Chit Chat: Newport Beach Vacation — 37th Edition Guide

Happy Friday! I’m excited to share highlights from our Newport Beach vacation: sun, sand, boardwalk bike rides, delicious treats, and a trip to Disneyland.

So much to share from this week — I’m already missing the beach!

Newport Beach Vacation

Last week I felt so lucky to spend Fall Break in one of my favorite places with family: Newport Beach, CA, and a day at Disneyland. We moved away less than a year ago, so being back felt especially nostalgic.
We rented a charming cottage-style beach house through VRBO, perfectly situated right on the sand with ocean views. Early each morning I’d walk out with Pax to watch the surfers — there’s nothing like those quiet, salt-air mornings.

Newport Beach Vacation

Pax was hilarious — it took him a couple of days to touch the sand, but once he did he absolutely loved splashing in the water. Watching him play in the surf was the sweetest thing.

Newport Beach Vacation

Boston cream donut by the ocean — take me back!

Newport Beach Vacation

One of the week’s highlights was riding bikes along the boardwalk for miles. I miss starting the day pedaling beside the ocean with the sound of waves in the background.

Newport Beach Vacation

The sound of the surf must have been soothing for Pax — he found the perfect nap spots all week.

Newport Beach Vacation

Cullen and I took a morning bike ride to Balboa Candy Shop with Pax. He promptly fell asleep in his bike seat — classic!

Newport Beach Vacation

We also returned to Disneyland. Visiting during Halloween is one of our favorite times — the park is full of festive decorations, from Mickey-shaped pumpkins to spooky banners. Space Mountain and the Haunted Mansion are especially fun with their seasonal touches.

We started the day with the Minnie and Friends Character Breakfast. Pax was over the moon — he adored Minnie Mouse and kept planting kisses on her nose. It was utterly adorable.

Newport Beach Vacation

Disney treats are a must. On the left is the chocolate-dipped soft serve from Cars Land in California Adventure, and on the right are my favorite pomme frites from Café Orleans.

Newport Beach Vacation

One treat I can’t resist is the peanut butter sandwich — thick chocolate coating, creamy peanut butter, and graham cracker inside. Pure bliss.

Newport Beach Vacation

And churros — we enjoyed them all day, every day. Can’t visit Disneyland without them!

Wishing you a great weekend. I’ll be back Monday with a new recipe.

This weekend I’m in the Park City, UT area for a blogger event. Follow my Instagram to catch updates and behind-the-scenes moments.