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Love this beach. It's nice for a walk as the sand is soft and overall clean. You can watch the surfers and even dolphins while laying on the sand.
Meh...I have seen better. I mean if you are in the area and want to watch some big waves and body surfers wiping out then it is worth it for 30 minutes or so. I have been here 2 or 3 times and it is just not worth the drive or the effort in my opinion. The traffic and congestion in this area of Newport and the peninsula suck and make it a not fun experience. If I am visiting friends in the area I will go, but not to make a special trip out of it. Parking is terrible in the area too, unless you get there very early or you get very lucky. The locals ride their bikes over or walk over so easy for them to access it. Last visit in August and there was construction on the streets getting to it, which made for big delays and angry drivers honking and not letting anyone in to their lane. It is kind of 1 note. The waves can be spectacular at different times of the day and year, and there is sand but not much to do. Like the other reviews say, you really don't want to be swimming or body surfing here unless you are a strong swimmer and experienced.
At this corner of the world.SO many profound moments that I have had in my life time. Everything from showing up crying after a breakup. To arrive just to go fishing. Great location for a photoshoot to a perfect spot to give that girl the ring! Not much is needed but it is best if you BYOB and a sandwich. Bring a blanket and do not forget your camera. You can usually find parking in the residential area. Locals are super nice but one thing that could be a bummer is they have no restrooms. I guess you can figure that out. This is a must on your bucket list. Especially if you are a parent an not much money. You can visit the land of the gods were everyone is beautiful. Enjoy!
We always stop by the wedge to check out the surfers especially when the waves are crazy big !! Would highly recommend stopping by here especially when the swells are big. Definitely a sight to see!
This is a beautiful corner of the peninsula where the water is rough and the waves are big. Don't even consider going into the water here unless you are a very experienced surfer. The waves break very late and are capable of picking you up and slamming you into the sand instead of the water. Should this deter you from visiting? Actually because of all of this you should visit because it is beautiful to see the large waves and the experienced surfers trying to ride them. The area is also beautiful with some very large homes on the water edge. This is a great place to sit and relax and maybe have lunch? There are plenty of places to sit large rocks, the sand, and benches. This place is unique and naturally beautiful.
The wedge is a favorite for surfers and a well know beach spot for many in OC. The waves are often high and many surfers in the water no matter what time of year. My family has visit this beach on multiple occasions. The waters can be too rough for kids to really swim in. Possibly because of the location of the wedge being right at the crux of pirates cove and the entrance to the Newport bay where boats ride out and return. It's windy and the sands are piled high with a steep slope into the water. Downside to this beautiful place is that finding a public restroom will be a walk, and a far one. The parking isn't bad at all, street parking is plenty on the small residential streets near the beach. PRO-TIP: park on the small streets and make a picnic out of one of the many tables near the wedge edge and you get to spot sea lions, orange girabaldi in the water and even the what watching tour boats drift by!
Our friend's home overlooks the Wedge. This gave us the opportunity to enjoy beautiful sunsets daily. After the first day of my visit I wanted to walk around the Wedge and take in its beauty from the ground. My first thought was how beautiful the beach is and my second thought that It seems to be incredibly dangerous. I guess that if you are a very strong swimmer the challenge is probably glorious. The Wedge Is a famous spot for surfing. It is known for its wedge shaped waves that go as high as 30 feet. The Army Corps started building the Wedge in 1918 to protect Newport Harbour from storms. It was extended by 900 feet in 1936. You can check out the waves before you go on the Wedge cam. The water was very calm during my visit. Only a few people showed up to bodysurf.
The overcast skies did not disappoint on the day we went. I intended to get some great shots, but most of them came out blurry :( In spite of, we still had a great time in the super windy conditions and no jackets lol. Here are the fantastic clouds and a few shots of the beach. Enjoy! Directions: 2300 Channel Road Newport Beach, CA 92661 Parking: Residential. Best to go early. But if you're up for exercise, park at the Balboa Pier and walk south along the shore until you reach the jetty.
