Best Places to Watch a Sunset in Newport Beach, CA

Sunsets add a certain beauty and charm to an area, and Newport Beach features several places to enjoy them alone or with a special someone. Located south of Los Angeles on one of the most beautiful stretches of California’s Pacific coast, Newport Beach draws millions to the city’s sandy beaches, year-round sunshine and mild temperatures. The area has lots of activities, including boating and water sports, restaurants, galleries and shopping, golf courses, spas, cycling, and hiking. No matter what activity inspires during the day; as evening approaches, turn to the Pacific to watch the sunset.

Best Places to Watch Sunsets in Newport Beach

Lookout and Inspiration Points

Grab a loved one and bench to enjoy bay and ocean views located above Corona del Mar Beach. This popular spot is open to the public and  accommodates weddings up to 20 people. Inspiration Point also has stunning 180-degree views of the ocean and sunset. From Inspiration Point, see Newport Bay and Catalina Island, as well as a cove used in the opening of Gilligan’s Island. To find a spot, park for free on Ocean Boulevard, and look for the bronze mother sea lion and her pup.

Sunset Ridge Park

The name says it all. This multi-use park, measuring nearly 14 acres, caters to outdoor lovers of all ages. Kids enjoy soccer and baseball fields and play areas, while adults love strolling through Memorial Butterfly Garden. Afterwards, follow the walkways west to see gorgeous sunsets over the Pacific Ocean from a shaded overlook area. To make a full day of it, pack a picnic.

Take a Relaxing Cruise

A scenic cruise through Newport Beach is a great family or couple activity. Try The Fun Zone Boat Company’s seasonal sunset cruises (May through October, weather permitting). This 90-minute cruise tours the coastline, and guests are welcome to bring food and beverages. To see wildlife, hop aboard a whale-watching cruise and see animals in their natural habitat. Fun Zone, the first in the area to host narrated tours of Newport Beach, has operated for more than 60 years. Want more options? Check out the top Newport Beach water tours.

Gondola Company of Newport

Take an hour-long romantic ride in a Venetian gondola, and relax to bay views and canals in Newport Beach. The guide provides music as guests explore Newport Harbor. This activity ranks as an area favorite for marriage proposals, and many couples exchange their vows in the cove. In addition, wedding accommodations accommodate two to 42 people, and the company offers surprise ‘kidnappings’, fleet cruises and private parties from the dock.

Newport and Balboa Beach Piers

Located at Balboa Peninsula, Newport Pier offers north views toward Huntington Beach and to the south, Balboa Pier. In addition to amazing sunsets, watch people or see pelicans and seagulls fly. Before the sunset, rent a bike and ride along the boardwalk or fish off the piers. Locals advise that parking is limited, so plan to walk a little during busy seasons.

Find free and affordable fun in Newport Beach! Or enjoy the sunset from a private Newport Beach vacation rental.