balboa yacht club catalina island

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Corona del Mar

Balboa yacht club.

For over 90 years, the Balboa Yacht Club has served to encourage yacht racing and cruising, promoted the science of seamanship and navigation and provided a beautiful clubhouse and marina for the educational, recreational and social use of its members, families and guests.

• Ocean/Water View
• Outdoor Dining
• Reservations Recommended

Access to this recently renovated club with stunning harbor views is an exclusive opportunity to select groups. Please contact your Visit Newport Beach representative for opportunities with this private venue.

Established in 1922, our newly renovated clubhouse and outdoor flag deck have evolved into one of southern California’s most prestigious yachting organizations. We are a premiere location with the best views of the harbor, a true hidden gem in Corona Del Mar. Whether you are planning a small affair for 50 or a grand celebration for 200 or more with our professional staff and Executive Chef your event will be flawless.

MODEL ROOM (Capacity: 40)

Cozy room that can accommodate 40 guests with an adjoining outdoor deck overlooking the water. This 500 square feet room with models on the wall and a fireplace in the room is a perfect setting for your next event. $500 Facility Fee and Food and Beverage Minimums Apply.

COMMODORE’S GALLERY (Capacity: 50)

Located on the third level of the clubhouse with breathtaking views of the harbor this 900 square foot room can accommodate up to 60 guests and is a member favorite. $750 Facility Fee and Food and Beverage Minimums Apply.

BAYVIEW ROOM (Capacity: 200)

A beautiful room with an outdoor patio is the largest indoor space the clubhouse has to offer. This 4,000 square foot room can accommodate 150-200 guests depending on the floor plan. The room offers panoramic views of the harbor for your next event. $3,000 Facility Fee and Food and Beverage Minimums Apply.

FLAG DECK (Capacity: 250)

All outdoor flag deck is the perfect way to impress your guests. With a grass area for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres to dining under the stars. This all-outdoor space can accommodate 100-250 guests. Truly the best views of the harbor. $2,000 Facility Fee and Food and Beverage Minimums Apply.

So so so many compliments have come through from guests about the wedding. Thank you again, BYC Staff, for a great evening and wonderful memories. More

The worst Yacht Club I've ever been to in the entire world. It has the absolute worst customer service and the rudest staff. The way that the bartenders... More

This Club is totally overrated. All they have for themselves is a deck with an ocean view. Their menu is very limited. The filet mignon was tasteless,... More

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Balboa Yacht Club

Play in the heart of downtown baltimore, marina info.

Founded in 1922, the Balboa Yacht Club is one of the oldest clubs on the Pacific Coast. The Club, with its beautiful setting in Newport Harbor, is widely recognized as one of the premier yachting facilities on the West Coast. It operates a year-round facility including a full-service restaurant and bar, marina and a Catalina Island facility. The Club has a very active junior sailing program, and all members are committed to the Corinthian traditions of yachting

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But some of the Club’s most popular sailing programs and events are centered on its children.   Families can be found on the sands mingling, playing, picnicking together or just showing their support for each other and fellow teammates.

Kristina A. of Costa Mesa gave the Balboa Yacht Club 4 stars on yelp and wrote: I have grown up at the Balboa Yacht Club. Through my many years at the club, I have seen it grow as well. From the exquisite dining views to the beautiful facilities, the Balboa Yacht Club cannot be beat. Some other yacht clubs offer fancier decor or more massive yachts, but BYC makes everyone feel comfortable no matter what their price range. The staff really gets to know the members and customers. It’s such a nice touch to be greeted by name every time I visit. I love taking my friends to BYC and showing it off. The regulars are predictable and new faces are always more than welcome. BYC caters to every age group from a fine dining room and classy bar to the kid’s junior room. Kids will have fun running around the boat racks and playing downstairs as I did as a kid. The dining room and bar both have bay views where you can watch the sunset without any obstruction. BYC is classy, laid back, and one of my favorite places in Orange County.

The Balboa Yacht Club provides many opportunities for youth to become involved in sailing. They offer summer sailing programs open to both members and the public, a strong high school sailing program, a year round Naples Sabot racing program, and a CFJ and C420 racing circuit.

For more information about the Balboa Yacht Club Junior Sailing Program or to register for Fall 2011 classes, contact Katie Tinder at 949-673-3515×131 or [email protected] .

They also offer a fantastic venue for high school sailing. Their High School Sailing program invites students of all ability levels (inexperienced to advanced) from eighth grade to twelfth grade to participate.

BYC hosts practices each week during the school year for Mater Dei High School and San Clemente High School. Teams travel to regattas up and down the West Coast throughout the year as members of the Pacific Coast Interscholastic Sailing Association, the governing body of the West Coast and Hawaii for high school sailing.

For more information on how to start a sailing program or to speak to someone about joining one of Balboa Yacht Club’s existing teams, contact Balboa Yacht Club Junior Program Director and Mater Dei/San Clemente head coach Katie Tinder at 949-673-3515×131 or email at [email protected] .

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White’s Landing, Santa Catalina Island (White Cove) is located 3.5 miles west of Avalon on the leeward coast of the island. It was formerly known as Swayne’s [Swain's], after resident island hermit, Sven [Swain, Swayne] Larsen.

The 1940 census lists the following three as White’s Landing residents: Erving E. Rose, 28 (husband); Hillinm [?] Rose, 25 (wife); Arthur Turpin, 56.

Two yacht clubs have outposts at White's Cove, Balboa Bay Yacht Club and San Diego Yacht Club. They lease opposite ends of the cove. (The Newport Harbor Yacht Club leases a facility at nearby Moonstone Cove; the Corsair Yacht Club has a camp at Emerald Bay.) The Balboa Yacht Club has been a cove tenant since 1957. Members' boats are from Newport Beach, and the club uses the cove as a gathering place. Moorings are installed to secure boats, and ashore there is a picnic area, shaded open-air bar, grass volleyball court and bocce court. Some folks spend summers living aboard their vessel at the cove.

