Newport Dunes, R.V. Resort – Newport Beach, Ca
Article by Julianna Danson, Author, Journalist – IPA Magazine Travel
The Newport Dunes R.V Resort is every camper’s “day dream” come true. This piece of heaven offers every adventure under the sun. Guests enjoy a mile of beach front property with amenities such as a water park, swimming, and a playground on the beach for the kids. There is also a gym, boat rentals, family entertainment and activities, fine dining at the Back Bay Bistro and venues for weddings, anniversaries, business meetings and events. But the best activity at Newport Dunes are the incredible eco –adventures that offer kayaking, fishing and bird watching. There are also excellent tours through the Ranger Campfire Programs, kayak and canoe tours and docent led hikes. The individual adventurer can also explore the back bay on a stand up paddle board, canoe, or hike or bike along the bayside path, but the best way to explore the nature preserve is by small water craft ( kayak, canoe, sabot or SUP) This is a unique experience that enables the explorer to get within close proximity of the birds which inhabit the islands and the waterways. Non–powered watercraft can oftentimes be launched for free.
Start your safari in the marine habitat, which is in the lower part of the bay that is mostly salt water. This is the best place to see the Brown Pelican and Least Tern as well as Pintails, Buffleheads and Ruddy Ducks. Underneath in the water, large Bat Rays, Sting Rays and small Smooth Hound Sharks line the bottom. As you progress on the expedition to the upper zones, you’ll pass into the brackish water habitat. Here the watery canal becomes bordered by exotic march plants such as the Pacific Silverweed, Salt Marsh Birds Beak and the Sea Lavender. These resilient plants have the ability to survive the full force of the sun at low tide, complete saltwater submersion at high tide and poor soil conditions.
Large numbers of shore birds leave this cover when the tide goes out and storm the mud flats in search of food. Some of the species that you may encounter include, Long Billed Curlews, Godwits, Willets, Dowitcher, Sandpipers, Plover, Great Blue Heron, Snowy Egrets and if you are out in the morning, the Light Footed Clapper Rail. As you wind down the bends into the upper bay, the brackish water turns into a freshwater marsh system. Here you’ll find an audience of Mallards, Cinnamon Teals and Pintail Ducks idly rafting on the pond as they listen to the chorus of the Song Sparrows, Yellow Throats and Red Winged Black Birds.
Whether you are camping or looking for an exciting eco expedition, Newport Dunes is an excellent choice any time of year.
Amenities include a lifeguard, swimming pool, volleyball, skate trail, bike trail, grocery store, snack bar, restaurants, beach rentals, fire rings, showers, restrooms, Visitor Center, camping, bird watching, park, playground, R.V. hookups, parking fee.
Visit their website Newport Dunes R.V. Resort and plan your next trip!
For more information on Julianna Danson, Co-author of Sun, Sand & Surf: The UltimateGuide to Orange County Beaches, visit her website at https://online.fliphtml5.com/zctqn/ouni/#p=1