Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve

Lovely views of Upper Newport Bay with easy walking trails. The nature center offers excellent interpretive exhibits to engage both adults and children, a video about the area, a small gift shop, staff to answer questions, and an activity room (plus, toilet facilities). Free parking.

Had a bit of time to kill before lunch so we came here for a walk. Really nice trails with some pretty views. Saw quite a few birds and the interpretive centre was informative. Was really foggy when we went so couldn't see very far but still quite enjoyable. Parking was free so that was nice too.

This place is really nice if you don't mind the sound of cars and airplanes. Free parking lot and street parking available. I love that it has both dirt trails and paved bike lanes which makes it convenient if you're on foot, bike, wheelchair, skateboard, etc. Restrooms available as well (very clean 🙂)

Amazing place to take a walk anytime if the day and even more beautiful during sunset! I wish it hadn't taken me 25 yrs to finally decide to explore the area. I was always deterred by the smell that sometimes accompanies the tide changes. Haven't noticed it at all now that I frequently ride my bike down the trails that go around the back bay.

Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve was a peaceful and beautiful place I visited with someone. It is a nature preserve but it felt like a giant outdoor classroom full of discovery. I saw a lot of teenagers walking the trails taking pictures of the scenery and enjoying the quiet atmosphere. The atmosphere was serene and inspiring with birds chirping and views of the water. Teens would love the chance to explore and take nature photos. There is no formal service but the trails were clean and easy to follow. The value is excellent because it is completely free to enjoy the outdoors. The quality of the preserve was high with safe paths and beautiful views. The selection of trails and lookout points gives teens plenty to explore. I highly recommend it to teenagers who love nature photography and quiet exploration.

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!

There are two nature centers and a rest area with faded panels about wildlife. Plenty of walk out platforms. Two lane road and a bit of slanted gravel lakeside. Only thing is it isn’t a total loop. Had to cross via pch south side and jamboree north side with some diverted in residential streets.

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.

The Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve is a sanctuary on 752 acres and is part of the historic Irvine Ranch---formerly Rancho de las Bolsas acquired by James Irvine in 1864. This area was known as the "Cienega de Las Ranas." Cliffs formed 15 million years ago by the Santa Ana River. Two plant communities are native at this ecological reserve---grasslands and coastal sage scrub. Birds are abundant and thriving--some you may observe are Light Footed Clapper Rail, Brown Pelican, Belting's Savannah Sparrow, Black Peregrine Falcon, California Least Tern and Bald Eagles (high nests in the canopy). Jogging, birding, kayaking, cycling, horseback riding are all possible here. If you want an overnight experience you can camp at the "Dunes" resort. This pristine environment is maintained by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, OC Parks and the City of Newport Beach.

Had a great walk with my friend Adilene here yesterday. She picked us up some coffee from Every Dose nearby and off we went. Beautiful marshland feel in the Newport Bay Area!! Trails were super clean and we enjoyed saying hi to all the people walking and their dogs!! The drive from Upland was a bit rough but the views and company were worth it!! Also pretty cool watching the planes from John Wayne nearby.

Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve spans about 135 acres and is located in Newport Beach near John Wayne Airport. It's a haven for walking, hiking, running, and all other kinds of activities. There is a free dedicated parking lot along with street parking. We came on a Saturday morning and saw tons of people already on their morning stroll or run. It's also a great place to bring dogs as there are lots of doggy bag stations and trash cans throughout. Some trails are paved and some are not so you can choose which ones you prefer. This area also included The Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center which has free admission, spans 10,000 square feet, and has a series of exhibits and interactive displays. If you come a little later in the day you might have trouble finding a parking spot, but if you go early enough you should be fine. This is a really cool spot to explore the outdoors.

Husband & I came here yesterday morning & it was such a beautiful day. There was no shade but thankfully, the weather was fresh & crisp after last week's rain with a cool breeze. There were a lot of people walking, biking, & couple of horseback riders. Luckily, we found parking right away on the side street. This was my third time hiking here but this time around was the most enjoyable one bc we got to walk 10 miles from upper bay to back bay which I felt accomplished. I love that there are different paths you can take & different trails you can walk on. The only downfall for me is there are no uphill & inclines so if you're looking for an easy flat trail & care more about the length & distance, this is the perfect spot for you. The scenery was also nice too with lots of greenery after the rain.

