9 Day Trips From Newport Beach, CA

9 Unforgettable Day Trips From Newport Beach, CA


Newport Beach offers not only an incredible coastal lifestyle but also proximity to some of Southern California’s most exciting destinations. Whether seeking a quick beach getaway, a cultural experience, or an outdoor adventure, there are plenty of places to explore—all within a few hours of home.

From stunning ocean views to vibrant cityscapes, here are some of the best day trips from Newport.

1. Laguna Beach – A Coastal Art Haven

Distance: 20 minutes

For those seeking a mix of coastal beauty and artistic culture, Laguna Beach is a must-visit. This seaside town is famous for its breathtaking cliffs, sandy coves, and thriving art scene. Visitors can browse galleries, explore the Laguna Art Museum, or experience one of the area’s many art festivals, like the Sawdust Art Festival.

Outdoor lovers will appreciate Crystal Cove State Park, where scenic hiking trails lead to panoramic ocean views. The park’s historic district, with its charming beach cottages, provides a glimpse into California’s coastal past.

2. Catalina Island – A Scenic Escape Across the Water

Distance: 1-hour ferry ride from Newport Beach

Catalina Island is a world away from the mainland but easily accessible via the Catalina Flyer ferry from Newport Beach. Known for its crystal-clear waters and relaxed island atmosphere, Catalina offers activities like snorkeling, zip-lining, and kayaking.

For a unique experience, visitors can take a glass-bottom boat tour, where they can see colorful marine life without getting wet. Those looking for adventure can rent a golf cart and explore the island’s scenic overlooks and hidden beaches.

3. Los Angeles – Iconic Landmarks and Endless Entertainment

Distance: 1 hour

A trip to Los Angeles provides access to some of the world’s most famous attractions. Whether walking along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, visiting the Griffith Observatory for panoramic views, or exploring the high-end shops of Rodeo Drive, LA has something for everyone.

For a cultural experience, the Getty Center showcases an extensive art collection with breathtaking city views. Food lovers can explore the diverse culinary scene, from authentic taco stands to Michelin-starred restaurants.

4. Temecula – Wine Country Just a Drive Away

Distance: 1 hour 15 minutes

For a more relaxed day trip, Temecula’s rolling vineyards and award-winning wineries offer a perfect getaway. Visitors can take a wine-tasting tour at top wineries like Wilson Creek Winery or Ponte Winery, both known for their beautiful estates and premium selections.

Beyond wine, the Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival is a highlight for those who enjoy a mix of wine, live music, and hot air balloon rides. Old Town Temecula also offers charming boutique shopping, historic buildings, and local dining.

5. San Diego – Beaches, Culture, and Family Attractions

Distance: 1.5 to 2 hours

San Diego is known for its laid-back coastal vibe, world-class attractions, and beautiful beaches. Balboa Park, home to the famous San Diego Zoo, offers stunning gardens, museums, and cultural institutions.

For a waterfront experience, visitors can explore Seaport Village, take a harbor cruise, or visit the historic USS Midway Museum. Beachgoers can relax in La Jolla Cove, where sea lions and breathtaking ocean views make for a memorable visit.

6. Joshua Tree National Park – A Desert Adventure

Distance: 2.5 hours

For those who love the outdoors, Joshua Tree National Park provides a striking desert landscape perfect for hiking, rock climbing, and photography. The park is famous for its namesake Joshua trees, unique rock formations, and scenic trails like Hidden Valley and Barker Dam.

Visitors can also explore Pioneertown, a historic Old West-style town originally built as a movie set. With its rustic charm and desert backdrop, it’s a great stop before heading back to Newport.

7. Palm Springs – A Desert Oasis With Luxury and Relaxation

Distance: 2 hours

Palm Springs is an ideal day trip for those looking to unwind in a resort-style setting. This desert city is known for its hot springs, luxury spas, and mid-century modern architecture. Visitors can relax at high-end resorts, take a scenic ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, or explore the trendy shops and restaurants along Palm Canyon Drive.