Whites Landing is also the island home for an educational nonprofit, The Catalina Experience (2015). In 2014, the island was hit by massive surf generated by Hurricane Marie, and the pier at Whites Landing suffered extreme damage. Working with various state agencies and Connelly Pacific, the Catalina Conservancy was able to remove the damaged pier and construct a new one in its place. It was completed in Summer of 2015.

"White's Valley" is named as early as April 10, 1867 on a Plat Map of Santa Catalina Island.

DROWNINGS AT WHITE'S LANDING

• WEBER, Gary (1963)
• McWHIRTER, Lawrence (1963)

» Glidden Dig at Swain’s Landing

WHITE'S LANDING and SWAIN'S CANYON: “The mouth of the canyon forms one of the finest beaches on the island. The wash here is broad and valley-like extending inland an unusual distance. It may be said that there is no main canyon, as it resembles a meadow with canyons radiating from it around an arc of nearly 180 degrees. On this great wash deposit grow many interesting shrubs, especially the uncommon Malvastrum and Solanium wallacei 12 feet high. The first canyon to the left parallels the shore, running up toward Mt. Banning; the second to the left and the left branch of the third also run up to the Mt. Banning watershed, the main bed of Swain's Canyon is easily reached by way of the ridge between these. From the right fork of the third left hand canyon to Black Jack there are several short and steep canyons generally ending in perpendicular cliffs, which sharply define the watershed between Swain's and Middle Ranch Canyons. Beyond Black Jack, and between it and the mountains, which constitute Long Point, the heights break away and the canyons on this side slope gradually until lost in the watershed between Swain's and Cottonwood Canyons. The longest right hand canyon, beyond the landing, parallels the shore in a northwestern direction extending up behind Long Point and draining the southern slopes of its mountains. It also constitutes the outlet of Echo Lake which nestles in a little cove against these mountains with its opening toward the south. There are small groves of trees scattered over this wide area including most of the common species, as well as several groups of Lyonothamnus . The upper reaches of the canyons are open and treeless except under the northern shoulder of Black Jack. The streambeds of the left hand branches are deep and well shaded but, at the time of our visit in July, were dry exhibiting no blooming plants of interest. The varied degrees of light and shade in these canyons should produce a great variety of early spring flowers. The floor of the main valley and the lower end of several of its lateral branches are filled with deep, rich soil supporting a heavy growth of grasses and shrubs. The absence of large trees is doubtless due to the fact that this was the site of an ancient Indian village.” [Millspaugh & Nuttall Flora of Santa Catalina Island (1923)].

White's Landing Exclosure was built in 2007 by the Santa Catalina Island Conservancy after a fire swept through 4,664 acres of the island's east end, east of the Isthmus. A 20-acre section of island was fenced to exclude browsing by introduced mule deer, to allow the islands native plant species to recover.

In the News~

July 30, 1886 [KEJI]: “My trip this summer to Santa Catalina Island… As we were walking along we came to White’s valley, which contains the biggest fig tree I ever saw. It is about two feet in diameter, and is used as an eating table in summer…”

July 25, 1901 [LAT]: “Summer and winter resorts. White’s Valley, Catalina Island: the boat beach, bathing, fishing and huting, the boat water and the only place on Catalina where vegetables are grown; tents, furnished or unfurnished; day board if desired; the steamer lands passengers at White’s Valley. N. Cronkhite, Avalon.”

August 4, 1901 [LAT/SCat]: “Avalon. Mr. and Mrs. F. T. Sutherland… chartered the Avalon yesterday for a picnic excursion to Long Point. They stopped at Moonstone Beach, paid a visit to the hermit at Swayne’s…”

August 23, 1901 [LAT/SCat]: “Judge S. W. Purcell of the Probate Court of Pima County and Edward Vail, a cattleman, also of Tucson, who are taking their summer outing here, by way of diversion went goat shooting a few days ago, taking a boat up to White’s Landing and there getting horses from Frank Whittley’s sheep camp…”

October 17, 1901 [LAT/SCat]: “Manager Orr and A. M. Brown of San Francisco, who with his wife are spending some time at Hotel Metropole, went up to White’s Landing yesterday afternoon and in an hour and a half bagged twenty-three quail...”

November 21, 1901 [LAT]: “The Queen took a picnic party to the Isthmus yesterday… Accompanying the party as far as White’s Landing were four persons, who made the ascent of Mt. Black Jack, and were picked up on the return trip.”

August 14, 1903 [LAT]: “Catalina revisited by woman pioneer... Among the visitors to Catalina at present is one of the pioneers of the island, Mrs. S. A. Howland, the widow of Captain Howland, who, almost half a century ago, gave his name to the place now known as Howland’s Landing… There were six families on the island at that time… Those living here were located at what is now Johnson’s Landing, and which was then known as John Benz’s Landing; at Swayne’s, now known as White’s Landing; at the Isthmus; at Cherry Valley; and at Fourth of July Valley…”

July 20, 1904 [LAT/SCat]: “Avalon. To camp at White’s Landing. The Pasadena Y.M.C.A. boys are coming to Catalina again in augmented numbers… This year they will have more elbow room, the only resident in the canyon where they are established being the old island hermit, Swayne Larsen.”

July 22, 1904 [LAT/SCat]: “Avalon. F. M. Bell entertained with a watermelon party at White’s Landing yesterday, taking the guests up on his yacht Spread Eagle .”

