To get to Balboa Island, you can drive, take a ferry, or walk. Each method offers a unique experience.
Hey guys, gather around. Let’s chat about how to go to Balboa Island. I’ve hit that spot a bunch of times over the years, cruising from LA or flying in for quick escapes. It’s this tiny gem in Newport Beach, full of chill vibes and killer views. Trust me, the trip there sets the tone for the whole day.
Picture us hanging out at a beach bar, me spilling the beans on my adventures. I first stumbled on Balboa during a road trip down the coast. The place hooked me with its old-school charm. Now, I always plan stops there when I’m in Orange County.
My First Trip: Discovering the Island
I remember pulling up to Balboa Island after a drive from San Diego. The sun was dipping low. I crossed the bridge without thinking twice. It felt like entering a postcard.
That visit opened my eyes to why people rave about it. Quaint houses line the streets. Boats bob in the harbor. I wandered Marine Avenue, grabbing coffee at a local spot.
From then on, I experimented with different ways to arrive. Each method adds its own flavor. Ferry rides feel fun and nostalgic.
A Bit of Background on Balboa
Balboa Island started as a mudflat back in the late 1800s. James McFadden bought the land for shipping. By 1906, developer William Collins dredged it into shape.
He named it after explorer Vasco Núñez de Balboa. Early lots sold cheap, but services lagged. Ferry service kicked off in 1919 thanks to Joseph Beek.
Today, it’s part of Newport Beach. Population hovers around 3,000. Real estate prices soar into millions.
I’ve seen old photos at local spots. They show how it evolved from swamp to paradise. The history makes every visit feel layered.
Why I Keep Going Back
The island’s vibe pulls me in every time. Scenic walks along the boardwalk refresh my soul. I love snapping photos of the bay at sunset.
Activities abound for any mood. Kayaking or paddleboarding hits the spot on calm days. Shops on Marine Avenue offer unique finds, like handmade jewelry.
Food scene shines too. Fresh seafood at harborside eateries never disappoints. I once had the best clam chowder there.
It’s family-friendly or romantic, depending on your crew. No wonder tourists flock from everywhere. My friends always ask for tips after hearing my stories.
Planning Your Visit: Best Times
I prefer spring or fall for milder crowds. Summers pack the place with families. Winters bring crisp air and fewer people.
Check weather apps before heading out. Fog can roll in mornings. I got caught once, delaying my ferry ride.
Holidays light up the island. Boat parades in December are magical. I’ve watched from the shore with hot cocoa.
Avoid peak weekends if you hate lines. Mid-week trips feel more relaxed. That’s when I snag the best parking spots.
Flying In: Closest Airports
John Wayne Airport sits just 5 miles away. I fly there often from LA or beyond. It’s small and easy to navigate. From SNA, grab a rental car at the terminal. Hertz or Enterprise have counters. Drive south on MacArthur Boulevard to Jamboree Road. Taxis cost about $25 to Balboa. Uber or Lyft run $15-20. I use rideshares for quick hops. Shuttles like Karmel offer group rides. Book online for $15 per person. Buses via OCTA line 1 connect too, but slower.
Long Beach Airport is 25 miles north. Flights from there save money sometimes. Then, hop on I-405 south. Ontario Airport lies 40 miles east. Good for domestic hauls. Drive via CA-55 south after landing. I’ve tried all three. SNA wins for convenience. No long hauls after a flight.
Ground Transport from SNA
Once at John Wayne, options abound. Rental cars give freedom. I pick Avis for their quick service. Head to the ground transport area. Signs guide you. Taxis queue outside baggage claim. For buses, OCTA route 76 runs to Newport. Fare’s $2. Transfer to line 47 for Balboa. Rideshares pick up at designated zones. I wait 5 minutes max. App shows surge prices. Hotels nearby offer shuttles. If staying in Newport, ask. Saves hassle.
Driving from Los Angeles
LA to Balboa takes about an hour without traffic. I start on I-5 south. Merge to I-405 south near Irvine. Exit at Jamboree Road. Turn right toward the coast. The bridge appears soon after. Traffic peaks mornings and evenings. I leave early to beat it. Weekends flow better. Toll roads like CA-73 speed things up. FasTrak saves time. Cost around $5. Park on the island streets. Meters run $1.50/hour. I hunt for free spots inland. From downtown LA, it’s 45 miles. Scenic views along the way. Stop at Huntington Beach if time allows. I’ve done this drive solo and with buddies. Podcasts make it fly by.
