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Balboa Island Ferry
Categories: Local Flavor Hotels & Travel Transportation Public Transportation Local Flavor, Public Transportation [Edit]
410 S BayfrontNewport Beach, CA 92662
(949) 673-1070
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
115 reviews for Balboa Island Ferry
115 reviews in English
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Review from Courtney B.
El Cerrito, CA
4/17/2012
Ahhh my childhood.... I never realized that this was an unique experience. Highly recommended. Peaceful. Walk onto or ride a bike on to Balboa Island ad wander around there then make your way to the ferry..... and cross to wander around Balboa.
Indulge some more.
Spend the whole day.... enjoy.... wonderful... inexpensive.... fun.... enjoy. -
Review from Al A.
4/2/2012 1 Check-in Here
No bridge?
No problem.
If you got your spouse and your two kids with you, it's going to cost you about 5 bucks.
You better be damn sure you drive an SUV and not a lowered sports car (or lowrider). That entrance and exit from the barge will take out your transmission (and most of your exhaust system).
Long waits along a very narrow street are common. Keep your eyes open, someone might side swipe your mirrors.
Breathe easy when you get to the other side.
Gilligan may be driving. :) -
Review from Mel D.
2/26/2012
The ferry is awesome. My friends live on balboa peninsula but we had dinner reservation across the bay at Balboa Island. If we were to drive there it would take us 25 minutes to go ALL the way around. BUT they have an old fashioned ferry that you can drive your car onto and it takes you right across the way to the island. The ride is 7 or 8 minutes and very smooth. You can walk on or bring your bike on as well.
The ferry carries 3 cars at a time so during the busy time the wait can get pretty long. The cost is $2 for the ferry ride for the car/driver and $1 for each additional passenger. GREAT deal for saving so much time and headache.
Even if you aren't looking to cross the bay it's a really fun experience...a must do at least once if you are an OC resident.Listed in: Touristy things to do
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Review from Cobra K.
Colorado Springs, CO
2/9/2012
Every time I drive down the coast I take all my friends on the Balboa Island Ferry. I'll take the ferry over the Balboa and then drive along Balboa Blvd to get back to H. Beach. Definitely worth the few bucks. Take pics while your on the ferry and remember to turn off your engine. Oh...and pedestrians can take the ferry too at a reduced cost.
To get there:
Take PCH to Jamboree Road and head towards the ocean...you'll be heading south on Jamboree Road and then head across the bridge which turns into Marine Ave. Turn right onto Park Ave and you'll start seeing signs for the Ferry. At Agate Ave, turn left and then wait...there's a bathroom there in the event you need it. (I jumped out of my car and used the bathroom one time and had plenty of time to get back to my car).Listed in: The 2012 "errr 200" Review…
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Review from Andrea A.
Newport Beach, CA
Peaceful...
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Review from KC O.
Sunset Beach, CA
12/2/2011
When KC voted No on 8, he was hoping his extended family of homosexual friends and family would be able to enjoy the same perks KC enjoys with Mrs. KC:
* health benefits
* higher taxes
* an easier adoption process
* an overpriced wedding of $80K
Sometimes KC is bumping around the peninsula with the family when the urge for the Village Inn immediately strikes. What to do?? Ahhh yes. The Balboa Island Ferry solves the dilemma.
Tips for the BIF:
* pull over and nicely ask Mrs. KC and Baby KC to kindly get in the trunk of the Audi A8 because the ferry dudes charge extra for mo' people. It's a nice, big trunk so it's all good.
* set emergency brake cuz you don't wanna be bumping that Katy Perry song about the dude she really loves while wondering if Russell Brand is asking her, "Hey mate, whuu aboot me, love?" And then BOOM...you've drifted off and accelerated your $90K German import into the harbor.
That about does it. Take the ferry to get to Village Inn.Listed in: Why KC Isn't Elite...inspired…
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Review from Laura S.
Orange County, CA
Duhhhh ... I sorta forgot this ferry was here. Unless you are looking for it, it could easily be missed.
Thinking of some big double decker boat? Nope. This is like squeezing 3 cars onto a raft and paddling across the ocean. It's good times though.
It takes you from balboa island (in the far residential area, not the downtown area) across to the end of the balboa peninsula where the fun zone (and the balboa saloon) are.
You can walk on, or you can drive on. I believe the ride is $3 with your car, $1 without. We came on a beautiful day in the off season, and got on quick. However, I bet in the summer this thing gets packed.
Nice thing to do if you have out-of-towners.Listed in: Newport, 5 Stars - and not for the…
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Review from Irene Y.
