Newport Coast Blog

Let the Franco Team help you, find your dream home in Newport Coast.  Newport Coast is home to some of most prestigious properties in Southern California.  The property located at 8 Mystique is just one example. Listed for thirty-five million dollars, this custom built estate has is it all.  With over 18,000 square feet of living space, there are ocean views from all major rooms, a media room with theater, gym, 10 car garage, and 1200 bottle wine room, just to mention a few of the spectacular features. 

Either summer or winter Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve offers many activities for residences and visitors to take advantage of; in this nearly 1000 acres of open space, wet lands and bluffs.  In the winter the park offers a wonderful spot to watch for many unusual species of migratory birds from North America. Approximately 35,000 migratory birds winter here, including six rare and endangered species.  Any time of year the Newport Back Bay Loop Trail is terrific for biking, jogging or a stroll. This paved path follows the water, providing many opportunities to watch birds, lizards and other wildlife. 

 

Aug. 31, 2023

Little Seedlings Story Time

Little Seedlings Story Time is taking place at Sherman Library and Gardens. Little Seedlings meets every Friday morning. Come out and join in the storytelling fun from 10am to 10:30am. Kids will explore a variety of books focused on nature and the environment, including story books, picture books and poems. This group is designed for preschoolers. Adults should accompany children. This is a drop-in class held in the Central Garden. Sherman Library and Gardens is located at 2647 East Coast Highway. For more information, see their website at: 

https://thesherman.org/event/little-seedlings-story-time-38/.

 

Newport Beach is an Orange County city situated halfway between San Diego and Los Angeles. Newport Beach is home to Upper Newport Bay Ecological Preserve, The Crystal Cove State Park and Beach and the “Wedge.” Located at 6 Sea Cove Lane, this 2,500 square foot home is part of thSea Island development. This two-bedroom, three-bathroom unit was built in 1981 and has recently been remodeled. This two-story penthouse unit has high ceilings, a murphy bed and barn doors. Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy a covered patio with a firepit and barbecue area. This building has a cul-de-sac setting.Sea Island is in the East-Bluff Harbor View area of Newport Beach. This gated community is home to Sea Island Lusk and Sea Island McClain. Residents are within walking distance to Back Bay and Balboa Island. Residents have private beach access.

 

Newport Coast is a part of the city of Newport Beach. Newport Coast is in the southernmost part of Newport Beach, just north of Laguna Beach. Newport Coast has a population of approximately 10,000 residents, giving it a close-knit feel. Located at 2 Via Rubino, this 6,400 square foot home is part of the Perazul development in Ocean Heights. This five-bedroom, six-bathroom home was built in 2000, and has recently been renovated. Attention to detail can be seen in the custom cabinetry, stone and wood floors and multiple fireplaces. The home has beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, white water, surrounding mountains, city night lights and picture-perfect sunsets. This home sits on a 12,700 square foot piece of property. Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy a swimming pool, spa, barbeque area and multiple seating areas. Ocean Heights is a 24-hour guard gated development. Perazul was built by Taylor Woodrow Homes and has 98 single family homes.

Posted in Newport Coast
Aug. 1, 2023

Summer Camps at the Environmental Nature Center

The Environmental Nature Center is hosting a variety of summer camps throughout August. There are several science camps available for a wide range of ages. Campers spend their days in outdoor classrooms using tools such as binoculars, magnifying lenses, and microscopes. Camp days include crafts, games, and hands-on science activities. 

Little Naturalist Camp is for kids aged four. 

Nature Adventure Camp is for kids ages five to eight. 

Science Explorer Camp is for kids ages nine to thirteen.

Wilderness Adventure Camp is an offsite camp for kids ages six to nine and is held at the ENC Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary in Modjeska Canyon. 

The Environmental Nature Center is located at 1601 E. 16th Street in Newport Beach. For more information, see their website at: https://encenter.org/camps/summer/.

