72 Hours in Newport
This beach-lover’s paradise is a prime getaway for golf fanatics and those looking to soak up some oceanside R&R. Find it all in this insider three-day vacation itinerary.
What To Do
Experience the Newport area from the ocean via kayak, boogie board, or during a sunset boat tour of Newport Harbor. Or, indulge your glamorous side at Fashion Island, an outdoor mall of high-end designer boutiques featuring the ultimate California beach-chic style. Disneyland is just 30 minutes away, and the San Diego Zoo, Sea World, LEGOLAND, and Universal Studios Hollywood are also within a short drive, making Newport Beach a perfect destination for families. Create your ideal beach escape with this 72-hour itinerary.
Day 1
9 a.m. | Start off your vacation with breakfast, Bloody Mary’s, and an ocean breeze at the quaint Beachcomber Café at Crystal Cove. This classic breakfast spot is right on the sand of Crystal Cove, so be sure to wander up and down the beach while waiting for your table.
12 p.m. | Take a hike through El Moro at Crystal Cove with trails for hikers of all ability levels. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views at every turn.
3 p.m. | Shop ‘til you drop at Fashion Island, the epicenter of entertainment, shopping, and dining. With hundreds of high-end designer boutiques, you’re sure to find something for everyone.
6 p.m. | Sit back and leave the cooking to the professionals with an in-residence dining experience prepared by a private chef. Dine al fresco on your large terrace while taking in the sunset over the ocean.
Day 2
9 a.m. | Stop by Rose Bakery Cafe for breakfast treats in Corona Del Mar before embarking on your day of adventure. Be sure to take sandwiches to go, they’ll be perfect for lunch later on your bike ride. You won’t be disappointed with the club sandwich, piled high with a generous portion of ham, turkey, bacon, avocado, Swiss cheese, lettuce, ripe tomato, red onion, pickle, olives, mayo, raspberry vinaigrette and a touch of ground black pepper.
11 a.m. | Rent bikes from Pelican Hill and cruise along the ocean — all the way to Huntington Beach if you’re feeling ambitious! Stop along the way to take in the beachside views and enjoy your Rose Bakery Cafe sandwiches.
3 p.m. | Relax poolside at The Coliseum Pool back at the resort, surrounded by 18 cabanas complete with 30-inch TVs, dining tables, Bose® music systems, and refrigerators. Kids stay entertained at their own pool featuring a bubble jet fountain and sand play areas.
7 p.m. | Make it a date night at The Dock, a classic waterfront dining experience located on the harbor. The infused continental menu features a harmony of well-balanced flavors and seasonal ingredients, including dishes like Maple Leaf Farm Duck, Fresh Market Salmon, and Natural Pork Chops. The expansive wine list features bottles handpicked from California vineyards and beyond.
Day 3
9 a.m. | Tee off for a morning of golf at Pelican Hill Golf Club. The North Course promises panoramic ocean views at every hole, while the South Course is surrounded by sage and eucalyptus trees and includes three oceanfront holes.
12 p.m. | Cap off your golf game with lunch and cocktails at the bar at Pelican Grill. The bar features a laid-back, California casual vibe in a spacious and light filled space. Sit out on the terrace for stunning ocean views.
2 p.m. | Relax and unwind at Pelican Hill's award-winning luxury spa, featuring 22-treatment rooms including herbal steam rooms, saunas, and saltwater soaking tubs. The serene space is designed to center you from the moment you enter, and each service is personalized to provide the wellness and healing your body desires.
5 p.m. | Have an at-home happy hour with a glass of wine or ice cold lemonade on the back terrace of your private villa. Soak in views of the Pacific spanning the horizon.
8 p.m. | Tonight dine at SideDoor, an English-style gastropub focusing on artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and seasonal dishes. The wood paneled interior takes you back in time while cheerful fireplaces create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Sip a cocktail and cheers to a weekend well spent on the Newport Coast.
Other Highlights Worth Mentioning
Featuring hearty portions of Southwestern-American specialties, Bandera is a great go-to restaurant for the whole family. Comfy leather booths and a bustling bar create a welcoming atmosphere from the moment you walk into your final bite of dessert.
This American bar and eatery specializes in daily seafood plates and cocktails in a modern, marine-themed space.
Cruise the Newport Harbor on an afternoon or sunset ride with an Electric Duffy Boat rental. Each boat accommodates up to 8 people and children of all ages, and features a full overhead canopy, all-weather window enclosures, and Bluetooth stereo system.
Where To Stay
PELICAN HILL RESORT
Located hillside within the private Villa Enclave of Pelican Hill, your full-service luxury villa brings the essence of the Italian hillside to Orange County with Tuscan-inspired décor including travertine flooring, wood-beam ceilings, and an Italian limestone fireplace. Each three-bedroom residence offers an expansive terrace and stunning ocean views — perfect for al fresco meals or sunset cocktails. The open floor plan is roomy and inviting, and the kitchen is equipped with the latest appliances from Sub-Zero and Cuisinart, including a Krups coffee machine. Pelican Hill welcomes you with a small array of complimentary snacks and beverages, such as beer, coffee, and tea.
The Villa Enclave offers its own Villa Pool. Nearby, two world-class golf courses designed by Tom Fazio feature some of the most dramatic landscaping in the world. Indulge yourself at the Forbes Five-Star Spa at Pelican Hill, unwind at the dramatic, circular Coliseum Pool, or simply enjoy hiding away at one of North America’s most acclaimed coastal retreats.