12/30/2011
Such a pleasant and scenic way to travel to and from Balboa Island and Peninsula. My husband and I spotted a seal as we enjoyed our views of the boats and peaceful water.
This ferry can carry up to three cars, but I recommend parking on the Island (near downtown Balboa) in the residential area (during the day, post 12 you will run into a mob of tourists) then House watch as you walk along the bay to the Ferry Entrance. There are some gorgeous multi-million-dollar houses that are worth galking-at
Prices
$1 adult
$. 50 children
$3 a car plus driver
$1 for every additional passenger
CASH ONLY -
Review from Amber Y.
La Jolla, CA
3/8/2012 1 Check-in Here
Imagine my surprise when I first found out about this ferry!
I couldn't understand the whole "3 cars on a ferry + people" reviews. My imagination conjured up this odd image of a boat carrying 3 cars on top of each other with people in it. Realized I was pretty stupid when I saw the pictures. Then I knew I had to try it out. SO MUCH FUN. We didn't take the car but it was still fun watching everyone in their car. There's something about being over a body of water on a boat next to cars... it was a chilly day/night but definitely lots of fun. Totally got a kick out of crossing over the opposite side.
I heard there was an accident on the ferry recently where someone forgot to turn off the engine/pull the break and ended up rolling off of the ferry into the water. Heard it was a rental too... so be safe everybody and turn off your engines/keep your feet off the gas pedal!
AND, the houses that are next to the ferry area are so cute. Small cute and colorful! Call me a creeper but I totally spent a good amount of time looking at these fairy tale houses. -
Review from Chris Y.
11/14/2011
It's more than just a ferry; it's a Newport Beach institution. It's a local landmark. But it's also functional. It's a quick way to get to the best Balboa Bars from the beach or the Fun Zone. If you have the need to go between Balboa Island and the peninsula directly and can't deal with driving all the way up to PCH, then this is for you! More ideal for folks on foot and bicycles, perhaps, especially since it costs less to take the ferry that way! Anyway, they run very quickly and very often, just back and forth across the harbor all day, with two, sometimes three ferries.
It can get seriously busy on the weekends and in the summer, but that's just part of the scene, because you get to hang out in line with lots of eye candy ;-) -
Review from Tracey A.
San Anselmo, CA
9/27/2011 1 Check-in Here
Monday, early afternoon: Just me (a walk-on) and the two guys who work on the ferry.
$1 to cross over to storybook land - er, Balboa Island.
Grab your camera for a beautiful pic of the glistening bay or just open your mind and do a hard imprint on your brain. This is what bliss looks like. * Remember it *.
The ferry takes cars, too, but walk-ons with or without your bike are the best way to enjoy the salt, the breeze, and the beauty.Listed in: BEFORE IT WAS "THE OC", IT WAS…
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Review from Neen M.
Irvine, CA
3/11/2012
More worth it to be standing on the ferry rather than crossing your car over via the ferry. You will feel like you're missing out sitting in your vehicle. Definitely a once "must-do" local kinda thing. And if you're on one side of the island, a great way to trek on over to the other side to check out the shops, eateries, neighborhood, etc.
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Review from Cass H.
If you're going to Balboa (Island or Peninsula), you should probably take a ride on the ferry. I mean, why not? It's cheap AND fun. I mean, how often does one get to put their car on a ferry...for THREE DOLLARS(ish)? The cost is $2 for a car and passenger, $1 for a second passenger.
Coming from Newport, it's the quickest way to get from Newport Beach to the end of the Balboa Peninsula, unless there's a huge line of cars. It's fun to head onto the island, maybe do some window shopping, then head on the ferry to the peninsula and grab a bite at Harborside (Happy Hour 12-7 every day! Holla!). -
Review from Denise B.
Short ride to the island. Only three cars on the ferry at a time. Low cost of $1 per person and $1 for the car.
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Review from Diana W.
$1 per ride there and back per walkimg person! Cheap fun date. Can take your car on too, dog friendly places in balboa island. I think parking is by Pine or Palm Street, opposite side street sign says Pier.
Over on Balboa Island is frozen banana, small downtown to stroll through and just great area in general to take a long stroll around. Houses are really unique.
Downtown has restaurants, cute stores, boutiques and great summer/spring/early fall atmosphere to walk around. Seems like a spot for tourist. -
Review from Nicole D.
Monterey, CA
9/5/2011 2 photos
My first experience riding an auto ferry. It was pretty awesome! For a mere $3.00, this ride was something different. I've been on a few ferryrides before but none where you ride your car onto the boat (up to three cars per ferry).