July 27, 1904 [LAT/SCat]: “Avalon. The yacht Ramona carried a picnic crowd to the Isthmus and White’s Landing today.”

August 10, 1904 [LAT/SCat]: “Avalon. The senior section of the Pasadena Y.M.C.A. now occupies the camp established at White’s Landing some weeks since.”

June 15, 1915 [TI/Avalon]: “As guests of Mr. and Mrs. W. C. Brown, in Captain Alex Adargo’s launch Favourite , a jovial party landed at White’s Landing Friday evening.”

November 7, 1916 [TI/Avalon]: “On Friday, while trying to land on the beach at White’s, Mr. and Mrs. Carl I. Warnecke, of Oakland, capsized and sank their little launch, and were compelled to swim ashore. The launch was afterwards raised and towed into Avalon by a party of Japanese fishermen…”

August 7, 1917 [LAT]: “The first arrest under the new California anti-seining laws occurred Sunday morning, when the Fish and Game Commission’s sea patrol, Captain H. B. Nidever commanding, put into Avalon with three Japanese, apprehended for round-hauling bait off White’s Landing within the forbidden Catalina district No. 20 consecrated to anglers…”

March 12, 1918 [TI/Avalon]: “White’s Landing—four miles westerly from Avalon. The only purely sand beach about the island. The former home of the island hermit, Swayne Larsen, since 1862, living alone almost all the time, with only a few tame goats as his companions.”

April 9, [TI/Avalon]: “The launch A.B. of San Pedro landed a party of visitors at White’s Landing on Sunday.”

April 8, 1925 [TI/Avalon]: “The new road from White’s Landing to the silver mine at Black Jack was opened last week. General Manager D. M. Renton made the first trip from the mine to the beach and return in his Studebaker Special Six.”

January 10, 1926 [LAT]: “Avalon… At White’s Landing, where William Wrigley, Jr., owner of Catalina Island, has engaged John Duncan Dunn to lay out a new golf course, 267 skeletons were removed and taken to the museum of the Heye Foundation of the American Indian of New York.”

June 19, 1941 [San Pedro News Pilot]: “Family camp facilities arranged by Y.M.C.A. Summer camping facilities for entire families have been secured at Camp Orizaba on Catalina Island, it was announced by the Y.M.C.A. today. Ordinarily camping is considered as a vacation privilege only for boys and girls and as too extravagant for the family as a whole. However, arrangements have been made whereby families or married couples can take advantage of this opportunity at a minimum expense. Recreation and entertainment activities are an organized part of the camp program. Dates for the camp period are June 28 to July 6. Further details are obtainable at the "Y."”

April 24, 1961 [LAT]: “$65 million sought for county projects… Among the more unusual requests is one for funds to study points where ‘harbors of refuge’ could be established for small craft. The sums sought are not for purchase or construction, but merely for feasibility studies… At Santa Catalina Island they would be: Isthmus Cove, $30,000; Johnson’s Landing, $10,000; Parson’s Landing, $4000; West Coast Harbor, $30,000, and White’s Cove, $20,000…”

November 3, 2015 [eCatalina.com]: “AVALON, CATALINA ISLAND - The Catalina Island Conservancy recently completed the reconstruction of White’s Landing Pier, which was essentially destroyed by the storm surge and high surf caused by Hurricane Marie as it churned in the waters off the coast of Baja in August 2014. The hurricane-driven storm surge and high surf caused extensive damage in Avalon Bay and on the mainland as well. It swept away most of White’s Landing Pier, eliminating the main access point for campers at The Catalina Experience and members of the Balboa Yacht Club and the San Diego Yacht Club. Replacing the 1950s-era wooden pier on the Island’s north-facing shore cost about $1.8 million and required extensive permitting, shipping supplies from the mainland and transporting workers and staff to the site. The new pier is 288 feet in length, and it has an 80-foot gangway. “Rebuilding the pier was an important project for the camp and boaters who enjoy the access it provides to one of the Island’s most expansive sandy beaches,” said Ann M. Muscat, PhD, Conservancy president and CEO. “We thank the yacht clubs and the camp for their patience. We also thank the hard-working construction crews, contractors and Conservancy staff for completing this complicated project barely a year after the pier was destroyed.” The pier reconstruction is part of the ongoing work the Conservancy performs to maintain and operate 220 miles of roads, 150 miles of hiking opportunities within its road and trail system, the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden, two nature centers, the Conservancy’s headquarters building in Avalon, numerous vehicles, the Airport in the Sky and many other facilities across the 42,000 acres it stewards on Catalina Island. Rebuilding White’s Landing Pier required a team of Conservancy staff and contractors, including Erin Kennedy of T.C. Collins & Associates, Inc., who was the project manager; Lenny Altherr, the Conservancy's director of capital projects, who was the project construction manager; Tony Budrovich, the Conservancy's chief operating officer; the Conservancy Board of Directors, which made the financing possible; URS, which quickly developed the engineering specifications and drawings; Connelly-Pacific Co., which mobilized the significant equipment and crew needed to construct the pier itself; Jordahl Construction, Inc.; Fine Line Construction, and CORElectric. Jared Ficker of California Strategies LLC helped navigate the complicated permitting process.”

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Balboa Yacht Club

A community of dedicated friends sharing a passion for excellence in yachting.

Explore Balboa Island: Paradise for Yacht Enthusiasts

Discovering balboa island: a yacht lover's paradise in newport beach.

