Im going to start this post off with a fun fact: When I first came to California I did not go directly to Hollywood, I actually lived in Newport Beach for a few months. More recently then my first arrival here we had a friend with a beach house in Newport so all of our long weekends were spent there, Thanksgiving and July 4th being my favorites! I know I don’t come across as much of a beach culture type but I really have a soft spot for Newport Beach.
I recently had the pleasure of spending an extra long weekend in Newport with a few blogger pals (and our hubbys). We started off our fun-filled weekend at the Newport Beach Film Festival kick-off reception at our home base for the weekend, The Fashion Island Hotel. Opening night film American Animals was your not-so-typical heist film based on a unbelievable true story, definitely check it out when you can.
We got an early start the next morning with a delightful brunch at Babette’s a wonderful little cafe that serves one of the best bloody Mary’s I’ve ever had the pleasure of drinking and I have never met a more charming restauranteur!
Newport is famous for its beautiful harbor and we were treated to a fun little boat trip starting at Balboa Island, home of the equally famous frozen banana (any Arrested Development fans out there?) All that time on the water apparently worked up an appetite because we were very ready for lunch at Lido Bottle Works at Lido Marina Village, so delicious, I highly recommend the tuna tartare!
After a relaxing dip in the jacuzzi we got ready for dinner at A Restaurant (a veritable institution in Newport) in honor of Alex Badia fashion editor of Women’s Wear Daily and he was just as debonair and well dressed as I’d imagined.
If you have never ridden on an electric bicycle you really must give it a try! It is so much fun but kind of spoils you for ever riding a regular bike again especially going up those hills but its a great way to see Newport Beach and its stunning coastline.
Anchored by department stores Neiman Marcus & Bloomies Fashion Island Mall in Newport Beach is arguably one of the best shopping destinations in Orange County, they hosted a Q&A Session with Alex Badia and award winning costume designer from Get Out … such wonderful insight from these fashion professionals!
Had so much fun with these babes and I couldn’t imagine a better location to have spent this weekend! Newport is a magical beachside community, definitely my favorite of them all in Southern California. It’s a sophisticated community yet has the relaxed vibe you’d expect from a Southern California beach town. It has pristine beaches, world class shopping and phenomenal dining what else can one ask for?
Thank You Visit Newport Beach For Hosting this Amazing Weekend!

What a fantastic trip — best part was meeting you!!
It was a fantastic trip and the feeling is mutual! xoxoxox ~Z