When we reached the other side on the bay, we discovered there was not a parking spot to be found in a 4-mile radius!! We scoured all the parking lots and streets, wending our way up every alleyway for 45 minutes. Nothing!!
So we took the auto ferry back and parked the car. Then ferried back via foot. We'll definitely be doing the ferry route by foot in the future.
Nice, quick wind-in-your-hair ride across the bay. Great expansive views from the boat that captures the Harbor in all it's splendor. -
Review from STEVEN S.
Lake Forest, CA
2/24/2012
Balboa Island ferry is our favorite form of transportation during the winter.
I do not suggest it after 10AM during the Summer months.
Avoid trying to figure out the parking in the parking lot. I am in this area at least
three times a month and the parking lot machines are still an unknown for me.
Save yourself the greef and go directly to the beach area to park. -
Review from Hans D.
Beverly Hills, CA
10/27/2011
Love the ferry, its just part of the experience. I bring every visitor on the ferry and they all love it. Forgot my wallet twice and both times they told me not to worry about it. I love them so much I bought the hoodie.
Thanks -
Review from Ariel C.
Sherman Oaks, CA
8/17/2011 1 Check-in Here
It's so cool! I never heard of this until we ate at a restaurant when a bartender at Newport Beach told us about it. Always thought of the Seattle car transport but never knew such a thing existed an hour from me.
I haven't ridden a ferry since taking one from Marin over to AT&T ballpark (where the SF Giants play at and one of the few things I miss in Norcal). This one takes three cars at a time to the island to and three back to the mainland. Rates are real cheap and wait is not long for either way.
Check it out! -
Review from Bernadette H.
Cerritos, CA
7/27/2011 1 Check-in Here
I haven't ridden a ferry since the days of my mom living in the Bay Area, so this was a pleasant change of pace.
Normally, going into the deep South OC gives me the serious willies (since I have tan skin), but this calm 5-minute ride on the ferry to the island soothes whatever paranoia I have. It's $2 round trip if you're walking, but it's a sweet deal considering how ridiculously expensive this area is.
Hey, you even got random people waving at you from other yachts while you head to the island!
Next time, I'm gonna shout real loud, "TAKE A LOOK AT ME I'M ON THE MOTHERFUCKIN' BOAT!" -
Review from Philippe T.
Mission Viejo, CA
7/13/2011
Best little ride around, and it's even useful!
I love riding the Balboa ferry, either on foot, on bicycle, or by car.
I always take out-of-town visitors. It's the best view of Newport harbor! -
Review from Crystal S.
Huntington Beach, CA
3/15/2011
What more can you say? There are better cheap thrills, and this is one of them...it definitely was a mistake riding our bikes back the way we did, the ride there was a breeze! Cool little experience but I guess I can't give it 5 stars, living in havasu the $2 ferry ride from havasu to the reservation is wayyy better and a lot longer :)
oh and did I mention your going to a casino on that ferry??
Much better :) -
Review from Scott J.
Las Vegas, NV
2/14/2011
awesome experience. nice calm ride across the bay at 1.00 a person isn't bad at all. Got to get some nice pics on the ride and there wasn't a long wait or overcrowded boats as others had warned me. i will recommend parking on the Newport side and walking to the ferry and in balboa. there is no parking at all in the balboa area on the other side and what there is is not free. we walked and everything was within walking distance anyhow so i didn't even miss having the car. Plus the wait for the ferry seemed long for those in vehicles.
On the other side was a ton of shops, little restaurants, some bars and a great park and beach side walking path. -
Review from Michelle O.
Los Angeles, CA
1/18/2011
What more can I really say about the Ferry no one doesnt know already?
Cost $1 each way. Three cars fit on the ferry at a time, the lines can be long, but it goes fast since they have more than one ferry going at a time. You sit on the asile and once it starts moving someone comes and collects the money. It takes about 1 minute to get across.
I went on a sunny sunday afternoon with some friends and we crossed right as the sun was setting, beautiful view!, even better once you get across the way. -
Review from H T.
Tustin, CA
10/8/2011 1 Check-in Here
I went on the ferry for the first time and I don't think it's worth it to take your car on the ferry. You really don't need your car to go on the other side. It is just homes and a few shops. It's something that was fun once, but I don't care to go back anytime soon.
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Review from Hazel Q.
2/21/2009
If something costs a dollar it's almost an automatic five-star in my book. Yes, smartass, that includes J-in-the-B tacos, Wendy's jr bacon cheese, everything from the 99 cent only store, and the Balboa Island Ferry.
