Top 10 Family Photo Spots In Newport Beach, CA | Your Ultimate Guide
Newport Beach boasts some of the most scenic locations in California for family photography. From the iconic piers to hidden gems, find out where to capture those unforgettable family moments.
Newport Beach Family Photographer: Your Guide to Picture-Perfect Family Photo Spots
As a local Newport Beach family photographer, I've explored every nook and cranny of this coastal paradise to find the most stunning backdrops for your family memories. Newport Beach, with its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant atmosphere, is a treasure trove of picture-perfect locations. From the golden hues of sunrise at the Newport Beach Pier to the playful lights of the Fun Zone at dusk, I've got the insider scoop on the best times and spots for capturing those magical family moments.
Plus, we’ve got the lowdown on all the essentials: best times for lighting, seasonal considerations, parking tips, restroom accessibility, permit requirements, and even wheelchair access. So, grab your loved ones, and let’s explore the best spots in Newport Beach for that stellar family shoot!
Let's get started with our top 10 family photo spots in Newport Beach, CA.
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1. Newport Beach Pier
Key Info
The Newport Pier is one of two municipal piers in the city of Newport Beach, California. This is an iconic spot with ocean views and the bustling life of Newport Beach.
The Newport Beach Pier offers this magical moment, creating the perfect backdrop for a family photo that captures the essence of coastal living. The pier stretches into the Pacific, offering a panoramic vista of the sea, bordered by the sprawling sands and the vibrant life of the beach.
Address: 1 Newport Pier, Newport Beach, CA 92663
Map/Directions to Newport Beach Pier
Parking: Paid parking lots nearby. Newport Beach parking meters are run by Park Mobil. If you are planning on spending some time here it is worth downloading the app here https://apps.apple.com/us/app/parkmobile-park-pay-go/id365399299
Best Time of Day: Sunrise for soft lighting, sunset for golden hues
Best Time of Year: The shoulder season, fall and spring months
Restrooms: Available at the base of the pier
Permits: Not required
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes, but may be limited due to the sand
What I like: I love this old wooden pier that is quintessential California beach vibes. The Newport Beach Pier is a versatile spot that promises unforgettable family moments.
Best for: Families with children, couples of all ages, and large groups.
Crowd factor: There are always people at the pier as there are many restaurants and little shops adjacent. Summer and holiday weekends are peak times with the most crowds.
Directions To Newport Beach Pier
2. Balboa Pier
Key Info
The Balboa Pier is the smaller of two municipal piers in the city of Newport Beach, California. The Balboa Pier was constructed in 1906 as a sister project of the Balboa Pavilion.
The less crowded sibling of the Newport Pier provides a more intimate setting for those family portraits.
Address: 1 Balboa Pier #1, Newport Beach, CA 92661
Map/Directions to Balboa Pier
Parking: Paid parking lots nearby + meters
Best Time of Day: Sunrise for soft lighting, sunset for golden hues
Best Time of Year: The shoulder season, fall and spring months
Restrooms: Available at the base of the pier
Permits: Not required
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes, but may be limited due to the sand
What I like: I love the laid-back vibe of this pier. Convenient parking and meeting place before photos start.
Best for: Families with children, couples of all ages, and large groups.
Crowd factor: There are always people at the pier as there are many restaurants and little shops adjacent. Summer and holiday weekends are peak times with the most crowds.
Directions To The Balboa Pier
3. Balboa Fun Zone
Key Info
The Balboa Fun Zone is a family destination located on the Balboa Peninsula in the city of Newport Beach, Orange County, California.
The Balboa Fun Zone, with its Ferris wheel and carnival games, is where fun meets color. Ideal for families looking for vibrant, energetic photos, this spot adds a playful twist to your shoot. As the evening lights come on, the area transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors, perfect for capturing the laughter and joy of family outings.
