Corona del Mar

As Newport Beach’s crown jewel and hidden gem, Corona del Mar lives up to its name, “Crown of the Sea.” Locals call it “CDM,” and though the chic hamlet is part of Newport Beach, it has an aesthetic all its own, with stunning new homes side-by-side on flower-named residential streets. Visitors can avoid the crowds and seek a chance of free parking at Little Corona del Mar Beach. The beach is very well protected from swells and surf, making it one of the easier beach diving sites and a great beach for families who don’t want to worry about their little ones getting towed away by a large wave or undercurrent. It’s also a hot spot for dolphins and orcas.

Not far from the beach is Fashion Island, which boasts a variety of luxury boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Whether you plan to lose yourself in a cappuccino by the Koi pond or to get some much-needed retail therapy, make it a getaway with a stay at the Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa Hotel, located 2.5 miles from John Wayne (SNA) Airport.