When I think of the 4th of July, the 4 F's come to mind: Freedom, Fireworks, Family, and Food. And, the beach towns of Balboa Island, Corona del Mar, and Newport Beach in Orange County, California are a great place to soak it all in.
4th of July festivities start early in Balboa Island – an eternal vacation spot – as its inhabitants decorate their houses with American memorabilia, and red, white & blue flag banners strung across each avenue.
Corona del Mar is a great family beach spot, complete with a Pirate's Cove playground and a grassy Lookout Point to take in the fireworks overhead.
Newport Beach has fun for everyone from Duffy Boats on the bay to Beach Cruiser bike rides on the boardwalk and a grand Firework show over the Newport Dunes.
The Grubdown:
Bandera – Corona del Mar
- so tender it falls right of the bone, Wood-fired Barbeque Beef Back Ribs with Pomme Puree & Coleslaw $31 (restaurant photo courtesy of Banderarestaurants.com)
Crocker's – Balboa Island
- sweet 'n sour, plump with soft bun, Balboa Bratwurst with Spicy Mustard, Warm Kraut & Potato Bun $9 (Pictured Top Left)
Patty Macs – Newport Beach
- glisteningly juicy, sweet 'n spicy, pillowy bun with crisp edge, Pan Seared 8 oz Cheeseburger with Caramelized Red Onions, Tillamook Cheddar, Arugula & Roasted Garlic Aioli on a Brioche Bun $12.95
Happy 4th of July!
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