Newport Beach

Drive south from Los Angeles on Hwy 405, the San Diego Freeway, until you come to Hwy 73, the Corona del Mar Freeway, which branches to the south toward the coast. Take this, then in just minutes you come to Hwy 55, Newport Boulevard. Exit here and stay on the same road all the way to Newport Beach. Soon after crossing the bridge watch for the sign to your right for Newport Pier. (In case you get off track, the pier is at the foot of 20th Street.) Try to arrive mid-morning so that you can capture a glimpse of yesteryear when the Dory Fleet comes in to beach, just to the right of the pier. The Dory Fleet, made up of colorfully painted, open wooden fishing boats, has been putting out to sea for almost a hundred years. It is never certain exactly what time the fleet will come in (it depends upon the fishing conditions), but if you arrive mid-morning, the chances are you will see the fishermen preparing and selling their catch of the day from the back of their small boats. If seeing all the fresh fish puts you in the mood for lunch, walk across the street to the Oyster Bar & Grill—the food is excellent and the clam chowder truly outstanding.