warm and sunny seasons of late spring, summer, and early fall when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. Weekdays typically offer a more tranquil experience, while weekends can be busier with more visitors.
Lodging in Newport Beach
If you’re coming from out of town, or just want to stay a few days in Newport Beach, there are a lot of options available to you.
Newport Dunes Cottages, RV Parking, & Tent Camping
If you want to stay at Newport Dunes, you can rent out a beachfront cottage, and RV parking space, or a tent-camping space. Make reservations here >
Family-friendly Hotels in Newport Beach
There are a lot of hotels suitable for kids in and around Newport Beach. Here’s are shortlist of some great ones – they include some combination of free breakfast, onsite restaurant, pool & hot tub, cribs available and family-style living rooms:
- Lido House Autograph
- Balboa Bay Resort
- Balboa Inn, On the Beach
- Hyatt Regency Newport Beach
- Holiday Inn Express Newport Beach
Search for more hotels:
Vacation Rental Homes in Newport Beach
If you’re looking for an entire house for more of a “home” feeling, there are plenty of rentals available on Airbnb or Vrbo:
Activities & Attractions Around Newport Beach
If you’re staying a little longer, there are plenty of other activities in the Newport Beach area for the entire family. Here are a few highlights:
- Whale-watching cruise
- Balboa Fun Zone
- Fashion Island
- Sherman Library & Gardens
- Environmental Nature Center
Explore other things to do in Newport Beach >
Video of Our Visit to Newport Dunes