Navigating Traffic Tips
LA traffic can suck. I check Waze before leaving. Avoid rush hours, 7-9am and 4-7pm. Alternate routes include PCH for ocean views. Slower but prettier. I take it on lazy days. Construction pops up often. Caltrans app alerts me. Pack snacks for delays. Once in Newport, signs point to Balboa. Follow Jamboree straight. Easy peasy. Parking apps like ParkMobile help pay meters. No coins needed. I use it every time.
Driving from San Diego
San Diego’s about 90 miles south. I hop on I-5 north. Cruise past Carlsbad and Oceanside. Near Dana Point, exit to PCH north. Or stay on I-5 to CA-73 north. Both lead to Newport. Time it for 1.5 hours. Traffic thickens near Laguna. I avoid Fridays. Toll on CA-73 is $7. Worth it for speed. FasTrak again. Arrive via Jamboree bridge. Same as from LA. Parking same deal. I’ve combined this with zoo visits in SD. Makes a full day trip.
From Orange County Spots
If in Irvine, it’s 10 miles. Take Jamboree direct. Quick 15 minutes. From Anaheim, 20 miles south on CA-55. Disney crowds add time. Go early. Costa Mesa’s next door. Drive PCH or Newport Boulevard. 10 minutes tops. Huntington Beach to Balboa? 8 miles via PCH. Beach hop along the way. Local drives feel breezy. I do them for lunch runs. No big planning needed.
The Iconic Balboa Island Ferry
Nothing beats the ferry for fun. It runs from Balboa Peninsula to the island. Short 5-minute crossing. I park on the peninsula side. Walk on for $1.50 cash. Cars cost $3.50 plus driver. Boats named Admiral, Captain, Commodore. Each holds 3 cars. Runs every few minutes. Hours: 6:30am to midnight daily. Year-round. I’ve caught late ones after dinners.
From peninsula, find 410 South Bayfront. Signs everywhere. Queue up and enjoy views. This method screams vacation. Wind in hair, harbor smells. My go-to for first-timers.
Ferry History and Fun Facts
Joseph Beek started it in 1919. Used rowboats first. Then autos in 1920s. Now, it’s electric-diesel hybrid. Push for greener soon. I read about emission rules. Ferry carries 800,000 people yearly. Peak summer lines form. I go off-peak. Views of yachts and homes amaze. Spot seals sometimes. Camera ready. It’s a landmark. Movies feature it. Adds nostalgia to trips.
Walking or Biking to Balboa
From Newport Beach mainland, walk the bridge. Jamboree spans the bay. Sidewalks safe. Takes 10 minutes. Views killer. I do it for exercise. Bike rentals abound. Cecil’s Cyclery on the island. $15/hour. Pedal from peninsula. Ferry allows bikes for extra buck. Easy crossing. Boardwalk circles the island. 1.8 miles loop. I bike it often.
From Balboa Peninsula, walk to ferry dock. Quick stroll. No car needed. This way saves money. Eco-friendly too. My green choice.
Rideshares and Taxis
Uber from SNA: $15-25. Quick 10 minutes. I request at airport. From LA: $50-70. Surge in traffic. Lyft similar. Taxis at stands. Yellow Cab reliable. Meter starts $3. For groups, UberXL. Fits gear. I’ve used for beach days. Apps show ETAs. No waiting long. My fallback always.
Boat Rentals and Water Taxis
Rent a Duffy boat. Electric, seats 10. $100/hour from marinas. Cruise to island docks. Public ones free. I tie up and explore. Water taxis rare. But harbor cruises drop near. Fun alternative. Kayak from peninsula. Paddle over. Adventure level high. I’ve rented from Southwind Kayaks. $20/hour. Workout with views. For luxury, yacht charters. Pricey but epic. Special occasions.
Combining Methods: My Hybrid Trips
Sometimes I mix it up. Fly to SNA, rent car, drive to peninsula, ferry over. Or train from SD, bus to Newport, walk bridge. Saves costs or adds variety. I plan based on mood. From LA, drive most way, park free in Costa Mesa, bus last leg. Experiment. Finds best fit. My trips evolve.
Costs Breakdown
Flights to SNA: $100-200 roundtrip from major cities.
Rental car day: $50 plus gas $20.
Ferry: $1.50 walk-on, $3.50 car.
Bus: $2 per ride.
Uber from airport: $20.
Parking meter: $1.50/hour.
