Where is Balboa Island,Newport Beach, California?

Written by | Updated On: December 08, 2025, 13:55 ET

Balboa Island is located in Newport Beach, California, USA.It lies between the Pacific Coast and the Newport Harbor, situated in Orange County, and is famous for its waterfront homes, boardwalk, shops, and scenic harbor views.

Balboa Island Location Map,Newport Beach, California

Top Attractions Inside Balboa Island

  • Marine Avenue – Main street lined with shops, cafes, and boutiques perfect for strolling and shopping.
  • Balboa Island Ferry – Short ferry ride connecting the island to the Balboa Peninsula, offering scenic harbor views.
  • Balboa Island Boardwalk – Waterfront promenade ideal for walking, people-watching, and enjoying the harbor.
  • Little Balboa Fun Zone – Family-friendly area with arcades and small attractions for children.
  • Beaches – Small sandy spots along the island for sunbathing and relaxing near the water.
  • Waterfront Parks – Green spaces with benches, picnic areas, and views of boats and yachts.
  • Frozen Banana Stands – Iconic local treat stands offering classic frozen banana desserts and snacks.

Balboa Island Facts

Official NameBalboa Island
LocationNewport Beach, Orange County, California, USA
Latitude & Longitude33.6081° N, 117.8866° W
Total Area~0.52 square miles (1.35 km²)
Established1906 (developed as a residential and recreational island)
Managed ByCity of Newport Beach
Region / ConceptResidential and recreational island, waterfront community, tourism
Main FeaturesBalboa Island Ferry, boardwalk, waterfront homes, small shops, restaurants, beaches, harbor access
Visitor ActivitiesWalking along the boardwalk, dining, shopping, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, seasonal events, photography
AccessibilityAccessible by Balboa Island Ferry or bridges; pedestrian-friendly; parking available at key locations
Nearby TownsNewport Beach, Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, California
Entry / FeesPublic access free; ferry fee ~$1 per pedestrian/vehicle
Best Time to VisitSpring–Fall for mild weather; weekends for local events and festivals
Annual VisitorsApprox. 1–2 million (estimate, including seasonal tourism)
Nearby AirportJohn Wayne Airport (SNA) – 10 miles (16 km); Long Beach Airport (LGB) – 18 miles (29 km)
TransportationBalboa Island Ferry, private vehicles, bicycles, walking, rideshare services
Time ZonePacific Time (PT) — UTC−8 Standard / UTC−7 Daylight Saving
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD, $)
Official Websitehttps://www.newportbeachca.gov/government/departments/parks-recreation/parks/beaches/balboa-island
Famous ForBalboa Island Ferry, waterfront homes, boardwalk, small shops, and recreational activities
UNESCO / National StatusLocal municipal park and community island; no UNESCO designation

Distances from Balboa Island to Nearby Landmarks

  • Balboa Peninsula – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Balboa Pier – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Newport Beach Ferry – 0.5 km (0.3 mi)
  • Balboa Fun Zone – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Newport Harbor – 0.5 km (0.3 mi)
  • Corona del Mar State Beach – 7 km (4.3 mi)
  • Fashion Island Mall – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • Little Corona del Mar Beach – 8 km (5 mi)
  • Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve – 5 km (3 mi)
  • Crystal Cove State Park – 15 km (9 mi)
  • Newport Back Bay – 5 km (3 mi)
  • Mariners Mile – 3 km (1.8 mi)
  • Newport Beach Civic Center – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • Old Port District – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Bay Island Park – 0.5 km (0.3 mi)
  • Balboa Island Ferry Landing – 0 km (0 mi)
  • Newport Aquatic Center – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • Pacific Ocean Promenade – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Balboa Island Village – 0.2 km (0.1 mi)
  • Corona del Mar State Park – 7 km (4.3 mi)