What is a Playcation?
And Why is Newport Dunes is the Ultimate Active Waterfront Getaway in Southern California?
Airbnb stat: "Playcations" are the #1 summer travel trend of 2026
Today, most people are looking for more than just a beach. They want to actually DO something.
For years, vacations were all about doing as little as possible. A lounge chair, a beach towel, and nowhere to be. But in 2026, travelers are embracing a new trend: the playcation.
nstead of spending an entire trip sitting poolside, families, couples, and friend groups are choosing destinations where they can play, explore, move, and make memories together. According to Airbnb’s 2026 Summer Travel Trends Report, “playcations” are one of the fastest-growing travel trends, with travelers increasingly choosing destinations built around activities, hobbies, and outdoor experiences.
Travelers are planning trips around:
- boating,
- paddling,
- surfing,
- golf,
- and other active pursuits
No longer are people simply booking a place to stay.
Luckily, at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina, the playcation experience comes naturally. We offer all those things and more. Nestled along Newport Harbor’s scenic Back Bay, the resort combines waterfront adventure, family-friendly recreation, and resort-style relaxation in one unforgettable destination.
What Is a Playcation? (And Why Everyone Is Talking About It in 2026)
A playcation is exactly what it sounds like: a vacation built around play.
Rather than spending the entire trip relaxing on a beach chair, travelers are seeking destinations that offer experiences, activities, and opportunities to reconnect with family and friends through shared adventures. Whether that’s paddling across calm waters, cruising a harbor, tackling an inflatable obstacle course, or enjoying live music outdoors, the focus shifts from passive relaxation to active enjoyment.
Why Newport Dunes Is Built for the Playcation Era
Few destinations in Southern California are better suited for a playcation than Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina.
Located on the calm waters of Newport Beach’s Back Bay, Newport Dunes offers a unique waterfront setting where guests can enjoy outdoor adventure without the challenges often associated with ocean beaches. The protected harbor waters are generally calm and waveless, creating a more comfortable environment for kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, and family-friendly water activities.
The resort combines:
- A waterfront beach
- An inflatable aquatic park
- Kayak rentals
- Paddleboard rentals
- Duffy boat rentals
- Seasonal live entertainment
- Outdoor movies
- Waterfront dining
- RV camping and resort accommodations
What makes Newport Dunes especially unique is the balance. One family member can spend the morning paddleboarding while another relaxes on the beach. Kids can burn off energy at the aquatic park while parents enjoy a waterfront cocktail. Everyone gets the vacation they want without ever leaving the resort.
The Top 5 Playcation Activities at Newport Dunes
1. Conquer the Inflatable Water Park
The Inflatable Aquatic Park is one of Newport Dunes’ most popular summer attractions.
Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Memorial Day through Labor Day, the floating obstacle course transforms the bay into an exciting outdoor playground. Guests can climb, slide, bounce, and splash their way through a series of inflatable challenges.
For kids, it’s pure excitement. For adults, it’s a chance to feel like a kid again.
2. Cruise Newport Harbor in a Duffy Boat
For a more relaxed adventure, rent a Duffy boat and explore Newport Harbor at your own pace.
Cruising the harbor offers a completely different perspective of Newport Beach. Glide past luxury waterfront homes, watch boats pass by, and enjoy quality time with family and friends while soaking in the coastal scenery.
It’s one of the most relaxing ways to experience the harbor while still being part of the action.
3. Kayak or Paddleboard Across the Back Bay
Some adventures are worth earning.
Kayaks and paddleboards allow guests to explore the natural beauty of Newport Harbor while enjoying a little exercise along the way. The calm water conditions make the Back Bay especially appealing for beginners, while experienced paddlers can enjoy longer explorations of the surrounding waterways.
The reward? Incredible views, peaceful surroundings, and a front-row seat to local wildlife.
4. Join Resort Activities - Volleyball, Horseshoes & More
Newport Dunes hosts fun activities for various age groups.
Join tournaments for bean bag toss, horseshoes, and beach volleyball. Stop in for bingo or trivia night with fellow guests.
5. End the Night with Movies on the Beach
Few family traditions are as timeless as watching a movie under the stars.
Movies at the Beach combines waterfront views, cool evening breezes, and family-friendly entertainment in one memorable experience. Kids can unwind after a full day of adventure while parents enjoy a stress-free evening together.
It’s the perfect ending to a perfect playcation day. (available summer weekend nights)
Who Is Newport Dunes Perfect For? (Families + Empty Nesters)
Families
Busy parents often face a familiar vacation challenge: keeping everyone entertained.
At Newport Dunes, kids can spend their days swimming, climbing, paddling, and exploring while parents enjoy the peace of knowing there is always something fun to do nearby. Instead of hearing “I’m bored,” families can focus on making memories together.
Empty Nesters
Playcations aren’t just for families.
Many couples and empty nesters appreciate the balance Newport Dunes provides. Start the morning with a paddleboard session, enjoy a leisurely afternoon on the waterfront, then spend the evening listening to live music as the sun sets over the harbor.
It’s active without being exhausting and relaxing without being boring.
Groups and Multi-Generational Travelers
The best part of a playcation is flexibility.
Some people want adventure. Others want relaxation. Newport Dunes delivers both, making it an excellent choice for reunions, friend groups, and multi-generational family vacations.
Guests can choose from spacious RV sites, camping accommodations, or comfortable waterfront cottages, creating a stay that fits virtually every travel style.
How to Plan Your Playcation Weekend at Newport Dunes
Visit During Peak Activity Season
For the fullest playcation experience, plan your visit between Memorial Day and Labor Day when all seasonal activities are operating.
Reserve Your Accommodations Early
Summer weekends and holiday periods are among the most popular times of year. Campsites, RV sites, and cottages often book well in advance, so securing accommodations early is recommended. (Our cottages are booked for 2026 summer weekends and do have some availability midweek). If you don’t have an RV but would like to try staying in one, our reservations team can recommend some RV rental companies.
Learn more about our accommodations offerings.
Pack Smart
Bring:
- Water shoes
- Swimsuits
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Beach towels
- Reusable water bottles
- Light jackets or sweaters for evening concerts and movies
Insider Tip
If you’re planning to visit the Inflatable Aquatic Park, book your session online in advance of your visit. Weekend crowds tend to build throughout the morning, and guests who arrive shortly after opening often enjoy shorter wait times and more play time.
Plan Your Next Playcation at Newport Dunes
The best vacations aren’t always the ones where you do nothing.
Sometimes they’re the ones where you paddle a little farther, laugh a little louder, stay outside a little longer, and create memories you’ll still be talking about years later.
Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a couples retreat, or a weekend with friends, Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina offers everything you need for the perfect Southern California playcation.
Playcation FAQ
A. A playcation is a vacation centered around activities, experiences, and outdoor recreation rather than simply relaxing. While traditional vacations often focus on sightseeing or lounging, playcations encourage travelers to actively participate in activities like boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, live entertainment, and other memorable experiences.
Newport Dunes offers a variety of water activities including an Inflatable Aquatic Park, kayak rentals, paddleboard rentals, Duffy boat rentals, swimming, and beach recreation. The resort’s location on Newport Harbor’s calm Back Bay makes it ideal for guests of all ages and experience levels.
A: Yes. Newport Dunes is especially popular with families because it combines calm waterfront conditions, kid-friendly activities, pirate-themed playground, on-site dining, beach access, and family accommodations. The protected bay waters and variety of entertainment options help keep children engaged while giving parents a more relaxing vacation experience.
