Sunshine & Stories: A Historical Tour of Newport Beach, Balboa Island, and the OC
There’s something undeniably magical about Newport Beach. Maybe it’s the endless stretch of golden sand or the sun-drenched palm trees that line the streets. Or perhaps it’s the way the cool ocean breeze wraps you in a feeling of peace. But beyond the sunny exterior, Newport Beach has a history as rich and vibrant as its coastal landscape.
From its early days as a sleepy harbor to becoming the setting for the wildly popular TV show The OC, Newport Beach and its charming neighbor, Balboa Island, have captured the hearts of many. Whether you're visiting for the history, the beaches, or a trip down The OC memory lane, there's no shortage of things to do.
Long before it became the picture of California dreamin’, Newport Beach was home to the Tongva people, the Indigenous stewards of the land. Spanish explorers passed through in the 1500s, but the area remained relatively undeveloped until the late 1800s, when the Pacific Electric Railway connected the coastal area to Los Angeles, sparking rapid growth.
By the early 1900s, Newport Beach began to emerge as a key Southern California destination. It was a haven for both commercial shipping and tourists alike, and by the 1920s, its charming harbor, clean beaches, and proximity to LA drew Hollywood’s elite. Soon after, the city became a symbol of the American beach lifestyle—a lifestyle that was immortalized in the 2000s by Fox’s hit TV series The OC.
If you’ve ever wondered about the iconic Balboa Island, it wasn’t always the charming getaway it is today. The island was formed from a dredged-up sandbar in Newport Harbor. Developer William Collins saw the potential for the area and started selling lots in the early 1900s. While the early buyers may have gotten their lot with a rowboat, Balboa Island quickly transformed into a quaint, picturesque destination.
Fast forward to today, and Balboa Island has become synonymous with small-town charm. The island is easily walkable, with its cozy streets lined with colorful cottages, boutique shops, and trendy cafes. It feels like stepping into a postcard—a place where the California dream meets coastal bliss.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong resident, there’s something magical about exploring Newport Beach and Balboa Island. Here are some must-visit spots that perfectly blend history, modern-day charm, and a touch of TV nostalgia.
Start your day with a leisurely walk or bike ride around the Balboa Island Boardwalk. This 1.7-mile route takes you along the waterfront, with gorgeous views of the harbor, homes with boat docks, and a sense of peace that only a small island like this can provide.
The Balboa Island Ferry, operating since 1919, offers a short and sweet ride between Balboa Island and the Balboa Peninsula. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the harbor views and take in the sights before heading to your next destination.
If you’ve ever seen Arrested Development , you’ll know about the iconic frozen banana stands. The story behind it is simple: Frozen bananas on a stick started right here in Balboa Island. While no one really knows who first invented the frozen banana, there’s no denying its importance in the show's cultural legacy. Whether you head to Sugar 'n Spice or Dad’s Donut & Bakery Shop, grabbing one of these sweet treats is a must.
Take a step back in time at the Balboa Fun Zone, an amusement park that’s been delighting visitors since the 1930s. Ride the historic Ferris wheel, play some games at the arcade, or simply soak up the nostalgic atmosphere that feels like something out of a vintage postcard.
If you love to shop, Marine Avenue is the heart of Balboa Island. It’s lined with cute boutiques, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to wander, sip a coffee, and admire the charming coastal architecture.
Just a short drive south from Newport Beach, Corona del Mar is a beautiful cove perfect for swimming, picnicking, or simply relaxing on the sand. The scenic cliffs and tide pools make it one of the most picturesque spots along the coast.
To get a true sense of the harbor, consider booking a Newport Harbor Cruise. These boat tours offer stunning views of the city’s waterfront homes, the boats docked in the harbor, and landmarks like the iconic Balboa Pavilion.
Both the Newport Pier and Balboa Pier offer great views, fresh air, and a chance to catch some fish or just take a stroll. These piers are classic spots where you can embrace the beach atmosphere and enjoy a sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
The OC didn’t just capture the essence of Newport Beach—it became a cultural phenomenon that showcased the area's opulent homes, stunning beaches, and—of course—its dramatic teen soap opera storylines. It’s no surprise that fans of the show flock to Newport Beach to relive the locations where their favorite characters lived out their coming-of-age moments.
Located in the "The OC" universe, the Cohen family’s home in the show is set in the upscale, fictional neighborhood of “Newport Beach.” While the actual house isn’t located in Newport Beach, many fans still try to find the house that was used for exterior shots.
The iconic scene of Ryan Atwood and Seth Cohen chatting by the water, or Summer and Seth kissing at the pier, has been cemented in The OC lore. Take a walk along the beach and let your imagination wander—The OC fans will appreciate how easy it is to picture their favorite characters strolling along the same sands.
Newport Beach and Balboa Island are so much more than sun, sand, and surf. They’re places filled with history, culture, and even a bit of Hollywood magic. Whether you’re indulging in a frozen banana at the iconic stand, reliving scenes from The OC, or simply soaking up the sun on a boat ride, Newport Beach offers the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern-day allure.
Whether you're a fan of The OC or just love the idea of soaking in the California coast, Newport Beach and Balboa Island should be at the top of your bucket list. It’s a place where history, pop culture, and natural beauty come together—and it’s waiting for you to come and explore it.