Boat rental: $100/hour.
Totals vary. Budget $50-100 for transport per person. I track expenses. Keeps trips affordable.
Parking Challenges and Hacks
Island parking tight. Streets narrow. Meters enforce 8am-6pm. Free after 6pm. Or inland blocks. I circle for spots. Peninsula lots cheaper. Then ferry. $10 all-day. Apps show availability. ParkMobile pays remotely. Summer weekends worst. Go early. Or bike in. Valet at restaurants. Free with meal. Smart move.
What to Pack for the Trip
Sunscreen essential. CA sun strong. Hat too. Water bottle. Hydrate on walks. Snacks for ferry waits. Cash for ferry. Exact change. No cards. Comfortable shoes. Lots of strolling. Flip-flops for beach. Camera or phone. Views everywhere. Charger backup. Light jacket. Evenings cool. Bay breeze. I’ve forgotten sunscreen once. Burnt bad. Lesson learned.
Accessibility Notes
Bridge has sidewalks. Wheelchair friendly. Ramps present. Ferry accommodates mobility aids. Staff helps board. Island flat. Easy navigation. Boardwalk paved. Some shops have steps. Call ahead. Public restrooms accessible. Near Marine Avenue. I’ve taken friends with needs. Works well.
Eco-Friendly Travel Choices
Bike or walk reduces carbon. My preference. Electric ferries coming. Support green. Public transport cuts emissions. Bus over car. Reusable bottles. No plastic waste. Beaches clean. Kayak instead of motorboat. Quiet, low impact. I aim sustainable. Island deserves it.
Staying Overnight: Lodging Tips
VRBO homes abound. $200/night average. Bay views. Hotels in Newport. Balboa Bay Resort fancy. $300+. Airbnb cottages cute. Walk to everything. Camping none on island. Nearby Crystal Cove. I’ve stayed peninsula side. Ferry to island daily. Book early summers. Rates spike.
Eating on Arrival
Marine Avenue diners shine. Wilma’s Patio for breakfast.
Sugar ‘n Spice frozen bananas. Iconic treat.
Seafood at Fly ‘N’ Fish. Fresh catch.
Picnic on boardwalk. Grab from markets.
I’ve tried most. Never disappoints.
Vegetarian options growing. Salads, wraps.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Boutiques unique. Olive Oil and Beyond for balsamics.
Candy stores fun. Jerky too.
Art galleries local. Prints affordable.
I buy oils always. Gifts for home.
Avoid tourist traps. Local shops better.
Water Activities Once There
Rent paddleboards. Seaside Paddle shop. $25/hour.
Boat tours harbor. See seals.
Fishing off docks. License needed.
I’ve kayaked bays. Spot dolphins.
Snorkel calm waters. Gear rentals.
Sunset cruises romantic. Wine included.
Exploring the Boardwalk
1.8-mile loop. Walk or jog. Benches for rests. People watch. Homes inspire. Architecture varies. I time for golden hour. Photos pop. Birds abound. Binoculars fun. Quiet spots for reading. Peaceful.
Nearby Attractions
Balboa Peninsula Fun Zone. Arcade games. Newport Pier fishing. Views great. Fashion Island mall. Shopping upscale. I’ve hit all. Day extenders. Crystal Cove hikes. Nature break. Corona del Mar beach. Tide pools.
Day Trip Itineraries
Morning: Ferry in, coffee on Marine.
Midday: Boardwalk walk, lunch seafood.
Afternoon: Shop, paddleboard.
Evening: Sunset ferry out.
My standard plan. Adjust as needed.
For families: Add ice cream stops.
Safety Tips
Watch for bikes on paths. Share space.
Sun exposure high. Shade breaks.
Rip currents rare but know swimming.
Lock cars. Valuables hidden.
I’ve had no issues. Common sense rules.
Emergency: Dial 911. Lifeguards present.
Weather Prep
Summers hot, 80s. Winters mild, 60s.
Rain rare. But pack poncho.
Fog mornings. Clears by noon.
I check forecasts. Adjust plans.
Winds pick up afternoons. Hats secure.
UV high year-round. Protect skin.
Photography Spots
Boardwalk ends. Harbor panoramas.
Ferry mid-crossing. Yacht shots.
Marine Avenue arches. Charming streets.
I’ve captured sunsets there. Stunning.
Bridge overlook. Island views.
Docks at dusk. Reflection magic.
Local Events Calendar
Boat parade December. Lights galore.
