Last updated on February 5th, 2024 at 02:38 pm
Want to visit the Balboa Fun Zone in Newport Beach?
You’ve come to the right place because I have visited the Balboa Fun Zone with kids many times!
The Balboa Fun Zone is one of the oldest coastal amusement parks in California. Located on the waterfront, visitors can enjoy rides, play games at the arcade, rent water sports equipment, catch a harbor cruise, or just enjoy great food and drinks.
A Newport Beach Tradition
Reminiscent of California’s classic boardwalk amusement parks, the Balboa Fun Zone is a family-friendly spot for some old-fashioned fun in the sun! Kids can ride the waterfront Ferris Wheel, play games in the arcade or visit the nautical museum, Discovery Cube’s Ocean Quest.
We live in Southern California and spend a lot of time in Newport Beach, and the Balboa Fun Zone is one of our favorite spots to visit for family fun and to grab a treat along the waterfront.
The Balboa Fun Zone is also where you can embark on a harbor cruise, fishing trip, or take off for a day trip to nearby Catalina Island.
If the Balboa Fun Zone feels like vintage California, that’s because it is! The Balboa Fun Zone opened in 1936, and is a throwback to the classic coastal amusement parks of the era. This uniquely SoCal attraction is one of the best things to do with kids when visiting Orange County. We have visited many times over the years, most recently with my in-laws for an active, multi-generational day of fun. (We even rented Segways!)
There are nearly a dozen rides and attractions at the Balboa Fun Zone – including the Coconut Tree Climb, Tower Drop, Happy Swing, and the iconic Ferris Wheel.
Families wanting to go out on the water can take a relaxing self-guided tour of the beautiful homes and yachts of the harbor in their choice of five types of power or sail watercraft, enjoy a healthy workout on a kayak, or rent a jet ski.
The Balboa Arcade
It’s not the biggest arcade, but it is a classic! With over 30 arcade games, this is a fun stop on the Boardwalk. From skeeball to Pac-Man, the Balboa Arcade provides fun and prizes for all ages! My husband and son love to play air hockey whenever we go.
Science of Sailing Exhibit
Adjacent to the Balboa Arcade, Discovery Cube’s Ocean Quest has a Science of Sailing Exhibit that kids will love. The Science of Sailing Exhibit integrates ship models with artifacts and connects them to science concepts and hands-on activities. Areas of focus include the science of simple machines and how they incorporate design, navigation, and communication.
Mixed in to the exhibit are unique and historic elements related to the nautical history of the Newport Harbor. If your kid is a STEM enthusiast like mine, they will love it!
Balboa Fun Zone Restaurants
There are many great, family-friendly places to eat at the Balboa Fun Zone and nearby along the Balboa Peninsula. Our favorite thing to do though, is treat yourself to a slice of pizza, donut, hot dog, ice cream or frozen banana! These classic beach eats are inexpensive and readily available along the waterfront!
Here are some more traditional restaurants with healthier food choices that families can enjoy in and around the Balboa Fun Zone:
- Ruby’s Diner (on the pier)
- Balboa Bar-B-Que
- Harborside Restaurant
- Cabo Cantina
- Cruisers Pizza Bar
- Newport Landing Restaurant
- Patty Mac’s
Healthy Tip for This Destination
Just across the street from the Balboa Fun Zone, across Balboa Boulevard on the other side of the narrow Peninsula, is the world-famous Newport Beach. The boardwalk runs for miles. Rent bikes, rollerblades, jog or simply take a walk and enjoy the sand, crashing waves and fresh ocean air while getting exercise. You can also jump in the ocean and take a swim! It is a very popular beach for children.
Location & Information
Thee Balboa Fun Zone is located at 600 East Bay Blvd., on Balboa Peninsula across from the Balboa Pier in Newport Beach. A public parking lot is available next to the pier. The Balboa Fun Zone can also be reached by the Auto Ferry located on Balboa Island.
Save These Balboa Fun Zone Tips for Later!
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