It's one of those things that makes you feel like a true southern Californian, riding the ferry to Balboa Island on a sunny day in February. It's good to be in California. ...well, aside from crazy governors, higher taxes, and a record deficit. But, dammit - we've got sunshine! And fairies...I mean ferries!
I must say, I wasn't sure what the ferry would look like. I was thinking of a grand paddleboat-in-the-bayou type of ferry...or at least something with pixiedust. I was a little let down to realize the ferry is pretty much a little floating parking lot with an engine louder than my growling stomach at lunchtime. Only a little letdown, finding out it's only a dollar, not searching for parking, and basking in the beautiful Newport sun more than made up for it.
Thumbs Up:
-Cheap! $1! Hello! It doesn't get much better.
-Makes parking way easier.
-You get to call your friends in Boston and brag about riding a ferry and wearing a skirt...in February.
Thumbs Down:
-No pixie dust involved.Listed in: Sunday Brunch & Things to Do…, A Perfect LB/OC Sunday
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Review from Joy A.
What kind of ferry transports your vehicle, a Mini-Van at that, to Balboa Island for a mere $6??? Balboa Ferry does!!
We were visiting Southern Cali from SF. Never before have we ridden our car on a ferry. To do that would cost waaaaay more than $6.
Three cars fit comfortably in one ferry.
Once your car was on park, brake, & the engine was turned off, spectators could freely roam around the boat. The views were amazing. The kids went gaga as soon as they spotted the Ferris Wheel & yogurt shops.
Bottom line: Who would've thought a quick trip from Point A to Point B would be so exciting? A one-way trip only took 5 minutes. It was a short trip, but one that the kids & I will remember forever.
Prices:
$1.00 per adult
$0.50 per kid
Tip:
*Once @Balboa Island, visit Mifflin's Salt Water Taffy. Extreme yum! =) -
Review from Debra T.
7/3/2011
I used to live on the island so my roommates and I took the ferry pretty often! One night we all came back from the peninsula side to go home and the ferry boat driver let us all take turns to steer the ferry! So much FUN! He was indeed a sweetie.
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Review from Rainier V.
Santa Ana, CA
1/14/2011
First time i rode the ferry was on a bike ride.
never knew it existed since i was new to the OC.
now, when my friends that are not from here come to visit, i ask if they ever been to the balboa area and if not i'd take them this way! it's just the COOL factor that you can take your CAR or just walk onto this little ferry and cross the water! dont know what else you can say about this place but sometimes it gets packed on the weekends! -
Review from Daphney B.
San Diego, CA
8/1/2011
One of the cheapest thrill rides you can find and very Newport Beach cool. I have lots of fun memories that include riding this ferry-wahoo!
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Review from David L.
9/20/2011
Cheap and convenient. I recommend arriving early in the day as the lines can get long and the ferry can get full. Close to several quick eats - recommend you snack before or save your appetite for once you get to the 'island'.
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Review from Stevenenen N.
Orange County, CA
8/28/2009 3 Check-ins Here
The ferry is awesome as it allows me to enjoy both sides of Balboa with ease. I like to drive down to Balboa Island, find parking somewhere in the neighborhood, get some brunch at Wilma's, grab a frozen banana at one of the places across from Wilma's, then head out to the ferry.
How can one complain about $1 to cross to the other side where the Fun Zone is. This nice, peaceful, 5 minute trip is great. I have never taken my ride across as the ferry can only take 3 cars at a time. Thus the wait can be quite long. For passengers, the wait is quite short.
The last time I took the ferry was last Saturday. It was perfect as it dropped me off exactly where I wanted to go. It was right next to the Tikiboat. Couldn't have planned it any better. -
Review from Anita L.
Updated - 3/4/2009 4 photos
After going to the whale watching UYE, I realized I would have absolutely no time if I had to take Balboa down to the 55 and then 405 to get to Irvine. So what do I do? I drove my car onto the auto ferry, paid the guy $2, took the short ride across and weaved my way back to Irvine. I needed to get back by 6pm, I was a few minutes late, but if I had driven around, I would definitely be late and I would have had a very unhappy child waiting for me.
It's gone up slightly since the last time I took this, but hey, it's still cheap and definitely was a life saver for me! Thanks auto ferry!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/9/2006 First to Review
The last time I rode on this must've been 15 years ago. Today, as we headed out to Newport Beach for… Read more »
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Review from Ken J.
