🔥 Our firefighters are ready to take on waffles and wildfire season

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These next couple of weeks feel like we’re hitting the late-summer stride. We’ve got sun, surf, seafood, and just enough events to keep things interesting without going full calendar chaos.

And do we hear waffles with a side of competition? Yes, please! Newport’s bravest, our police, firefighters, and lifeguards, are taking each other on in a friendly (but fierce) waffle showdown to help grant wishes for local kids. It’s the kind of event that makes you feel lucky to live here.

Stay local this weekend and consider this your cheat sheet: where to eat, where to play, and where to pick up one last bronzer before Labor Day hits.

Recommended

🎣 Cannery Seafood of the Pacific

Housed in a lovingly restored historic waterfront building, Cannery Seafood of the Pacific serves up pristine ocean flavors with a side of golden harbor views. Think silky scallops, a knockout swordfish sandwich, and sushi so fresh it practically swims to your plate.

Service shines here and the vibe balances upscale polish with breezy coastal charm.
Pro tip: happy hour bites are always a steal! Learn more here.

🚤 Electric Boat Rental

EB Rental makes getting out on the harbor easy and fun. Their colorful electric boats, including a fan-favorite pink one, are clean, quiet, and simple to drive, even for first-timers. The crew is friendly and accommodating, welcoming service dogs and helping with custom touches for celebrations.

Whether it’s a birthday, sunset cruise, or casual afternoon with friends, you’ll get great views, good vibes, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. Learn more here.

• $7,995,000

• 5 beds

• 6 baths

• 5,781 sqft

• 10,659 Square Feet Lot

In Bonita Canyon’s private enclave, this beauty shines after a 2020 down-to-the-studs redesign. A Control4 smart system, chef’s kitchen, cozy movie room, and sunny backyard with pool and fire pit set the stage for effortless California living. View property here.

🧇 Waffle Showdown for a Cause

The Gist: Newport Beach police, firefighters, and lifeguards will face off in a friendly waffle-eating contest at Cappy’s Café on Saturday, Aug. 24, starting at 8 a.m. The annual fundraiser supports Make-A-Wish Orange County and the Inland Empire, which grants wishes for local children with critical illnesses. Last year’s contest raised over $1,200, with the fire department taking the win.

Why It Matters: Every bite helps fund life-changing wishes for kids like Tristan, an 8-year-old boy whose dream to snorkel with nurse sharks came true. Read more here.

🔥 300 Fire Watch Volunteers Ready for Wildfire Season

The Gist: When Red Flag Warnings hit Orange County, more than 300 trained Fire Watch volunteers are on call to patrol trailheads, roadsides, and open spaces, watching for the first sign of wildfire. They cover over 40,000 acres from Weir Canyon to Crystal Cove, using cameras, radios, and old-fashioned eyes on the ground to protect communities.

Why It Matters: Early detection can mean the difference between a small spark and a devastating wildfire, and these neighbors are a crucial first line of defense. Read more here.

🐾 Mutts in Need | Lincoln Experience Center | Newport Beach | 08/23 | More
Celebrate National Dog Day with adoptable pups!

💥 Board Game Saturday | Central Library | Newport Beach | 08/23 | More
No registration: just drop in, grab a game, and play your way through the afternoon.

🎺 Pretzel Logic Live! | Campus JAX | Newport Beach | 08/23 | More
Three vocalists, three horns, five-piece rhythm: tour-tested pros!

💄 Sunkissed Summer | Neiman Marcus | Newport Beach | 08/23 | More
Think SPF, bronzers, and fresh-finish essentials: stock up before the long weekend.

🐶 Dog Day Sunday | Newport Coast® Shopping Center | Newport Beach | 08/24 | More
A sweet Sunday mingle for dog lovers: quick, friendly, and very Newport.

💗 Hearts for the Arts | The Winery Restaurant | Newport Beach | 08/24 | More
Bid in the silent auction: proceeds power events you love at The GEM Theatre.

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