We absolutely adore coming to the Upper Back Bay for a quick hike--it's like a nature spa day for our pugs! They dive into the great outdoors with such enthusiasm you'd think they were training for the Canine Olympics. Springtime is our favorite; when the flowers bloom, it's like Mother Nature herself is asking us to take photos and post them on social media. (And let's be honest, who doesn't need a new screensaver or some fancy wall art?) Oh, and we can't forget summer when the Cliff Swallows return. Watching them zip around the sky is like a nature show, and our pugs are thoroughly convinced they're the stars. So, if you see a couple of pugs striking a pose next to some wildflowers or barking at birds, that's probably us. Until our next adventure--happy trails!

Upper section of Newport Back Bay has all the hills (they're not intense though). I like to park in the neighborhood of Constellation & Santiago and walk right into the preserve. It's got a different feel than the back bay and you can see the back bay from here. It's definitely a great place to go after work and de-stress. I've seen snakes here, but I was far enough away and planes are always flying overhead which makes for a cool photo. Definitely one of the easier and fastest or more accessible places to "hike" with a nice view.

A great place for walking, hiking, biking, bird watching, kayaking and canoeing. We saw some great hawks while hiking. There are several signs along the trails offering information on the preserve, the flora and fauna found in the area. They have a wide, well maintained paved path and numerous meandering dirt trails. The Upper Newport Ecological Reserve boasts over 750 acres (the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve is over 130 acres). There are multiple parking areas and access points. Many of the trails offer great views of the bay. Everything seemed to be in bloom during our visit, likely from the wet spring. We came here every day hiking for several miles. There's not much shade, so bring sunscreen, a hat and some water for your hike.

Beautiful hike with unique scenery. Free parking as well :) The nature center was closed by the time we got there but you can still see lots of swallows nests outside under the roof and check out the views from the roof and telescope. The views were very unique and unexpected. There was lots of waterfront views, bridges, and wildlife (mostly lizards, rabbits, and ducks) around.

Never knew about this place until my husband took me. What a cool little spot! From the moment we got there, a lady taught us to listen for a specific bird sound and told us what it's name was. The visitor center was really cool, has a neat video of the animals that live there, and tanks of other creatures like lizards and snakes. Their bathrooms are clean too. When we walked around down the path and near the water, saw some ducks and ground squirrels. I definitely want to come back!!

It is a beautiful, easy hike along the wetlands--lots of lizards and hawks. The pup loved it. As always, watch a few YouTube videos before heading out. It will help with parking advice and give you more info on trailheads, etc. Easy to moderate. Highly recommended. OH! Great nature center. And gift shop with clean restrooms that open early!

I come here all the time and have been at all hours of the day! Love that there are both paved and dirt trails and a variety of ways to go so you never get bored. Parking is free in the lot and there are plenty of trash cans and poop bags along the various paths. Lately I've been seeing coyotes here, so proceed with caution if you have pets. There are a ton of locals and regulars here so if you start coming often you'll see a lot of the same folks. Great for walking and very light hiking!

I always love walking here. It's just a simple pathway and there's so many people who walk their dogs here, ride bikes, or just walk with friends or by themselves. We even saw a bald eagle on our way back to the parking lot. Go here early and you'll easily find a parking spot.

This is a clean, safe place to walk,run, or ride your bike. Many families come here, and people walking their dogs. I haven't done the entire loop yet This is usually part of my walk from Santa Ana or Irvine. It's nice to see the nature while walking here.

Lovely biking, hiking and horse friendly trails. Came by midmorning for a little loop of the reserve. It was fairly busy with cyclists and pedestrians, but individuals are good about communicating when they are passing and sharing the paved pathways. As we made the return walk to our car, we saw a number of horses training off in the unpaved, shaded parts. Overall, it was a lovely nature retreat in the center of urban Costa Mesa.

went after a long hiatus and enjoyed ourselves. brought the new pup and he did great. plenty of parking and love the center where you can educate yourself. easy walking dirt trails. will be back.

