🏫 Backpacks, buddies, and a campus-level facelift

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Labor Day is around the corner, but let’s not skip ahead just yet. Your long weekend could easily be full of beach hangs, bookstore browses, and golden-hour dinners to enjoy!

We’ve also got a peek at campus improvements across town and a major accessibility win at one of Newport’s most iconic surf spots. Scroll for all the good stuff.

Recommended

🌊 The Dock

The Dock blends golden-hour views with an easy, unhurried charm. The bar stirs up standouts like a Last Word with Monkey 47 gin, while the kitchen wows with melt-in-your-mouth Ora King salmon and the most flavorful Spanish Crispy Octopus.

And the bread pudding? Warm, golden, and unforgettable: just the kind of sweet ending that makes you proud to call this corner of Newport home. Learn more here.

🔖 Lido Village Books

In the relaxed charm of Lido Marina Village, Lido Village Books is a cozy escape where you can linger among well-loved shelves. The team here knows their reads inside and out, offering spot-on suggestions that feel genuine and heartfelt.

From striking coffee table finds to a delightful kids’ corner, every nook invites discovery. You’ll stroll out with a great find in hand and a smile. Learn more here.

• $7,900,000

• 6 beds

• 7 baths

• 7,042 sqft

• 0.45 Acres Lot

Grand Mediterranean elegance meets Newport Beach’s laid-back luxury in this 7,042 sq ft estate. Dual spiral staircases, a chef’s kitchen, a spa-worthy primary suite, seven-car subterranean garage, tennis court, and resort pool create the ultimate private retreat. View property here.

🎒 Back to School With Big Smiles and New Upgrades

The Gist: Students across Costa Mesa and Newport Beach kicked off the 2025–26 school year this week with hugs, cheers, and even a red-carpet welcome. Parents snapped photos while kids reunited with friends and teachers after summer break. Behind the scenes, crews worked all summer to refresh campuses with shaded playgrounds, new lawns, and even a 46,000-square-foot performing arts center at Estancia High.

Why it matters: Classrooms are brighter, safer, and better equipped, making the first day extra special for families. Estancia’s new arts complex will be officially unveiled Sept. 9. Read more here.

🌊 Easier Access Coming to the Wedge

The Gist: A long-requested pathway at Newport Beach’s famous surf spot, the Wedge, just cleared a major hurdle. The California Coastal Commission approved plans for a 200-foot concrete path that will make it easier for visitors, including those using wheelchairs, to get closer to the action.

Why It Matters: The Wedge is one of Southern California’s most iconic beaches, drawing surfers, bodysurfers, and crowds of spectators. The new path will help more people enjoy the waves and views.

What’s Next: The city is expected to vote on construction later this year, with hopes to finish by 2026. Read more here.

Looking for a big-hearted pup to brighten your days? You have to meet Cashew!

A 2-year-old Akita mix with a soft cream and orange coat and a playful spirit, she loves zooming around, snacking on treats, and showing off her sit and lay down skills.

Cashew has a rare condition called masticatory muscle myositis, which makes toys a little tricky, but she eats and drinks with ease and keeps her cheerful outlook. She’s waiting at the Newport Beach Animal Shelter. Adoption fee applies.

To learn more about this beautiful girl, click HERE.

🍹 DJs and Live Music | VEA | Newport Beach | 08/29-08/31 | More
Order a bright spritz, sink into a shaded lounge, and let Newport’s golden hour show off!

🍍 End of Summer Celeb | Billy’s at The Beach | Newport Beach | 08/29-09/01 | More
Send summer off right with a Mai Tai Day special and a Labor Day hang by the bay.

✨ Flow, Shop & Recharge | Fashion Island | Newport Beach | 08/30 | More
Free, neighborly, and limited-capacity: RSVP and start your weekend on a high note!

🌞 Family Style | Newport Dunes | Newport Beach | 08/30 | More
Neighbors, music, and that classic OC summer feel.

🍔 Labor Day Celeb | Pendry | Newport Beach | 09/01 | More
Backyard vibes, Pendry polish: BBQ from 11 AM–3 PM with all the cookout favorites.

🌮 Taco Tuesday | Zentril Kitchen + Bar | Newport Beach | 09/02 | More
Signature margaritas and cocktails pair perfectly with this taco run.

💛 Stroller Sculpt Class | Lido Marina Village | Newport Beach | 09/04 | More
Postpartum-safe blend of stretch, strength, and sculpt so go at your own pace.

If you want to read any of our previous issues, check them out HERE on our website.