Newport Dunes tent camping offers a rare kind of Southern California escape—one where the ocean breeze, gentle lagoon, and the comforts of a full-service resort all come together. Tucked along the scenic Back Bay of Newport Beach, this coastal gem turns traditional camping into a relaxing, waterfront experience that feels both natural and luxurious.
Whether you’re pitching a tent for the weekend or planning a longer coastal retreat, Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort and Marina gives you everything you need to unwind: soft sandy beaches, stunning sunsets, and a peaceful environment made for families, friends, and anyone who loves life by the water.
What Makes Newport Dunes Tent Camping Unique
Tent camping at Newport Dunes isn’t the usual pitch-a-tent-and-rough-it experience. It’s a calm, coastal retreat that blends the simplicity of sleeping under the stars with the convenience of resort amenities—all set against one of the most scenic waterfronts in California.
A Resort Feel, Right by the Water
Newport Dunes gives tent campers front-row access to the Back Bay’s calm shoreline. The soft sand, gentle waves, and bay breeze create a setting that’s peaceful yet full of energy. You can fall asleep breathing the coastal air and wake up steps from the beach—without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
Designed for Relaxation and Fun
Tent campers enjoy the same resort advantages as everyone else: clean restrooms, hot showers, picnic areas, and access to pools, playgrounds, and beachfront dining. Families love the safe, walkable paths and open spaces, while couples find the perfect mix of privacy and ocean charm.
A Truly Coastal Experience
Every stay feels personal here. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows at sunset or watching the bay glow at night, Newport Dunes turns camping into something softer, more comfortable, and unmistakably Californian—a chance to slow down and savor the beachside rhythm.
Tent Camping Sites at Newport Dunes – What to Expect
Tent camping at Newport Dunes gives you a unique blend of resort comfort and outdoor simplicity. Guests can pitch their tents in the Small RV Sites, which are thoughtfully designed to keep you close to the bay and all the resort amenities that make camping here effortless.
Comfort Meets Convenience
Each Small RV Site accommodates up to two freestanding tents, giving campers a cozy setup without feeling crowded. These sites are level, well-maintained, and located near clean restrooms and hot showers. Water and electrical connections are available nearby, allowing easy access for cooking, lighting, and daily essentials.
Close to Everything You Need
Every tent site sits just a short walk from the private beach, walking paths, and the resort’s main recreation areas. It’s easy to enjoy the bayfront view in the morning, grab a meal at Moe B’s Café in the afternoon, and unwind by a fire pit as the sun sets.
A Peaceful Setting to Unwind
Quiet hours keep the atmosphere calm and family-friendly, and the resort’s 24-hour security team ensures peace of mind. Whether you’re here for a quick coastal escape or a multi-day getaway, Newport Dunes makes tent camping feel relaxed, refined, and completely at home by the water.
Activities and Experiences for Tent Campers
Days at Newport Dunes flow easily—from lazy mornings on the beach to lively afternoons spent exploring the bay. Tent campers have full access to the resort’s experiences, making every stay a blend of relaxation and adventure.
Waterfront Fun for All Ages
The calm lagoon is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Rentals are available right on-site, so you can glide across the water or simply wade near shore. Families often spend hours building sandcastles, splashing in the shallows, or floating under the afternoon sun.
Recreation Beyond the Beach
Cycling and walking paths loop around the property, giving campers a scenic way to explore. The resort’s playgrounds, volleyball courts, and seasonal events—like outdoor movie nights and live music—keep the days full and the evenings festive.
Moments That Make the Stay
Few experiences match the calm of roasting marshmallows as the sun sinks over the bay. Campfires, shared meals, and laughter by the water create the kind of memories that linger long after checkout. Whether you’re here for a quiet weekend or a week-long family escape, Newport Dunes turns everyday camping moments into something beautifully coastal, connected, and unforgettable.
Resort Amenities You Can Still Enjoy While Tent Camping
Tent campers at Newport Dunes enjoy more than a campsite—they get access to a full range of resort amenities that turn a simple stay into a truly relaxing coastal retreat. Everything is designed to make outdoor living as comfortable and carefree as possible.
Relaxation and Recreation Combined
Take a dip in the heated pool, unwind in the spa, or spend the afternoon lounging on the private beach. Fitness enthusiasts can use the resort’s walking paths, sports courts, or rent paddleboards and kayaks for a day on the lagoon.
Convenience at Every Corner
The on-site Market & Café makes it easy to grab snacks, beach essentials, or freshly prepared meals. Clean restrooms and laundry facilities ensure that tent camping feels effortless.
Community and Comfort
Summer evenings at Newport Dunes often include live music, food trucks, or outdoor movies—open to all guests. Friendly staff, beautifully maintained grounds, and a welcoming atmosphere make it easy to feel part of the resort’s community.
For tent campers, the balance is perfect: all the charm of sleeping outdoors, paired with the comfort and convenience of a resort built to help you unwind.
How to Plan Your Tent Camping Trip at Newport Dunes
Planning your Newport Dunes tent camping trip is all about timing, preparation, and knowing how to make the most of your stay. With the right approach, your getaway can feel as seamless as a resort vacation—just with a tent and ocean breeze.
