Upper Newport Bay Nature Reserve is a 1,000-acre open space that surrounds the ecological reserve. The best place to start exploring the park is the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center. The nature preserve consists of the bluffs surrounding the bay, which is a crucial stopover for a number of birds migrating over Southern California. The reserve's West Bluff has a few hiking trails, the best being the 2.5-mile West Bluff Loop Trail, which combines several trails above and below the bluff. It is an easy hike with only 75 feet of change in elevation, but the views across Upper Newport Bay are fabulous.

2301 University Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660

Plan Your Trip

Get Ready to Go!

Need some more help?


Read our Reservations & Travel Planning Tips guide.