Enchanting Balboa Island, Southern California’s Hidden Secret

By Noreen Kompanik
Senior Writer

Known for its fun California coastal vibe, Balboa Island is often missed when visitors come to the more well-known Newport Beach.

But visitors should not pass on the opportunity to enjoy this slice of Newport Beach paradise dotted with charming beach cottages and an array of locally-owned boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants.

I remember the first time my husband and I, who are California residents, first discovered Balboa Island.

We were in Newport Beach for a family wedding and one of the local guests recommended we check it out. We did and were surprised and pleased.

About Balboa Island

Balboa Island is a man-made island accessible by a short bridge or scenic ferry ride across the harbor located less than two miles from Newport Beach, but it feels more like a world away.

If you decide to take the ferry, you have options, as the boat permits pedestrians, bikes, and cars and bikes. If you’re into biking, you can rent a beach cruiser on the island once you arrive.

The island’s perimeter is encircled by a scenic boardwalk, perfect for strolls or biking while enjoying views of the harbor, the passing sailboats and other vessels, and its beautiful waterfront homes. Though the area is pricey for its homeowners, we’ve always been impressed with Balboa Island’s close-knit sense of community, relaxed atmosphere, and friendliness toward visitors.

It’s as if residents are here seeking a peaceful retreat by the sea that pays huge dividends in how they interact with one another and how they treat those who come for a day of escapism.

History of the Island

Balboa Island’s rich and fascinating history adds to its unique charm and character.

The history dates back to the early 20^th century and reflects the development and transformation of Southern California’s coastal regions.

The man-made island was created in the early 1900s. It was originally a sandbar and mudflat associated with the Newport Harbor area.

In 1906, real estate developer William S. Collins saw potential in the area and began the ambitious project of dredging the surrounding bay and using the sand to build up the land, eventually forming the island.

Collins marketed Balboa Island as a desirable vacation and residential community and sold lots for as little as $25 each, with the promise that the island would become a prime waterfront destination. Initial development was slow due to the challenges of accessibility and the island’s still-primitive state.

In 1916, a wooden bridge was built to connect Balboa Island to the mainland, greatly improving access and spurring development. The original bridge was replaced with a concrete one in 1929, which still serves the island today. The Balboa Island Ferry, established in 1919, also became a popular and scenic way to travel between the island and the Balboa Peninsula.

Mid-20th Century Boom

After World War II, Balboa Island experienced significant growth and development, attracting more permanent residents and vacationers.

The charming cottages, initially built as modest summer homes became highly sought-after real estate, and many were renovated or replaced with more luxurious homes. I couldn’t help but wonder at the regret of those who passed on those $25 lot deals!

Over the decades, Balboa Island developed a close-knit community with a distinct small-town feel, despite being in the heart of bustling Orange County. Its cultural life includes annual events like the Balboa Island Parade, a tradition since the 1940s, and the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, which features beautifully decorated boats sailing through the harbor.

Additionally, recent years have brought ongoing efforts to preserve the island’s historic charm and prevent overdevelopment. This includes maintaining the character of its quaint streets, preserving its historic homes, and maintaining the island’s relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Not-to-Be-Missed Balboa Island Treasures

Balboa Island Museum

This small but impressive museum located in the center of town and free to the public offers a nostalgic glimpse at the glory and growth of coastal Orange County through its permanent and rotating exhibits. It is also dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history, culture, and charm of Balboa Island and the surrounding Newport Beach area.

Exhibits detail the creation of Balboa Island with historical maps, photos and artifacts, stories of individuals and families who shaped the island’s development and community life with memorabilia and collections. The museum store carries a lovely selection of art, gifts, books, and more.

Local Dining and Classic Snacks 

So many of the shops and restaurants on the island are locally owned, so, support of these venues keeps the entrepreneurial spirit of the island alive. I am a huge fan of places that offer a unique and iconic nod to the destination, places close to the heart.