Address: 600 E Bay Ave, Newport Beach, CA 92661
Map/Directions to Balboa Fun Zone Pier
Parking: Paid parking lots nearby, some street parking
Best Time of Day: Late afternoon
Best Time of Year: Off-peak seasons (fall and spring)
Restrooms: Yes
Permits: Not required
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
What I like: I love the energetic feel the Fun Zone offers for families.
Best for: Families with children, and couples of all ages. Perfect for fun and lively family photos.
Crowd factor: This is a tourist destination, so expect lots of crowds, especially on weekends and summertime.
Directions To Balboa Fun Zone
4. The Wedge
Key Info
The Wedge is known for its large waves, ideal for adventurous families.
Famous for its surfing waves and body surfing. The Wedge is a spot for families who share a love for the ocean and adventure. The dramatic backdrop of crashing waves and the sheer energy of the place adds a dynamic element to any photo. Early mornings here not only catch the best light but also the awe-inspiring spectacle of nature at its most powerful.
Map/Directions to The Wedge
Parking: Street parking available in the neighborhood
Best Time of Day: Morning for dramatic lighting and waves or late afternoon.
Best Time of Year: Late summer for the best wave action or when a south or south/southwest swell is running in the right size and direction.
Restrooms: No nearby facilities
Permits: Not required
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes, but limited due to sand
What I like: I like the bluff park near by and The Wedge for a dramatic photo.
Best for: Families with older children, and couples of all ages.
Crowd factor: This beach can get crowded when the waves get big.
Directions To The Wedge
5. Newport Back Bay
Key Info
Newport Back Bay is known for its natural scenery with calm waters, great for a serene family photo. It connects the Upper Newport Bay with the Newport Harbor. It is a nature reserve home to several species of birds with hiking and biking trails.
For those who lean towards the serene beauty of nature, Newport Back Bay offers a tranquil setting with its calm waters and the gentle rustle of wildlife. It’s a spot where the beauty of family connections mirrors the tranquil beauty of nature.
Map/Directions to Newport Back Bay
Parking: Street parking available in the neighborhood
Best Time of Day: Late afternoon.
Best Time of Year: Year-round beauty
Restrooms: Yes
Permits: Not required
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes, on paved paths
What I like: I like the natural beauty and the sunsets over the back bay.
Best for: Families and couples of all ages.
Crowd factor: Light crowds mostly pedestrians or bicyclists.
Directions To Newport Back Bay
6. Lido Marina Village
Key Info
Lido Marina Village with its maritime charm and stylish, nautical vibe, Lido Village provides a unique backdrop for family photos. The area's upscale shops and boats offer a blend of sophistication and seaside charm, perfect for families looking for something a bit different. Morning shots here capture the peaceful ambiance before the day's hustle and bustle begins.
Address: 3434 Via Lido, Newport Beach, CA 92663
Map/Directions to Lido Marina Village
Parking: Paid parking structures and meters
Best Time of Day: Morning to avoid crowds and shoppers
Best Time of Year: Year-round
Restrooms: Available in shopping areas
Permits: All commercial photography or filming at Lido Marina Village requires authorization by DJM Capital Partners.
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
What I like: I like the chic modern stores and waterfront backgrounds for portraits.
Best for: Families and couples of all ages.
Crowd factor: Light crowds mostly pedestrians or bicyclists.
Directions To Lido Marina Villiage
7. Balboa Island
Key Info
Balboa Island is a picturesque locale where the charm of small-town streets meets the majesty of coastal views. It’s the spot for families looking for a cozy, intimate backdrop. The island’s unique character, combined with the soft afternoon light, makes for stunning photographs that capture the essence of Newport Beach living. Home of the Balboa fun zone.
Map/Directions to Balboa Island
Parking: Paid parking lots nearby and street parking
Best Time of Day: Afternoon for light and ambiance
Best Time of Year: Year-round with holiday decorations adding extra charm in December
Restrooms: Public restrooms available
Permits: Not required
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
What I like: The small-town feel of Balboa Island and the fun zone backdrop with its Ferris wheel and unique kiosks.
Best for: Families with children of any age, couples of all ages, and small groups.