 

Laguna Beach is a seaside city in Orange County. Laguna Beach is between the Pacific Ocean and the San Joaquin Hills with Newport Beach to the north and Dana Point to the south. Located at 15 Smithcliffs Road, this 7,100 square foot home is part of the Smithcliffs development. This four-bedroom, nine-bathroom home was built in 2002. Attention to detail can be seen in the custom glass and wrought iron entry doors, floating spiral staircase, and Fleetwood French Doors. The gourmet kitchen features a walk-in pantry, custom cabinetry, an island and top of the line appliances. There is elevator access to all levels. The home has far reaching views of the Pacific Ocean, white water, Catalina Island, Emerald Bay, city night lights and spectacular sunsets. This home sits on a 9,700 square foot piece of property. Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy multiple patios, hidden gardens, spa, built-in barbeque, and a rooftop deck. Smithcliffs is just north of Crescent Bay and south of Emerald Bay and has 22 estate homes. This is a gated community. 

 

Newport Coast is in the southernmost tip of the city of Newport Beach, just north of Laguna Beach. Newport Coast is home to Crystal Cove State Park and Beach, with 3.2 miles of coastline, 2,400 acres of canyons, and 18 miles of trails. Located at 24 Avignon, this 2,700 square foot home is part of the Montserrat community. This four-bedroom, three-bathroom home was built in 1996. Attention to detail can be seen in the high-volume ceilings, hand carved white oak floors and French doors. The recently remodeled kitchen features a Wolf stove top, Bosch double ovens and Quartzite countertops.This home sits on a 4,500 square foot piece of property. Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy a built-in barbeque, outdoor living room and dining area, and mature landscaping. Montserrat is a 24-guard gated community built by California Pacific Homes. There are 80 homes in this neighborhood. Among the many amenities offered in Montserrat include a swimming pool, spa, basketball court, tennis courts and hiking and biking trails.

Posted in Newport Coast
June 27, 2023

Designer Summer Camps

Lido Marina Village is offering three different Designer Summer Camps. From Monday, July 10th through Friday, July 14th, the camp will meet from 10am to 5pm. The first camp is Designer Camp 101. The second camp; Interior Design Camp, meets from July 17th through July 21st.  The final camp; Fashion and Styling Camp meets from July 24th through July 28th. Designer camps are for creative youngsters ages 11 to 17. The program works in partnership with nationally recognized designers and brands. There will be hands-on workshops, working with designers and behind the scenes tours of studios and galleries. Lido Marina Village is located at 3420 Via Oporto in Newport Beach. For more information, see their website at: https://www.lidomarinavillage.com/events/2023/7/10/designer-camp-at-lido-marina-village.

 

Costa Mesa is an Orange County city surrounded by Huntington Beach, Irvine, and Newport Beach.  Costa Mesa is 16 square miles and just one mile from the Pacific Ocean, at its southern most point. Located at 371 22nd Street, this 3,361 square foot home is part of the Eastside North community in Eastside Costa Mesa. This five-bedroom, four-bathroom home was built in 1994. The gated entrance leads to a custom home. Enter the home through a two-story foyer. Attention to detail can be seen in the high-volume ceilings, multiple fireplaces, and French doors. The gourmet kitchen features a breakfast nook, center island and walk-in pantry.  This home sits on a 7,100 square foot piece of property. Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy two shaded loggias and a patio. Eastside Costa Mesa in near Newport Beach, just two miles from the beach. The Eastside is home to 17th Street with a variety of boutique shops and dining options. 

 

Newport Coast is part of the city of Newport Beach. Newport Coast is home to Pelican Hill, Crystal Cove and the Crystal Cove State Park and Beach.  Newport Coast has population of approximately 10,000 residents, giving it a close-knit feel. Located at 7 Stone Pine Drive, this 3,300 square foot home is part of the Santa Luciadevelopment. This four-bedroom, five-bathroom home was built in 1998. Attention to detail can be seen in the high volume ceilings, first floor master suite and multiple fireplaces. The home has gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean, white water, city night lights and stunning sunsets. Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy a built-in barbeque and bar area, water feature, fire pit and mature landscaping. Santa Lucia is just east of Pelican Heights on the edge of Buck Gully Canyon. Santa Lucia is a 24-hour guard gated neighborhood with 100 single family homes.

