⚓️ Thing 1 and Thing 2 just finished at the harbor

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Can you feel that slight shift in the air lately? The sun is hanging around just a little longer over the harbor, and the Newport Beach morning crispness is starting to feel like spring.

We’re officially in that sweet spot where you can justify a cozy knit sweater at Fashion Island but still need sunglasses for a midday boat ride.

This week, we’re looking at some big upgrades at Lido House and celebrating the fact that the Balboa Yacht Basin is officially clear and ready for the season. Scroll on!

🌺 Island-style romance and legendary harbor-front Mai Tais

As the waterfront takes on a slower, sun-drenched rhythm, Billy’s at the Beach remains the neighborhood’s go-to for catching that specific Newport Beach glow, offering a week-long Valentine’s celebration of the Aloha lovin’ spirit.

Between the kitschy, polished tiki decor and the sound of live music drifting over the bay, it’s a transportive spot to share a customizable luau platter with friends or a quiet three-course dinner.

The world-famous Mai Tais are non-negotiable, best enjoyed on the patio while watching the boats dock for the evening.

💌 Soft textures for a February state of mind

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, Stevie Sister at Fashion Island is awash in those easy, feminine silhouettes that make our corner of Southern California feel so special.

Owner Theresa has a real eye for pieces that balance a bit of flirtiness with the comfort of a well-loved tee. Between the knit sweaters and the new Z Supply arrivals, there is a distinct sense of effortless charm perfect for a Saturday date or a casual harbor-side stroll.

It is a lovely spot to find a little something that feels both elevated and entirely at home.

🌊 Fresh Upgrades at Lido House

The Gist: Lido House is growing its footprint on the historic former City Hall site. The hotel recently opened the Glass House, a light filled venue nestled between the property's original Ficus trees, and a new meeting space called The Boardwalk. Looking ahead to the sunny season, five private three-story cottages are currently under construction.

Why It Matters: These thoughtful additions preserve the local history of the site while creating more beautiful spaces for our community to gather and celebrate.

What’s Next: A new 12-seat Omakase sushi restaurant, Kaiya, is scheduled to open in the lighthouse turret this July.

⚓ A Clear Path: Balboa Yacht Basin Project Wraps

The Gist: The dredging work at Balboa Yacht Basin is officially complete. Crews have finished removing 33,000 cubic yards of sediment. The hardworking fleet (including the Horton Dredge and the aptly named scows Thing 1 and Thing 2) has moved on, leaving our marina clear and ready for the season ahead.

Why It Matters Maintenance like this keeps our harbor healthy and accessible, ensuring that whether you’re heading out for a crisp morning sail or just enjoying the view, our local waters remain a point of pride.

Ryder is a spirited 2.5 month old hound mix from Kauai.

Weighing about 15 pounds, this handsome boy is a classic puppy full of curiosity and play. He is currently learning the ropes in a local foster home alongside another dog and a resident cat.

Ryder is looking for a patient family ready to lead him through potty and crate training. His adoption fee is $450. He is friendly with other dogs and shows great promise with feline friends.

To learn more about this handsome boy,

🏃 Surf City Marathon Shakeout | Fashion Island | Newport Beach | 01/31 | More 
Casual community jog designed to prepare runners for the weekend race.

🐕 BARK: Read to a Dog | Central Library | Newport Beach | 02/03 | More 
Gentle therapy dogs provide a patient audience for young emerging readers.

🧱 LEGO Wednesdays | Mariners Branch Library | Newport Beach | 02/04 | More Afternoon building challenges for imaginative minds and future architects.

🎥 The Princess Bride Screening | The Lido Theater | Newport Beach | 02/05 | More 
A nostalgic cinematic quest for true love in a historic seaside theater.

🎸 90s Unplugged Candlelight | The Lido Theater | Newport Beach | 01/31 | More Acoustic nostalgia featuring stripped-back versions of era-defining alternative hits.

🎙️ Comedy Night Live | Durty Nelly’s | Newport Beach | 01/31 | More 
Sharp observational humor and quick-witted stand-up in a lively pub.

🎙️ Ronstadt Revival | Campus Jax | Newport Beach | 01/31 | More 
Seven-piece tribute band performing timeless hits from the Linda Ronstadt catalog!

🪄 Harry Potter Trivia Night | THE LOT Fashion Island | Newport Beach | 02/03 | More Fast-paced themed trivia game including a welcome margarita and social hour pricing.

🎨 Tropical Love Paint & Sip | The Old Spaghetti Factory | Newport Beach | 02/05 | More
Guided artistic evening creating colorful island-inspired art in a relaxed, social atmosphere.