🚢 The ferry’s electric glow-up is official!

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Spring break may not be here just yet, but you can feel it inching closer. The patio tables are filling up earlier and there is that familiar uptick in energy along the Peninsula. The city is just getting ahead of the rush with a few new rules to keep things calm and neighborly.

In the meantime, we are leaning into the good stuff. A proper Margarita Day toast under warm restaurant lights, kitchen classes that smell like fresh garlic and butter, and some big, hopeful news for one of our most iconic local services on the water.

February may be short, but it is pulling its weight, read ‘til the end!

🍹 Salt rims and celebration for Margarita Day

National Margarita Day lands this Sunday, and there is no better place to toast than under the soaring, textured ceilings of Palmilla Cocina y Tequila.

The room hums with a refined energy that feels uniquely Newport, especially when the first round of warm, handmade tortillas and whipped honey butter hits the table.

Try the Coconut Pineapple Margarita for a tropical, agave-forward lift that perfectly matches the coastal light. It is polished yet welcoming, the kind of spot that makes you proud to have such a vibrant scene right here on the Peninsula.

🥣 Whisking up some pre-getaway kitchen magic

Sur La Table is much more than a place to find a heavy Dutch oven or a new set of linens. The scent of sautéing garlic often drifts from the back, where instructors lead workshops on everything from delicate croissants to hand-rolled sushi.

It is a welcoming space to learn a few food science secrets while picking out some festive Easter serveware before the spring break travel rush begins. It’s just the last week of February, but you’re never too early to start prepping, right?

🚢 A New Electric Chapter for the Balboa Island Ferry

The Gist: The historic Balboa Island Ferry has secured a $12 million partnership to swap its diesel engines for battery-electric power. This move preserves the 106 year old service, which faced potential closure due to new state emission rules. All three wooden boats, the Admiral, Captain, and Commodore, will be replaced with new electric vessels and supported by onsite charging stations.

Why It Matters: This ensures our favorite local shortcut remains a part of neighborhood life while keeping the air and water cleaner for everyone. The fleet will become the first fully electric ferry service in California.

☀️ Newport Beach readies for spring break

The Gist: Our City Council recently approved stricter rules to keep our coastal neighborhoods peaceful this spring. From March 14 to 22 and April 4 to 12, police will increase patrols and enforce higher fines in Balboa Peninsula, West Newport, and Corona del Mar. These Safety Enhancement Zones focus on curbing loud house parties and underage drinking.

Why It Matters: These measures help maintain the quiet, welcoming character of our streets and beaches during the busiest travel weeks of the year. Expect to see a larger police presence and clearer rules regarding beach shade coverings starting mid-March.

Meet Charlie, a thoughtful five year old terrier mix waiting for his forever home.

Currently at the Newport Beach Animal Shelter, he weighs in at just twenty pounds. He is the perfect size for neighborhood strolls, where he shows off his excellent leash manners!

While he enjoys the fresh air, he has a sensitive soul and prefers a quiet, adult only environment without other pets. This local fellow is looking for a patient companion to help him feel secure. His adoption fee is one hundred and fifty dollars.

To learn more about this handsome boy,

🌲 Wild Tales | Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center | Newport Beach | 02/20 | More
Guided nature hikes and themed crafts for curious young explorers and their families.

🏄 Jack Surfboards Demo Day | 27th Street | Newport Beach | 02/21 | More 
Test handcrafted boards and connect with local shapers right in the water.

🌊 Surfrider Beach Cleanup | The Wedge | Newport Beach | 02/21 | More
Environmental stewardship event dedicated to preserving our iconic coastline!

🐋 Science Sunday: Whale Watching | Davey's Locker Sportfishing | Newport Beach | 02/22 | More
Educational adventure exploring marine ecology with a dedicated naturalist guide.

💎 Fuse Bead Party | Newport Beach Central Library | Newport Beach | 02/24 | More
Creative hands-on workshop designing colorful pixel art and custom bead templates.

🕯️ Candlelight: 90s Hip-Hop on Strings | Lido Theater | Newport Beach | 02/21 | More
Iconic urban anthems reimagined by a classical quartet in a historic setting.

💫 K-Tel All Stars | Campus JAX | Newport Beach | 02/21 | More 
Nostalgic live recreation of a 1970s rock concert with classic AM radio hits!

🥂 Brunch, Bubbles, and Beats | Balboa Bay Resort | Newport Beach | 02/22 | More
Sophisticated waterfront dining featuring live musical sets and a curated brunch board.

📺 Reality TV Trivia Night | THE LOT Fashion Island | Newport Beach | 02/24 | More
Engaging, fast-paced trivia competition with themed prizes and a welcome margarita.

🎸 Joe Marx Live | Lido Marina Village | Newport Beach | 02/25 | More 
Soulful acoustic melodies on the deck during a golden hour social.