Book Early for the Best Spots
Tent camping at Newport Dunes is popular year-round, especially during spring and summer. Reservations open well in advance, so booking early ensures your preferred site near the beach or shaded areas. Weekdays often offer a quieter, more relaxed experience.
Pack for Coastal Comfort
Bring lightweight, breathable gear suited for Southern California’s mild climate. Essentials include a freestanding tent, comfortable bedding, reusable water bottles, and shade canopies for sunny afternoons. A portable light or lantern adds the perfect glow for evenings by the bay.
Plan Around the Resort Rhythm
Check the resort calendar for seasonal events—outdoor movies, concerts, or holiday celebrations—to enhance your trip. Mornings are ideal for paddleboarding or beach walks, while evenings invite campfires and sunset picnics.
With a little planning, your Newport Dunes tent camping trip becomes the perfect blend of spontaneity and structure—easy to organize, even easier to enjoy.
Why Newport Dunes Tent Camping Is Perfect for All Ages
Few destinations bring generations together as naturally as Newport Dunes. Whether you’re introducing kids to camping for the first time or simply escaping the routine for a weekend, this is a place designed for everyone to feel at home.
Fun for Families
Parents love the convenience—safe walking paths, calm waters, and plenty of open space for play. The lagoon’s gentle waves are perfect for young swimmers, while older kids enjoy paddleboarding, biking, or movie nights under the stars.
Relaxation for Adults
Couples can unwind with beachfront strolls, cozy campfires, or dinners by the bay. The quiet rhythm of the resort, paired with the sound of the water, makes it easy to slow down and reconnect.
Ease for Seniors and Groups
The level terrain, clean facilities, and friendly community make Newport Dunes ideal for retirees, reunions, or multigenerational trips. Everything you need—comfort, safety, and accessibility—is thoughtfully built in.
At Newport Dunes, tent camping is more than a getaway. It’s a shared experience, where every age finds its pace and every guest discovers a reason to smile a little longer by the shore.
Booking and Contact Info — How to Reserve Your Spot at Newport Dunes
Ready to lock in your tent-camping getaway? Here’s exactly how to contact the resort, understand their booking policies, and ensure your stay starts smoothly.
Reservation & Contact Details
- Phone (Reservations & Front Desk): 949-729-3863
- Address: 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92648
- Email: info@newportdunes.com
- Office Hours: Daily from 8 AM to 7 PM
- Private Events & Catering: 949-729-3800
Reservation Policies & Stay Guidelines
- Check-in / Check-out: For RV & campground guests, check-in is from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM daily, and checkout is by 12:00 PM (noon).
- Cancellation Policy:
• Cancel more than 72 hours before arrival to receive a full refund
• Cancellations within 72 hours will incur the first night charge.
• The site guarantee fee is non-refundable and ensures you get your requested site. - Booking Requirements:
• All reservations require full payment via credit card at booking time
• For extended stay / monthly bookings, a monthly agreement is required at least two weeks before arrival, along with registration and insurance documents. - Extra Vehicle / Amenities Add-ons:
• One vehicle pass is included; extra car passes cost $30/night
• Additional campsite guarantees or requests may incur site guarantee fees
Your Beachfront Escape Awaits at Newport Dunes
Tent camping at Newport Dunes brings together the serenity of the coast and the comfort of a resort, creating an experience that feels both refreshing and refined. Every detail—from the peaceful lagoon setting to the friendly staff and endless activities—invites you to slow down and savor the California lifestyle. Whether you’re planning a weekend under the stars or a family getaway by the water, Newport Dunes turns simple camping into something unforgettable.
Reserve your spot today and discover how relaxing, easy, and beautiful tent camping can be when the beach is your backyard and every sunrise feels like a new beginning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does Newport Dunes allow tent camping?
Yes. Newport Dunes offers designated areas for tent camping where guests can enjoy waterfront views, access to resort amenities, and a comfortable, family-friendly environment. Each site is level, shaded, and conveniently located near restrooms, showers, and all the activities the resort has to offer.
2. What amenities can tent campers use?
Tent campers enjoy full access to resort amenities, including the heated pool, spa, private beach, restrooms, BBQ areas, and the Market & Café. Guests can also join community events, rent watercraft, and relax knowing all facilities are clean, secure, and thoughtfully maintained for comfort.
3. Are pets allowed at Newport Dunes tent sites?
Yes, pets are welcome in designated areas of the resort. Guests are encouraged to follow leash rules, clean up after their pets, and use the walking paths and open spaces that make Newport Dunes one of the most pet-friendly campgrounds in Southern California.
4. How do I reserve a tent camping site?
You can easily reserve your site by visiting newportdunes.com or calling 949-729-3863. Early booking is recommended, especially for weekends and holidays, as tent sites are limited and highly sought after for their scenic location and easy access to the bay.
5. Is Newport Dunes tent camping suitable for families?
Absolutely. The resort is designed for family comfort and safety, with calm waters, kid-friendly activities, and amenities like playgrounds, bike paths, and movie nights. It’s a peaceful coastal environment where families can connect, play, and create lasting memories right by the beach.
