Newport Beach is known for its coastal lifestyle, but locals will tell you the happy hour scene is just as much a part of daily life here. From harbor-front cocktails to polished neighborhood spots, these are some of the best happy hours in Newport Beach—places residents actually go, not just tourist stops.
Shorebird – Waterfront Happy Hour on the Peninsula
Typical Happy Hour:
Daily | 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Menu Highlights:
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Discounted draft beers & house wines
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Signature cocktails
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Fish tacos and seafood-focused small plates
Why Locals Go:
Right on the bay, Shorebird is a go-to for sunset happy hour with relaxed waterfront views. It’s casual, social, and an easy stop if you’re walking the Balboa Peninsula.
Best For:
Waterfront drinks, visitors, pre-dinner cocktails.
Cannery – Classic Newport Energy with Harbor Views
Typical Happy Hour:
Weekdays | 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Menu Highlights:
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Reduced-price cocktails & wine
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Oysters, calamari, sliders
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Shareable bar bites
Why It Works:
Cannery blends classic Newport Beach ambiance with a lively bar scene. Many locals come for happy hour and stay for dinner.
Best For:
After-work drinks, client meetups, harbor-side atmosphere.
Nick’s Newport Beach – Elevated Happy Hour with a Local Crowd
Typical Happy Hour:
Weekdays | 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Menu Highlights:
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Classic cocktails at happy hour pricing
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Deviled eggs, sliders, flatbreads
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Smaller portions of signature comfort dishes
Why Locals Love It:
Nick’s is one of the most consistently good happy hours in Newport Beach. Polished but approachable, it works for both casual nights out and low-key business conversations.
Best For:
Date nights, professionals, elevated comfort food.
A Restaurant – Upscale Happy Hour in the Heart of Newport
Typical Happy Hour:
Weekdays | 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Menu Highlights:
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Craft cocktails & curated wines
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Elevated small plates
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Seasonal menu offerings
Why It Stands Out:
A Restaurant offers a more refined happy hour experience without feeling stiff. It’s a popular choice for networking, business meetings, or a relaxed but polished evening.
Best For:
Professional meetups, quieter happy hour vibes, upscale tastes.
One of the most desirable aspects of Newport Beach living is proximity to great dining and drinks. Neighborhoods near the harbor, Balboa Peninsula, and central Newport offer easy access to these happy hour spots—something buyers consistently prioritize.
Walkability to restaurants, waterfront views, and social hubs isn’t just convenient—it’s a major lifestyle driver and long-term value factor in Newport Beach real estate.
