Balboa Island
Balboa Island
4.5
About
This charming man-made island has been around for over a century and is filled with cozy homes and mouth-watering eateries. Here, you can enjoy a scenic walk along the waterfront, explore the adjacent Collins Island, check out the small Balboa Island Museum, or rent a bike to explore the peaceful streets. When it's time for lunch, head over to Marine Avenue where you'll find family-owned taverns, Swiss bistros, and classic diners. Make sure to stop by the taffy store for some sweet treats, too. Visit during the holiday season to see homeowners decorate their homes in sparkling festive lights. If you're keen on dolphin and whale-watching, many boat tours depart from Balboa Island. – Tripadvisor
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
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4.5
1,434 reviews
Excellent
894
Very good
419
Average
101
Poor
12
Terrible
8
DaronC
Orem, UT49 contributions
Aug 2020
I'd not been back to Balboa Island for a few years until recently. Parking can be a challenge (look online before heading there and find places to park). It's just a fun place to walk around and enjoy the boats, homes, stores, food, and overall atmosphere. There are many shops you can go into and browse. The chocolate covered bananas are wonderful and there are many places to get food. Take the ferry across the bay ($1.25 each way) and then walk over to the beach and pier. It's just a fun place with a nice vibe. Be aware that there are all the COVID restrictions in place right now so be prepared to wear a mask and social distance appropriately. It wasn't crowded on a weekday morning so that was a plus.
Written August 31, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
NewportBeach72
Newport Beach, CA51 contributions
Nov 2020
Really sad how only about 50% of the people walking in town are wearing masks. Many carry in their hand. Orange County is now mandated to wear a mask outside at all times. Narrow sidewalks and people walk by you talking w.o. a mask. May be locals since a lot are walking their dogs. No wonder Orange County moved back to the most restrictive tier. Won't be going back.
Written November 18, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
zapprint
Corona, CA3,125 contributions
Nov 2020
Fun spot if you are in the Newport Beach/Laguna area.
Walking the "downtown" area of Balboa takes you back in time, to the feel of a very small downtown.
If you visit on the weekend or a warm day, you will have trouble finding a parking spot, but it is well worth the stop.
When visiting you do need to taste test the frozen bananas or Balboa Bars!
Walking the "downtown" area of Balboa takes you back in time, to the feel of a very small downtown.
If you visit on the weekend or a warm day, you will have trouble finding a parking spot, but it is well worth the stop.
When visiting you do need to taste test the frozen bananas or Balboa Bars!
Written November 24, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tiffany W
St. George, UT6 contributions
Jul 2022
Although you cannot ride bikes on the main roads or the path next to the water, we still thoroughly enjoyed our bike ride around Balboa Island! We weaved our way up one residential street and down the next, ooh-ing and ahh-ing over one house after another. We then walked our bikes down the main street for lunch, frozen yogurt, and a little shopping. We rented our bikes at 20th Street Bike and Beach rentals, and took the ferry over to the island. The ferry is super easy, and costs $1.75 (cash only) per person. It's a great way to spend part of a day!
Written July 30, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
psudino
Weehawken, NJ4,229 contributions
Mar 2023 • Friends
This island helps prove that some stereotypes of Southern California are absolutely true. The place is beautiful, surrounded by water, with great shops and restaurants and real estate that is completely unaffordable! To make matters even more stereotypical, when we were there the fireman were doing an exercise routine which involved them doing push-ups in the middle of the road without shirts on. You just can't make this stuff up!
Written November 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bumbleandthemog
London, UK42 contributions
Jan 2020 • Family
There was an arcade, a small ferris wheel and other small activities for fees.
We found a play park for our 4 year old which he loved.
The houses are lovely to look at, especially in the holidays with the festive lights.
Friendly people and beautiful place.
We found a play park for our 4 year old which he loved.
The houses are lovely to look at, especially in the holidays with the festive lights.
Friendly people and beautiful place.
Written January 4, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MrGaucho1987
Santa Barbara, CA1,002 contributions
Feb 2022
Balboa Island is not large. It will get busy on the weekends, holidays and over the summer. And when I say busy, I mean packed with people. Parking on the main island is limited. There is basically street parking on the commercial strip then street parking among the closely packed and very cute homes. Wear good shoes. You can easily walk the strip, grab a meal and an ice cream, and by doing so have an enjoyable outing. The more ambitious can walk the island and check out the beautiful location or perhaps rent a bike. Consider a taxi or Uber on busy days. Lastly, bring a few layers as BI's coastal location can result in unpredictable weather.