Nestled in the heart of Newport Beach, Balboa Island beckons yacht enthusiasts and leisure seekers to its picturesque shores. With its charming resort vibe and scenic surroundings, the area is a hub for boat transport companies , connecting the dots between sea and shore. A stone's throw away, pelicans glide over waves that lure surfing aficionados from around the globe. Dive into the unique culture of Balboa Island where the promise of adventure blends with the savor of local cuisine. Keep browsing to uncover the hidden corners and vibrant experiences that make this island a must-visit destination for anyone casting off into Southern California 's coastal lifestyle.

Duffy Boat Cruising

With the shimmering waters of the Newport Coast as their playground, sailing enthusiasts find the Balboa Beach Resort an idyllic starting point for a day on the water. Opting for a Duffy boat rental allows for an intimate, sea-level view of the luxurious private yacht charters and elegant marine craft that dot the harbor. First-timers and seasoned sailors alike can benefit from key advice to ensure their time afloat is as serene as the gentle waves lapping against the hull. Knowing the ins and outs of the vessel, including its operation and safety essentials, paves the way for a seamless sail . Furthermore, a bit of local knowledge on the most scenic routes and special spots along the waters near Los Angeles can transform a simple outing into a memorable adventure. Whether it's a slow-paced circuit near the docks or a jaunt to hidden corners only accessible by water, Duffy boat cruising presents a unique avenue for exploration and enjoyment.

Choosing Your Duffy Boat Rental

Guests staying at the Marriott Newport Coast Villas often find themselves attracted to the prospect of taking to the waves. Selecting the right Duffy boat rental is the first step to access the sprawling bay and set sail toward sights such as the Corona Del Mar State Beach . Renters have the option to choose vessels of varying sizes and amenities, ensuring the journey is both comfortable and tailored to personal preferences.

Visitors should consider a boat charter that not only grants spectacular views of the coastline but empowers them to freely explore the intricacies of Newport's aquatic avenues. Companies offering boat rentals near the bay provide thorough orientation sessions to enable sailors, regardless of experience level, to confidently navigate the serene waters and discover hidden gems along the coastline.

Tips for a Smooth Cruising Experience

To ensure a smooth day on the water, sailors should plan their departure from the dock with both the tide schedule and local traffic in mind, especially considering the proximity to John Wayne Airport . A timely start can make the difference, allowing for a leisurely cruise without the need to rush back for boat return deadlines.

It's wise for those renting from boat shipping companies to thoroughly check weather forecasts and harbor conditions before unmooring. Mooring yacht charter experts often recommend that, for a trouble-free experience , cater to local advisories that can affect your planned itinerary and overall safety on the boat . This foresight is invaluable for both novice and seasoned sailors venturing into Newport's inviting waters.

Best Routes and Spots to Explore

Gliding through the waterways around Balboa Island brings visitors face to face with the vibrant life of the local yacht club , where sailing aficionados can bask in a scene reminiscent of a Caribbean getaway. The island, accessible via Marine Avenue or the short ferry ride, offers unique vantage points of the grandeur that Newport Beach is renowned for.

Sailing south from Balboa Island , adventure-seekers can set their course towards Balboa Pier , an iconic destination that serves as a perfect backdrop for sunset views and captures the essence of Southern California 's coastal charm. Along the way, the backdrop of airplanes taking off from John Wayne Airport adds an unexpected and dynamic layer to the cruising experience .

Catalina Flyer

A visit to Balboa Island presents an opportunity for yacht lovers to expand their maritime adventures by booking a journey across the Pacific Ocean aboard the Paradiso, an 85' Luxury Paciica Yacht. Managed by skilled providers in yacht management, this excursion commences in the heart of Newport Beach and promises a seamless voyage to the picturesque shores of Catalina Island. Partnering with the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce , this popular ferry service is a testament to the splendor of California 's coast , whisking guests away for a day of exploration and enjoyment. As travelers anticipate the activities and sights that await them, the anticipation of sailing across the blue expanse turns a mere transfer into part of the day's luxury and adventure.

Booking Your Trip to Catalina Island

Securing passage to Catalina Island begins with a simple reservation process that can often be facilitated through balboa island hotels, ensuring guests are mere steps away from the excitement of Newport Harbor . Staying nearby offers the convenience of proximity to the departure wharf, blending seamlessly with a vacation itinerary in the sumptuous heart of southern California 's yachting scene, reminiscent of the luxurious ambiance of Monaco .

Those eager for an expansive sea-faring experience will find that a yacht charter on the balboa peninsula serves as the perfect prelude to boarding the Paradiso. Guests can immerse themselves in a nautical journey that starts with stunning views of local waterfront elegance before being whisked away to the island's tranquil beauty, making every transition an integral part of their travel adventure.

What to Expect on the Catalina Flyer Journey

Sailing aboard the Paradiso from Newport Beach, passengers often feel as though they have been transported from the Southern California coast straight to the azure waters of Greece . The wide expanse of ocean unfolds around the vessel, allowing travelers a full immersion in the maritime splendor akin to an oceanic odyssey.

Once the journey commences, the coastal sights of Lido House Newport and the bustling cityscape of San Diego fade into the distance, replaced by the boundless vistas of the Pacific. The Flyer's route perfectly captures the essence of an escape, a hallmark of Southern California 's allure and boating culture.

Activities and Sightseeing on Catalina Island

Upon arriving at Catalina Island, visitors are met with a myriad of opportunities to delve into the island's culture and recreation. Guests may schedule a newport harbor cruise that reveals the island's striking perimeter, with opportunities to wade into the refreshing waves for an invigorating session of bodyboarding .

Those with a penchant for exploration can traverse the warm sands that edge the island's landscape. A simple contact with local tour guides opens avenues to uncover hidden coves and scenic paths where the island's natural splendor awaits discovery.