Austin, TX
2/12/2009
In the land of sprawling megamalls and 12-lane freeways we call the OC, it's hard to believe that there is such a place for a quaint mode of transportation from yesteryear--the 3-car auto ferry. After all, they tore up the Red Car trolleys that used to terminate at Newport Beach, which according to "Who Framed Roger Rabbit?", was a conspiracy by big oil companies to put the brake on trolleys and to make the automobile reign supreme in Southern California.
All it took was a brief 10 minute drive from Irvine to Balboa Island to see that there are still some pockets of the OC that have not been ravaged by rampant suburbanization characterized by cookie-cutter tract houses. Crossing the narrow bridge into Balboa Island is like traveling back in time to another place--Cape Cod circa 1950s. The nearly century old Balboa Island Ferry contributes to this nostalgic atmosphere and is not only an efficient way to travel from Balboa Island to the peninsula, but it is a magical and enjoyable (albeit too short) boat ride.
The ferry is best when the queues are short, like on a rainy weekday afternoon in February. Driving onto the boat is almost a thrill in itself because it is so small. If you are lucky enough to be the first car, you are rewarded with a magnificent view of the harbor--sailboats, seagulls, and the sea air. Gliding across to the opposite shore is the best part--it's like going on a boat ride but it's better because you are in the comfort and privacy of your own car. In what seems like mere seconds, however, your thrill ride is over, and you are back on land.
For $3 (one car, driver and passenger), this has got to be one of the best cheap thrills in OC. Even if you live here, it's worth checking out It can do wonders to lift your spirits on an otherwise dull and dreary day. -
Review from Angela C.
11/29/2008
Seriously, this is just a smart way to get from one end to another!! We started at Newport Beach and ended up on Balboa Island through this Ferry. This Ferry carries cars, pedestrians, and bikers all in one go!! We were biking around Newport and Balboa that day so happily paid the $1.25 fee per biker to get to the island and explore some more. Yes, we brought our bikes along.
The ride was quick and enjoyable... they have seating on the side for people to chill and enjoy the view... a nice place for a photo op too. The ferry doesn't close till 2am so don't worry about getting stranded, you have plenty of time to get back to the ferry after your late night meal.Listed in: Outdoorsy Fun!
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Review from Casey A.
Corona del Mar, CA
9/8/2010 3 Check-ins Here
There is not a better way to travel (anywhere) than on the Balboa Ferry.
Done. -
Review from May W.
4/19/2010
I've always been a sucker for cheap thrills and the BI Ferry is no exception! I wanted to check out some of the "local flavors" before leaving Newport Beach so I YELPED for things to do. I thought for sure the ferry would be closed because in my mind (it was past 6PM), everything closes early on Sundays. Well, luckily the ferry stays open until midnight on Sundays!
I drove from Fashion Island to the ferry and was the 3rd car in line. I got a bit confused when it was time to drive onto the ferry because after the first two cars got on, a red light came on. I was like, "Oh, I guess the SUV is too heavy so I will have to wait for the next ride." Yeah...I have no idea why I was so out of it and came up with all these random thoughts. Anyway, after a few seconds of pondering, I finally noticed the captain waving me on. Everyone was staring at me, but they didn't look mad or anything.
Once I was finally on the ferry, the gates came down and we were off within 1 minute of boarding. One of the employees made his round on the ferry collecting cash from everyone. $1 for the car, $1 for the driver, and $1 for any passengers. The trip was short, but I got a nice view of the ferris wheel and of all the quaint little boardwalk shops.
I'd definitely do this again when I am down in Newport! -
Review from Craig R.
6/10/2009 1 photo
This is a really neat and different way to get around.
Ferry between Balboa Island and Balboa Peninsula (approximately 1/5 mile) carries automobiles, bicycles, and pedestrians. Continuous service between 6:30am and 2:00am. Pay on board. -
Review from Anne Marie P.
Orange County, CA
7/22/2009
Vehicle + driver = $2
Passenger = $1
Spending quality time with the one you love = pricelessListed in: The Best of . . . adventureous…
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Review from Sukhraj B.
Lake Forest, CA
9/30/2009 6 photos
If you want some cheap entertainment, go out on the water, experience being on a boat or somewhat similar to a boat take the Balboa Island Ferry.
It's pretty neat and you can also take your car with you, which isn't really necessary because the other side isn't all that big and you can walk around fairly fast but hey, it's an option.
You pay $1 each way and it's a 5 minute trip. You'll see some neat sea life, a Yacht or two, and perhaps get a nice chat with the captain. We had a cool experience and during these times, we like our cheap and neat experiences.Listed in: Balboa Island
