This Orange County suburb offers the perfect weekend staycation from Los Angeles

This weekend indulge in something fun and enjoy a staycation at this popular beach suburb in Orange County. The best thing about a staycation close to home is that you spend more time at your destination and less time getting there. This coastal suburb offers the perfect weekend getaway from Los Angeles as it's only 1.5 hour's drive from most Los Angeles suburbs. The beautiful coastal city we are talking about is Newport Beach. Keep reading to see what's so great about a staycation in this stunning Southern California coastal suburb and our picks for where to stay.

Orange County's Newport Beach is just 1.5 hrs from Los Angeles.Photo byGustavo ZambellionUnsplash

Newport Beach attractions

The harbor and piers

One of the best things to see and do is the flashy boat-filled harbor and the two piers, Newport Beach Pier and Balboa Pier. Also, at Balboa Pier, there is the Balboa Fun Zone amusement park. The old-school amusement park offers a Ferris wheel and carnival rides with ocean views.

The local beaches

There are gorgeous beaches in the area, including Corona Del Mar State Beach. Its vast stretch of sand and towering cliffs is one of the most spectacular views in Southern California. The tranquil water makes it an excellent place for a swim. Also, at Corona Del Mar State Beach, Inspiration Point offers exceptional panoramic ocean views at sunset.

Another fantastic beach is The Wedge. This stunning surf beach is renowned for its huge surf waves; you could spend a few hours watching the surfers and the boats entering the harbor.

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Crystal Cove State Park

The captivating Crystal Cove State Park offers tide pools, canyons, and coastal cliffs. There is also a campsite to spend the night in nature.

Balboa Island

The human-made Balboa Island is one of the area's biggest highlights. This enchanting island has a 1.6-mile boardwalk. Visit for shopping, dining, or to take in the views on the scenic 5-minute ferry ride to the island.

Whale watching & dolphin cruises

However, the greatest highlight is the whale & dolphin-watching cruises that are offered daily and year-round. Though, this time of the year is the best time of the year to view the whales. The opportunity to see these beautiful mammals is high and recent sightings include Humpback & Grey Whales, Common Dolphins, Bottlenose Dolphins, and more.

Whale watching off the California coast is a bucket list activity everyone should do at least once in their lifetime.

Where to stay

There are many stunning hotels and resorts available that offer ocean views. Our top picks include views and luxury and offer you a staycation where you barely need to leave the resort.

The Resort at Pelican Hill

Ranked one of the top resorts in the suburb by travelers on TripAdvisor, the Resort at Pelican Hill boasts one of the largest circular pools in the world. The saltwater pool is 136 feet in diameter and three feet deep! With endless sea views, pool attendants, and luxurious private cabanas, the Coliseum Pool is where you can spend all day!

You can choose to stay in one of their private bungalows or villas in a luxury setting with ocean views. The resort's Coliseum Pool & Grill restaurant also offers seafood lunches and dinners. The Coliseum Pool & Grill and Caffe & Market are open daily, as well as in-room dining.

Also available on the 504-acre property is the Pelican Hill Golf Club, a fitness center with a gym and a five-star spa.

Hyatt Regency Newport Beach

If you need something just as epic but more affordable, the Hyatt Regency is our pick for family fun. This excellent Greater Los Angeles hotel is a perfect retreat with three sparkling pools, an adjacent golf course, and an idyllic setting on a 26-acre property. Additionally, they have fire pits and heated pools to indulge in.

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