Garage Sale

Balboa Island beckons with its annual garage sale, a sought-after event where the community's seafaring spirit is palpable in every corner. Visitors planning a trip to this coastal enclave, notably accessible from Marriott Newport Coast Villas , mark their calendars to blend a day of treasure hunting with a quintessential Newport beach experience . Alongside seasoned yacht transport professionals and the vigilant lifeguards that keep the shores safe, one can scour for hidden gems ranging from unique power catamaran accessories to indispensable yacht gear. The island transforms into a maritime marketplace, inviting yacht aficionados to sift through a plethora of items that mirror the opulent lifestyle of Newport's finest. Local insights and practical advice fuel a successful bargain hunt, ensuring that enthusiasts leave with valuable finds to enhance their next seafaring adventure.

Planning Your Visit to the Balboa Island Garage Sale

Planning a trip to the Balboa Island garage sale involves perfect timing and strategic coordination, especially if you're looking to rent a yacht for a stylish arrival. Touching down at the marina before the crowds gather gives you a serene start to a day of treasure hunting.

As the garage sale spans the island, from residential streets to the pier , visitors have the chance to mingle with Newport Bay 's yachting community. Securing a good parking spot for your superyacht early in the day ensures you'll have easy access to the day's best finds and waterfront views.

Finding Nautical Treasures and Yacht Gear

Amidst the medley of items displayed at the Balboa Island garage sale, sailing yacht devotees search out unique finds that encapsulate the luxury and utility of yacht life. Hidden among the offerings, pieces of equipment or decor from upscale private yachts sometimes surface, carrying with them a history of voyages and the allure of the high seas.

Visitors with an eye for value can often uncover yacht gear that reflects the exquisite quality typically associated with exorbitant yacht prices. From Lido Isle navigational charts to specialty rods inviting a successful fish hunt, the garage sale presents an array of maritime assets ripe for discovery by discerning enthusiasts looking to outfit their vessels.

Tips for Bargain Hunting on Balboa Island

Aspiring to procure marine treasures while visiting the vivante newport center , patrons are advised to arrive with a strategy. Arrive early to align bargain hunting with an experience at the Balboa Island garage sale, as items reflecting the luxury of a yacht charter lifestyle quickly attract attention.

During the Balboa experience , curiosity can lead to encounters with gear perfect for your next luxury yacht charter or catamaran adventure. Keep an eye out for high-end accessories, often overlooked, that could serve as the centerpiece for an unforgettable whale watching newport excursion.

Everything You Need to Know About the Balboa Island Ferry

Across the gentle currents where the Santa Ana River meets the sea, Newport Beach City unveils the Balboa Island Ferry, a historic passage connecting the Balboa Peninsula with Balboa Island . Since its inception, the Ferry has been an integral part of Newport Orange County , offering not only a convenient mode of transportation but also a glimpse into the area's maritime heritage. Visitors often opt for a bareboat charter to experience the freedom of sailing, yet the Ferry holds its own unique allure with a scenic route reminiscent of a quicker voyage across the Adriatic to Croatia . Information on schedules and ticketing is readily available for travelers, allowing them to seamlessly include this charming experience in their coastal exploration, perfect for soaking in the picturesque vistas of Southern California .

History of the Balboa Island Ferry

The Balboa Island Ferry began as a service to connect visitors from the hub of Newport with the serene charms of Balboa Island . This historical transit system evolved, becoming a staple for tourists lodging at venues such as Redweek Newport Coast Villas and serving as an affordable passage for those seeking to avoid the boat transport cost associated with larger yacht charter options.

With roots stretching back to the early 1900s, the ferry service was a linchpin for growth in the area, allowing easier access to attractions like the Newport Pier . Over time, it has borne witness to generations of maritime enthusiasts, from those with modest dinghies to the opulent Princess Yachts that now grace the harbor, reflecting a long-standing tradition of seaborne adventure and leisure.

Scheduling and Ticket Information

For enthusiasts eager to sail from the yacht club to Crystal Cove State Park , the Balboa Island Ferry operates on a published schedule, easily accessible online or at the ferry landing. Tickets are readily available for purchase on site, ensuring a quick transition to your coastal adventure.

Visitors planning a getaway aboard an exclusive yacht or aiming to catch the optimal tide for bodysurfing can rely on the ferry's consistent departures, occurring approximately every five minutes, providing regular and convenient service throughout the month of September and beyond.

Enjoying the Scenic Ferry Ride

The journey on the Balboa Island Ferry presents a breathtaking panorama that extends beyond the thrumming heart of Newport Beach to include the stylish visage of Fashion Island . As the ferry slices through the water, passengers are treated to a splendid tableau of the coast with Fashion Island 's chic silhouette poised on the horizon.

Onboard the ferry, the ocean breeze mingles with the sounds of seagulls, while far off, the upscale boutiques and lush landscaping of Fashion Island serve as a luxurious backdrop. This calming voyage offers a contrast to the bustling energy of one of Newport's premier shopping destinations.

The Best Burger on Balboa Island

As the sails fold and the anchor drops, the allure of Balboa Island beckons, offering more than just nautical charm. A gastronomic delight awaits those with a penchant for hearty American fare, as the island's burger spots serve up culinary treasures that rival the freshness of the sea breeze. Eager taste buds can anticipate a tour de force of flavors, with each establishment boasting a signature patty that stands as a must-try. For the yacht enthusiast seeking to marry the joy of sailing with the simple pleasure of a well-crafted burger, Balboa Island 's eateries provide an ideal respite where the day's maritime tales find the perfect counterpoint in every savory bite.

Discovering the Top Burger Joints

Thrill-seekers fresh from a day of maritime adventures can trade stories over the sizzle of grilling patties in Balboa Island 's renowned burger havens. Each spot offers a distinct twist on the classic American burger, blending high-quality ingredients with culinary creativity.

