🏆 Newport Beach just broke a Guinness World Record

We’ve been hearing from more of you lately, and one thing keeps coming up, people are looking for things that actually feel worth their time. Not just busy, but memorable. That’s part of why this week stands out.

A record-breaking dance event update, an unexpected wildlife moment, and a handful of experiences that feel very Newport in the best way. Hopefully something in here earns a spot on your calendar.

The Graduation Gift They Will Replay Forever: A Custom Song Written for Your Senior

Graduation only happens once, and it deserves something more than a gift card. Songs for Your Story takes your senior's name, memories, and inside jokes and crafts them into a fully custom, professionally produced song. Play it at the party, drop it behind the slideshow, or just send it to them on the big day. Give them something nobody else will think to give.

Country, pop, hip-hop, ballads. You pick the style. They handle everything else.

Before you decide, go to songsforyourstory.com/graduation and hit play on any song. Just 30 seconds. You will be blown away.

Starting at $79. Graduation season only.

Thank you to our sponsors who help keep this newsletter free for the community. 🙏

🐳 A Whale Of A Tale For One Local Family

The Gist: This past weekend, the Rojas family had a breathtaking encounter off Newport Beach when a massive fin whale surfaced right next to their boat. Five-year-old Cypress Rojas watched the creature (the second-largest on Earth) flick its tail alongside a second whale. Photographer Mark Girardeau caught aerial footage showing the whale, which can reach 89 feet, dwarfing the vessel.

Why It Matters: It’s a thrill to see our Pacific neighbors up close, and stories like Cypress’s remind us why our coast is so special. Experts say an unusually high number of fin whales are visiting Southern California right now to feed in warmer waters, so keep those binoculars handy!

💃 Balboa Swing Sets A World Record

The Gist: Newport Beach just danced its way into history! On Sunday, April 19, 2026, 579 pairs of dancers gathered at Peninsula Park to break the Guinness World Record for the Largest Swing Dance Lesson. Led by instructors from Atomic Ballroom, the crowd shattered the old record of 391 pairs right near the site of the legendary Rendezvous Ballroom.

Why It Matters: This was a high-energy tribute to our local roots and the Balboa Swing style born here in the 1930s. It kicked off our city’s 120th anniversary with a serious sense of community pride and a lot of heart. The party continues next month with the “12 Decades of Newport Beach” art exhibition, followed by a 1960s-themed bash at Fashion Island the month after!

🎷 Smooth jazz, harbor breezes, and souffle

Bayside Restaurant strikes that elusive balance between sophisticated fine dining and a relaxed, neighborhood hangout. While the wrap-around terrace offers quiet harbor views, the heart of the space is the wine bar tower, where nightly live music creates a polished, soulful energy.

This season, champagne brunch is the primary draw for Mother's Day, pairing the coastal elegance with a Grand Marnier soufflé that locals whisper about. Ready to visit for a celebratory Sunday or a Tuesday cocktail by the piano?

⛵ Waterfront views through portholes in the floor

A'maree's spring arrivals from Issey Miyake and Daniela Gregis have landed just in time for an early Mom’s Day scouting trip. Sunlight bounces off the harbor water as you browse buttery-soft leather fringe jackets and fine porcelain.

It is easy to lose track of time among the rare perfumes and heirloom jewelry. Finding a unique gift feels personal here, especially with the quiet grace of the docks right outside the window.

🐾 Ted is a friendly eight year old mixed breed dog

This medium sized fellow is a true local favorite, known for his easygoing nature and love for neighborhood walks. While he manages a cloudy eye and a simple kidney support diet with ease, his spirit remains playful and devoted.

Ted is a loyal companion who thrives on human connection.

To learn more about this cute guy,

🏝️ Aloha Nights: Fabulous Nomads | Tennis Club | Newport Beach | 04/24 | More
Tiki bar and surf-rock vibes at a typically private club open to the public for one night.

🎸 Zeppelin Revisited | Campus JAX | Newport Beach | 04/25 | More 
A powerhouse tribute to Led Zeppelin: world-class musicians and soulful vocals.

✨ Meet the Celebrity Doctor | 1441 Avocado Ave | Newport Beach | 04/25 | More
An evening with Dr. Karen Soika with skincare insights and "Spring into Beauty" offers.

🌟 Earth Day BioBlitz | Crystal Cove State Park | Newport Coast | 04/25 | More
Tidepool exploration and community science documenting coastal biodiversity.

👗 Earth Day x Retold Recycling | Jenni Kayne | Newport Beach | 04/25 | More Donate clothing and enjoy exclusive boutique gifts while refreshing your closet!

🎶 Lady Parts | Campus Jax | Newport Beach | 04/26 | More 
Soulful three-part harmonies honoring legendary girl groups and musical matriarchs.

🧹 Earth Day Sweep & Learn | CdM State Beach | Newport Beach | 04/26 | More
Beach cleanup and wildlife education session focused on protecting local ocean life.

💻 Coding for Kids | Central Library | Newport Beach | 04/27 | More
Scratch programming workshop where participants build a custom virtual Pong game.

💄 Friends & Family Sale | Cos Bar | Newport Beach | until 04/30 | More 
Luxury beauty shopping event featuring high-end makeup, skincare, and fragrances.

Thanks for reading Our Newsletter! We’ll have more updates for you next week!

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