The Balboa Peninsula is the part of Newport Beach, California people from outside the area probably think about most often when they see the words "Newport Beach." About three miles long, it is home to most of Newport's population. The first stirring of commerce began when in 1870, a small stern wheeler from San Diego named "The Vaquero" made its first trip to a marshy lagoon to exchange lumber for hides, tallow, livestock and grain. Traditionally, the Peninsula consists of all the contiguous land east of 45th Street. Most of the business is concentrated along Balboa Boulevard where it meets Pacific Coast Highway, McFadden Place, and Main Street.

A Fistful of Landmarks

• Newport Pier
• Dorymens' Fishmarket
• Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church
• Newport Beach Grammar School
• Balboa Fun Zone
• Ferry to Balboa Island
• Balboa Pavilion
• Balboa Pier
• The Wedge