Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve

Nature preserve · Newport Beach

Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve

Nature preserve · Newport Beach

1

2301 University Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660

Photos

Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve by null
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve by Getty
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve by null
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve by null
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve by null
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve by null
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve by null
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve by null
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve by null
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve by null
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve by null
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve by null
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve by null
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve by null
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve by null
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve by null
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve by null
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve by null
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve by null
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve by null
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve by null

Highlights

Home to many bird species, this 135-acre park offers an interpretive center & hiking/biking trails.  

Featured in Conde Nast Traveler
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2301 University Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660 Get directions

ocparks.com

Information

Static Map

2301 University Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660 Get directions

+1 949 923 2290
ocparks.com

Features

wheelchair accessible parking lot
wheelchair accessible entrance

Last updated

Jul 11, 2025

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@cntraveler

"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

3 Best Day Trips from San Diego | Condé Nast Traveler
View Postcard for Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve

Maggie G

Google
This was a nice walk/hike. There are several trails to choose from so you can make your own trail. The weather was great and you get a nice breeze in this area. Would definitely come back.

Magali Gutierrez

Google
If you’re looking for an easy to moderate walk, I highly recommend checking out the Nature Preserve. There are several trail options to choose from, including paved paths that are perfect for a scenic run. I’ve been coming here for years and love the peaceful atmosphere. There’s also a free parking lot available, but it tends to fill up quickly on weekends—so plan accordingly!

beach timesb

Google
This place keeps getting worse every year. To start, in the last five years they have closed ALL water side trails to hikers. This was the best part about coming here. 90% of the interesting native plants and animals are down in the tidal zone. Closing all single track hiking trails only makes the other hot and dusty road trails that much more crowded. When I am hiking I want to see no cars, bikes, or other people, just nature. Closing the water side trails makes this place a joke. On top of this they cemented the once nice crushed granite parking lot and made the spaces tiny. This is why locals now park on the street, they don't want dented cars! Just too many people at this place now. They should just close this whole park down and fence it off for just the wildlife if they are not going to let people hike down at the waters edge. All you are going to see on the dusty dirt roads are cars, bikers, and hikers surrounded by dry brown fields. I posted some pictures of the lower waterside trails to show you what you are now missing!

Liza Hall

Google
If you're looking for calm and a way to beat stress, then this place will ease your mind. You'll have to block out the noise of airplanes from SNA and the traffic from Irvine Avenue and Jamboree Avenue to stay focused on the trail. Also, ditch your phone and just experience what this ecological destination has to offer in the OC. ☀️

DorothyGail Scott

Google
Peaceful, beautiful preserve where I was there to plein air paint with a group. There were so many painting opportunities that it was hard to choose a scene. The Muth center is there and has a great little store with souvenirs and painting to take home!

Julia Sanchez

Google
Its a beautiful place. Great for everyone, especially children. A nice place to walk and spend quality time with family or friends.

Francis van Steenberge

Google
Definitely a tranquil nature refuge worth the detour. Great sunsets, vista's and bird watching.

M BoB

Google
Great park to visit. The trails are easy to navigate, there are learning boards, and in the lookout points there is seating. Saw and heard many birds. Not too many people on the trail midday on a Saturday. Very little shade so bring a hat! It was very windy so make sure it's a hat that cinches. It's 4 stars because you could hear a lot of traffic.