Now, you may say I'm a bit crazeeeee doing what I just did... But, Yes, I had just got outta the hospital three weeks ago from a surgery for my tumor. Of course I heard about he high waves coming up and over the rocks. Couldn't pass this up, so off I go to Newport Beach. Finding my way down the winding very narrow streets, And just as I approach the corner where all the police cars are and news media. I swung a U-turn in front of the police knocking over their cones and swung into an open parking spot where the people had just left. As the police started to come over, I swung my door open and quickly grabbed my walker and told them I was handicapped. They kinda shrugged their shoulders, laughed and turned around and said, "yeah you drive." I didn't question his remarks, but I did chuckle. I even went into the middle of the street with horns blaring and picked up their cones. Now as I walked past the officers with my walker, I proceeded to the beach. People stared, but I wanted to see these large waves and they were pretty awesome. Even some people with drones were taking pictures. And the day was just perfect. So much fun too. I did manage to leave without making any commotions.. Look on police officers faces - - - PRICELESS...
What an awesome beach located at the end of the Newport Peninsula! Corona Del Mar/Pirates Cove is just South of here (but not accessible unless by boat) with the water and two break walls jetty/marina outlet separating both beaches. The surf here is very dangerous, depending on the time of year and storms usually 10 ft -30 ft swells near the sea wall. Don't even think about swimming in this water without fins, or a lot of experience, the water is too deep and the swells are rough, the waves break right on the shore. That doesn't stop all of the experienced OC regulars from making it out here though. The real treat other than the amazing views, shells and the somewhat private/local feel of the location is during late March/April/May whale season the Gray whale cows and calves may swim into this "cove" and get really close to the shore sometimes only 30 yards from shore, and scratch their bellies on the sand as they head North. Free street parking. No restrooms. Gem.
Quite frankly, this might be my favorite simple beach in the area. I really enjoy just watching the waves, watching surfers, and relaxing in the sand and this was the perfect location for it. We typically go after I get off work around 2/3p and during the early weekday, which means there is practically no one around. It's just simply heaven. Unobstructed views of heaven. I highly recommend you try the beach out when the visitors are low. It really makes this an amazing spot for relaxing.
The furthest tip on the Balboa peninsula, it is so gorgeous out here! I absolutely love the views, both towards the boats as well as out into the ocean. Love the multimillion dollar beach cottages here, the entire area is just so pretty, clean and peaceful. Easy parking, not too busy, great place to go on a walk or lay on the beach. Perfect place to spend a warm afternoon.
You see the approaching swell coming in, getting bigger and wider. It keeps swelling larger and getting faster, with beachgoers pointing and becoming more excited. The flotilla of bodysurfers and boogie-boarders turn and begin kicking their feet, as the southerly swell crests into a moving wall. And then WHAM-THUMP the boiling surf crashes, in a mixture of sand, foam, and water, with fins and boards and body parts floating inland. Lifeguards scan for anyone injured, which is frequent. I'm a die-hard bodyboarder with concussions and broken bones that are testament to my devotion to the Wedge. The Wedge is a world-famous spot located at the south end of the Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach. The Wedge can produce huge waves as spectacular and intimidating as any in Hawaii or Australia. The waves are a by-product of a rock jetty on the north side of the Newport Harbor. When conditions are just right and the waves approach the shore at the proper angle (south swells), an approaching wave will reflect a second wave. The reflected wave meets up with the following wave of the set and forms a peak... peaks that can tower 20 feet!!! ***Warning*** Between Balboa Pier and the Wedge waves are referred to as a "beach break." When the crest of the wave comes crashing down, regardless of its size, it lands in water no more than a foot deep, and it will sometimes land directly on to the sand. This condition causes many inexperienced swimmers to be at extreme risk of a broken neck. If a person is to "go over the falls," that is, fall with the water in the crest of the wave, they will COMMONLY strike their head on the sand below the shallow water. I have seen dudes launched 30 plus feet in the air! * Extremely dangerous * If you have not put a toe in this water you cannot talk sh*t about it!
