Things to do in

Newport Beach

Take a journey of discovery at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach. Discover sunny Southern California and Baja, the frigid waters of the Northern Pacific, and the colorful reefs of the Tropical Pacific. Come face-to-face with the ocean’s ultimate predators in Shark Lagoon, hand-feed colorful lorikeet birds, and watch the Magellanic penguins. Discover Pacific Visions where you explore underwater realms and future possibilities. The centerpiece, Honda Pacific Visions Theater, features an 8-minute film with multisensory effects. The massive 180-degree curved screen and floor projection disc encompass the viewers’ full range of vision, creating a uniquely immersive experience. The theater experience is included in admission.

On these year-round cruises off Newport Beach, many whale varieties are regularly seen including the giant blue whale (summer and fall), finback whale, grey whale (winter and spring), minke whale, and humpback whale. Several types of dolphin, seals, and all sorts of other marine life are typically spotted on the excursions as well. The cruises depart from Newport Harbor, located in the heart of Orange County, which is just a short drive from both Los Angeles and San Diego. Each cruise is a unique experience as you may never know what you might encounter. A recent cruise encountered a pod of more than 30 killer whales, including adults and their young, making for a whale watching adventure of a lifetime. The cruises enjoy a 96 percent success rate viewing whales and/or dolphin.

The waters surrounding Newport Harbor are deep and nutrient-rich, attracting all types of marine creatures. Cruises typically see a variety of whales including giant blue whales (during the summer and fall), finback whales, grey whales (in the winter and spring), minke whales, and humpback whales, as well as several types of dolphin, seals, and all sorts of other marine life. Each cruise is a unique experience in that you never know what you might encounter. The Laguna Beach coastline lies just to the south of Newport Harbor and is some of Southern California’s most beautiful coast. The grey whales are commonly seen in this area. Most whale watching cruises take in the scenic backdrops of Laguna Beach, Huntington Beach, and Newport Beach, while viewing the gentle giants just a few hundred yards from shore. Due to the geography of the Orange County coastline that surrounds Newport Harbor, ocean conditions are very calm allowing whale watchers to fully enjoy the amazing viewings. Our primary whale watching ship is 65 feet long, and has a large upstairs sundeck, wrap-around outside seating, snack bar, and indoor seating with large windows. The ship was purpose-built for viewing marine life. Plenty of other amenities guarantee a very comfortable and exciting trip. Captains and crew members are well-versed in marine biology and are incredibly knowledgeable about marine creatures, environment, and eco systems.

The Los Angeles All-Inclusive Pass is the only multi-attraction pass that gets you into over 40 top attractions in the city for one low price. Save up to 45% off retail prices on admission and pay nothing at the gate. In addition, when you buy a 3-, 5- or 7-day pass, you also get a ticket to Universal Studios Hollywood. Visit The Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, Aquarium of the Pacific, Dolby Theatre, Madame Tussauds Hollywood, and many more of the best things to do in L.A., Hollywood, and beyond. There’s no need to decide in advance what you want to see, and you can take up to 2 weeks from when you first use the pass to use the remaining days on your pass. The free digital guide helps you decide what to do, where to go, how to get there, and even includes the best times to visit. The 3-, 5-, and 7-day All-Inclusive passes also include free admission to Universal Studios Hollywood as an added bonus. Activities, attractions, and tours included with the Los Angeles All-Inclusive Pass: Theme Parks: • Universal Studios Hollywood Ticket (3+ day passes only) • Knott's Berry Farm • Six Flags Magic Mountain • LEGOLAND California (choice between San Diego Zoo or LEGOLAND) Outdoors: • Pacific Park - Santa Monica Pier • Whale Watching in San Pedro or Long Beach • Catalina Flyer (Ferry to Catalina Island) • Harbor Breeze Whale Watching Tour - Long Beach • Perry's Beach Cafe and Rentals - Mountain Bike or Roller-Skates (All Day) • Hollywood Hike by Bikes & Hikes (10:30 AM only) • Celebrity Bike Tour by Bikes & Hikes LA (choice between self-guided or guided tour) • Whale Watching & Dolphin Cruises - Newport Landing• Harbor Cruise in Long Beach or San Pedro Guided Tours: • Big Bus Los Angeles 1-Day Hop-on Hop-off Tour • Big Bus Celebrity Lifestyle and Homes Tour • Dolby Theater Guided Tour • Sony Pictures Studio Tour • Starline Tours: Malibu Celebrity Homes Tour • Food, Arts, Culture DTLA Walking Tour • Hollywood Behind-the-Scenes Tour by Red Line Tours Family-Friendly: • Madame Tussauds Hollywood • Aquarium of the Pacific • TCL Chinese Theater - Tour or Movie and a drink (choice between TCL Chinese Theater or Hollywood Museum) • Santa Monica Pier Aquarium • LA Zoo and Botanical Gardens • California Science Center IMAX Movie • San Diego Zoo (choice between San Diego Zoo or LEGOLAND) • Natural History Museum of Los Angeles • K1 Speed Indoor Karting Museums and Entertainment: • Hollywood Museum (choice between TCL Chinese Theater or Hollywood Museum) • GRAMMY Museum • Battleship IOWA Museum • La Brea Tar Pits and Museum • Autry Museum of the American West • Museum of Latin American Art • Cabrillo Maritime Museum • Huntington Library and Gardens • Los Angeles, A Journey Through Time in Film • South Coast Shop & Dine Package • Shanti Hot Yoga • LA Galaxy Soccer Game Ticket

