"Known as Back Bay, this Newport Beach nature reserve is an expansive and serene salt marsh and marine habitat located just a few miles from Newport Boulevard, the bustling main drag. There are plenty of easy dirt and concrete paths for hiking and cycling; adventurous water-lovers can also try their hand at stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking in the bay. Bird-watching is a big deal here; the 752-acre reserve is home to 35,000 migratory birds, including the magnificent peregrine falcon." - Archana Ram