Stroll down Marine Avenue, the island’s main street filled with art galleries, boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes. From beachy souvenirs to stylish fashions, there’s so much to explore in this delightful village.

Wilma’s Patio

Our favorite place to breakfast is Wilma’s Patio, a casual eatery with incredible home-cooked meals. The family has owned and operated the restaurant for over 35 years and it’s become a local favorite for good reason. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this amazing eatery is welcoming, and charming and the entrees are just incredible.

No visit to the island is complete without sampling the iconic treats — Balboa Bars (ice cream bars dipped in chocolate and coated with a variety of toppings), and its famous frozen bananas, also dipped in chocolate and topped with nuts or candy. Though these tasty treats have been imitated and replicated elsewhere, they have been mainstays of Balboa Island for 75 years.

I dare visitors to pass by Balboa Island Baking Company, catch the irresistible scent of its well-known Orange County cinnamon rolls, and not stop in to get this ooey gooey delight. And if you’re a fan of old-fashioned candy stores, don’t miss a walk down memory lane for your favorite childhood treats which include oodles of pastel-colored saltwater taffy, a coastal favorite.

Balboa Fun Zone

This is one of the most renowned Newport Beach attractions and a ferry across the bay can get visitors to this fun amusement park with a Ferris wheel, arcade games and some great boardwalk snacks.

If you have your car, it’s just a short drive to this festive carnival on the pier that’s been entertaining Californians since 1936.

And to the delight of history lovers, much of the amusement park’s design has retained its original furnishings.

Just Add Water

Because the island is surrounded by water, visitors have many options to enjoy the beauty and crystalline waters of Newport Bay.

Rent an Electric Duffy Boat

Visitors can rent a Duffy boat at Voyagers Rentals at the Newport Beach ferry site. This is a relaxing way to ride through the channels, ogling at the mega yachts and large mansions. The most popular boats in Balboa Harbor aren’t anything powerful…they are these delightful, five-miles-per-hour electric party boats that people enjoy the most!

No experience is necessary and the boats are very easy to maneuver. We enjoyed a bottle of champagne and a picnic lunch while enjoying the incredible views of the bay along the route.

Paddleboarding and Kayaking the Island

The Balboa Island channel offers a fun and relaxing year-round (SUP), stand-up paddleboarding experience due to its calm bay waters and scenic views.

Mornings are the best time to go out when the water is very quiet, winds are light and there’s little boat traffic.

If you didn’t happen to bring your paddleboard, no problem, as Balboa Island Paddleboard Rentals are full-service. They’ll bring the boards and paddles down to the water and even provide lessons. Kayaks are also available to rent if you’re into that sport.

Hang Ten at the Wedge (or Watch Surfers from the Pier)

You won’t get waves on Balboa Island but if you want a real treat, head to the Newport Beach Pier just 10 minutes away and watch some amazing surfers catching the perfect wave.

These shore-breaking waves can swell more than 30 feet as the space heading to the shore becomes narrower. Summer and fall produce the highest surf at this spot boasting the biggest swells in Southern California.

If you’re not into surfing but want to give the waves a try, you can choose bodyboarding or bodysurfing as an option.

Fishing at the Newport Beach Pier

Another popular activity on the historic pier for locals and visitors is fishing. No license is required for fishing from the pier and you’ll find people of all ages from beginners to more experienced anglers with their lines in the water hoping for a catch.

You can bring your own gear or rent equipment from nearby shops and even get the best advice as to the best fishing times and what’s currently biting.

The pier also sports benches, fish-cleaning stations and nearby restrooms. Set against the backdrop of the stunning Southern California coast, the Newport Beach Pier provides a relaxed laid-back, and enjoyable experience with the potential for a good catch to take with you.

Though visitors can explore Balboa Island in half a day, I recommend spending an entire day here to truly get the quintessential island experience. This charming Pacific coast gem is worthy of a visit and you’ll long remember the quaint and special ambiance of this beach community with an iconic small-town feel.