29 days ago
Newport Beach is a beautiful community. We come together for the surf, the community and for cheering on everyone brave enough to take on the surf during the biggest swells. If you can't swim, stay away away from the shoreline. Highly recommended for the experienced. Find videos here: https://www.youtube.com/@domcars read more
The alluring blue skies and lovely light golden sands catch my eye. The birds nearby are just waiting for the right moment to poop on people, I have been warned. I parked on a street near the fire station and then walked over, a little over a mile. Once at the Wedge, you can experience some amazing ocean views and amazing views in general. Please listen to the song I am parodying https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2f9160gInZ0 While you are reading my review. Divine In cool and sunny weather The sand and skies together Here on this lovely beach You're skies So blue and lively dee-eep Light golden sands, are so pretty You're the sweetest beach Enjoy the Wedge so calmly On lovely rocks with glee Beware of all the birds that roam They will poop from sweet the sky ay ay Divine In cool and sunny weather The sand and skies together Here on this lovely beach read more
A great retreat that offers lots of sandy beaches, waves and water, views of boats very closeby, awesome homes nearby, and even some small cliffs across the harbor with more really nice homes, as well as ample green grass and beautiful trees!! Parking is very easy to find on the streets in the neighborhood. Not too crowded but still plenty of people to give a warm community feel. An awesome place for great photos as well!! read more
1 year ago
Love this beach. It's nice for a walk as the sand is soft and overall clean. You can watch the surfers and even dolphins while laying on the sand. read more
Meh...I have seen better. I mean if you are in the area and want to watch some big waves and body surfers wiping out then it is worth it for 30 minutes or so. I have been here 2 or 3 times and it is just not worth the drive or the effort in my opinion. The traffic and congestion in this area of Newport and the peninsula suck and make it a not fun experience. If I am visiting friends in the area I will go, but not to make a special trip out of it. Parking is terrible in the area too, unless you get there very early or you get very lucky. The locals ride their bikes over or walk over so easy for them to access it. Last visit in August and there was construction on the streets getting to it, which made for big delays and angry drivers honking and not letting anyone in to their lane. It is kind of 1 note. The waves can be spectacular at different times of the day and year, and there is sand but not much to do. Like the other reviews say, you really don't want to be swimming or body surfing here unless you are a strong swimmer and experienced. read more
At this corner of the world.SO many profound moments that I have had in my life time. Everything from showing up crying after a breakup. To arrive just to go fishing. Great location for a photoshoot to a perfect spot to give that girl the ring! Not much is needed but it is best if you BYOB and a sandwich. Bring a blanket and do not forget your camera. You can usually find parking in the residential area. Locals are super nice but one thing that could be a bummer is they have no restrooms. I guess you can figure that out. This is a must on your bucket list. Especially if you are a parent an not much money. You can visit the land of the gods were everyone is beautiful. Enjoy! read more
5 years ago
This is a beautiful corner of the peninsula where the water is rough and the waves are big. Don't even consider going into the water here unless you are a very experienced surfer. The waves break very late and are capable of picking you up and slamming you into the sand instead of the water. Should this deter you from visiting? Actually because of all of this you should visit because it is beautiful to see the large waves and the experienced surfers trying to ride them. The area is also beautiful with some very large homes on the water edge. This is a great place to sit and relax and maybe have lunch? There are plenty of places to sit large rocks, the sand, and benches. This place is unique and naturally beautiful. read more
The wedge is a favorite for surfers and a well know beach spot for many in OC. The waves are often high and many surfers in the water no matter what time of year. My family has visit this beach on multiple occasions. The waters can be too rough for kids to really swim in. Possibly because of the location of the wedge being right at the crux of pirates cove and the entrance to the Newport bay where boats ride out and return. It's windy and the sands are piled high with a steep slope into the water. Downside to this beautiful place is that finding a public restroom will be a walk, and a far one. The parking isn't bad at all, street parking is plenty on the small residential streets near the beach. PRO-TIP: park on the small streets and make a picnic out of one of the many tables near the wedge edge and you get to spot sea lions, orange girabaldi in the water and even the what watching tour boats drift by! read more