Beautiful trail overlooking the water. This place is serene and makes for great photos. There is no shade so it's best to go on a cooler day. Stroller friendly path makes it a win for me! My kids also got to see a couple of horses on the way and they were super happy! You are sharing the trail with cyclists. There is street parking and a little parking lot. Free parking.

I lived in OC for over ten years and I only found out about Newport Bay in the last few months before I moved. This is a hidden gem! It's not hidden really, just hidden from me somehow all these years because of my stupidity. I would hike this place over Crystal Cove any day of the week. Why? 1) Free parking compared to $15 at Crystal Cove. 2) The hike here is also much more pleasant as you hike along the various waterways amongst many wild birds I could never name. The hike at Crystal Cove was STEEP and not suitable for the elderly or young children. 3) You can hike on the trail or the paved road. I took my mother on the paved road as she is older and can easily trip on the uneven trails. 4) There's this gift shop/nature center where they explain all the wildlife that thrive in the area. You can also use the restroom here. Case closed. Upper newport bay is a must for anyone looking for a great hike in the OC.

Beautiful place to walk along the marsh. Mostly flat trail. There's is a paved path as well

This is probably one of my favourite places to enjoy a run. Away from the crowds, (which is nice --- especially during the COVID-19 pandemic), it's a great close-to-home place to unwind & burn off some of those pesky calories after overindulging in the decadent treats I love so much. Although it's not the most challenging hike, the "Newport Bay Nature Preserve" does provide an easy-to-moderate leisurely walk, jog, or run on dirt paths in a serene & beautiful setting. As you travel up-&-down the gentle rolling inclines enjoying refreshing coastal breezes from the nearby Pacific Ocean, the Preserve offers a feast for the senses with varieties of wildflowers & other natural landscape, the beautiful background soundtrack of various bird species, & fleeting glimpses of resident rabbits, ducks, squirrels, marine views, & an occasional horseback rider (on the paved roads). If you need a break from your run, the on-site Nature Center offers educational exhibits, clean lavatories, & an observation deck featuring beautiful views of marine marshland & more. Most fellow joggers/walkers are courteous & respectful of one another's personal space, & many do wear face-coverings/masks. Convenient street & lot parking are both available, as well. Overall, a pleasant place to enjoy valuable quiet time outdoors. If you're seeking a serene & quiet space to unwind, recharge, &/or burn off some calories in a peaceful setting, consider visiting the "Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve."

This is a perfect spot if you like short trails with almost no inclines. There are multiple entrances you can park by: entering through Irvine Ave by the ymca or park newport. If you want to avoid lots of bike riders, I suggest parking and entering through the ymca entrance or the regular parking lot, right by it. I like taking the bridge trail that leads you to jamboree and fletcher jones dealership. Really pretty views, people are respectful of your space and of course cute doggies all around !

Love this place, has minimal shade but it feels good to go out and get some much needed fresh air from time to time. Parking is ample, there a quite a few cyclist and people with dogs. This is good for hiking, walking, running or cycling. There are no restrooms available but plenty of resting areas, try to not drink too much water while you're there and you'll be solid! Or you can go to the gift shop and use theirs ‍

This is a very safe trail to walk with friends or by yourself. On weekends you will see a lot of families, people walking pets, runners and cyclists. It's very well kept and there is a lot of ground to cover. I want to say that the loop is about 13 miles if you can do the whole thing but there are also other parts I've never ventured to that I think go as far as UCI so my mileage may be off. The scenery is beautiful and every time you turn a corner you get to see something from a different vantage point. It makes exercising bearable.

Love coming here to run/walk/hike. There's plenty of parking spots, a variety of trails, dog friendly, bike friendly, family friendly. They have a nice view of the Back Bay as well.

Beautiful Beautiful Reserve. Hidden away in the urban setting. Walking trails with the wetland birds. Take a peek of the Reserve via my video #socalweekendwalkarounds https://youtu.be/2ADKSKt_Sks

Nice, peaceful spot for a walk or run. Well maintained trails, there's a bathroom and I easily found parking at 8:30am on a Saturday.

