🌿 We have a Newport ‘first’ that could save homes and lower bills

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Newport Beach in September might be the best of all worlds. Warm days, breezy nights, and just enough space to enjoy it without the summer crowds.

This week’s issue is full of lowkey gems: a feel-good wildfire safety win, a food obsession on Marine Ave, and a reminder that you’re just one ferry ride away from some sweet nostalgia. We’ve also got a pup who’s ready to steal your heart!

Read on to see what’s happening close to home.

👑 Comfort food dressed up with island charm?

The Royal Hen brings together cozy and simply unforgettable. Guests are greeted with genuine warmth, and the bistro’s inviting glow makes it easy to settle in.

The chicken pot pie has earned a loyal following, the short rib fettuccine is rich and satisfying, and the mussels in curry sauce are worth savoring. It’s truly a neighborhood favorite that captures the island’s welcoming spirit! Learn more here.

🎡 A Harborfront Playground of Nostalgia & Views

There’s something timeless about the Balboa Fun Zone: part seaside carnival, part slice of local history. Families come for the Ferris wheel views over the harbor, a whirl through the arcade, and salty breezes along the boardwalk.

Rent a Duffy boat for sunset (dolphins and sea lions often cameo) or hop the iconic ferry for a five-minute joy ride. It’s a little nostalgic, a little quirky, but always a memory-maker. Learn more here.

🌿 Bonita Canyon Leads the Way in Wildfire Safety

The Gist: Bonita Canyon has become the first neighborhood in Newport Beach to earn Firewise USA status, a national recognition for communities that take action to reduce wildfire risk. Neighbors worked with the fire department on vegetation management, defensible space, and home hardening, setting a strong example for the city.

Why It Matters: This achievement boosts safety, strengthens community resilience, and may even help lower insurance costs. City leaders hope other Newport Beach neighborhoods will follow Bonita Canyon’s lead. Read more here.

🎓 Newport Beach School Shines in National Rankings

The Gist: U.S. News & World Report has named Corona del Mar High School among Orange County’s top public high schools for 2025-26. The rankings evaluated nearly 18,000 schools nationwide, focusing on graduation rates, test scores, and college readiness.

Why It Matters: Families can take pride knowing a local school is being recognized for preparing students well for college and beyond. Full rankings are available on U.S. News, highlighting how schools across Orange County stacked up this year. Read more here.

Monty is a lively 7-year-old who’s ready to bring joy to his forever family!

He’s a dog who comes alive at the sound of a leash being picked up, loves a pocket full of treats, and leans right in for good old-fashioned ear scratches.

Protective by nature, Monty settles best with a steady routine and would enjoy the company of another dog to share his days with.

To learn more about this adorable boy, click HERE.

📖 International Literacy Day | Civic Center | Newport Beach | 09/05 | More
Celebrate stories, milestones, and the power of reading with Project Adult Literacy.

🐦 Annual National Hummingbird Day Celeb | Sunset Ridge Park | Newport Beach | 09/06 | More
Family-friendly, free, and outdoors; bring closed-toe shoes, gloves, and water.

🎲 Game Night & Ice Cream Social | The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints | Newport Beach | 09/06 | More
Roll the dice, pass the sprinkles, and meet the neighbors!

🌊 Brunch Special | Bayview Marriott | Newport Beach | 09/06-09/07 | More
Vista Restaurant serves chef-driven favorites with lagoon views!

🏈 Beach City Sports Flag Football | Bonita Creek Park | Newport Beach | 09/09 | More
Fall Opening Week: this league is where highlight reels and new friendships happen!

🖍️ Crafternoon | Central Library | Newport Beach | 09/09 | More
Drop into the Children’s Room for an easygoing hour of open-ended art.

🦞 Cousins Maine Lobster (Food Truck Pop-Up) | Park Newport Apartments | Newport Beach | 09/10 | More
Bring a neighbor, stroll the marina paths, and make it a mid-week treat.

💲💲 Annual Gentlemen’s Smoker | Balboa Bay Club | Newport Beach | 09/11 | More
Multicourse dinner with premium cigars, great wine, and bay-breeze conversation.

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