Newport Beach Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Newport Beach is well-connected by Southern California's extensive highway network, with Interstate 405 and Highway 1 (Pacific Coast Highway) providing direct access to the city. From Los Angeles, the drive takes approximately one hour, while San Diego is about 90 minutes south. John Wayne Airport is conveniently located just 15 minutes from Newport Harbor, offering domestic connections for travelers from further afield. Public transportation options include OCTA buses that connect to the harbor area, while rideshare services are readily available throughout the region. For those arriving by car, the city offers several public parking lots near the ferry terminal, though arriving early during summer months is recommended.

Newport Beach stands as one of California's most picturesque coastal cities, where pristine beaches meet luxury living along the Pacific shoreline. This upscale seaside community boasts a stunning 10-mile stretch of coastline, crystalline waters, and a vibrant harbor filled with thousands of boats. Visitors arriving by ferry are greeted by the perfect blend of natural beauty and sophisticated charm that defines this Orange County paradise.

Newport Beach enjoys Southern California's famously mild Mediterranean climate, with temperatures rarely dipping below 65°F or exceeding 85°F. September and October offer the perfect sweet spot, warm ocean temperatures, clear skies, and significantly fewer tourists than the peak summer season. Spring (April-May) brings comfortable temperatures and vibrant wildflowers along the coastal areas. Winter months (November-March) see occasional rain but remain pleasantly mild, with the added bonus of spectacular whale watching opportunities as gray whales migrate along the coast. Ferry services operate year-round, though summer schedules offer more frequent crossings to accommodate increased demand.

Newport Beach serves as an excellent launching point for exploring Southern California's coastal treasures by water. Catalina Island lies just 26 miles offshore, with ferry journeys taking approximately 75 minutes across the channel to this Mediterranean-like island paradise known for its crystal waters and outdoor adventures. Closer to shore, ferry services connect to Balboa Island, a charming residential enclave with a quaint main street perfect for a day trip. Harbor cruises allow visitors to explore Newport's famous islands including Linda Isle and Harbor Island, offering glimpses of celebrity homes and stunning yachts. The protected waters of Newport Bay also make it ideal for island-hopping adventures that showcase Southern California's maritime culture.

Newport Beach offers endless opportunities for coastal enjoyment, beginning with the pristine stretches of sand at Corona del Mar State Beach and Crystal Cove State Park, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The Newport Harbor area buzzes with activity, where visitors can rent electric boats, paddleboards, or kayaks to explore the bay's calm waters. Fashion Island presents upscale shopping in an open-air setting, while Balboa Village captures classic Southern California charm with its historic pavilion and Fun Zone. Culinary enthusiasts should sample the fresh seafood at harborfront restaurants, where specialties include locally-caught sea bass and the region's famous fish tacos. The walkable Balboa Peninsula area offers the perfect blend of beach culture and coastal cuisine just steps from the ferry landing.

Newport Beach harbors fascinating stories beneath its glossy surface. The city's harbor is home to nearly 9,000 boats, making it one of the largest recreational harbors on the west coast. Newport's famous Wedge surf break creates waves up to 30 feet high during certain swells, attracting daredevil surfers and spectators alike. The historic Balboa Pavilion, built in 1905, once served as the southern terminus for the Pacific Electric Railway and helped establish Newport as a beach resort destination. The waters around Newport were once the setting for numerous rum-running operations during Prohibition, with speakeasies dotting the coastline and islands.