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NEWPORT BEACH PHOTOS: Left to right – Balboa Peninsula; Surfer on Newport City Beach overlooking Newport Pier; Crystal Cove State Beach; Kid plays in sand on Balboa Island beach; Corona del Mar State Beach seen from hill above beach

When you think of Newport Beach, the name evokes all sorts of emotions.  Some think of it as a place where rich people live. Vacationers see it as one of the best beaches for vacation rentals where you can stay a week. John Wayne,  Buddy Ebsen, Dennis Rodman and a list of celebrities and all star athletes too big to count have called Newport Beach “home” at one time or another.  Many of the old-time residents have lived in Newport Beach since they were kids and they don’t consider themselves excessively wealthy–just rich in experiencing the luxury of living in such a magical place on the waterfront.

With half a dozen manmade islands, a peninsula, and the coastline comprised of Corona del Mar, Newport Coast and Crystal Cove State Beach, Newport Beach isn’t just one beach or one beach experience. Here are few places to check out:

•  Corona del Mar (Crown of the Sea) – is set on cliffs that descend to sandy coves, rocky shores and tidepools.
• Crystal Cove State Beach is known for its renovation of adorable beach cottages you can rent. It also is set at the base of cliffs.
• Balboa Peninsula – The bulk of vacation rentals, plus a few hotels, are located along approx. 5.2 miles of flat sand beaches. This is the place people think of when they think “beach” in Newport.  A paved strand for pedestrians & bikes, two piers, a fun zone, a ferry ride, the famous Wedge, fishing trips, whale watching and Catalina Island boat service are all located here.
• Balboa Island – The beaches are narrow and small on the island but popular with families at this premier vacation destination with lots of beach cottage rentals.