Wondering if the Balboa Fun Zone is worth visiting with kids?
The answer is absolutely yes. Located along the waterfront in Newport Beach, the Balboa Fun Zone offers classic Southern California charm, family-friendly rides, arcade games, boat rides, and beautiful coastal views.
As a Southern California family, we have visited the Balboa Fun Zone many times over the years. It remains one of our favorite spots for a casual afternoon of old-fashioned fun.
Whether you spend an hour riding the Ferris wheel, enjoy an afternoon on the harbor, or make a full day of exploring Newport Beach, the Fun Zone is a wonderful destination for families.
With its historic harborside location and affordable attractions, the Balboa Fun Zone is one of the best things to do in Newport Beach with kids. Here’s everything you need to know about the Balboa Fun Zone.
A Newport Beach Tradition
If the Balboa Fun Zone feels like vintage California, that’s because it is!
The Balboa Fun Zone first opened in 1936 and has been entertaining visitors for generations. While much smaller than the major Southern California amusement parks, its nostalgic atmosphere and waterfront setting make it one of the most unique family attractions in Orange County.
Kids can ride the waterfront Ferris wheel, play arcade games, watch boats in the harbor, and enjoy sweet treats by the water.
Our family visits Newport Beach frequently, and the Fun Zone is always one of our favorite stops. We recently went with my in-laws for a multi-generational day of fun in the sun. (We even rented Segways!)
The Balboa Fun Zone is also where you can embark on a harbor cruise, fishing trip, or take off to nearby Catalina Island, one of the best weekend getaway destinations in Southern California.
Just across the street from the Balboa Fun Zone, on the other side of the narrow Peninsula, is the world-famous Newport Beach. The boardwalk runs for miles. You can rent bikes, rollerblades, jog, or simply take a walk and enjoy the crashing waves and fresh ocean air.
And of course, you can also jump in the ocean and take a swim or play in the sand! It is a very popular beach for children.
Ride the Iconic Ferris Wheel
The most recognizable attraction at the Balboa Fun Zone is the waterfront Ferris wheel.
The colorful wheel is not super tall, but it offers great views of Newport Harbor, Balboa Peninsula, and the surrounding coastline. The ride is especially beautiful at sunset when the harbor lights begin to glow.
In addition to the Ferris wheel, families can enjoy several smaller rides and attractions, including the Coconut Tree Climb, Happy Swing, and Ocean Motion.
Individual ride tickets and unlimited ride wristbands are typically available, making it easy to customize your visit.
Play at the Balboa Arcade
No visit to the Balboa Fun Zone is complete without spending time in the arcade. The Balboa Fun Zone Arcade has been newly renovated! All of the games are brand new, offering an upgraded, immersive experience with plenty of opportunities to win prizes.
While it may not be the largest arcade in Southern California, it captures the classic beach boardwalk atmosphere perfectly. Families can enjoy:
- Mario Kart
- Halo Fireteam Raven
- Air hockey
- Skeeball
- Basketball
- Claw machines
- Pinball and classic arcade favorites
My husband and son never skip a game of air hockey when we visit!
Get Out on the Water
One of the best ways to enjoy Newport Harbor is to get out on the water! There are lots of options, and you can rent from several venues right next to the Balboa Fun Zone.
- Kayaks
- Paddleboards
- Electric boats
- Duffy boats
- Jet skis
- Harbor cruise boats
Exploring Newport Harbor allows visitors to see luxury homes, yachts, sea lions, and beautiful waterfront scenery.
The Fun Zone is also the departure point for harbor cruises, fishing excursions, and passenger ferries.
Take the Ferry to Balboa Island
One of our favorite family activities is combining the Fun Zone with a ride on the Balboa Island Ferry.
The historic ferry has been carrying cars and passengers across the harbor for more than 100 years. The short ride is fun for kids and provides easy access to Balboa Island.
The ferry ride itself often becomes one of the highlights of the day.
Rent Bikes or Explore the Peninsula
The Balboa Peninsula is very walkable, and families can easily spend several hours exploring the area.
Bike rentals are available nearby, so you can easily cruise along the boardwalk and enjoy the ocean views.
Balboa Fun Zone Restaurants
There are many great, family-friendly places to eat at the Balboa Fun Zone and nearby along the Balboa Peninsula. Our favorite thing to do though, rather than go to a to a slice of pizza, hot dog, ice cream, or frozen banana and eat outside. These classic beach eats are inexpensive and readily available along the waterfront.
But if you want to eat somewhere nice, there are plenty of options! Here are some more traditional restaurants around the Balboa Fun Zone:
- Harborside Restaurant
- Newport Landing Restaurant
- Cruisers Pizza Bar Grill
- Cabo Cantina
- Balboa Bar-B-Que
- Patty Mac’s
There are also several casual dining options within walking distance along the peninsula.
Tips for Visiting the Balboa Fun Zone
- Arrive early on weekends and summer afternoons for easier parking.
- Bring sunscreen, hats, and water, especially during warmer months.
- Combine your visit with Balboa Island and the beach for a full day.
- Sunset is one of the most beautiful times to ride the Ferris wheel.
- Parking is available in nearby public lots, though spaces can fill quickly during peak periods.
- Check the official website for current ride hours and seasonal events.
Balboa Fun Zone Hours
The Balboa Fun Zone is open daily, with varying hours for different rides, attractions, and restaurants. Here are current hours for summer 2026 (March 9 through September 7, 2026).
Ferris Wheel
- Monday through Thursday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Boardwalk Rides (Ocean Motion, Happy Swing, and Coconut Climb)
- Monday through Sunday: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Balboa Fun Zone Arcade
- Sunday through Thursday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Location & Information
Thee Balboa Fun Zone is located on Balboa Peninsula across from the Balboa Pier in Newport Beach. Several public parking lots are available nearby, including parking adjacent to Balboa Pier. Street parking can also be found throughout the Balboa Peninsula.
You can also reach the Balboa Fun Zone via the Auto Ferry located on Balboa Island, which can be a fun and scenic way to arrive.
- 600 East Bay Blvd., Newport Beach
- balboafunzone.com
Final Thoughts: Balboa Fun Zone in Newport Beach
The Balboa Fun Zone may not be a large amusement park, but that is part of its charm. Its waterfront setting, classic rides, arcade games, and easy access to Newport Beach make it one of the most enjoyable family attractions in Orange County.
Whether you’re riding the Ferris wheel, playing arcade games, taking a harbor cruise, or simply enjoying an ice cream by the water, the Balboa Fun Zone delivers a nostalgic Southern California experience that families continue to enjoy generation after generation.
If you’re planning a family trip to Newport Beach, this historic waterfront attraction deserves a spot on your itinerary.
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