Our friend's home overlooks the Wedge. This gave us the opportunity to enjoy beautiful sunsets daily. After the first day of my visit I wanted to walk around the Wedge and take in its beauty from the ground. My first thought was how beautiful the beach is and my second thought that It seems to be incredibly dangerous. I guess that if you are a very strong swimmer the challenge is probably glorious. The Wedge Is a famous spot for surfing. It is known for its wedge shaped waves that go as high as 30 feet. The Army Corps started building the Wedge in 1918 to protect Newport Harbour from storms. It was extended by 900 feet in 1936. You can check out the waves before you go on the Wedge cam. The water was very calm during my visit. Only a few people showed up to bodysurf. read more
The overcast skies did not disappoint on the day we went. I intended to get some great shots, but most of them came out blurry :( In spite of, we still had a great time in the super windy conditions and no jackets lol. Here are the fantastic clouds and a few shots of the beach. Enjoy! Directions: 2300 Channel Road Newport Beach, CA 92661 Parking: Residential. Best to go early. But if you're up for exercise, park at the Balboa Pier and walk south along the shore until you reach the jetty. read more
Now, you may say I'm a bit crazeeeee doing what I just did... But, Yes, I had just got outta the hospital three weeks ago from a surgery for my tumor. Of course I heard about he high waves coming up and over the rocks. Couldn't pass this up, so off I go to Newport Beach. Finding my way down the winding very narrow streets, And just as I approach the corner where all the police cars are and news media. I swung a U-turn in front of the police knocking over their cones and swung into an open parking spot where the people had just left. As the police started to come over, I swung my door open and quickly grabbed my walker and told them I was handicapped. They kinda shrugged their shoulders, laughed and turned around and said, "yeah you drive." I didn't question his remarks, but I did chuckle. I even went into the middle of the street with horns blaring and picked up their cones. Now as I walked past the officers with my walker, I proceeded to the beach. People stared, but I wanted to see these large waves and they were pretty awesome. Even some people with drones were taking pictures. And the day was just perfect. So much fun too. I did manage to leave without making any commotions.. Look on police officers faces - - - PRICELESS... read more
What an awesome beach located at the end of the Newport Peninsula! Corona Del Mar/Pirates Cove is just South of here (but not accessible unless by boat) with the water and two break walls jetty/marina outlet separating both beaches. The surf here is very dangerous, depending on the time of year and storms usually 10 ft -30 ft swells near the sea wall. Don't even think about swimming in this water without fins, or a lot of experience, the water is too deep and the swells are rough, the waves break right on the shore. That doesn't stop all of the experienced OC regulars from making it out here though. The real treat other than the amazing views, shells and the somewhat private/local feel of the location is during late March/April/May whale season the Gray whale cows and calves may swim into this "cove" and get really close to the shore sometimes only 30 yards from shore, and scratch their bellies on the sand as they head North. Free street parking. No restrooms. Gem. read more
5 years ago
Quite frankly, this might be my favorite simple beach in the area. I really enjoy just watching the waves, watching surfers, and relaxing in the sand and this was the perfect location for it. We typically go after I get off work around 2/3p and during the early weekday, which means there is practically no one around. It's just simply heaven. Unobstructed views of heaven. I highly recommend you try the beach out when the visitors are low. It really makes this an amazing spot for relaxing. read more
The furthest tip on the Balboa peninsula, it is so gorgeous out here! I absolutely love the views, both towards the boats as well as out into the ocean. Love the multimillion dollar beach cottages here, the entire area is just so pretty, clean and peaceful. Easy parking, not too busy, great place to go on a walk or lay on the beach. Perfect place to spend a warm afternoon. read more
4 years ago
