Families visiting Southern California will enjoy a day entertainment at the Balboa Fun Zone in Newport Beach, CA. With a view of the harbor, water activities, a Ferris Wheel and chocolate-covered bananas, families are bound to have a day of fun in the Fun Zone. To add to the entertainment, catch the car ferry across the harbor to Balboa Island.
Balboa Fun Zone Ferris Wheel
The most noticeable landmark of the Balboa Fun Zone is the Ferris Wheel. Perched atop the attraction, riders can get a sky-high look at the Newport Harbor. The ride is $3 per rider. Another main attraction in the area is the merry-go-round, which kids will be thrilled with. It is only $2 per rider.
Newport Harbor Nautical Museum
The Newport Harbor Nautical Museum in Newport Beach provides both kids and adults with hands-on exhibits showing the history and importance of the nautical industry in the area. Visitors can view model ships, videos and archival photos in the Richard and Betty Steele Model Pavilion. In the East Wing there is an interactive "Sea of Adventure" exhibit which showcases the past, present and future of sailing, as well as a touch tank for kids to explore. On display currently is a special exhibit about the life and achievements of Nick Scandone, a gold medalist in the 2008 Paralympics.
Water Activities in Newport Harbor
Located on the Newport Harbor, the Balboa Fun Zone is the perfect place to launch a water craft. Whether your family enjoys cruising on a Duffy, seeking thrills on a jet ski, or watching the sunset on a sailboat, there are plenty of options to choose from. For something more active, try renting a standup paddleboard or a kayak. For a leisurely look at the area, try a sea lion or celebrity homes boat tour. There are many vendors to select from, including the Fun Zone Boat Company, which offers various types of harbor cruises. Also located in the area is Marina Boat Rentals that offers rental equipment for the bay or the ocean. If you'd like to charter a boat for a private family outing, the Tiki Boat is a classic. If you're looking for a real adventure, catch the Catalina Flyer out to Catalina Island for the day, or overnight.
Festive Food at Balboa Fun Zone
After a day of fun on the water, you'll be starving for some tasty treats. At the Balboa Fun Zone, you'll find typical carnival-type food like corn dogs, cheese pizza, chocolate-cover frozen bananas, and cotton candy.
No matter how you choose to spend the day on Balboa Island, it's bound to be fun for the entire family.
Sharael Kolberg - With a Bachelor's degree in Journalism from the University of Hawaii, Sharael combines her interest in family travel with her passion for ...
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