A Day for Looking Closely

Not every great day needs sand. Exploring a museum is one of the more inspiring activities in Newport Beach. The Orange County Art Museum is a short drive from the resort. It focuses on modern and contemporary art, so expect bold work and plenty to talk about over lunch. Plan a slow morning inside the galleries. Then walk it off somewhere sunny. Go slow. Look twice. Linger when something grabs you, and skip what does not. Pair the visit with other Newport Beach activities, such as shopping at South Coast Plaza or a late-afternoon paddle on the bay.