Summer concerts parks. Free music.
Art walks monthly. Galleries open.
I’ve caught parades. Festive vibe.
Farmers market Sundays. Fresh produce.
Halloween haunted. Fun scares.
Budget vs Luxury Trips
Budget: Bus in, walk around. $20 total.
Mid: Ferry, rental bike. $50.
Luxury: Yacht charter, fine dine. $200+.
I mix levels. Keeps fresh.
Savings: Free walks, picnics.
Splurges: Boat rentals worth it.
Solo Travel Experiences
I go alone often. Safe, welcoming.
Meet locals at cafes. Chatty folks.
Journal on benches. Reflective time.
No boredom. Always something.
Women solo: Well-lit areas. Fine daytime.
My solo trips recharge me.
Group Adventures
With friends: Ferry races fun.
Family: Kid-friendly shops.
Couples: Romantic dinners.
I’ve hosted groups. Everyone loves.
Coordinate transport. Carpools best.
Picnics group hits.
Pet-Friendly Options
Dogs allowed leashed. Boardwalk yes.
Ferry permits pets. No charge.
Parks for play. Water bowls.
I’ve brought my dog. Enjoys walks.
Some shops welcome. Ask first.
Vets nearby if needed.
Cultural Etiquette
Respect residents. Quiet streets.
No littering. Bins everywhere.
Tip servers well. Service great.
I’ve learned from locals. Friendly chats.
Support small businesses. Keeps charm.
Photo homes politely. No intrusions.
Tech Tools for the Journey
Google Maps navigates bridges.
Ferry app? None, but website hours.
OCTA app bus schedules.
Uber for backups.
I’ve used all. Seamless.
Weather apps radar. Storm alerts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Forgetting ferry cash. ATMs far.
Overpacking. Light travel.
Ignoring tides for kayaks.
I’ve done them. Learn quick.
Rushing. Savor pace.
Underestimating sun. Burn risk.
Extending to Multi-Day
Day 1: Arrive, explore island.
Day 2: Peninsula beaches.
Day 3: Newport malls, hikes.
I’ve done weekends. Perfect escape.
Lodging central. Walk everywhere.
Pack versatile clothes. Layers.
Comparing to Other Islands
Vs Catalina: Balboa smaller, easier access.
Vs Coronado: Similar charm, less military.
Balboa wins for quick trips.
I’ve visited both. Balboa cozier.
No ferries needed always. Bridge option.
Unique frozen bananas. Signature.
Sustainable Practices
Carry reusables. No single-use.
Support eco-tours. Low impact.
Bike over drive. Less emissions.
I’ve shifted habits. Feels good.
Beach cleanups occasional. Join in.
Educate others. Spread awareness.
Personal Anecdotes
Once, ferry broke down mid-crossing. Laughed it off. Towed back quick.
Another time, biked loop in rain. Slippery but memorable.
Met celebrities shopping. Low-key spot.
Stories make trips special.
Shared with you guys now. Hope inspires.
Lost once on boardwalk. Found hidden cafe.
Future Plans for Balboa
I plan holiday return. Parade views.
Try new restaurants. Menu changes.
Bring new friends. Share joy.
Island evolves. Always fresh.
Electric ferries coming. Excited.
More green spaces maybe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the cheapest way to get to Balboa Island?
Bus from nearby cities costs $2. Walk the bridge free.
Is the ferry wheelchair accessible?
Yes, staff assists boarding. Flat decks.
How long does the ferry take?
About 3-5 minutes across the harbor.
Can I bring my car on the ferry?
Yes, up to 3 per boat. $3.50 plus passengers.
What’s parking like on the island?
Metered streets $1.50/hour. Free after 6pm.
Are there direct flights to Newport?
No, but John Wayne Airport is 5 miles away.
Is public transport reliable?
OCTA buses run on time. Check schedules.
Best time to avoid crowds?
Weekdays in fall or spring.
Can pets ride the ferry?
Yes, leashed and free.
How to go to Balboa Island without a car?
Ferry from peninsula or bus to bridge.
What if I miss the last ferry?
Bridge always open. Walk or rideshare.
Is biking safe there?
Yes, dedicated paths and slow traffic.
Takeaway
Guys, Balboa Island rocks for easy escapes. Pick your transport—ferry for fun, drive for speed. Pack light, explore deep. You’ll leave refreshed. How to go to Balboa Island? Just go—it’s worth every mile. Let’s plan a group trip soon. Cheers!