Posted in Newport Coast
May 30, 2023

Colors of Spring in California: Original Oil Paintings

The Colors of Spring in California: Original Oil Paintings is currently being exhibited at Roger’s Gardens through July 12th. This is an exhibit of American Impressionist artists, John Cosby, Jeff Sewell, and Robin Hall. Capturing the essence of California’s springtime in oils. Roger’s Garden is open from 9am to 6pm daily and is located at 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road in Corona del Mar. For more information, see their website at: https://www.rogersgardens.com/blogs/events/the-colors-of-spring-in-california.

 

Costa Mesa is an Orange County city situated 37 miles south of Los Angeles and 88 miles north of San Diego. Costa Mesa was incorporated in 1953 and has a population of approximately 100,000 residents. Located at 3412 Lavender Lane, this 2,300 square foot home is part of the South Coast Metro area. This four-bedroom, three-bathroom home was built in 1984. The home features newer flooring throughout, a fireplace and walk-in closet.  The chef’s kitchen has stainless steel appliances. This home sits on a 6,000 square foot piece of property. Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy a private covered patio. Residents are within walking distance to South Coast Plaza, Segerstrom Center for the Arts and Metro Pointe. South Coast Metro is one of five sections that makes up Costa Mesa. South Coast Metro is bordered by Sunflower Boulevard, Baker Street, Harbor Boulevard and where the 405 Freeway meets the 73 Freeway. 

 

Newport Coast is part the city of Newport Beach in Orange County. Newport Coast is just north of Laguna Beach and at the southernmost tip of Newport Beach. Located at 7 Stone Pine Drive, this 3,300 square foot home is part of the Santa Lucia development. This four-bedroom, five-bathroom home was built in 1998. Attention to detail can be seen in the high-volume ceilings, multiple fireplaces, and main floor bedroom suite. The attached three car garage has extra storage. There are wonderful views of the Pacific Ocean, coastline, white water, city night lights and beautiful sunsets. Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy a water feature, fire pit and built-in barbeque area. Santa Lucia is a 24-hour guard gated community with 100 single family homes. Santa Lucia is just east of Pelican Heights perched on the edge of Buck Gully Canyon. Residents are nearby Pelican Hills Resort and Golf Courses, Crystal Cove Beaches, and local schools. 

Posted in Newport Coast
April 26, 2023

Newport Beach Wine and Spirit Festival

The Newport Beach Wine and Spirit Festival is taking place on Memorial Day Weekend. There will be over 50 different vintners serving up wines, spirits, and seltzers. The wine festival is being held at the Balboa Bay Resort, giving event goers a beautiful waterfront backdrop for the wine tasting and dinner.  There will be light bites provided and live music throughout the event. On Friday night, The Duckhorn Winery Reception and dinner will kick off the wine weekend with a five-course dinner. On Saturday and Sunday, the wine festival will be open from 2pm to 6pm each day. For more information or to purchase tickets, see their website at: https://www.balboabayresort.com/event/newport-beach-wine-spirits-festival-3/.

 

 

Lido Isle is in Newport Harbor and is part of the city of Newport Beach. There are 850 homes and one yacht club on Lido Isle.Lido Isle was begun in the 1920’s making it one of the oldest master planned communities in California. Located at 908 Zurich Circle, this 3,800 square foot home has four bedrooms and four bathrooms. Attention to detail can be seen in the high-volume ceilings, fireplace and light filled open floor plan. This gourmet kitchen features stone countertops, a double oven and opens onto an eating area.This home was built in 1997. This home sits on a 5,600 square foot piece of property with a corner lot setting. This is a double lot. Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy a roof top deck, large patio, and mature gardens. The roof top deck has views of the Back Bay, surrounding mountains and city night lights. Among the many amenities on Lido Isle are a clubhouse, parks, private beach and private boat dock.

