North Star Beach — Attraction in Newport Beach

A small beach that is perfect for families with toddlers since it’s part of the Bay and hence it’s flat and very shallow. Has lots of tiny fish and shells, rocks to climb and explore and a paddle boarding and kayak store with bathrooms, showers, a vending machine and a big parking lot. A wonderful spot to spend a few hours with small kid’s waddling water and exploring nature while the teens and adults take turns enjoying some water sports and exploring the wonderful wildlife that the canals on the Bay offer. Make sure you don’t miss the lots of rays that live on the the marshes across from the beach. The flying fish are huge and also a must see. You can also explore the mansions from the water, but that wasn’t too exciting and there are lots of boats on that side of the bay. Also, bring food or get ready to go across the bay for some as we didn’t see anything accessible on foot...

Baby Beach and launch point. Watch the current when the tide is changing (out seems to be stronger than in) and it can get pretty crowded on holidays, summer weekends, and during competitions. . Parking is mainly dirt, but unless you have 4WD (not AWD) and don't try parking in the end-of-the-row spots that everyone else is avoiding, even if the dirt is firm, your tires may not be able to go out of some of the ridged depressions that don't look bad... and the soft dirt can surprise you if you're not ready to adjust. I went from 4WD to FWD and I still occasionally get surprised when my wheels start to feel "loose". . If it's crowded, park far away from the sand but near the NAC building if you have to, that's where the courtesy bathroom is anyway :)

Oh, and pick up your dog poop....

A nice place to get away from the heavily traveled and trodden front beaches in this small sheltered cove! The water appears clean with little or no wave action. It also provides welcome relief from a heat wave! There’s paddle board, kayak and canoe rentals available at the beach, as well as the aquatic center. Great place to take the kids and dogs! Users may park for free in the dirt lot at the beach or to the beach side of...