Newport Beach
California, USA
4,500
* Approximate Steps:
Arbitrary Adventure Level:
1
Newport Beach - Beach life at its best
The history of Newport Beach, California, intertwines Native American heritage with European exploration and settlement. The region was first explored by Europeans in the 1500s, following thousands of years of habitation by Native American tribes like the Tongva and Juaneño/Luiseño people. In 1769, Newport was part of a land grant under Spanish and Mexican rule. The area saw significant development after the Civil War, with James Irvine focusing on ranching and James McFadden on shipping. Captain Samuel Sumner Dunnels' arrival in 1870 marked a turning point, leading to the establishment of a small settlement around McFadden's Wharf, which later became Newport Pier.
Newport Beach transitioned from a commercial shipping hub to a tourist and recreational boating community after the decline in commercial shipping following the opening of San Pedro Harbor in Los Angeles in 1899. In August 1906, Newport Beach officially became an incorporated city. The city's growth continued over the years, attracting residents and businesses alike. Today, Newport Beach is a bustling city with a rich history and a vibrant community that offers a mix of tourism, commerce, and recreational activities.
Key historical sites in Newport Beach include Balboa Pavilion, McFadden's Wharf, and Old Landing, each representing different aspects of the city's past. Balboa Pavilion, built in 1905, served as the end of the line for the Red Car of the Pacific Electric. McFadden's Wharf, dating back to the late 1800s, was a crucial shipping port named after James and Robert McFadden. The Old Landing was another port developed by the McFaddens for local shipping.
The city's incorporation in 1906 marked the beginning of its transformation into a thriving coastal community with various neighborhoods like Corona Del Mar, West Newport, and The Harbor emerging over time. Today, Newport Beach is an upscale community that continues to attract visitors with its beautiful beaches, world-class shopping, dining options, and leisure activities.
Our Newport Beach walk takes you through the Balboa Village area of Newport Beach, through the “Fun Zone”, along the boardwalk a bit, out to the end of Balboa Pier, and back to Balboa Village.
Parking
Paid parking everywhere with the Park Mobile app.
Restrooms
Restrooms available at Balboa Wine and Balboa Lily's.
Newport Beach
* An average person takes about 2,000 steps to walk one mile.
Disclaimer Stuff:
Walks are self-guided and routes are estimates only. Use good judgment as road, sidewalk, and trail conditions can change. Weather, tides, beach erosion, and wave conditions can change the difficulty and safety of the walk. Sip responsibly. Urban Wine Walkers assumes no responsibility for injury, death, blisters, sunburn, jaywalking tickets, or parking violations while you are on your walk.