The best hotels in Newport Beach

What are the best hotels in Newport Beach?

Newport Beach is one of Orange County’s classic seaside spots, with long sandy beaches, excellent surf, a busy harbour full of yachts and a distinctly upmarket California feel. There’s a good choice of places to stay, from intimate beachfront hotels to full-scale luxury resorts. For a special occasion, The Resort at Pelican Hill is hard to beat, with its Italian-inspired architecture, spectacular pool, championship golf courses and indulgent spa. If you’d rather be close to the beach, restaurants and nightlife, Lido House is a characterful boutique alternative, with coastal-style rooms, a rooftop bar and a lovely pool area.

Newport Beach is as much about life on the water as it is about the beach itself. Spend the morning surfing, paddleboarding or sailing, then wander around Balboa Island, where independent shops, waterfront paths and old-fashioned sweet shops give it a nostalgic seaside feel. Boat trips offer the chance to spot dolphins and migrating whales, while Crystal Cove State Park has scenic coastal trails, secluded coves and excellent spots for a swim. Back in town, Fashion Island is the place for designer shopping and good restaurants, and Sherman Library & Gardens offers a quieter escape among tropical plants and colourful flowers. For sunset, find a spot overlooking the harbour or head out on a cruise.

Scroll down the page for our full selection of recommended hotels in Newport Beach or, for a look at different areas, read our guide to the best places to stay in California.

The Best Places to Stay in Newport Beach

For a seaside stay

• Newport Beach Hotel is right in the heart of the buzzing beachfront, with fifteen rooms and five suites featuring classic blue-and-white coastal decor. Book a suite if travelling as a family, there's plenty of space for everyone, as well as a little kitchen, or pick an ocean view room for gorgeous panoramas. Well-placed for bright nightlife and long beach days, this is a fun, intimate choice for families or partygoers.
• Pendry Newport Beach- This upscale coastal hotel puts Newport’s beaches, Fashion Island’s designer shops and waterfront dining within easy reach. Its 295 rooms have a contemporary feel, with some offering private balconies, while the outdoor pool, landscaped gardens and spa with sauna and hot tub provide lots of downtime. The restaurant serves flame-grilled steaks and fresh sushi.

For art & fashion-minded travellers

• Fashion Island Hotel is part of the extensive open-air Fashion Island complex, boasting boutiques, top-class eateries and excellent entertainment venues. Stay here for comfortable, contemporary rooms, some of which have striking sea views, as well as easy access to the best of Newport Beach's trendy shopping and nightlife. There's lots of space for families, too. A stylish choice for fashion and food-minded visitors.
• Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa is a glamorous hotel in the heart of Newport Beach's Theatre & Arts District, and close to the famed South Coast Plaza. Big contemporary rooms are luxuriously appointed, and there's an appealingly lively buzz around the popular pool area, the fantastic restaurant and the glitzy events spaces. An art-inspired choice perfect for couples or groups eager to hit the design and fashion scene, before retreating to lavish rooms and suites!

For a luxury resort

• The Resort at Pelican Hill is an opulent five-star resort set across 500 leafy acres. Decorated in an Italian Renaissance style, rooms feature fireplaces, spacious bathrooms and gorgeous private terraces. Whether you're travelling as a couple or a family, there's stacks to dazzle and delight, from golf at the Pelican Hill Golf Club to dips in the iconic round pool, indulgent spa days or gourmet dining at the resort's five restaurants. The kids' club is great for little ones, and there are water sports, too! Family-friendly luxury.
• Balboa Bay Resort is an historic luxury resort that has 158 light-filled rooms, each with a private balcony overlooking the bay or marina. Charter a yacht from the private dock, try water sports at the recreation centre, or unwind in the full-service spa. A+O serves relaxed Californian cuisine, while Lighthouse is the spot for a seafood brunch.

For a boutique base

• Lido House- This Cape Cod-style hotel sits just off Balboa Peninsula’s main street, with 130 beach-inspired rooms featuring wooden panelling and private balconies. Spend the afternoon by the pool in a private cabana, book an Elemis facial at Boost Spa, or head upstairs to Newport’s only rooftop bar. Mayor’s Table serves creative coastal dishes, while the concierge team can organise days out.

For an Apartment or Villa

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to John Wayne Airport, and hop into a taxi for the 50 minute drive to Newport Beach.
• California is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• A year-round destination, Newport Beach is especially busy during the summer months. Time your trip for the spring (March - May) or autumn (September - November) for fewer crowds and great hotel offers.

Still not sure?

• Explore our pick of all the best places to stay in Los Angeles,
• Broaden your search to include the best places to stay in California,
• Or, contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.