Between LA And San Diego Lies A California Beach Town With Upscale Resorts And Restaurants

In a state with no shortage of vacation-worthy locales, it can be hard for a place to stand out. Even when you narrow your desired destination type down to the biome of beaches, California gives you an overwhelming number of possibilities to consider. Should you visit Malibu or Monterey? El Matador State Beach or Santa Monica State Beach? Emerald Bay or Half Moon Bay? Every option has something special in store, and few will leave you disappointed — unless, of course, you're a savvy traveler seeking a very specific experience. In that case, you'll need to focus your dream getaway investigation around the exact qualities you value most. For those with discerning taste, this search may very well lead you straight to Newport Beach — one of America's most talked-about coastal towns.

Let's say you're keen on an oceanside escape somewhere in between Los Angeles and San Diego. You obviously want beautiful beachfront views and probably a cute coastal community vibe, too. To simplify the actual transit part of your travels, perhaps you're also interested in a spot that pairs decently walkable and bikeable areas with nearby access to several major airports. And for a trip that really leaves you feeling like you're relaxing in the lap of luxury, a place with your pick of upscale resorts and restaurants wouldn't hurt, either. For all of that and diverse attractions (ranging from a fun-filled pier and boardwalk to a chic, iconic mall and whale-watching tours), Newport Beach delivers.

You'll find this city of just over 80,000 permanent residents about an hour southeast of LA and roughly 90 minutes northwest of San Diego, making the trip easy for many SoCal locals. Meanwhile, those flying into the area can choose between a handful of surrounding airports. LAX, Long Beach, LA/Ontario, and Bob Hope airports all sit within 60 miles of town, though the closest hub will be John Wayne (SNA) at 5 miles away.

A crucial part of the vacation-planning process is choosing where to stay. In Newport Beach, the options for classy resorts are plentiful, but a few are worth prioritizing over the others. For a luxury resort within walking distance of some of California's best beaches, the VEA Newport Beach (a Marriott Resort & Spa) is an excellent choice. Upon arrival, guests will be greeted by an impressive water feature just outside the lobby, an area outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows that can open out onto the adjoining patio for an indoor-outdoor living vibe. This atmosphere continues in the guest rooms, nearly all of which showcase panoramic coastal views.

For a more intimate experience, there's also Pendry Newport Beach. Maintaining a chic-yet-cozy aesthetic that ensures the whole family (pets included!) feels comfortable and pampered, this hotel offers many similar amenities to the VEA — a spa, poolside cabanas, and on-site dining — plus a members club. Those approved to venture inside The Elmwood Club will discover delights ranging from a cabaret space to a living room complete with snacks, TVs, and a fireplace. In the Pendry's guest rooms, the luxury continues with a well-stocked mini bar and picture windows framing coastal, garden, and skyline views. Together with exceptional service from staff members throughout the property, these special touches are what helped this 5-star property earn a Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice badge of honor for 2026.

During a June 2026 trip hosted by Visit Newport Beach, I stayed at both the Pendry and the VEA. While I can vouch for the quality of these accommodations, there are other local lodging options to consider. For example, those with around $2,000 a night to spend will likely appreciate the much-awarded Resort at Pelican Hill. More affordable digs are also available nearby, but be warned: few (if any) good options can be found for under $300 a night.

In between time spent lounging at the pool or by the beach, enjoy top-tier dining at restaurants throughout Newport Beach. With several Michelin Guide-listed spots scattered around town, you won't be starved for choice. That said, Pendry and VEA guests need not stray far for good eats. From morning to night, the VEA's View Restaurant & Lounge serves up "California coastal cuisine" so delicious that it earned a place on TimeOut's list of the city's best restaurants. Over at the Pendry, a range of picks await, from the hotel's namesake bar to SET Steak & Sushi, Tree Shack Pool Bar & Grill, and the Italian-Californian fusion establishment that is Viamara.

When it comes to Newport's Michelin picks, four options sit within city limits (though more reside in nearby communities). The first, Marché Moderne, is a French fine-dining location also recognized by TimeOut. Next up is Bello by Sandro Nardone, a classy contemporary Italian restaurant that hosts an aperitivo hour at the bar Monday through Thursday. If being by the coast has you craving seafood, head to Sushi ii for a menu of bites curated by Chef Koji Takahashi. Rounding out this quartet of options is Fable & Spirit. Open for brunch, dinner, and special events, this spot blends Irish and American culinary traditions to create dishes such as crispy edge sourdough pancakes, fish and chips with curry remoulade, and rabbit fricassee.

Looking for delectable dishes served in a more family-friendly environment? Visit Skål Pizza, where breezy outdoor seating allows you to gaze out at ships on the water while you eat. Another outdoor dining option that promises charming ambiance and incredible food is the Farmhouse at Roger's Gardens. Having eaten at Farmhouse and Skål during a recent visit to Newport Beach, I can confirm that both spots will leave you satisfied.