The quest for the best burger becomes a flavorful excursion in itself, with chefs competing to satisfy the cravings of famished sailors. These culinary anchors promise more than a meal, serving up an experience as memorable as the day spent navigating the waves.

Menu Highlights and Must-Try Items

Gracing the menus of Balboa Island 's burger joints are creations that seamlessly blend tradition with a coastal twist, ensuring each bite brings a rush of flavors. The ‘Harbor Master’, a local favorite, layers a juicy beef patty with creamy avocado and crisp, ocean -sprayed lettuce, topped off with a tangy chipotle mayo that packs a delightful punch.

The ‘ Sailor ’s Delight’ presents a unique gastronomic endeavor, showcasing a blend of short rib and brisket patty, crowned with aged cheddar and a secret house sauce that entices diners to return for more. Its robust flavor profile pairs impeccably with panoramic water views, elevating the dining experience aboard or ashore.

Combining a Yacht Day With a Delicious Burger

After a day of gliding across the sparkling waters, a flavorful burger on Balboa Island offers a splendid finale. Yacht enthusiasts can drop anchor and transition from the thrilling sways of the Newport breeze to the equally thrilling tastes of a gourmet burger, culminating their day of seafaring adventure with indulgence.

Seeking a bite after the sails are furled, visitors relish the fresh, grilled flavors available just steps from the dock. The satisfaction of biting into a succulent patty as the sun dips below the horizon perfectly complements the day's luxurious and leisurely pursuits on the waves.

When Is the Balboa Fun Zone Open and What Does It Offer?

Balboa Island brims with charm and entertainment, particularly at the Balboa Fun Zone, where a blend of amusements and attractions captivates yachting aficionados and families alike. With its iconic waterfront Ferris wheel and selection of carnival games, it punctuates a day at sea with a splash of recreation and whimsy. The timing of a visit is pivotal for those keen on merging a day of sailing with the zest of the Fun Zone, as the ebb and flow of people change with the seasons. Nautical explorers appreciate the quieter weekdays or the off-season months when they can moor their vessels and enjoy the attractions without the crowds. Strolling off the deck and into this lively district, yacht owners and maritime wanderers alike find that the Fun Zone seamlessly complements their maritime lifestyle, offering an exhilarating counterbalance to the tranquility of the open water.

Overview of the Balboa Fun Zone Attractions

The Balboa Fun Zone serves as a vibrant contrast to the serene Newport Harbor , offering an array of amusements to delight visitors of all ages. Here, the iconic Ferris wheel commands the skyline, providing panoramic views that blend the thrill of height with the beauty of the sea.

In addition to the towering Ferris wheel, guests are drawn to the merry-go-round and arcade games that fill the air with sounds of laughter and friendly competition. This entertainment hub is strategically positioned for those stepping off their yachts to indulge in some shoreside fun, rounding off a perfect day at sea.

Ideal Times to Visit for Yacht Enthusiasts

Yacht connoisseurs prefer timing their visits to the Balboa Fun Zone around the softer crowd patterns typical of the weekday afternoons. The relaxed atmosphere during these periods affords a smooth transition from a day of sailing to the playful energy of carnival rides and arcade games.

For those captaining their vessels in the waning light of the off-peak season, a stop at the Fun Zone complements the day's maritime serenity. Fewer visitors and a laid-back vibe are conducive to enjoying the thrills of the Ferris wheel and other amusements without the waves of weekend revelers.

Combining a Yachting Day With Fun Zone Activities

Integrating a visit to the Balboa Fun Zone after a day of yachting provides an excellent change of pace, with the transition from the calm of sailing to the vibrant pulse of the amusement park. The laughter and energy of the Fun Zone serve as a lively backdrop for groups wishing to extend the day's excitement into the evening.

The proximity of the Fun Zone to the marina allows yachtsmen to moor their boats and step directly into an atmosphere abuzz with carnival attractions. This seamless incorporation of activities lends itself to an unforgettable day out, mingling the relaxation of yachting with the thrill of traditional boardwalk amusements.

Balboa Island serves as a premier destination for yacht enthusiasts, offering a blend of nautical adventure and shore-side attractions in Newport Beach. Its extensive selection of Duffy boat rentals and yacht charters allows sailors of all skill levels to immerse themselves in the picturesque coastal routes and hidden maritime gems. The island's vibrant community events, like the annual garage sale and the variety of dining options, complement the sailing experience with local flavor and leisure. Furthermore, the ease of access provided by the historic Balboa Island Ferry and the quaint amusement opportunities at the Balboa Fun Zone enrich the yachting lifestyle with convenience and fun.

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White’s Cove on Catalina Island

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• Orange County
• Things to Do

Things To Do

Bill Powers maneuvers his motor-powered dinghy in Avalon Harbor. Powers and his wife, Meg, spend much of their summers around the island.

Members of the Balboa Yacht Club linger after dinner at the club's outpost at White's Cove. The tiny camp gives boaters a destination where they can cook out, play bocci ball and socialize.

The Powers' golden retriever, Star, hangs out on the family's 48-foot boat.

Members of the Kliem family, including patriarch Ed, right, enter the Balboa Yacht Club's outpost after crossing the beach at White's Cove.

Craig Reynolds, left, joins Bill Powers for a barbecue.

Dusk closes in on boats moored offshore. Boaters who spend their summers at Catalina Island rave about the beauty of the setting.

The moon looms over White's Cove as yachters prepare to ride a dinghy back to their boats. Colorful underwater lights are used to attract fish.

Meg Powers, right, and the White's Cove gang gather for an evening gabfest.

