Newport Dunes RV Park Provides Relaxation and Activities

The three days we traveled out of the cold to find the sun were what I call travel days. We drove 4–5 hours a day and stayed at less expensive RV parks as we didn't plan to use any amenities and planned to depart in the morning. Since every town we parked in was a place we had visited before, we didn't adventure out but instead relaxed and took Dagney, our dog, on long walks. When we approached Newport, my head swiveled to catch all the sights and help my husband monitor the traffic.

This area is congested so I advise drivers to avoid rush hour traffic. We arrived at the Newport Dunes RV Park about 3:00 and once we were set up, enjoyed a walk around the beach on the concrete walkway. The loop around the bay is slightly less than a mile surrounded by RV parking, small cottages and some tent camping is available. The setting was enhanced in the evening by a captivating sunset.

A complete loop allows exploration of the area. A bridge extends across the outlet of the bay and looks out over the numerous boats docked below. The entire path is paved creating a smooth trail for walking or biking. A gate secures the docks down to the boats but Dagney couldn't read the signs and was not detoured by the locks. 

The resort is child and dog friendly with a playground and numerous open areas for recreation. The beach practically screams an invitation for sunbathing or the building of sandcastles. Since our children are adults we explored these opportunties with Dagney. 

We reserved a Premier RV space and found it adequate but small. Once we backed in there was limited room for movement around the RV. A picnic table was supplied in our sand covered lot that was fenced on three sides with a wire fence. I suggest packing a large rug as the sand is the fine, sticky kind that adheres to the bottom of your feet. An attractive green hedge covered the fence, standing at a height of about five feet, on two sides provided limited privacy because of the proximity to neighbors. RVer's who desire space might feel claustrophobic, however, my experience proves finding space this close to the beach is a hot commodity and requires some compromise.

Though the size of the spaces was a downside, the beach beyond was stunning. The water looked inviting but there were signs warning against swimming this time of year due to a buildup of algae. For me this wasn't a problem, but children may be disappointed. Thank goodness there is a large pool available for swimming as well as hot tubs. Adventurous guests may rent paddleboats, paddleboards, or canoes to explore the area by water.

In the middle of the resort resides a general store for any needs that arise and a small restaurant that serves sandwiches, pizza and boasts a full bar. There is no shortage of restaurants throughout the area that share raving reviews. My husband and I visited Charlie's Chili Diner that was recommended by a resident as the place to go for clam chowder. It did not disappoint.

Within walking or biking distance is the Newport Beach Country Club. We attended the Hoag Classic and watched some of the champions play golf. In different directions from there, can be found shopping for multiple tastes ranging from high end stores like Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdales to independent shops that line the piers. The ocean is a short drive and during our visit in March, the beaches were not crowded but we watched numerous surfers tackle the waves.

If you are looking for a upscale RV resort near sightseeing, shopping, and golf this might be perfect. Just reserve early, especially if visiting on weekends, beause it fills up fast.

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Randy and I are retired teachers exploring the world beyond the classroom. As an English teacher, I developed a love of writing so as he drives, I write. All posts are shared on my blog.

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