Corona del Mar, also known as CDM, is the perfect spot for your next family adventure. This neighborhood that’s located in the city of Newport Beach is famous for its fine beaches, tidepools, cliffside views and quaint village shops. Fun fact: Corona del Mar is Spanish for “Crown of the Sea.”
This neighborhood also consists of many activities and adventures that are a must-do. Here are some favorites from locals and tourists who have left their heart in Corona del Mar.
1. Beach volleyball.
Beach volleyball is one of the crowd favorites at the Corona del Mar Beach. Corona del Mar Beach has the reputation for family games. There are ten volleyball courts that are perfectly spaced out around the beach and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Don’t worry if you’re afraid you won’t get a chance on the courts because this beach has a relaxed atmosphere that always welcomes players into games.
2. Water activities: Surfing, Kayaking, Diving.
Corona del Mar Beach has the perfect atmosphere for all water activities. At this beach, you can go surfing, kayaking, and diving
- Surfing – The main beach area only sees tiny ways, but once in awhile, a huge swell from the south or southeast brings in massive, challenging waves. The best waves now break off the end of the jetty and roll in toward the beach close to the jetty rocks. The best times to surf are from spring through mid-autumn
- Kayaking – Many tourists and locals enjoying kayaking around the waters of Corona del Mar beach. The coves and beaches just inside the harbor mouth in Corona del Mar are perfect for a kayaking adventure. Experienced kayakers like to explore the interesting rock formations down the coast from the state beach, such as “Small Arch Rock” and “Big Arch Rock”. Contact nearby Kayak rentals to get their rates for tours and equipment rental.
- “Newport Bay Conservancy Kayak Tours” at 2301 University Dr, in Newport Beach.
- “Southwind Kayak and SUP Rentals” at 100 N Bayside Dr in Newport Beach.
- Diving – Areas at the state beach are roped off for swimmers, so divers have to move down to more suitable spots to enter. Diving allows you to spot all the octopus, crabs, calico bass, and surfperch down in the water. If you want more information on diving in CDM, visit the local dive shop, “Beach Cities Scuba” located on 4537 W. Coast Highway in Newport Beach.
3. Sandcastle Contests.
Corona del Mar holds their annual sandcastle contest on the first Sunday in October. This event is sponsored by the Commodores Club of the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce with entry fees of $30 for families. The contest begins at 9am, the teams begin building at 11am, and the judging begins at 2:30pm. Winners receive awards for a wide variety of categories that include most unique, most humorous, and best display of theme.
4. Hiking.
There are many trails located in Crystal Cove State Park in Corona del Mar with both long and short distances thats are perfect for a hike or stroll if you are up to a challenge.
- Deer Canyon Loop Trail – a 6.9 mile lightly trafficked loop trail that features beautiful wild flowers and has a moderate to hard difficulty level. This trail also takes you to an amazing view point of the Pacific Ocean.
- El Moro Canyon Loop Trail – a 5 mile moderately trafficked loop trail that features a waterfall and has a moderate difficulty level. This loop trail gives you a tour of the El Moro Canyon, where you’ll enjoy some of the best coastline views in the park. You may even be able to spot some horses walking past you at this trail.
- Crystal Cove Perimeter Loop – a 9.4 mile moderately trafficked loop trail that features beautiful wild flowers and has a difficult difficulty level. This trail follows the perimeter of the park and provides beautiful views over the Pacific and East.
The adventures don’t stop here, so don’t worry if you run out of time to explore! Many homes are waiting for you to help you continue your adventures. So what are you waiting for?