Shortly before dusk, couples like Bill and Meg Powers converge on the narrow beach in motorized dinghies, toting bags of chicken, steak, corn on the cob and wine. They drag the small craft right up on the sand, stepping out of the lapping waves and into a fenced oasis of thatched umbrellas and lounge chairs. There’s a grass volleyball court, a bocci court and a shaded, open-air bar. Barbecue grills adjoin rows of picnic tables, where informal dinner parties often swell to 30 or more people on summer evenings.

Talk drifts to boats and sailing trips and colorful moments gone by, like the summer kick-off party of eight or nine years ago, when scaffolding was erected to create a vertical tic-tac-toe board – part of a “Hollywood Squares” quiz-show theme – and Bob Strang, who was dressed up as Big Bird from “Sesame Street,” had to remove some of his costume just to climb to his seat in the top right corner. Laughter carries out over the beautiful moonlit ocean. This is a beloved place for Bill Powers, 60, who is engaging and vigorous. He spends so much time here that he has come to be known as “The Mayor of White’s Cove,” a title bestowed on him by the Balboa Yacht Club, which has leased this corner of the inlet since 1957. He and Meg are part of a hard-core contingent of Orange County boaters who devote a good chunk of the summer to living aboard their vessels on the island.

While many of their friends and neighbors are commuting in the heat on congested freeways, the Powers are reading, slathering on sunscreen in their shorts, or swimming in the cove’s cool waters, so clear you can see the bright orange garibaldi darting below. They expect to spend about 40 days at Catalina during the summer, an aquatic sojourn interrupted by regular forays back to the mainland to replenish water, food and supplies for their 48-foot boat.

“It’s a sad day when you run out of food and have to go home,” says Powers, gazing out from the bridge at the gentle swells passing on a mild, sunlit morning. Usually, his family packs enough provisions to go 10 days before having  to restock at home or in Avalon. “You always have cans of tuna for when you run out and want to stay that extra day,” Powers says.

The Powers, who live on Lido Island, are lifelong boaters. Bill sailed in New Jersey, where he grew up, and Meg did the same on the lakes around her native Indiana. They met at the University of Dayton in Ohio and moved to Newport Beach 35 years ago so Bill could pursue a career in sales for a major textile manufacturer. He sold flame-retardant fabrics to makers of jets and airplanes. Bill’s first trip to Catalina was with friends in the summer of 1978. “I absolutely loved it,” he recalls. So much so that he began whisking Meg to the island for long weekends together. Nine years ago, they bought a 35-foot powerboat “and we started coming to Catalina regularly for weeks at a time,” he says.

The latest boat – the 48-footer – is a new acquisition they found in Santa Barbara. It was built in 1989 and took five months to refurbish. It has inlaid teak floors, richly varnished trim and a flat-screen TV that pops up from inside a liquor cabinet with the push of a button. Having put four children through college, the Powers christened the boat Fifth Tuition, for the money that didn’t go to academia. It can house the entire family.

Beauty and tranquility draw her to the island, Meg says. “I love coming here. I feel like I’m 1,000 miles away. It’s like I imagine the coast of Italy – although I’ve never been.” Various yacht clubs have their own outposts on Catalina. The San Diego Yacht Club has a camp at the opposite end of White’s Cove. The Newport Harbor Yacht Club operates just beyond the southern point of White’s, at a cove called Moonstone. The Corsair Yacht Club, made up largely of boaters from Long Beach, though it has no mainland headquarters, has a camp at Emerald Bay near the island’s isthmus. The outstations make it easier to moor or anchor for long periods. Boaters have a beachside meeting place. They can take walks and get to know one another. At White’s, they sit on Adirondack chairs, sipping beer while children scamper on the beach.

Ed Kliem, who is 74, peers from under a ball cap to watch his curly-haired, 3-year-old granddaughter, Anna. Kliem has been coming to Catalina since 1966. He and his wife, Karen, live in Huntington Beach but spend weeks during the summer at Catalina and make six or seven trips to the island throughout the year, often joining their two grown sons and their families.

Kliem’s mother, Bunny, called him by all sorts of humorous derogatory names during his mischievous boyhood – “Hooligan,” “Knucklehead,” “Raggamuffin,” “Chowderhead.” Hence, the names of the family boats: Chowderhead is Kleim’s latest, a 38-footer with GPS, autopilot, air-conditioning and a dinghy named Riff Raft. His son Cameron owns Knucklehead, and his son Kevin owns Hooligan. Kevin fell in love during trips to White’s Cove and married Bob Strang’s daughter Meredith, bringing together two yachting families and producing two sons who now regularly cavort there as well.

Strang once spent much of his time in the air – and not just as Big Bird. The former Air Force pilot tells of bullets piercing his plane’s tail during flight missions over Vietnam. He later flew commercially, retired at 72 and now devotes himself to plying the seas in a 49-foot powered sailboat,  Sky.  Throughout the summer, Strang crisscrosses the channel to and from Catalina, staying days at a time at White’s Cove, the isthmus and Avalon. “I love being on the boat, sailing and cruising from one anchorage to another,” he says, even while pointing out the sheer amount of work involved. Responsibilities are many: keeping the water tanks full, keeping batteries running, maintaining equipment, watching the weather. Heavy surf can knock boats around, especially when Santa Ana winds whip up. Even on the most placid days, salt water is corrosive. “Things break – everything breaks,” says Bill Frederickson, a 73-year-old former honorary mayor of White’s Cove who spends 40 or 50 days a summer there with his wife, Debbie. They have a 42-foot trawler named Tabasco. “Mechanical things break, structural things break,” he says. “The anchor windlass that pulls up the anchor. Your electronics can hiccup on you so you don’t have navigation. Your fresh-water system can spring a leak. Your sewage system can go.

