Orange County Attractions

Newport Beach is a lively collection of beach and boating villages 10 miles south of downtown Santa Ana and west of Irvine in Orange County. Many of the villages, such as Balboa Island, Corona del Mar, Balboa Island and Lido Island, were originally developed as shipping and vacation outposts, but the area has evolved into a sophisticated and highly desirable suburban complex.

Newport was first "discovered" in 1870 when Capt. Samuel S. Dunnells successfully navigated his 105-ton steamer through the upper portion of what is now called Newport Bay, which was previously thought to be too marshy for passage. After delivering a load of lumber, Dunnells, along with the principal property owners of the area, James and Robert McFadden and James Irvine, then named the area for this "new port."

In the early 1900s, the Hollywood crowd discovered Newport, and the area became the setting for many silent films and, later, epics including "Cleopatra," "Treasure Island," "The Sheik" and "All Quiet on the Western Front." In the ensuing years, stars such as Shirley Temple Black, John Wayne, Humphrey Bogart and James Cagney built homes here as did many Pasadena and Los Angeles residents.

The area continues to attract a zealous sailing, yachting and surfing crowd. The harbor, just inside Balboa peninsula, is said to be one of the world's largest for small yachts. It provides excellent sailing conditions much of the time and is the site of popular weekly regattas in the summer. Surfers can hit the waves along the 6.2 miles of beach or challenge themselves at a hot spot called "the Wedge."

Although each of the villages has its own identity and unique vibe, residents throughout the area say they enjoy cosmopolitan amenities with a more laid-back lifestyle than most cities. Some residents work from home or run small local businesses. Those who commute have easy access to Santa Ana, Irvine and Long Beach, but driving to Los Angeles can be time-consuming unless it's done during off-hours.

- Los Angeles Times