Newport Beach beaches are spread among miles of coastline as far south as Crystal Cove State Beach near Laguna Beach (which charges parking fees upon admission,) Corona del Mar State Beach with paid beach parking on admission or limited street parking nearby, and Newport Peninsula and Balboa Island beaches surrounded by both street meter parking, some free, non-metered parking and a parking lot next to Balboa Pier.

When you go to Newport Beach in the winter months the parking is generally plentiful. Late May through early September, however, can leave you feeling a little empty inside when you exhaust all options for finding a parking space. In such a case, you may consider coming into the island on a bus, or riding a bike.

Beach parking generally sells by 10-20 minute increments in metered parking and flat fees are charged around state beaches -- around $15.