🐶 How a sunny beach day turned into a rescue mission

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If you’ve been waiting for the perfect excuse to get out and enjoy Newport Beach, this weekend just handed you a whole list. Gourmet by the Bay is bringing together food and community spirit, while the Pacific Symphony is ready for a Sunday night under the stars.

Toss in a few surprise finds, like oat pancakes from a tucked-away spot, and you’ve got the makings of a great couple of days. Here’s everything you need to know:

Recommended

🧢 Little Billy's

Down on Avon Street, Little Billy’s feels like a local favorite you’d only hear about from someone in the know. The oat pancakes are a standout: fluffy, nutty, and just sweet enough.

Billy, the owner, often pops out to check on tables and sometimes brings over surprise pancake bites. The place has a welcoming, lived-in charm, perfect for a laid-back breakfast or brunch with friends. Try the chicken club or breakfast burrito! Learn more here.

🐋 Newport Landing Whale Watching

If you haven’t hopped on a Newport Landing Whale Watching tour yet, it’s one of those coastal experiences that sticks with you. You might spot dolphins racing alongside the boat or even catch the thrill of a whale breaching just yards away.

Captains know these waters inside and out, sharing fun facts and thoughtful answers that bring the ocean to life. The kind of outing folks keep coming back for! Learn more here.

• $8,549,000

• 5 beds

• 5 baths

• 5,306 sqft

• 9,000 Square Feet Lot

This brand-new Port Streets stunner nails the details. Dual islands in the kitchen, a wine cellar for grown-up nights, and a backyard built for laid-back weekends. Add in white oak floors, a cappuccino bar, and that breezy balcony: done deal! View property here.

🌊 A Toast to the Bay This Weekend

The Gist: Gourmet by the Bay is set for this Saturday, August 16, at the Muth Interpretive Center in Newport Beach. From 5 to 8 p.m., guests will take in sweeping views of Upper Newport Bay while enjoying locally catered food, craft drinks, live music, and community spirit. The evening includes both silent and live auctions, all to benefit Newport Bay Conservancy’s restoration work.

Why It Matters: Every ticket supports efforts to protect one of Orange County’s most cherished natural spaces. Grab your spot at newportbay.org while tickets last.

🐶 Bertie the Giant Schnauzer Brought Safely Back to Shore

The Gist: Bertie, a five-year-old Giant Schnauzer, gave everyone at Newport Beach a fright when he paddled more than 200m toward Dinas Head and just kept going. RNLI lifeguard Elen Hill braved the waves on a rescue board, teaming up with a passing windsurfer to guide the weary pup back to shore. Owner Kate Wagg says she’s deeply grateful for the kindness and courage that saved her dog.

Why It Matters: It’s a reminder of the RNLI’s heart and skill in keeping both locals and their four-legged friends safe. Read more here.

💲💲 Gourmet by the Bay | Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center | Newport Beach | 08/16 | More
Bid on exclusive items to support restoration, education, and advocacy programs.

🌸 Lotus Night Market | Westcliff Plaza | Newport Beach | 08/16 | More
Dive into handmade delights at Westcliff Plaza’s pop-up market: unique treasures await.

🔥 Turn the Page - Bob Seger Tribute | Campus JAX | Newport Beach | 08/16 | More
Catch the tribute: your summer’s must-see rock revival under one roof!

🎶 Concerts on the Green | Civic Green | Newport Beach | 08/17 | More
Unwind under the stars with Pacific Symphony on Sunday!

🌟 Brian Culbertson Live | Hyatt Regency | Newport Beach | 08/17 | More
Celebrate music and make wishes come true under the stars!

🌞 STEAM Lab | Children's Room at the Public Library | Newport Beach | 08/19 | More
Join this free, family-friendly STEAM adventure!

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