Written March 25, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
help32250
Corona, CA1,866 contributions
Apr 2020
You still have to exercise during the Coronavirus ... and doing so by taking a walk around Balboa Island was essential for my wife's birthday.
It had been almost 3 years since we had done it. And the Bay Fronts never looked so beautiful. Balboa Island had imposed a "One Way" (clockwise) use of walking on the Bay Fronts. And while there were a number of people walking, it was seldom that we ever passed (or were passed) others. And a sand sculpture reinforced the need to have 6 feet between you and others.
Stay safe. But getting some exercise during the Coronavirus, as long as you obey safe distancing, is still a good thing to do. And not a better place than here.
It had been almost 3 years since we had done it. And the Bay Fronts never looked so beautiful. Balboa Island had imposed a "One Way" (clockwise) use of walking on the Bay Fronts. And while there were a number of people walking, it was seldom that we ever passed (or were passed) others. And a sand sculpture reinforced the need to have 6 feet between you and others.
Stay safe. But getting some exercise during the Coronavirus, as long as you obey safe distancing, is still a good thing to do. And not a better place than here.
Written April 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Carol and Ray L
Lancaster, PA256 contributions
Mar 2024 • Couples
The first thing we did was to take the ferry over to Balboa peninsula. Upon returning, we enjoyed walking around the island and sampling some of the food. We walked down to the Wedge and enjoyed watching the surfers. We took a whale/dolphin 2-2 1/2 hour cruise and were rewarded with seeing thousands of common dolphins jumping up and down in the ocean all around our boat. We also enjoyed a beautiful sunset on the beach.
Written April 3, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mike
Newport Beach, CA1,125 contributions
Nov 2021
1. "Balboa Island" is actually two islands, one 1.75 miles around and one about .9 miles. They are the only islands in Newport Beach with a public sidewalk all the way around each. Walk the sidewalks and enjoy looking at the houses and boats.
2. Parking is tough. Consider parking on Bayside Dr and walking over the bridge. Then stroll the perimeter of both islands.
3. No trip to BI is complete without a frozen banana or Balboa Bar. BOTH Sugar & Spice and Dad's sell GREAT ice cream. Dad's has cookies and donuts.
4. Ride the ferry over to the "Fun Zone."
5. Enjoy a meal. There are several fine restaurants. You can't go wrong.
6. Understand that if you rent a bike, you can't ride it on the sidewalks.
2. Parking is tough. Consider parking on Bayside Dr and walking over the bridge. Then stroll the perimeter of both islands.
3. No trip to BI is complete without a frozen banana or Balboa Bar. BOTH Sugar & Spice and Dad's sell GREAT ice cream. Dad's has cookies and donuts.
4. Ride the ferry over to the "Fun Zone."
5. Enjoy a meal. There are several fine restaurants. You can't go wrong.
6. Understand that if you rent a bike, you can't ride it on the sidewalks.
Written November 14, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
crazzzielady
Denver, CO132 contributions
Wondering if Balboa Island or Pacific beach is better choice for MID OCT for 3 teens and mom/dad
Steve Concialdi
Orange County, CA743 contributions
Yes, I would say Balboa Island too. You won’ have to deal with the homeless in the Pacific
Beach area.
crazzzielady
Denver, CO132 contributions
Ugh- never been to Newport or Laguna etc- want to take 2 13 yr olds and a 15 yr old with hubby and me- In OCT so getting into water not on top of list- thinking a canal home rental? ( rent a duffy and zip around to restaurants and shops- can you dosck at restauarants???
or rent bikes on the strand ( still want to get to shops etc and NOT chain shops- more boutique- mom and pop etc)
THANKS
Thinking Balboa island or Belmont Shores or Laguna??? Please help
Anna A
Newport Beach, CA39 contributions
Balboa Island would be a great choice, lots of cute little stores and some good restaurants (and of course the Balboa Bar and frozen bananas).The ferry is a must-do and you can take your bikes. The parking on the island is tough, just be forewarned. You can rent a Duffy close by, but not on the island. We have a great harbor to cruise, Dana Point harbor is much smaller, not too familiar with Long Beach but Belmont Shore is really fun with tons to do up there. Laguna is the most picturesque and they have a fun trolley to take you around and lots of restaurants, shops and art! They will all be crowded in the summer and traffic in Laguna because of the all-summer art festival gets pretty bad.
bicusalionel
Wisconsin Dells, WI14 contributions
I would like to know where is the boardwalk located , say from the area where the pier is? Could you tell me if E. Oceanfront is the boardwalk to be able to walk and see the shops?