I've been here before and everytime I come here, the nature reserve still wows me. During Covid times, we trails here are quite busy. What you'll see here: Horse Dung Walkers/Runners/Bikers A terrific panoramic view of untouched Newport Airplanes taking off every 10 minutes Some dogs here and there with dog walkers Of all the trails we've been on so far, most people here are in masks. So good job people! Parking here is free on the street or inside the lot. A super duper clean public bathroom is available until 4pm next door to the conservatory. Most trails are dirt path. The level of the hike is pre-beginner. Very simple short trails that are easy for people of all ages. There are warning signs about bees but nothing to worry about. Come here around sunset, it's gorgeous here around that time!

This is my first time visiting the back bay of Newport Beach and the kids and I loved it. It is just a quick path to explore and with little kids, they always get tired, and making a small loopback isn't bad whatsoever. If you plan to go hiking and walking around the dirt paths, remember it is a dirt path. We brought scooters thinking it was friendly but it wasn't. As the parent, I ended up carrying my kid's scooter. On this trail you have to supervise your kids because as you know kids get excited and they want to climb and explore not-so-safe spots. Trust me, there were lots of "Get down, it isn't safe!" Overall we had a good time. I can't wait to go back and explore with other family members.

Great views, clean trails, clearly marked signage Love it and will be back my next visit- as a mountain girl I love it more than the crowded walks by the ocean - Newports best feature

Enjoy beautiful views and a cool breeze on your walk. There are two paths: dirt park which can weave through the plants and go near the water or the paved asphalt that surrounds the nature preserve. It's a great place to walk with the kiddos as they get to learn about the plant and animal life on the information plaques along the dirt path.

Great running spot! There are not many spots in the area that have free parking for a quick 30 minute run, so I was a happy camper when I discovered this gem in my neighborhood! The road is paved the entire way. Great for biking or running with a nice view. The path usually isn't too crowded either which is always a concern of mine when it comes to running. There are a couple hills along the trail that are a bit steep. Overall, I love this running spot and would highly recommend!

Can not bbq or take your own grill it's not convenient for family picnics but has a nice view

Wow! What a beautiful park. This place is what california would be if we didn't have all this infrastructure. Definitely gives you a nutrient vibe even though you are surrounded by civilization. Plenty of trails here for all types of walkers, hikers, and runners. Come here early in the morning for a nice crisp start to your morning. The views here are incredible.

One of the most beautiful gems in OC! I love bringing my puppy here for long walks on the weekends. The trails are well maintained and safe (...just keep an eye out for snakes and coyotes, but thats the case on most of the trails in OC). A beautiful getaway from the City vibes

What an amazing place to take a easy stroll or bike ride, leashed dog friendly. There are clean bathrooms. There are both paved and sandy paths. You might be lucky and see equestrians and horses along your way! I also visited during Earth day and it was very educational and provided great source of knowledge and fun for kids and adults! Recent visits had abundant wild flowers and greenery perfect for photo ops. Worth seeing!

Such a beautiful place to walk/hike/ride your bike. They have many trails, you won't be bored! There is also an awesome nature center as well with a leopard shark, various fish, tarantula, snakes, turtle, and more! Went on a Saturday afternoon and it wasn't very busy.

There are many beautiful places in Orange County, but there is only one Upper Newport Bay. Where else has all of this: Bike trails (be careful: the Mountains to the Sea Trail is open to motorized vehicles) Equestrian trails Hiking and nature trails Kayaking and canoeing Stand Up Paddleboarding Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center Technically, these are not part of the Nature Preserve itself, but the following attractions are on the Back Bay: Back Bay Bistro Newport Beach Vineyards & Winery Camp James (I don't know what Camp James is, but it's depicted on Google Maps) The smallest beach I've ever seen El Monte RV Rentals Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort OK, so the planes taking off from SNA can be a nuisance, but I think the wildlife must be used to it by now. And you will see wildlife. Did you know that there are as many as thirteen different habitats represented at UNB? Nearly 200 species of birds, including some endangered ones, make UNB their home. How do I know all of this? http://newportbay.org/ I highly recommend checking out UNB for yourself. If you plan on hiking, keep in mind that some of the trails can get muddy. Bring water! Wear sunscreen! How many times do I have to remind you? Dogs are welcome, but they must be on leash. Don't tempt the coyotes!