 

Newport Coast is a part of the city of Newport Beach, at its southernmost tip, just north of Laguna Beach. Newport Coast is home to the Pelican Hill Resort, Spa, Golf Course and residential developments and the Crystal Cove State Park and Beach and residential developments. Located at 7 Bridgeport Road, this 2,600 square foot home is part of The Pointe development. This four-bedroom, three-bathroom home was built in 1994.The chef’s kitchen features a center island, granite countertops, and stainless-steel gas stove and hood. Attention to detail can be seen in the high-volume ceilings, marble floors and new interior and exterior paint. This home sits on a 6,800 square foot piece of property.Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy a patio with gardens and fruit trees. The Pointe is a gated community.Among the many amenities offered in The Pointe are a sports court and tennis courts. Students living in The Pointe attend Newport Mesa Unified Schools, specifically Newport Coast Elementary School and Corona del Mar Intermediate and High School. 

Posted in Newport Coast
March 31, 2023

Backhausdance: Garden Flow 2023

Sherman Library and Gardens is hosting Backhausdance: Garden Flow 2023 on Saturday, April 29th and Sunday, April 30th. 608 Dahlia is offering a pre-show dinner in the gardens. After dinner enjoy performances by the Backhausdance troupe on the patio, followed by performances throughout the garden. The dancers will be exploring the garden through athletic dance and storytelling. Book early, as there are only 200 tickets available per evening. VIP tickets are available which include a pre-event receptions and post-performance party. The production runs from 6:30 pm to 10 pm each day. Sherman Gardens is located at 2647 East Coast Highway in Corona del Mar. For more information, or to purchase tickets or make dinner reservations, see their website at: https://thesherman.org/backhausdance-garden-flow/.

 

Irvine is a large mastered planned city in Orange County surrounded by Tustin, Santa Ana, Lake Forest, Laguna Hills, Costa Mesa, and Newport Beach. The city was developed in the 1960’s by the Irvine Company and incorporated in 1971. Located at 71 Sycamore Bend, this 2,900 square foot home is part of the Mulberry development in Cypress Village.This four-bedroom, four-bathroom home was built in 2013. Attention to detail can be seen in the high-volume ceilings, wood shutters and all ensuite bathrooms. The chef’s kitchen features a large center island, pantry, and granite countertops.This home sits on a 3,400 square foot piece of property, with a corner lot setting. Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy a paver patio and low maintenance landscaping.Residents are within walking distance to parks, pools, and schools. Cypress Village is in East Irvine, surrounded by the I-5 Freeway and Sand Canyon Road. Mulberry was built by Irvine Pacific Homes. Among the many amenities offered Mulberry are a swimming pool, lap pool, wading pool, tennis courts and parks.

 

Newport Coastis part of the city of Newport Beach in Orange County. Newport Coast is home to Crystal Cove, Pelican Hill, and the Crystal Cove State Park and Beach. Located at 6 Whitesands Drive, this 2,700 square foot home is part of the Pointe development.This four-bedroom, three-bathroom home was built in 1994. Attention to detail can be seen in the custom moldings, hardwood floors and a staircase with bespoke railings. The gourmet kitchen features Calacutta marble countertops, professional grade appliances and an island with a wine chiller. This home sits on a large 12,000 square foot piece of property. Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy a swimming pool, spa, lounge area and fire pit. Among the many amenities offered in the Pointe are a sports court and tennis courts. Students living in the Pointe attend Newport Coast Elementary School and Corona del Mar Intermediate and High School. The Pointe is gated community.

Posted in Newport Coast
March 15, 2023

Spring in the Garden at Roger's Garden

Spring in the Garden is happening at Roger’s Gardens from Saturday, March 25th through Sunday, April 30th.  There are different events happening each weekend; Gardening 101, Herb Festival, Supporting Wildlife and Habitat, Rose Gardening, Celebrating Earth Day and Peppermania. There will be artistic garden displays throughout to inspire you, and interactive demonstrations to guide you in creating your own landscapes.  Roger’s Gardens is open from 9am to 6pm every day.  Roger’s Gardens is located at 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road in Corona del Mar. For more information, see their website at: https://www.rogersgardens.com/pages/spring-celebration