There a few years back, walked the pier, saw the fun zone, boat ride for whale watch, saw no whales, never got to the boardwalk, need to know, want to go back with daughter this time. (went with husband last time )
Any info appreciated
Mary G
Palm Beach, FL187 contributions
The shops are on Marine Avenue... the boardwalk surrounds the islands... lots of whales in season and tons of dolphin.... but Mother Nature does as she pleases... sometimes you get lucky! The Pier is on the Peninsula... where the Fun Zone is located - across the water.
josemtz12
Monterrey, Mexico14 contributions
I'm spending a night by myself in Newport Beach. I'd like to have dinner with a beer or glass of wine in a place that has a great ocean view. Any recommendations? Thanks in advance!
James Weaver
Irvine, CA2,171 contributions
Newport Beach itself does have few with great ocean views. However for a truly spectacular view, Las Brisas, in Laguna
Beach is the Orange County Rivera. A patio overlooking main beach to the left and the park to the right. On the top of a bluff, this is a remarkable place. About 15 minutes by car from Newport to the South along the Pacific Coast Highway. In Newport Beach, most restaurants have views of the harbor. Property along The Pacific Ocean is mostly residential. The Cannery, Bluewater Grill, The Winery, all have good views of the Newport Bay and sailboats. For a single gentleman looking for some female companionship, Sol is good. But good looks equate to having work done. AKA plastic surgery. Newport Coast offers 2 on the bluff, on inland side of the Pacific Coast Highway, Mastero’s Beach Club and Javier’s. Both are places I know only by reputation. Best, in your search, enjoy your stay.
josemtz12
Monterrey, Mexico14 contributions
I'm spending a night by myself in Newport Beach. I'd like to have dinner with a beer or glass of wine in a place that has a great ocean view. Any recommendations? Thanks in advance!
Jen Desert Vacation
Palm Springs, CA42 contributions
The bar - restaurant with ocean view at Balboa Resort is nice too
Colleend1234
Richboro, PA9 contributions
Is this in San Diego or before? Taking a two-week trip in California the second week to San Diego.
ooiioo
Newport Beach, CA62 contributions
Balboa Island is in Newport Beach which is part of Orange County. Orange County is located between Los Angeles and San Diego.
How to go to Balboa Island ? We are living in Irvine, CA.
Jenn92663
San Francisco, CA62 contributions
Take jamboree exit and it dead ends and you'll be there.
orchidlover2015
Bowie, MD
Hi,
We will be visiting Balboa Island in May. Some of our group are going on a whale watching tour. The others just want to walk around Balboa Island. My elderly mother will be with us. Do they have Pedi cabs or benches for her to rest if it takes her a while to walk the island?
Thanks! Sue Schiek
suemb
Manhattan Beach35 contributions
There are not Pedi cabs but there are benches. Benches are placed regularly along the sidewalk that rings the island. There are also benches on Marine Ave., some shaded by trees.
Visiting in march and have tours company paid I can choose from. Staying in Huntington Beach Hyatt.Need some advice on which to choose: Balboa Island walking tour/ferry ride, Dolphin & Whale Expedition or Electric Boat Cruise of Newport Bay. Need to make a decision asap. Any help will be much appreciated on experiencing most of the area!
TravelerJenny8
Elkhorn, WI471 contributions
Wondering if this would be a good place to visit on a Sunday afternoon? How long should we allot? Thanks!
suemb
Manhattan Beach35 contributions
Yes. Marine Ave. has some shops and restaurants that are open on Sunday. You can stroll around the island since there is a sidewalk along the perimeter of the island. Take the ferry on the north end of the island over to Balboa Peninsula. The whole thing can be done in about 3 hours.
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Claim your listingBalboa Island - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)
Frequently Asked Questions about Balboa Island
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