How to Choose Between Newport Beach Vs Laguna Beach

Sun, sand, and excellent weather are all synonymous with the gorgeous coast of Southern California. With so many incredible beach towns scattered throughout Orange County, choosing which one to visit with your family can be a tall task. So, we compared Newport Beach vs. Laguna Beach to help assist you with your planning! Which will you choose?

For more information on how to make the most of your trip to Newport Beach, be sure to request access to our complimentary Area Guide!

Newport Beach vs. Laguna Beach

Beaches

If you’re comparing the vast stretches of sand at Newport Beach vs. Laguna Beach, you’ll find that the difference here is size. The gorgeous slivers of sand sitting below the cliffs of Laguna offer a unique atmosphere that is tough to beat if you’re going for the views. The palm-lined stretch of Main Beach is your best best for sunbathing or relaxing in a beach chair; however, parking is tough to find. Newport Beach offers tons of space (and parking) for those wanting to spend their days out in the sun. The Wedge is also a prime spot for surfers to test their skills at the south end of the Balboa Peninsula.

Family & Outdoor Activities

When comparing the family atmosphere and outdoor activities available at Newport Beach vs. Laguna Beach, you’ll find a difference in both offerings. Newport Beach may not have the same WOW factor that Laguna Beach has, but the vast stretches of sand are prime for families and couples to relax, surf, swim, and participate in an array of activities including kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Laguna Beach features a focus more on adult couples, so casual family beach activities are less popular. However, both cities provide access to some of the best hiking in Orange County.

Dining Options, Nightlife, and Culture

Newport Beach vs. Laguna Beach: Where should you stay if you want to experience the best dining, nightlife, and culture? Well, both locations are home to award-winning restaurants. Whether you’re searching for casual digs or a new culinary hotspot, you’ll find equally incredible places to indulge at either destination. Newport Beach is more family-oriented, so nightlife is much more of a draw at Laguna Beach, especially since most of the bars and clubs sit in the walkable downtown district. 

In terms of culture, Laguna Beach recently gained popularity from its many appearances on TV, and it’s much more of a trendy spot to see and be seen. Newport Beach still has a touch of glitz and glam, but it largely focuses on families and couples searching for a relaxing place to hang out on the sand and enjoy the famous Southern California weather.

Choose Your Newport Beach Accommodations with Newport Beach Vacation Properties 

Start planning your trip to Newport Beach with us! Our rental property portfolio offers something for everyone. Weather you're traveling for a family getaway, or a best friends trip, there is a property that is perfect for you! Browse our collection and find your match!

Published on Friday, September 27, 2024