Island & destination guide
Balboa Island
Newport Beach, Orange County, CA
Overview
Balboa Island is a small residential island in the middle of Newport Harbor, made up of Balboa Island, Little Balboa Island and Collins Isle. It began as a mudflat that developer W.S. Collins dredged and sold off in lots from the early 1900s, and it became part of Newport Beach in 1916. A paved concrete boardwalk rings the island and the shoreline is lined with private homeowner piers.
What brings boaters here
Marine Avenue is the island's main street, with small restaurants, bakeries, a tackle shop and local crafts. Visitors reach the island by bridge, by the Balboa Island Ferry, or by boat at the public docks.
The Balboa Island Ferry
The ferry has run since 1919 between Balboa Island and the Balboa Peninsula near the Fun Zone, at 410 South Bay Front on the island side. Three double-ended ferries, the Admiral, Captain and Commodore, carry cars, bicycles and pedestrians. The ferry's site says it runs 6:30 a.m. to midnight, 365 days a year, and the crossing takes only a couple of minutes. Boaters should keep clear of the ferry lane, which crosses the main harbor traffic.
Docks and dinghy access
The island has several small public docks, and local dock guides list piers at Balboa, Park, Coral, Sapphire, Opal and Emerald avenues. Time limits vary by pier, so follow the posted signs. On the peninsula side, the city's new Balboa Marina public pier is free for day use, limited to 3 hours. The 5 mph, no-wake limit applies across the harbor.
Getting there & access
By ferry
The Balboa Island Ferry runs between the island and the Balboa Peninsula near the Fun Zone and carries cars, bicycles and pedestrians. It's the easiest way to reach the island from a peninsula dock or from Marina Park. Check the ferry's website for current fares and schedule.
By boat to public piers
Public piers ring the island, including Balboa Avenue, Park Avenue, Coral, Sapphire, Opal and Emerald avenues, per local dock guides. Smaller boats and dinghies fit best. Time limits vary, so follow the posted signs.
Navigating the area
The island sits in the main part of the harbor with moored boats, homeowner piers and ferry crossings nearby. Keep to the 5 mph, no-wake limit, give the ferry room, and watch the depths outside the main channel, which is about 8 feet.
By land
A two-lane bridge connects the island to the mainland, and the ferry connects it to the Balboa Peninsula. Parking on the island is limited, so many visitors walk or use the ferry.
Amenities
- Balboa Island Ferry — 410 South Bay Front; vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians
- Marine Avenue — Restaurants, bakeries, a tackle shop and local shops
- Public piers — Several public docks around the island
- Boardwalk — Paved concrete boardwalk around the island
- Balboa Marina public pier — On the peninsula side: free day use, 3-hour limit, with an accessible lift
Rules & official resources
- 5 mph maximum speed and no wake throughout Newport Harbor
- No unreasonable noise between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.
- No-discharge harbor: nothing but clean tap water may be released
- Fishing line and debris can't be left in the water
- California Boater Card required for all operators of motorized vessels, regardless of age, since January 1, 2025
Common boat service needs here
Dinghy and tender care
Boaters on moorings use tenders to reach island docks, so outboard service and tender repair are common needs.
Find Marine Mechanics & Engine Service providers →Washdown and detailing
Salt, sun and harbor traffic mean frequent washdowns, especially for boats visiting for dining and weekend stays.
Find Boat Detailing & Washing providers →Hull cleaning
Moored and slipped boats in warm harbor water need regular diver cleaning.
Find Bottom Cleaning, Hull Cleaning & Dive Services providers →Canvas and upholstery
Sun exposure breaks down covers and cushions on boats that stay in the harbor.
Find Canvas, Covers & Upholstery providers →Guides & FAQs
Nearby providers
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