Balboa Peninsula, Newport Beach, California

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The Balboa Peninsula is the part of Newport Beach, California people from outside the area probably think about most often when they see the words "Newport Beach." It is also referred to as "Balboa, California." About three miles long, it is home to some of Newport Beach's most recognizable landmarks. The first stirring of commerce began when in 1870, a small stern wheeler from San Diego named "The Vaquero" made its first trip to a marshy lagoon to exchange lumber for hides, tallow, livestock and grain. Traditionally, the Peninsula consists of all the contiguous land east of 45th Street. Most of the business is concentrated along Balboa Boulevard where it meets Pacific Coast Highway, McFadden Place, and Main Street. "The peninsula", as it is referred to coloquially, acts like an arm enclosing the Newport Bay and its islands.

The residential community at the very tip of the peninsula (suitable named "The Balboa Peninsula Point") is home to some of the most beautiful and expensive bayfront and oceanfront homes in Newport Beach, as well as the famous surfing spot "The Wedge".