Mariner's Mile Newport Beach, California
Renovated
2021
Price
$$$
Rated for
Luxe Resort LocalOutside the door
Harborside yachting cove
Electric Duffy boats depart from private docks while million-dollar yachts glide past the bustling harborfront terrace.
What it’s good at
Notable
Dedicated concierge arranging vintage Mustang rentals along the coast, complemented by Frette-dressed beds and marble soaking tubs.
Notable
Fifteen waterfront acres along Newport Harbor with a private boat dock, heated pool, paddleboards, and summer lawn concerts.
Notable
Direct harbor access and electric beach cruisers for exploring the Balboa Peninsula, Corona del Mar, and local docks.
What they say
Forbes Four-Star
Forbes Travel Guide
2026
The lushly landscaped resort — fragrant jasmine and succulents surround the Mediterranean-style building — has three Duffy boats that ferry guests to local waterside restaurants.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Set directly on the Pacific Coast Highway, the resort offers beach cruisers to pedal across the Balboa Peninsula and nearby beaches.
The rooms
Every room opens to a private balcony or patio, outfitted with espresso wood, Frette linens, and marble soaking tubs.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
Kept at 85 degrees year-round, the non-chlorinated outdoor pool sits flanked by palm trees and private cabanas.
The spa
The 10,000-square-foot spa houses eucalyptus steam rooms, dry saunas, and quiet relaxation lounges beside a Drybar salon.
The gym
Open around the clock, the fitness studio is equipped with Peloton bikes, free weights, and interactive workout mirrors.
Dogs stay too.
At the table
A+O Restaurant serves fresh seafood and craft cocktails on a harborfront terrace warmed by custom fire pit tables.
How it began

Founded in 1948 as a private club where John Wayne served on the board, the property opened its public resort in 2003.
Good to know
Stay here
Balboa Bay Resort
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.