Balboa Island Real Estate

Great views, warm weather, all the sand and surf-there's certainly a lot to like about the beach. And when you have a home on Balboa Island, Orange County, you don't have to wait for summer to put your feet up and enjoy the sun. With a Balboa Island beachfront property, you get to enjoy the best of Southern California living, and the beach is just the start.

Tethered to the mainland by a scenic bridge, Balboa Island offers a quiet, laid-back lifestyle while keeping close access to the most popular spots in Orange County. It's one of the many reasons why Balboa Island real estate is one of the most valuable investments in the market. It's coastal living at its finest: open space, secure neighborhoods, and the simple prestige of owning a beachfront home.

About Balboa Island

Balboa Island is actually composed of three separate islands: the main Balboa Island, Little Balboa to the east, and Collins Island to the northwest. The island was developed from a sand pit, a risky undertaking considering it was the start of World War I. The first homes sold for a little as $250. Today, however, Balboa Island beach homes are known for their million-dollar price tags and represent upscale coastal living at its finest.

The island is now officially part of Newport Beach, an affluent city on Orange County's middle coast. This proximity makes it an ideal base for people who like their peace and quiet but don't want to give up the comforts of the city. Despite its location, Balboa Island has retained much of its old-town charm, a feature that locals take much pride in. Although an air of prestige prevails in the area, each home boasts a unique architecture that gives it an appeal all its own.

Living in Balboa Island

A quick stroll down the streets of Balboa Island will give you a good idea of what it's like to live here. Many Balboa Island oceanfront homes have manicured lawns, sweeping landscapes, and stunning architectural designs that are as much an attraction as the Pacific itself. Little thoroughfares run through the residential areas, allowing easy access to the business districts and the road leading to the mainland. Marine Avenue is the island's commercial center, featuring various shops and restaurants that appeal to locals and tourists alike.

It's not just fun and shopping either. Young families often choose Balboa Island because of its quiet, secure neighborhoods. Many Balboa Island luxury homes are part of smaller communities complete with private amenities and maintained by homeowners' associations. A typical residential area will have a children's playground, activity center, and even a public library.

Work and Play in Balboa Island

Balboa Island waterfront properties are also a popular choice for young professionals just settling in Orange County. From Newport Beach, it's only a short drive to the business districts in Irvine, Fullerton, Costa Mesa and Santa Ana, where many Fortune 500 companies are headquartered. These areas are also considered educational districts, with institutions like Anaheim University, California State University in Fullerton, and the University of California at Irvine.

Finally, you can't miss the beach life-after all, Orange County is the place for those who play as hard as they work. After a long day, join the crowds at the seaside and watch boats take off by the dock, people enjoying the surf, or the sun setting over the Pacific. Or on weekends, head over to the Newport Beach commercial district. Enjoy shopping on Fashion Island, dining in quaint restaurants, or simply putting your feet up and enjoying your new life on the beach.