Take a 2-hour dolphin and whale watching tour from Newport Beach. Cruise in an open boat that offers 360-degree views from anywhere onboard, allowing everyone a to have close encounter with nature. Admire the stunning coastal landscape and look out for whales, dolphins, and other marine wildlife.   Board a custom-built RIB, perfect for whale watching. The boat has a maximum capacity of 15 people, giving each passenger a piece of the action. See dolphins come almost close enough to touch. The boat can travel at speed and cruises up to 14 miles from port to ensure the highest success rate of animal sightings.

Relax and unwind on a 2-hour cruise departing from Newport Beach. Enjoy a buffet brunch prepared from the freshest seasonal ingredients and sip on unlimited champagne or sparkling cider. Set off on a morning cruise from Newport Beach, where sunlight bounces of the water and a bottomless glass of bubbly or sparkling cider awaits. In addition to salty breezes and abundant sunshine, your champagne brunch cruise includes free-flowing champagne and a delicious buffet brunch to enhance your magical escape. Newport Beach is classic California, with wide beaches and expansive oceanfront mansions. The community boasts a well-known small-boat harbor as well as popular destinations such as the Balboa Peninsula, Fashion Island and bustling Mariner's Mile. Sample Buffet Brunch Menu Served upon seating: -Assorted Danish, cinnamon rolls, mini muffins, churro donuts with butter & fruit preserves-Fresh fruit, cantaloupe, honeydew, watermelon, pineapple, grapes & berries Buffet Table #1 -Caesar salad, focaccia croutons, roasted garlic dressing, aged parmesan cheese & romaine hearts-Asian broccoli salad, tender broccoli, carrots, scallions, snap peas with sesame tahini dressing-Penne pasta salad, bell peppers, olives, garbanzos, baby tomatoes, zucchini, pesto vinaigrette Buffet Table #2 -Atlantic salmon , roasted with cherry chipotle glazeShrimp on ice display, red sauce Buffet Table #3 -Scrambled eggs , green chilies, bell peppers & cheese -Breakfast meats, smoked bacon & sausage -Cinnamon French toast , berries, bananas & maple syrup -Tri color potatoes, roasted onions & peppers -Roasted Turkey breast, cranberry-apricot chutney & pan gravy Final course -Desserts, delivered to your table, an assortment of mini pastries, tarts, dessert bars & cookies

Discover the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach and enjoy the advantages of an Annual Membership Card. The cards are available in the following formats: Family Membership: all member benefits for up to two named cardholders, plus all children (17 years or younger) living in the same householdDual Membership: all member benefits for two named cardholders living in the same household The Annual Membership card will allow you to explore the 500 exhibits inside the aquarium exhibitions at your own pace and admire 12,000 animals representing the major regions of the Pacific Ocean. Marvel at the beauty and diversity of coral reefs and their animal residents, reefs in Pacific Visions through a new show in the Honda Pacific Visions Theater, and an interactive exhibit in the art gallery. Come face-to-face with the ocean’s ultimate predators in Shark Lagoon, hand-feed colorful lorikeet birds, and watch the Magellanic penguins. Discover Pacific Visions, where you explore underwater realms and future possibilities.

Come aboard for a romantic evening away. Unforgettable views listen to music, and a duet entrée sit-down dinner all make this is a can’t-miss getaway for visitors and local residents alike. Newport Beach is classic California, filled with wide beaches and expansive oceanfront mansions. The community boasts a well-known small-boat harbor as well as popular destinations such as the Balboa Peninsula, Fashion Island and bustling Mariner's Mile. See the area while enjoying a luxurious evening out.

Unwind on a yacht cruise through Newport Harbor. Bring your own food and drinks and listen to your favorite tunes while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Learn about Newport Beach's interesting and famous history along the way. Soak in the sun and the salty ocean breeze on this yacht cruise. As the day turns into night, watch the sunset paint the sky with vibrant colors. Relax with your favorite playlist in the background and spend time in the company of loved ones, friends, and family. Take photos and cruise past the wildlife of Newport Harbor. Spot the amazing oceanfront mansions and popular landmarks that call Newport Beach home. Have the chance to see The Pavilion, Balboa Peninsula, and the Balboa Island Ferry.

Enjoy the convenience of a 1-way private transfer in Orange County, California. Choose between a private transfer from the Anaheim/Disneyland Resort area to a selection of beach cities in Orange Country or vice versa.