The Newport Beach zip code consistently ranks as one of the most affluent in the United States. Surrounded by gorgeous beaches, trendy hotspots, and world-class shopping and dining, Newport Beach is home to some of the most desirable neighborhoods in Southern California.
Whether you’re looking to buy a permanent residence or a vacation home in this beautiful coastal city, the perfect property is waiting for you. The first step is to decide which among the vibrant yet laidback neighborhoods in Newport Beach is the right one for you.
Here’s a guide to everything you need to know about the best neighborhoods in Newport Beach, including the exciting lifestyles and unique offerings that make this coastal city one of the best places to live in the country.
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LIVING IN NEWPORT BEACH
A seaside community of 86,000 residents, Newport Beach epitomizes the relaxed yet cosmopolitan lifestyle of Southern California. Located between Los Angeles to the north and San Diego to the south, the city provides convenient access to the best destinations in the region and is also a popular getaway for tourists and holiday seekers in California.
Fun Things To Do
You will never run out of things to do when living in Newport Beach, thanks to the city’s year-round sunny weather, eight miles of sandy beaches, acres of nature preserves, and wealth of upscale boutiques, restaurants, and golf courses. The city is home to several yacht clubs, exciting nightlife destinations, and art and culture attractions.
Having the largest recreational boat harborson the west coast, Newport Beach promises plenty of water adventures for swimmers, divers, paddlers, and surfers. During the summer, yacht clubs host competitions that are more than just spectator events. They also provide residents and guests with the opportunity to get together for kayaking, sailing, rowing, and canoeing.
Quality education
Another great thing about living in Newport Beach is access to high-quality education. The coastal city is served by the highly rated Newport Mesa Unified School District which includes 29 public schools, including University High School, Corona Del Mar High School, and Orange County School of the Arts which ranks #5 Best Public High Schools in California,. There are also a number of private schools in the area.
Beachfront living
If you’re wondering what it is like living in Newport Beach, CA, the scenic coastal city offers a resort-feel with sophisticated beachfront living. One of the wealthiest enclaves in Southern California, Newport Beach is an exceptionally livable city with an average household income of $214,047.
With everything it has to offer, the cost of living in Newport Beach, CA is higher than in most of the country. Housing is the top factor that affects this cost. As of November, 2022, the median home price in the city is $3.2 million, with high end properties fetching over $50 million. But while real estate here is priced much higher than average, it also makes a great investment, with an average annual appreciation rate of between 6% and 7%.
A GUIDE TO THE BEST NEIGHBORHOODS OF NEWPORT BEACH
Newport Beach boasts some of the best neighborhoods in Southern California. You’ll find luxurious beachfront communities, condo developments close to commercial districts, and gated neighborhoods providing absolute privacy.
These are some of the top neighborhoods to explore.
Big Canyon
The neighborhood of choice for many CEOs and business executives, Big Canyon is an expansive residential area anchored by the exclusive Big Canyon Country Club. This guard-gated community is centrally located in Newport Beach, attracting homeowners who value convenience as well as the exclusivity and luxury of living in a prestigious golf community.
The breathtaking backdrop of the immaculate Big Canyon golf course and abundant coastal pine trees give the community a tranquil park like environment. With easy access to the outdoors, residents enjoy an active lifestyle, with popular activities such as golfing, hiking, biking, or simply swimming in their private pools.
The invitation-only Big Canyon Country Club covers 60,000 square feet. In addition to the golf course, it boasts amenities such as a fitness center, an aquatic center, sports classes, restaurants, ballrooms, and many more.
Within a 15-minute walking distance from Big Canyon is Fashion Island, a premier shopping district with more than 150 boutiques and high-end restaurants like Fig & Olive, and CUCINA enoteca.
Property types
Big Canyon features several developments on 443 acres of land. There is a wide assortment of property types, including single-family homes, condos, townhomes, and customized estates in various architectural styles. The most upscale homes front the golf course and provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Indoor-outdoor living is the norm, with typical luxury amenities such as swimming pools, outdoor Jacuzzis, fire pits, and barbecue stations.
Condo and townhome communities offer casual elegance with splendid views of the
fairways. The townhomes offer casual elegance with great open floor plans, and some have splendid views of the fairways. The units can rival single-family homes in size, and range from two to four or more bedrooms.
Harbor Ridge
Situated between the San Joaquin Reservoir and San Miguel Drive, Harbor Ridge is a
guard-gated neighborhood offering panoramic views of the ocean and Catalina Island. This family-centric community offers large lots, pools and tennis courts offering plenty of recreational options for all ages. While tranquil and quiet, the neighborhood is only minutes away from the social epicenter Fashion Island.