Crowd factor: There are always people shopping and walking around, summertime and holiday weekends will be crowded.
Directions To The Sea Snake Bus Stop
8. Crystal Cove State Park
Key Info
Crystal Cove State Park From its sandy beaches to rustic cottages, Crystal Cove State Park offers a variety of natural backdrops. The golden hour here is not just a time but an experience, transforming the landscape into a warm, inviting backdrop for your family photos. Whether you’re by the shore or exploring the inland areas, the park is a treasure trove of picturesque settings. Other secluded beaches are within minutes from Crystal Cove.
Map/Directions to Crystal Cove State Park
Parking: State park fees apply $15 when this article was written.
Best Time of Day: Sunset hour
Best Time of Year: The shoulder season, fall, and spring months.
Restrooms: limited Available at entrance points in the park only.
Permits: Required for commercial photography
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes, but may be limited due to the sand.
What I like: The blend of beachscapes and old-world bungalows.
Best for: Families with children, couples of all ages, and large groups.
Crowd factor: Summer and holiday weekends are peak times with the most crowds.
Directions To Crystal Cove State Park
9. Little Corona
Key Info
Little Corona is a secluded spot for families seeking a touch of wilderness. The beach, with its dramatic rock formations and tide pools, is a natural playground and a stunning setting for photographs. While sunset provides the most dramatic light, the secluded nature of Little Corona makes it a peaceful spot for family moments at any time of day.
Map/Directions to Little Corona Beach
Parking: Free street parking, but limited.
Best Time of Day: Sunrise for soft lighting, sunset for golden hues.
Best Time of Year: The shoulder season, fall, and spring months.
Restrooms: 1/2 way down the path to the beach.
Permits: Required. They are difficult to get.
Wheelchair Accessible: No, due to steps down to the beach.
What I like: Secluded spot with stunning rock formations and tide pools.
Best for: Families with children, couples of all ages, and large groups.
Crowd factor: Summer and holiday weekends are peak times with the most crowds. It is a small beach, so sometimes it is tough to find a clear spot to create photos without people in the background. Take the stress out of planning a beach photo shoot with these simple tips.
Directions To Little Corona Beach
10. Pirate's Cove
Key Info
For families with a love for adventure and tales of yore, Pirates Cove Beach offers a dramatic cliffside setting reminiscent of old pirate tales. The secluded beach is perfect for capturing moments of exploration and wonder, with the early morning light softening the rugged features of the landscape.
Map/Directions to Pirate's Cove Beach
Parking: Free street parking
Best Time of Day: sunset for golden hues
Best Time of Year: Spring and fall for fewer people
Restrooms: Available at nearby Corona del Mar State Beach
Permits: Not required
Wheelchair Accessible: No, steep access
What I like: Small hidden gem with dramatic cliffs and clear waters
Best for: Families with children, couples of all ages, and large groups.
Crowd factor: Summer and holiday weekends are peak times with the most crowds.
Directions To The Sea Snake Bus Stop
Local Tips for Newport Beach
If you choose Crystal Cove State Park for your family photos be sure to treat yourself to a milkshake at the Crystal Cove Shake Shack just off PCH. If you are looking for brunch or just want to eat with an ocean view The Beachcomber is a must.
For those who love to shop at high-end stores, Fashion Island is where you will want to go before or after your Newport Beach photos.
If you are traveling by plane the most convenient airport to fly into is John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana. This airport borders Newport Beach and is so easy to travel in and out of.
Meet The Author & Photographer
Call Me Chris
Thanks for checking out my top 10 family photo spots in Newport Beach. I'm excited to share my experiences having photographed many events, weddings, family portraits, and surprise engagements here. I hope you can plan something. Incredible with these tips.
Meet The Author & Photographer
Call Me Chris
Thanks for checking out my tips for proposing in Laguna Beach. I'm excited to share my experiences having photographed many surprise engagements throughout Orange County. I hope you can plan something. Incredible with these tips.
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