 

Crystal Cove is a group of luxury developments in the Newport Cove section of Newport Beach.Crystal Cove sits above the Crystal Cove State Park and Beach, with 3.2 miles of coastline, 400 acres of bluffs, 48 historic cottages, 18 miles of trails and a 1,400-acre marine park. Located at 32 Wharfside Drive, this 3,100 square foot home is part of the Seabourn development. This four-bedroom, four-bathroom home was built in 2000. This single level home has recently been updated with new paint, flooring, baseboards, and cabinets.This home sits on a large 11,500 square foot piece of property, with a cul-de-sac setting. Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy a swimming pool, lounging pavilion, and built-in barbeque. Coral Crest is a 24-hour guard gated community.Seabourn residents, as are all Crystal Cove residents, invited to join in all the resort style activities offered at the Canyon Club Recreational Center, which also acts, as the social hub of the area.

 

Newport Coast is part of the city of Newport Beach in Orange County. Newport Coast is home to many exclusive developments including Pelican Hill and Crystal Cove. Located at 35 Silver Pine Drive, this 3,800 square foot home is part of the Santa Lucia development. This four-bedroom, five-bathroom home was built in 1998. Attention to detail can be seen in the custom ironwork spiral staircase, high volume ceilings, and French doors. The gourmet kitchen features professional grade stainless steel appliances, a center island and granite countertops.There are wonderful views of the Pacific Ocean, Catalina Island, Newport Harbor, surrounding mountains and canyons, city night lights and sunsets.The home sits on a 6,200 square foot piece of property. Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy a built-in barbeque and fire pit table. Santa Lucia is just east of Pelican Heights on the bluff above Buck Gully Canyon. Santa Lucia is a 24-hour guard gated development. Among the many amenities offered in Santa Lucia are a swimming pool, clubhouse, tennis courts and exercise area. 

Posted in Newport Coast
Feb. 23, 2023

1 Pelican Crest Drive sold by Michael Franco

Orange County priciest home sale of the year, 2023, was sold by Michael Franco, of MWA Compass Realty, who represented the buyer in this transaction. The 13,400 square foot home is located at 1 Pelican Crest Drive in Newport Coast. This seven-bedroom, ten-bathroom home was built in 2010, by Fari Design and Construction.  The home sold on January 4th for $30.6 million, which was a 32% decrease from the original asking price of $45 million in July of 2021.  Once owned by Herbalife executive, Dolan Andry, he sold it in 2017. In 2020, the home was updated with onyx slab floors, Cristallo slab countertops, fabric wall coverings, wood paneling and Venetian plaster walls. Enter the property through private gates, leading to a motor court, passing the water feature, and ending at the porte-cochere. Upon entering the main building, visitors will enter into a two-story grand foyer. The main building contains the formal living room and dining room, primary and secondary kitchens, executive and assistant offices, and multiple guest suites with kitchenettes. The entire north wing is dedicated to the master suite with dual closets, bathrooms, a living room, and a view deck. In addition, the estate has 13 seat cinema room, 1200 bottle wine cellar, bar, game room, gym, and massage room. The subterranean level has a seven-car garage. There is commercial elevator service to all levels. There are 220-degree views of the Pacific Ocean, white water, coastline, Pelican Hill Golf Course, Catalina Island, city night lights and spectacular sunsets. This home sits on nearly three quarters of an acre piece of property, which is a pie shaped. Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy a swimming pool, spa, cabanas with bathrooms and showers, an outdoor kitchen, and a detached guest casita. This home is part of the Pelican Crest in the Pelican Hill development in Newport Coast. Pelican Crest is a guard gated development with 158 custom built estates. 

Posted in Newport Coast
Feb. 22, 2023

Crystal Cove Historic District Tours

Historic District Tours are back.  The next tour will be on Saturday, February 25th. The Crystal Cove Conservancy provides guided tours of the Crystal Cove State Park Historic District Cottages, with historical information, stories and traditions of the people who called this area home. This is a walking tour which leaves from the Education Commons in the Historic District.  The Historic Tours begin at 2:30pm and end at 4:30pm. Tours will be cancelled in the event of rain. For more information or to register for a tour, see their website at: https://crystalcove.org/events/.