Property types
Harbor Ridge stands out for the extensive variety of architectural styles, from classic English Tudor and French Chateau to American traditional and contemporary. Homes are designed to maximize the amazing views, and are built on sizeable lots with gorgeous landscaping. Popular home features include outdoor living areas, swimming pools, chef’s kitchens, and open floor plans.
Upscale condo and townhome communities are also prevalent in Harbor Ridge, featuring spacious units with great views of the ocean and the San Joaquin Reservoir.
Bayshores
Bayshores is one the smallest neighborhoods in Newport Beach but it flaunts some of the best harbor frontages in all of Newport Beach. The waterfront community boasts two private beaches on the bay, two yacht marinas, a beach volleyball court, playgrounds, a barbeque area, and a community guest dock. Bayshores is centrally located in close proximity to plenty
of dining and shopping options and the Balboa Bay Club.
Property types
This guard-gated community features around 250 single-family homes, including stunning waterfront estates built in the 1940s. Popular architectural styles include traditional beach houses, contemporary, and Caribbean, capturing the resort feel of the area. Homes have up to seven bedrooms or more and feature outdoor living areas, chef’s kitchens, private balcony, and other luxurious amenities.
Crystal Cove
Blending the beauty of nature with distinctive architecture, Crystal Cove is one of the most scenic areas in Newport Coast. Located between the Pacific Ocean and the Pacific Coast Highway, it sits north of Laguna Beach in the Newport Coast. A large part of the area is occupied by Crystal Cove State Park – home to 3.5 miles of natural coastline which has been designated a National Natural Landmark and one of the largest natural seashores in Orange County. Incredible views of the Pacific Ocean, Newport Harbor, and Catalina Island add to the serene ambience of Crystal Cove.
Residents have easy access to Crystal Cove State Park where they can go camping, picnicking, biking, and hiking. For dining and retail therapy, Crystal Cove Shopping Center provides numerous options.
Property types
Crystal Cove real estate includes prized properties with the coveted high-bluff setting. Many of the most upscale homes are mansions in European styles, with such features as deluxe patios and balconies fit for parties and celebrations. The gorgeous oceanfront and sunset views add a touch of drama.
Condos in Crystal Cove boast hotel-like amenities suitable for a lock and leave lifestyle. Popular features include wide patios, fountains, modern bathrooms with Jacuzzi tubs, walk-in closets, and more.
One Ford Road
Located north of Big Canyon in the East Bluff Harbor View area, One Ford Road is a gated community developed in the 1990s. Since its opening, interest in the neighborhood never diminished. Designed to create a closer community, properties are arranged in cul-de-sacs and feature a large central lawn and gardens for the enjoyment of residents.
One Ford Road is considered one of the best neighborhoods in Newport Beach, primarily due to its beautiful homes, aesthetic appeal, first-rate amenities, close proximity to excellent shopping and dining, and some of Newport Beach’s top-rated schools.
The community stands out when it comes to recreation. In addition to the central lawn area that serves as venue for numerous community events, the neighborhood also boasts a state-of-the-art fitness center, two swimming pools, a 27-hole putting green, croquet parks, and sports courts, as well as a reflection pond, a rose garden, an outdoor fireplace, and barbecue areas.
Property types
One Ford Road is composed of smaller neighborhoods such as Pacific Heights, Providence, Stonybrook, and Summerhouse, each exuding individual charm and character. Custom homes are found in Pacific Heights, while the rest of the neighborhoods feature customizable floor plans in an array of architectural styles, including Cape Cod, Nantucket, and Italian.
Balboa Peninsula
Popularly known simply as “The Peninsula”, the Balboa Peninsula is a scenic three mile stretch of land sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and the Newport Bay. Lined by a harbor on the Balboa Bay side, and sandy beaches on the Pacific Ocean side, Balboa Peninsula is a popular recreation destination and a great place for relaxed coastal living.
Guests and residents can enjoy a wide range of activities, from sunbathing and playing beach volleyball to cruising and surfing. Check out “The Wedge,” a famous surf spot and watch body boarders beat 30-foot swells during the high season.
Take the family to theBalboaFun Zone or spend some time on Balboa Island.Shopping and dining are a breeze with the wealth of waterfront restaurants, retail shops, and nightlife hotspots in the area.
Property types
The neighborhood is perfect for those looking for an active coastal lifestyle. Homes here are a mix of single-family homes, villas, and condos, many of which are waterfront. Houses come in a variety of styles, including New England, Cape Cod, cottage, and contemporary.
Condominiums on the Balboa Peninsula are mostly in the form of duplexes, some with ocean views. These luxurious properties range from studios to four or more bedrooms and are walking distance from dining and social opportunities.
Balboa Island
The man-made Balboa Island is acknowledged as one of the best Newport Beach neighborhoods and one of the most sought-after communities in the US, whether to live in or as a getaway. The quaint community is an idyllic place to spend a carefree day and embrace a slower pace of life. What is it like living on Balboa Island in Newport Beach? You get a charming holiday with dramatic sunsets, captivating beach scenery, and a luxe coastal lifestyle.
