Catching
the surf in Newport Beach
By Gina Ponce
On-line Forty-Niner
A
vacation — that is what every college student
needs.
Some may have the time and money to go somewhere
out of the area, but many do not. A local
weekend getaway can turn out to be more
fun than students realize.
Good food, bars, shopping and hotels become
a big part of one’s vacation. These are
a few things that Newport Beach has to offer
those with a need to get out of Long Beach
for a few days.
Brianna Jones, a senior psychology major
at Cal State Long Beach, begins her weekend
in Newport with a drink and dancing at Malarkey’s
Irish Pub on Newport Boulevard.
Jones said she recommends going to Newport
Beach for the good food and outdoor shopping.
She said she enjoys going to places such
as Shamrock, Newport Bar and Grill and Sharkeez,
where customers can purchase drinks in 64-ounce
buckets and because of live entertainment
and the many college students that can be
found there. The Cheesecake Factory is a
well-known restaurant located in Newport’s
Fashion Island shopping center. It has a
big variety of food, a pretty atmosphere
and everything is good, Jones said.
Fashion Island offers 200 stores, 40 restaurants
and two movie theaters, which could occupy
someone’s whole day. Views of the ocean
and fountains throughout the outdoor mall
bring many people to this area. Also featured
is an indoor Farmer’s Market. Surrounding
the area are many hotels to choose from.
If you are looking for a romantic escape
from all the stresses of college life, Newport
Beach provides many companies featuring
gondola rides through Newport Bay. Gondolas
are private, and music sets the mood for
a journey across the water.
Chrissy Long, a senior art history major
and native of Newport Beach, said, “It’s
safe, fun and there are a lot of tourist
spots. It’s a beach community, so the people
are nice and laidback.”
One of Long’s favorite activities to engage
in is going to the Balboa Peninsula. This
is where she suggests a traveler to go because
there are bars, restaurants and the Catalina
Flyer is available to leave from there to
Catalina.
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