 

Laguna Beach is just south of Newport Beach in Orange County. This seaside, art centric city, has a population of 23,000 residents. Located at 31131 Monterey Street, this 3,500 square foot home is part of the Coast Royaldevelopment. This four-bedroom, six-bathroom home was built in 2022. Attention to detail can be seen in the pivoting front door, linear fireplace and sliding doors. The gourmet kitchen features Wolf and Sub-Aero appliances, limestone slab countertops and European style cabinets. The home has incredible views of the Pacific Ocean, beach, white water, Catalina Island, city night lights and stunning sunsets.  This home sits on a large 11,100 square foot piece of property with a cul-de-sac setting. Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy 439 square feet of deck and 570 square feet of covered outdoor spaces. Homeowners have direct beach access. Coast Royal is in South Laguna, with its high bluff setting, the views are amazing from this area. Residents are within a short walking distance to the beaches. 

 

Newport Coast is in the southernmost tip of Newport Beach, just north of Laguna Beach. Newport Coast with its high bluff setting, has wonderful view properties. Located at 1 Cottonwood, this 3,800 square foot home is part of the Belcara community. This four-bedroom, four-bathroom home was built in 2006. The recently remodeled home features wood floors, interior shaker doors, and new paint throughout. The chef’s kitchen features a large center island, professional grade appliances and quartz countertops. This home sits on a 7,100 square foot piece of property, with a corner lot setting. Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy a swimming pool, spa, built-in barbeque, outdoor fireplace, and courtyard. Belcara is part of guard gated Pacific Ridge. Among the many amenities offered in Belcara are an Olympic sized pool, spa, barbeque area and entertainment area.

Posted in Newport Coast
Jan. 26, 2023

Camellia Week at Sherman Library and Gardens

The Sherman Library and Gardens is hosting Camellia Week, January 23rd through January 29th. Sherman Gardens is home to over 120 varieties of Camellia. Which are currently in bloom. The week is filled with different Camellia related activities. Staff will be on hand to answer Camellia questions, there are opportunities to talk to renowned local grower and participate in Camellia Bonsai workshop. There will be a Camella answer table available Saturday and Sunday. All week long, you can enjoy the Camellia Bloom Table in the Tea Garden and find new Camellia plants in the Garden Shop. For more information, or to sign up for one of their camellia workshops, see their website at: https://thesherman.org/camellia-week-2023/.

 

Corona del Mar is part of the city of Newport Beach. Corona del Mar takes in all the land on the seaside of the San Joaquin Hill and south Avocado Avenue to the city limits. Although, north of Avocado, Irvine Terrace is part of Corona del Mar. Located at 1409 Dolphin Terrace, this 6,100 square foot home is part of the Irvine Terrace development. This four-bedroom, six-bathroom home was built in 1995. The home features two offices, a gym, and bonus room with bar. The home could easily be configured for single floor living. There are walls of glass and skylights which fill the home with natural light. There are amazing views of the Pacific Ocean, Newport Harbor, Catalina Island, whitewater, city night lights and vibrant sunsets. This home sits on a very large 19,600 square foot piece of property. Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy a 50-foot lap pool, a spa, covered loggia, three view decks, and a large grassy back yard. Irvine Terrace is built so that all homes will always retain their views. 

 

Newport Coast is part of the city of Newport Beach. Newport Coast is at its southernmost tip, just north of Laguna Beach. Located at 25 Dorian, this 2,700 square foot home is part of the St. Laurent community. This five-bedroom, three-bathroom home was built in 1995, that has recently been remodeled. The home features custom cabinetry, marble countertops and a maser suite jetted tub.  This home sits on a 3,900 square foot piece of property. Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy a large pool, with entertainment areas. St. Laurent is a guard gated development with just 66 homes. Among the many amenities offered in St. Laurent are a swimming pool, spa, clubhouse, and tennis courts

Posted in Newport Coast