“If you take whatever can go wrong in your house, it’s probably 10 times worse” on a boat, Frederickson says. Despite all that, the Fredericksons spend half their time living aboard between April and November. They roam up and down from San Francisco and parts of Mexico. “We always come back to White’s, ” he says. “We just love the island.” Like other clubs, the Balboa Yacht Club spices up the summer with a series of special events, starting with the Memorial Day kick-off party. The Fourth of July bash features a dinghy parade; a year ago, the Kliems dressed up as bald eagles, a species now recovering at aeries in the island’s rugged backcountry.

In late August, the Balboa Yacht Club and the Newport Harbor Yacht Club collaborate to hold three days of sailing races. The first stage runs from Newport Harbor to Long Point, a promontory near White’s Cove. Sailors then race to Two Harbors at the isthmus, and on the final day race back to Newport. Dozens of boats take part.

Summer’s final events are an all-women’s cruise, near the end of September, followed by a “stag cruise” for the guys in early October. The festivities involve drinking, barbecuing, playing bocci ball and a skeet-shooting contest held on the boats offshore, says Doug West, vice-commodore of the 93-year-old Balboa Yacht Club. In between those organized gatherings are many smaller, more personal moments.

During a lazy afternoon sitting near the beach, Bill Powers appears, announcing there’s been a nearby buffalo sighting, and several men go hiking along a rutted dirt road into the backcountry. Shirtless and sockless, Powers soon spots the huge animal grazing in a ditch. “There he is, boys! Do I have an eye?”

The group edges closer for photographs.

“If he comes over that berm,” Powers jokes, “it’s every man for himself!”

The hike continues up the steeply angled hillside, switching back past a water tank to a high ridge overlooking the cove. It’s become a rite of passage for young teens, a sweating Powers says, to hike the three miles up to the main road – and then, for the really fit, two additional miles to Airport in the Sky, at an elevation of 1,602 feet. It’s no small boast to say, “Hey, I made the airport,” Powers says. “You go to the airport, get a buffalo burger with your old man and walk home.”

There’s nothing better – unless it’s sleeping that night on the boat, the stars clear in the sky, the swells lolling you toward dreams. “It’s wonderful,” Bill Powers says, and Meg jokes they should have a machine at home to simulate the ocean. “The water just rocks you to sleep.”

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Business Details

Gary Davidson

949-673-3515

[email protected]; [email protected]

1801 Bayside Dr,Corona Del Mar,CA,92625,United States

Business name : Balboa Yacht Club

In 1922, when Newport Harbor was more shoals and sandbars than open water, the Southland Sailing Club, soon renamed the Balboa Yacht Club, was formed by a small group of sailors wanting an active organization with an emphasis on family sailing. From its beginnings in a small wooden structure on open, sandy Balboa Peninsula, BYC has evolved to become one of southern California’s most prestigious yachting organizations. In 1926 the Club moved to a new clubhouse on the southeast corner of Little Balboa Island, a stone’s throw from its present location on Bayside Drive. Over the fireplace hung a burnished wood plaque bearing the Club’s motto, “A pound of pluck is worth a ton of luck.” Originally donated by the first commodore, Isaac B. Potter, the plaque hangs today over the present Club’s dining room fireplace.

The Newport Harbor of the past began to change as dredging began in 1935, and the following year the harbor we know today was officially opened for navigation. Balboa Yacht Club, with it’s prime location near the harbor entrance, now had a convenient, protected anchorage for its growing fleet.

BYC signed a lease with the Catalina Island Company in 1957 giving them an outstation site at Whites Cove west of Avalon. Thanks to members’ untold hours of hard work, from cement work to landscaping, from plumbing and wiring to carpentry and painting, this facility is now a treasured getaway site for members to enjoy. The Clubhouse and facilities on Bayside drive have evolved over their half-century of use to meet the changing yachting needs of the membership and to provide a comfortable environment for a wide variety of social activities. A detailed history of Balboa Yacht Club includes a litany of its members’ successes in some of yachting’s most highly acclaimed competitions. Its cruisers have ranged worldwide in their boats. In fact, Baja California and the coast of mainland Mexico are as familiar to many of the members as the coves of Catalina.

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California's Boating & Fishing News

Stowaway raccoons are still a concern for Catalina Island

CATALINA ISLAND ― Inspecting a boat for stowaways before cruising to Catalina Island is more important than one might think. Onboard one’s vessel could be an uninvited passenger – a raccoon.

The arrival of a raccoon on Catalina Island tends to be an annual event, according to Catalina Island Conservancy Marine Biologist Julie King.

The most recent raccoon arrived in Two Harbors over the Fourth of July weekend, King told The Log .

Raccoons are not native to Catalina Island, so they can have a devastating impact on the fox population who have inhabited the island for more than 5,000 years.

The fox population has since recovered due to the efforts of the Catalina Island Conservancy.

“Most of our conservation department was involved in the recovery of the fox led by Julie King. She took a population from under 100 to now [more than] 1,400,” Catalina Island Conservancy President and CEO Tony Budrovich stated.

King advised boaters to thoroughly check their vessel, including all sails where raccoons like to crawl up and sleep, to ensure the masked mammals are not aboard before heading to the island.

King also recommended boaters, who discover a raccoon aboard while crossing the channel, head back to the mainland and call a pest control company to have it removed.

“It is critically important for the health of our island and the animals that live here,” King stressed.

Call Catalina Island Conservancy if the discovery of the stowaway raccoon is realized upon arrival at the island, King urged, even if the animal jumps overboard.

“People also don’t realize that raccoons are excellent swimmers,” King said.

The number to call the Catalina Island Conservancy is 310-510-1299, extension 230.

Stuart Palley photo

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