One of Yelp's triple-listings; you can see more reviews under "Upper Newport Wilderness Preserve" and "Back Bay Loop Trail". A great location for birdwatchers, joggers or a vigorous walk. Also a good spot for people who need a place to walk their dog. There isn't much to see here. There are paved paths for bikers and runners and some dirt trails for "hikers" that go along the top of the ridge as well as down to the wetlands. Everything is mostly flat. There is no shade - it's all wetlands or desert chaparral. You are always aware you are in the city with business buildings and residential areas in view plus it's in the flight path of John Wayne airport. I was here on a Sunday afternoon and there weren't many people. I saw rabbits, lizards and a variety of birds including an enormous hawk. I was surprised to find a interpretive center here (near the parking lot) complete with restrooms and an on-duty ranger who was very helpful in answering questions and providing a map. This would be a great place for a grade school field trip. I found it a rather dull place to walk though.

I absolutely love the Upper Newport Bay. If it wasn't for my current job I would have never known about this place. I know, I know... I need to wander and venture out more! I love love love it! Great for fairly easy hiking, jogging, running, drills on the dirt or paved hill, walking your dog, horseback riding, sitting on the bench looking at the beautiful bay, sooo many things I feel like if I kept listing them I would just be rambling. The back bay loop is I believe 10 miles. A few of my awesome co-workers run it after work. I mean, I would go, but I could probably only make it through the 2nd mile. You can also kayak as well! The only con is on the Jamboree side I have run into a few mean cyclists. Seem to have been in their way somehow, although I am pretty sure we had the right of way. Other than that it is almost too good to be true!

Our first time at the Newport Bay Preserve. We enjoyed hiking and riding our bikes during our visit. The area is very relaxing and very clean. Looking forward to our next visit.

Wear your "older" running shoes because the dirt paths/ gravel Discolored my lime green nikes. There's the main paved area, but to the side are paths/ areas to off track -- much more fun & "nature-ish" for meeting the ducks, bunnies, & winged insects. I ran the gravel areas to save my crepitus knees. Lots of running clubbers, super smiley & wave-y. Lots of shirtless runners-- wow ... So that's how "they" are suppose to look after forty! For the men-- enough buxom blondes not breaking a sweat but looking perky speed walking. Since I stayed on the dirt, my knees allowed a 10 mile run, the cyclists didn't try to run me over & everyone/ dog shared the paths just fine. Everyone seems to know the etiquette here, so I'll be back for another 90 min run. Worth the petrol. Hills are rolling, so you don't "notice" the hillslug pain until after crossing the wooden bridge that always seems seasoned with horse dung. I wore my earphone in one ear so that I can hear the symphony of the birds, insects, & water. Upper bay was beautiful @ 0630-- moon still " out" on my left & golden sun beams emerging through the clouds on my right. No sunglasses needed or wear orange lens. Hat/ sun visor needed towards the end of the run. No outhouses, so work out faster! I've cycled through here & I usually slow down a little due to pedestrian traffic & it's pretty. Now I can add that I ran here too. Nice jaunt.

Nice & Easy Flat dirt or pavement trail along overview the Newport Bay. Its very relaxing just watching & listening the wave and jumping fishes. Watch out for bikers. Visitor center - clean and nice. Closed on Monday & Major holiday. Open Tue & Sunday 10 am to 4 pm Trail Hours - Nov 1st to Feb 28 - 7 am to 6 pm. March 1st to Oct 31st - 7 to 9 pm Bathroom - Visitor center Parking - Big public parking and street parking Water Fountain - inside Visitor center Biker yield to hiker/ jogger & horseback rider Hiker yield to horseback rider

Upper Newport Bay offers everyone gorgeous scenic views and easy dirt and asphalt paths to walk, run, or bike (bikes generally use the asphalt path). The scenery is breathtaking, especially during sunset. The adjacent parking lot is spacious and free. The trails are also dog-friendly. However, there are no restrooms, water fountains, or many shaded areas, so plan accordingly. Edit: I attached some photos I took there. In order to conduct a photo session (legally) there, your photographer must carry liability insurance and have an OC Parks photo permit.