Outdoor enthusiasts can also hike in the nearby Indian Canyons, where palm-lined trails and waterfalls provide a refreshing escape from the desert heat.

8. Santa Barbara – The American Riviera

Distance: 2.5 hours

Santa Barbara’s Spanish-style architecture, ocean views, and fine dining make it one of the most picturesque coastal towns in California. A visit to Stearns Wharf offers stunning views of the Pacific, while the Santa Barbara Mission provides a look at the area’s history.

For wine lovers, the Santa Ynez Valley, just outside the city, is home to some of the region’s best wineries. Visitors can also explore State Street, known for its boutique shopping and upscale restaurants.

9. Big Bear Lake – A Year-Round Mountain Retreat

Distance: 2.5 to 3 hours

For a mountain escape, Big Bear Lake offers year-round outdoor activities. In winter, it’s a top destination for skiing and snowboarding at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. During the warmer months, visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and hiking around the lake.

The town of Big Bear also features cozy lodges, local breweries, and family-friendly attractions, making it a great place to relax before heading back to the coast.

Reach Out to The File Group

Newport’s prime location and luxurious real estate make it a sought-after place to call home. Whether looking for a waterfront property, a modern estate, or an investment opportunity, The File Group provides expert guidance in finding the perfect home in Newport Beach.

For personalized service and unmatched local expertise, contact The File Group today and take the first step toward living in one of California’s most desirable coastal communities.



Janelle File

Janelle File

Get to Know Me

Licensed Realtor® and Certified Residential Appraiser #AR028996

As the Principal agent at The File Group, Janelle File is a natural team leader and trusted real estate expert. Just as importantly, she has been a constant fixture in her home community of Corona del Mar for well over 25 years. Today, as a top agent in Corona del Mar, Janelle leads The File Group with her husband Brandon Goethals. The File Group has become one of the highest-producing teams in the area, known for their steadfast commitment to unparalleled client service and providing a luxury experience that leaves clients beyond satisfied. Janelle, like the rest of her team, operates with honesty, integrity, and a relationship-driven approach to ensure complete client satisfaction.

Janelle strives to achieve an outcome for her clients that exceeds every expectation. For decades, many individuals and families have relied on her for her business expertise and her first-hand familiarity of the high-end business world in Orange County. In her former role as the Director of Special Events at Fashion Island, Janelle was responsible for organizing major events, including the Fashion Island Concert Series, the Taste of Newport, fashion shows, and numerous charitable events. She was later promoted to the Director of Sales and Marketing at the Irvine Spectrum Center, where she used her marketing expertise to increase center-wide sales by over 150% over two years. She then moved to marketing at the Irvine Company, where she was the Director of Partnership Development for all of the Irvine Company properties and partnered with mega-corporations like Coca Cola, Jaguar, and Aston Martin to facilitate cross-promotional events to help subsidize marketing budgets and build brand awareness.

Janelle switched to real estate many years ago and developed her real estate appraisal firm, where she employed 15 appraisers that serviced all Southern California from Los Angeles to San Diego. She worked for major lending corporations such as Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, and many private brokerages around the country. Janelle’s primary focus was on the luxury coastal properties along the Southern California coast. Janelle earned a sterling reputation for her appraisal skills and is still highly regarded and relied upon for her stellar appraisal skills today.

After crossing over half a billion in team sales, The File Group now operates out of its own first-of-its-kind office in Corona del Mar (with a fitting office name of "Sea Diem"). Janelle and Brandon are proud to further integrate into their home community of CdM where they work, live, are raising their three young children, and happily support the schools, businesses, and events in the area. 

Work With Us

Our market knowledge is unparalleled and our passion to assist in anyway is unmatched. If we can ever be of assistance to you or anyone you know, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Follow Me on Instagram