Newport Dunes
Orange County's Hidden Gem
We just returned from our cozy stay at one of Orange County’s hidden gems, and I have to share it with all of you. When I started planning our family adventure in Orange County, I knew it had to be spacious enough for our family of 5, and Newport Dunes checked all the boxes on our lists. From the breathtaking views to the full array of activities, there was a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
I was looking forward to our stay at Newport Dunes, but I was blown away by how spacious our cottage was, and you really can’t beat being right on the water. Newport Dunes is a waterfront resort and marina that offers cottages and RV Camping! We opted for a cottage with queen sized bedroom, full bathroom, pullout couch/bed in the living room, upstairs loft, and yard space. It’s like your home away from home!
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Nothing beats having a quiet and peaceful breakfast on the porch while looking out into the water. On a perfect day, you can even see the breathtaking skyline of Fashion Island or the beautiful snow-capped mountains of Big Bear. The upstairs loft was the kid’s favorite part of our accommodations, which they made their own by building a fort with boobie traps. These are the lifelong memories I always look forward to making during our family travel. You can explore our full cottage by watching my reel here.
Activities With The Kids
During the day, we took in the beautiful weather and view by taking advantage of Newport Dunes’s watercraft rentals. During our family adventure in Orange County, we opted for the Duffy Boat, which welcomes up to 8 people. It was the perfect way to sit back and relax so we could take in all the beauty the OC offers. However, if you want more adventure, try the Standup Paddle Boards, Kayaks, or Pedal Boats.
Pool time is always our go-to activity on every trip, and I was surprised that Newport Dunes offers not one but four distinct pools! They have a shallow wading pool for little ones, which is a plus for us toddler parents. The other pool is heated, which is great for a late-night swim since they are open daily from 9 am until 9 pm. You can also take your pool experience to the next level by reserving one of the four poolside cabanas. During our family adventure in Orange County, I felt at ease knowing Newport dunes has a gated entry and security staff on patrol.
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And what better way to finish such a fun-filled day than by getting cozy next to the fire pit with some smores.
Newport Dunes has everything you can think of and more. I was surprised to find out they had a pirate playground that is a fan favorite with the kids. There are also planned activities every day of the month. I was most excited to discover they will have Leprechaun Hat Making, Hello Spring Cutting Board Making, and Sunflower Wreath Making. To check out their complete list of activities for the month of March, you can click here.
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We loved our family adventure in Orange County, where we made lifelong memories with the kids in our cottage. One of the things I look forward to exploring in the future is the Bay Loop Trail which is a 10.5-mile loop that offers bikers scenic views of the sparkling Newport Bay. You can make this a full-day adventure by visiting their fun and educational stops along the way, including the Back Bay Science Center and the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center.
If you’re looking for other activities near Orange County, check out my 8 Tips For Having The Best Disney Experience with Small Kids.
This looks like a perfect weekend getaway with the family!! I totally want to plan a trip!!! Thank you for all the info about local activities to check out! Beautiful photos!
You always find the most wonderful places! We will have to visit sometime
I’ve always wanted to go out on a Duffy Boat!
Wow!!! What an incredible adventure you took…adding to my bucket list next time we are in CA! Thanks for sharing!!!
You guys always have the best adventures! Looks like so much 🤩
What an amazing staycation! Thanks so much for so many great ideas!