You see the approaching swell coming in, getting bigger and wider. It keeps swelling larger and getting faster, with beachgoers pointing and becoming more excited. The flotilla of bodysurfers and boogie-boarders turn and begin kicking their feet, as the southerly swell crests into a moving wall. And then WHAM-THUMP the boiling surf crashes, in a mixture of sand, foam, and water, with fins and boards and body parts floating inland. Lifeguards scan for anyone injured, which is frequent. I'm a die-hard bodyboarder with concussions and broken bones that are testament to my devotion to the Wedge. The Wedge is a world-famous spot located at the south end of the Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach. The Wedge can produce huge waves as spectacular and intimidating as any in Hawaii or Australia. The waves are a by-product of a rock jetty on the north side of the Newport Harbor. When conditions are just right and the waves approach the shore at the proper angle (south swells), an approaching wave will reflect a second wave. The reflected wave meets up with the following wave of the set and forms a peak... peaks that can tower 20 feet!!! ***Warning*** Between Balboa Pier and the Wedge waves are referred to as a "beach break." When the crest of the wave comes crashing down, regardless of its size, it lands in water no more than a foot deep, and it will sometimes land directly on to the sand. This condition causes many inexperienced swimmers to be at extreme risk of a broken neck. If a person is to "go over the falls," that is, fall with the water in the crest of the wave, they will COMMONLY strike their head on the sand below the shallow water. I have seen dudes launched 30 plus feet in the air! * Extremely dangerous * If you have not put a toe in this water you cannot talk sh*t about it! read more
Quite possibly one of the best surf spots in Orange County. South swells are most notable and when the water is warm, you can go suitless. The surf, water and views make this one of my favorite spots..even if it is just to watch the ocean and think about things. read more
15 years ago
11 years ago
Beautiful spot in Newport Beach to spend some of your free time, My wife and I spent a lot of our time in this area when we were dating. What I like best about this beach is that it is not crowded. Everything is so peaceful and relaxing here. Would spend hours here almost every weekend for a year. This is the one area in Southern California where I would not mind retiring to. Too bad it is beyond our means. Oh well, I can dream. One word of caution. Make sure to keep a watchful eye on your children. The waves and undertoll can be deceivingly strong. read more
Great area for surfers looking for bigger waves. Things were quiet during my last visit but was nice to see and here story's of the waves from others. I hope to get back during some of the bigger surf days. Wished the had more shops in and around area but enough to get by. read more
I have been coming to the Wedge for many years now. I just happened to be in the area on Thursday (10-03-2013), while waiting for my whale watching tour to start I figured I would head down the road a little further and check out the Wedge and see if I could enjoy the 'air' show but found the Wedge to be flat. I am not lucky enough to live on the North Shore and be able to watch 'Pipeline' when it is firing but I do live within driving distance of the Wedge. I enjoy coming here when large swells are slamming into our coast to simply sit on the beach and watch the bodyboarders and some surfers take some serious drops as the swell slams into the jetty and forms a wall of salt water. I enjoy hearing the screams from the beach and the fellow surfers turning their heads when you see folks paddling into a massive closeout. I consider myself a 'very' good surfer and there is zero chance I paddle out at this location but I will watch and still have an amazing time. I have a theory that shore breaks break two things boards and bones and I will most definitely avoid a shore break that has the possibility of reaching in excess of 10' To me there is nothing like being able to sit on the beach and watch wave after wave form and slam down almost on dry sand. Seeing that amazing ridge of sand carved into the beach from the outreaching force of the whitewater. It is amazing to feel the power of a wave slamming into the sand that causes the ground to shake and that is what reminds me of 'Pipeline.' What I also enjoy about the Wedge it that is out of the way and off the beaten path. You either know how to get here or you do not, if you don't I am not going to tell you=) but if you are reading this I am sure you have access to mapquest. At the Wedge if you are lucky enough you will find 'free' street parking. During my visit here on Thursday (10-03-2013) I was shocked at how much garbage I found on the beach. I found a full container or oreo cookies, empty cans of beer, cigarette butts, several plastic water bottles, plastic toys (left by children playing) and other trash / debris. I did my part and picked up every bit of trash I could I see because I simply could not live with myself knowing I left garbage that I observed on the beach behind only allowing it wash back out to sea when the tide rolled in. So if you are visiting the Wedge please do you part and utilize the garbage cans by picking up garbage and placing it in the proper receptacle. If you cannot follow these simple instructions you have no business at the beach. Do you part and Be the Good, always!!! Help us surfers and Beach / Ocean lovers keep the Ocean blue. Also if you are not an experienced bodyboarder you have no business paddling out here. read more
