Newport Beach is a paradise for electric bike riders, offering breathtaking coastal views, historic landmarks, and a vibrant beach culture. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, taking an E-Bike tour through this Southern California gem is one of the best ways to soak in its beauty while enjoying an effortless ride.
Today, we’re setting off on an unforgettable ride, starting from Cliff Drive, cruising through King’s Road, and making our way down Dover Drive to Balboa Island. Along the way, we’ll visit some iconic spots once frequented by Hollywood legends like John Wayne, take the Balboa Ferry to the Fun Zone, glimpse the legendary Class of ’47, and ride along the oceanfront boardwalk. We’ll also pause to pay tribute to Ben Carlson, a beloved Newport Beach lifeguard who sacrificed his life to save another. Finally, we’ll wrap up our ride back at Barcelo Bicycles, the perfect place to start and end an epic adventure.
Starting the Ride: Cliff Drive and King’s Road
We begin our journey at Cliff Drive, a quiet residential street offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. This hidden gem provides a relaxed ride with gentle slopes that make for a smooth E-Bike experience. As we glide past charming coastal homes, we reach King’s Road, a scenic detour that offers a panoramic view of Newport Harbor and the iconic Lido Isle.
King’s Road is a local favorite for photographers and riders alike. From the top, you can spot multi-million-dollar estates perched along the cliffs, boasting views that stretch from Catalina Island to the Huntington Beach coastline. Riding an electric bike along this road lets you fully enjoy the scenery without breaking a sweat.
Dropping Down Dover Drive to Balboa Island
Next, we head down Dover Drive, an easy descent that takes us toward the Newport Back Bay and ultimately to Balboa Island. Dover is a fun, breezy ride, and on an E-Bike, you can coast down effortlessly while taking in the lush greenery and harbor views.
As we approach Balboa Island, the energy shifts to a charming, laid-back vibe. With its quaint streets, boutique shops, and picturesque waterfront homes, Balboa Island feels like a step back in time. This is where John Wayne would often dock his yacht, the Wild Goose, and frequent local spots like the Balboa Pavilion and Wilma’s Patio for breakfast.
Balboa Ferry to the Fun Zone
One of the highlights of our ride is taking the Balboa Ferry, a beloved Newport Beach experience that has been in operation since 1919. This short but scenic boat ride carries us and our bikes across the channel to the Balboa Peninsula, offering prime views of the harbor and passing sailboats.
Stepping off the ferry, we arrive at the Fun Zone, a classic waterfront attraction that has entertained families for generations. Here, you can check out the famous Balboa Ferris Wheel, grab a frozen banana (a Newport classic), and soak in the vibrant beachside energy.
A Glimpse of Class of ‘47
Before hopping onto the boardwalk, we take a moment to appreciate Class of ’47, a historic waterfront bar and restaurant that has been a staple in Newport Beach for decades. Known for its old-school charm, this spot has seen countless legendary surfers, locals, and celebrities pass through its doors over the years.
Even if you don’t stop for a drink, the exterior of Class of ‘47 oozes nostalgia, with its vintage signage and classic beach-town feel. It’s a reminder of Newport’s rich history and deep connection to surf culture.
Riding the Oceanfront Boardwalk
With the ocean breeze at our backs, we carefully navigate our E-Bikes onto the iconic Newport Beach Boardwalk. This stretch runs parallel to the sandy shoreline, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific. The boardwalk is always buzzing with activity—surfers catching waves, beachgoers basking in the sun, and fellow cyclists and skateboarders cruising along the path.
As we ride, we soak in the salty air and the rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the shore. It’s important to ride responsibly here, as the boardwalk can get crowded. Keeping a moderate speed and being mindful of pedestrians ensures a smooth and safe experience.
Honoring Ben Carlson: A Lifeguard Hero
A key stop on our journey is the Ben Carlson Memorial Statue, a tribute to the heroic Newport Beach lifeguard who tragically lost his life in 2014 while saving a struggling swimmer. His bravery and dedication to ocean safety are honored by this memorial, which serves as a reminder of the courage and sacrifice of lifeguards who protect our beaches.
Taking a moment here allows us to reflect on the powerful sense of community in Newport Beach. It’s a touching pause in our ride, reminding us that beyond the beauty and fun, the ocean carries both joy and responsibility.
Heading Back to Barcelo Bicycles
As our adventure comes to an end, we make our way back toward our starting point at Barcelo Bicycles, where our electric bikes will be returned after a day of effortless cruising. The ride back is smooth and scenic, giving us one last chance to soak in the coastal beauty.
From the stunning cliffs of King’s Road to the historic charm of Balboa Island, this ride showcases the very best of Newport Beach. Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, or simply looking for an unforgettable electric bike route, this tour has something for everyone.
If you’re eager to explore Newport Beach in the most fun and relaxing way possible, check out our E-Bike tours and experience the magic of the coast like never before.
Final Thoughts
Newport Beach is a rider’s paradise, and an E-Bike makes it even more enjoyable. Whether you’re cruising past historic Hollywood hangouts, soaking in the waterfront views, or riding along the lively boardwalk, this electric bike adventure is the perfect way to experience everything Newport has to offer.
So, grab your helmet, hop on an electric bike, and start your next great adventure along the Newport Beach coastline! 🚴♂️🌊
