Newport Beach - No Car

Question

I have a conference near John Wayne airport in June for a week. I won't have a car. I am looking for a walkable area for hotel for dinner options, that preferably has some shops as well. I am willing to travel about 15 to 20 minutes out. I am looking for quaint town vibe.

Answer

Newport Beach is a great area to stay without a car, especially if you want a walkable location with dining, shops, and a quaint coastal town vibe. Since your conference is near John Wayne Airport, you have several neighborhoods within 15–20 minutes that can suit your needs.

Here are some top areas to consider:

Balboa Peninsula: This area has a charming, small-town feel with a mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants along the boardwalk. You can walk to Balboa Pier, the Fun Zone, and enjoy waterfront dining. It’s lively but still relaxed and very walkable.
Balboa Island: Quaint and picturesque, with boutique shops, cafes, and a small harbor. The ferry connects easily to the Peninsula, and it’s perfect if you want a slower pace and scenic charm.
Corona del Mar Village: Offers a more upscale, village-like vibe with boutique shopping, ocean-view dining, and easy walking along the coast. It’s slightly quieter than Balboa, but still has plenty of restaurant options.

Additional notes:

Most of these areas are within 10–15 minutes from John Wayne Airport by rideshare, so commuting to your conference is convenient without a car.
Public transport is limited, so rideshare or bike/scooter rentals are your main options if you want to explore beyond walking distance.
All areas mentioned offer plenty of dining variety, from casual seafood to upscale options, and the scenery is lovely for evening strolls along the water.

Overall, if you want a balance of walkable restaurants, shops, and a quaint, coastal town atmosphere, the Balboa Peninsula or Balboa Island would be your best bets. Corona del Mar Village is ideal if you prefer a slightly quieter, more boutique setting with good dining options.