I don't come here often, but when I do it is usually when there is big surf - so I can watch the surfers. I love to surf, but you won't find me out there, especially when there is a big swell. So, it is fun to watch other people surf and brave the waves. This beach doesn't have the easiest access when it comes to parking since it is all residential area. If you go when the waves are good and big or during the summer - it will be hard to find a spot. I could only imagine street cleaning day must be a pain! Haha. read more
11 years ago
I loved the wedge! I went with the boyfriend on a Saturday afternoon (day before Valentine's day; it was a warm day around 70-80 degrees... In February!). I check a weather app daily and on that day there was a high surf advisory warning so I thought it'd be a perfect day to check out a beach known for big waves and watching surfers! Parking was easy - there was plenty of free residential parking available. It wasn't overly crowded when we were there. The beach when we went was interesting too... The sand was pushed so that it was a like ledge. We first stood there until the waves got too big and went above the "ledge"!! I was wearing sneakers and jeans (not prepared to get wet), so we moved to sit on some rocks on the left side. It was quite fun to watch the huge waves crash down and tons of surfers in the ocean waiting to catch a wave! It was also relaxing too. I wouldn't recommend the wedge if you're looking for a beach to frolic around in the sand/ocean, but if you're an experienced surfer or someone who wants to see crazy large waves & surfers then this is a must visit! read more
14 years ago
The Wedge is my fitness tool! Start from Newport Pier and hit the soft sand all the way down to the Wedge and back. At sunset, just alone with breathing and breaking waves, the moment is priceless BONUS: Jog forwards there, jog backwards back, and do different crunches at EVERY lifeguard station. Fun! read more
Simply Amazing! That's how I would describe this area. I normally don't venture this far down the beach when I come but today my parents along with myself and dog decided to take a stroll on the beach and get our feet wet along the way. We started along the balboa pier and made our way past Newport bay and over here to the "wedge" As we arrived the swells of the waves were quite large and there were body surfers in the water awaiting a good wave to come in. I suppose the rocks that extend into the water help create these wedge like waves that are simply amazing to look at. If you've never been make sure to take some time a bear witness to this amazing place. The people are nice, the lifeguards are very helpful and are definitely on Alert for danger, and the waves are just simply stunning. read more
8 years ago
Walking on the sand from Newport beach to The Wedge is great exercise. Approximate 7 miles round trip. I recommend to go early to avoid the heat. I saw dolphins playing in the ocean. Beautiful day for a walk. read more
8 years ago
Favorite beach!!! Free Parking is extremely easy to find... and the waves are always huge and beautiful! Perfect place to relax with the family and have some fun in the sun! The lifeguards are extremely attentive and easy to talk to. Just note there are no nearby bathrooms which I would highly recommend the city takes into account.. naturally people are gonna pee in the ocean instead and that can attract animals .. but other than that, AMAZING! read more
10 years ago
One of the BEST beaches in SoCal!!! This beach is clean, quite and overall beautiful! I've been here dozens of times, and it's never been super busy. You can go on the jetty(rocks) and see the seals, which can be a little dangerous, or just hangout on the beach, make some sandcastles and/or play in the water. Sometimes around sunset, you can see the dolfins swim. I love this place!!! read more
This Wedge is a hot spot for powerful and awesome surf. Because of the potential for 30-feet waves, you will find only the most experienced bodysurfers will risk riding the waves. Most locals wait years before they try the wave. Located at the end of Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach. At it's peak, when the waves at the wedge are alive and powerful, crowds will gather to watch the bodysurfers and board surfers by the hundreds if not thousands attempt to ride her out. There is no parking lot, only street parking in the tight knit neighborhood with narrow streets. Of course when the Wedge is calm and serene, there is plenty of parking with a short walk. Oh yeah, no restrooms at all! read more
14 years ago
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More info about The Wedge
E Ocean Front
Newport Beach, CA 92663
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Ask the Community - The Wedge
Is the Wedge dog friendly? TIA