When you've lived out in rural areas and there's nothing but tumbleweeds around, you'll find a new appreciation where there's a scenic view of river, bay, wetlands, or trees. Newport Backbay has been a training ground for athletes, joggers, cyclists, dog walkers, marathon runners. No one is complaining when you're strolling out here, feeling the breeze, enjoying sunset views. The total loop is 10 miles which is one of my favorite spots to build up my mileage for running and biking. This is not a "hiking" trail but more for a place for exercising so don't expect to be going up high inclines or climbing mountains. There are restrooms at the Mary Muth Interpretative Center.

This is a great place to hike on a small trail while enjoying nature and the fresh air. The views are amazing and the fresh air is unmatched. Great little nature center for the little ones as well, free of charge. Parking was super easy and free as well. Bring a snack and enjoy the scenery from the roof of the nature center.

My husband and I came here for a morning hike -- strolled along the path(s) for about 2 hours with the dog. It was very scenic - full of sun, wildlife (birds!) and other dog-walkers. Clearly marked dirt/sand paths -- with occasional "historical placards" line the trail. We saw plenty of cyclists along the road, but walkers were on the dirt path. At first, I thought this area was just a large swamp, but it's really full of character. We saw at least 3-4 different types of birds (cranes?) swimming / resting / standing near the waters. Dog loved it. Definitely bring at least 3-4 bottles of water with you during the heat/hot seasons. The nearest restroom we know of around the trail was at the Peter & Mary Muth Interpretive Center. It's worth a pit stop to check out the Center. You can rest up and cool down! Plenty of parking along the YMCA area. Free too.

This was a nice preserve with a fairly easy walking trail. I never could find the restroom. Perhaps their location could be posted.

GORGEOUS... at any time of day, during any season. I love this place when I just need to get away. The trails are easy to do, the bike paths are paved, the parking g is decent.

I seem to be having no luck whatsoever with highly rated "hikes" on Yelp. I put hike in quotation marks because there is no way I would consider this to be a hike. I wanted to take my dog out for a nice and long hike so I can tire her out so she would just lay around resting for the rest of the day. Well that didn't really work out. I got here too late and despite it being in the 70's it got hot really quickly. All right, if you want to love this place here is what you should come expecting... - A scenic place for a nice brisk walk, jog, or biking. - Free parking - Paved trails - Dog friendly (I didn't see any dog poop here BUT...and there's a huge but...more on that later) I gave it 3 stars because honestly, the view was all right and I drove all the way over here when I really could have accomplished the same thing with just walking in the trails near my house. If you live nearby this is a nice place to walk if you want to pretend that you're away from the city and nearby nature. Never mind the fact that you could literally see into the backyards of multi-million dollar custom homes as you're walking here. Like I mentioned earlier, I didn't see much dog poop. People seem to be really good at picking up after their dogs. HOWEVER, there's so much horse poop here. And seriously, I'm not sure if horse poop is better or safer for the environment than dog poop but sheesh, I really was not expecting so much horse poop. Then I walk by a sign that mentioned it was near a horseback riding camp or something to that effect. Anyways, come here if you want a nice brisk walk, jog, or biking with a view of water. Don't come here if you're expecting to be amazed with the view or trying to get an off the beaten path workout in.

If you're going to take someone somewhere "Orange County", this is it. It's nicer than the Bolsa Chica Wetlands, but you'll have to be aware of horse poop. Park at the free lot then you can walk the dirt paths to the right or the wooden horse path/cement path to the left past the building. We came to the end (before Jamboree Rd) and turned under the bridge. We were fortunate to see the sunset and a woman on her horse! This made for the best photo. This is more of a walk than a hike. It's very very easy to run or walk on the trails here. You can also bring your dog! Orange County has consistently gorgeous sunsets, as long as you can get away from the view of million-dollar homes. :(