Surrounded by a concrete boardwalk, residents can explore a host of mom-and-pop boutiques, specialty shops, and art galleries on foot or by bike. Balboa Island also offers a variety of dining experiences, from local fresh seafood and comfort American food to French, Italian, and Mexican fare.
Property types
The neighborhood is brimming with luxurious waterfront homes that include cottage-style beach houses, historic homes, duplexes, new construction, and more, many coming with private docks. You will also find condos and rental properties popular with short-term renters.
Linda Isle
Laid out in the shape of a horseshoe, Linda Isle is a prestigious guard-gated neighborhood sitting on a manmade island in the Lower Bay. It is considered one of the best neighborhoods in Newport Beach for opulent waterfront living. Access to the island is restricted to residents and their guests, making the neighborhood attractive to high-profile and high net worth individuals.
One of the biggest draws of living in Linda Isle is that all homes are waterfront, and most have their own private docks that can accommodate more than one yacht. This makes the community perfect for those who love watersports and sailing.
Property types
Linda Isle features just over 100 high-value single-family homes built from the 1950s to the present. Offering incredible panoramic waterfront views, these properties come in a wide variety of architectural styles and luxurious details and amenities, such as gourmet kitchens, high ceilings, multiple garages, and swimming pools that look out to the harbor.
Harbor Island
A home in Harbor Island is no less than an exclusive sanctuary. This semi-artificial island
is a small guard gated community of only around 30 homes, each coming with a private dock. Located between idyllic Linda Isle and the vibrant Balboa Island, Harbor Island provides utmost privacy as well as great access to the best that Newport Beach has to offer.
Property types
Harbor Island boasts some of the most expensive waterfront homes and estates in Newport Beach. All homes in the neighborhood have bay frontage and were originally built in the 1940’s, though many have been rebuilt or remodeled.. They typically have extensive water frontage offering gorgeous views of Newport Harbor, and some properties can accommodate several large yachts.
Lido Isle
Lido Isle is a luxurious harbor neighborhood in the northwest portion of Newport Harbor, developed on a manmade island that was nothing more than mudflat and sandbar in the early 1900s. One of the earliest master planned communities in California, the community was designed to resemble the famous resorts in the Caribbean and was named after the Italian resort town of Lido de Venezia.
Today, Lido Isle is an exclusive community accessible only through a small bridge called Via Lido. The island is almost solely residential, with the only commercial hub being the exclusive Lido Isle Clubhouse and a snack bar that has been welcoming customers since the early days of the community.
Residents enjoy the different social clubs in the community, as well as amenities such as community docks, sports courts, bayfront walkways, parks, and nearby luxury retail and dining in neighboring Balboa Peninsula, Balboa Island, and Lido Marina Village.
Property types
Homes on Lido Isle are single-family properties that boast a wide variety of architectural style, including traditional, Mediterranean, and European. Priced in the multimillion dollar range, they come with such features as master suites with private balconies, gourmet kitchens, and outdoor living spaces. Waterfront homes command the highest prices, many coming with private docks and boat slips.
Pelican Crest
Overlooking the Pelican Hill Resort & Spa, the gated neighborhood of Pelican Crest is one of the most prestigious enclaves in the Newport Coast region. The hilltop community sits directly above the Crystal Cove State Park and commands majestic vistas of Catalina Island and Pacific Ocean. Entry into this premium neighborhood is exclusive to residents and their guests.
Exuding a serene ambience, Pelican Crest provides a sense of absolute privacy with 24/7 security. Residents can indulge in a wide range of nearby amenities, including world class golf and dining at Pelican Hill Resort, beaches, luxury shopping, and the attractions and activities at Newport Ridge Community Park.
Property types
Homes in Pelican Crest are some of the most luxurious and expensive custom estates in Newport Coast. Almost palatial, these properties span around 10,000 square feet of living space situated on expansive lots with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Pelican Crest is one of the newer developments in the area, commencing in 1999. Most homes were completed in 2010. Today, the premier community showcases approximately 160 homes, many of which have Mediterranean-style features and such amenities as resort-style pools, gardens, and patios overlooking the ocean.
Explore the finest things in life in the best neighborhoods of Newport Beach
These are just some of the highly-coveted neighborhoods in Newport Beach. Learn more about your real estate options in these communities and the rest of the area. Work with us at The Georgina Jacobson Group. We are luxury real estate specialists with proven expertise in Newport Beach and the neighboring communities of Laguna Beach, Corona del Mar, Newport Coast, and more. Our landmark sales in these communities are testament to our ability to help our clients close the best transactions and produce win-win outcomes for sellers and buyers alike.
Call us today at 949.285.8380 or send an email to georgina(at)georginajacobson(dotted)com