Your Local’s Guide to the Best Parks on the Peninsula
While beaches, boats, and brunch may be some of Newport’s main attractions, the city also holds a collection of beautiful parks and recreational spaces.
If you think parks are just about emerald lawns and swing sets, think again! Newport’s local parks have something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for your next romantic picnic or just in need of letting the kids release some of their energy, there’s something for everyone at the parks on the peninsula.
So pack a basket and head over to these five peninsula parks that we have come to love…
Marina Park
Located along the Newport Harbor is Marina Park, a scenic picnic destination for families, couples, and everyone in between. This 10.5-acre park features stunning landscaped gardens, picnic tables, and even a nautical-themed playground suitable for all ages. This park paradise is also equipped with basketball courts, an outdoor fitness center, and an on-site cafe called Lighthouse Bayview Cafe. Marina Park is easy to spot due to its massive red and white spiral lighthouse that has a fire hydrant red tunnel tube attached, making this peninsula park a dream come true for your family.
Channel Park
Another park children will adore is Channel Park. Tucked away in the back of the channel on the water, this park offers a more intimate setting. Its playground might be smaller than Marina Parks, but is still equipped with a fun jungle gym, swing set and diggers that kids will love. Surrounding the playground is a sizable emerald-green park complete with covered picnic tables, a BBQ, and even a basketball court!
38th Street Park
If you’re looking for a standard neighborhood park to play basketball or picnic at, 38th Street Park is a superb option. A gathering place for local families, 38th Street Park has a fully-equipped playground, basketball court, and well-maintained lawn space. It is encircled by trees that offer suitable shade for picnics or for reading on the grass. Talk about relaxing!
Peninsula Park
You might be familiar with the Balboa Peninsula, but have you ever been to the Peninsula Park? Only steps away from the beach, this park is the perfect choice for those of us looking to bask in the best of both worlds. It’s a hub for yogis and fitness instructors looking to catch some sun while being cooled down by the ocean breeze. From playing frisbee on the lawn to sunbathing on the sand, Peninsula Park’s proximity to the beach makes it one of the best Newport Beach has to offer.
Newport El Playground
Parents will surely appreciate Newport El Playground at Newport Elementary School. It’s designed with imaginative and immersive structures that inspire hours of play. This park has children playing at all hours of the day and exploring their creativity under their parent’s supervision. Newport El Playground is only open to the public after school hours so be sure to plan out your next visit accordingly.
