Dover Shores

Head slightly inland in Newport Beach, and you’ll encounter the very suburban and private neighborhood of Dover Shores. Bordered on its eastern edge by the back bay, the community is within easy walking distance of an abundance of parks and excellent schools. It is located a few minutes from the Pacific Coast Highway, also known as California-1. The walkable neighborhood also benefits from being near the beach and an array of local commercial businesses.

Dover Shore’s residents tend to be affluent family units, and the neighborhood is especially great for families due to the plethora of recreational parks, educational centers, and schools in the area. Many homes in the Dover Shores area are bayfront and have the opportunity to have their private docking slips. Single-family houses are the primary structures found throughout the neighborhood, and prices range from a little over $1 million to upwards of $5 and 6 million. Along with the advantages of living in the neighborhood of Dover, owners are treated to an array of architectural styles that include contemporary coastal and mid-century beauties, plus extravagant amenities like infinity pools along with access to Dover Shore’s three private beaches.

Dover Shores is known for its active and outdoorsy atmosphere, and you can often find its residents out and about on bicycles, boating the bay, gardening, and enjoying the California sun. Walk down East 17th Street, and you’ll be met with an array of delicious restaurants and quaint shops. After exploring the commercial area, you can head towards the bay to encounter scenic overlooks and the plentiful recreation options at The Newport Aquatic Center.

With its charming residential atmosphere and dedication to the community, Dover Shores has convenient shopping centers like Westcliff Plaza to meet your day-to-day lifestyle needs. Merchants in these plazas can range from grocers to national chains, fitness centers, well-loved restaurants, spas, banks, dry cleaners, and everything you might require to love your life in Dover. In addition to these plazas are several boutique shops with high-end fashions and specialty items. For instance, Rococo is a much-visited women’s clothing boutique that stocks up on designer jewelry, one-of-a-kind styles, and luxury accessories.

Dover Shores is also replete with trendy local eateries that serve the community delicious and varied cuisines crafted with care. Dive into the Northwest-inspired breakfast and brunch menus of Plums Cafe and try your best to choose from flavorful options like the Oregon pepper bacon omelets or the sweet blueberry pancakes. Another all-day breakfast neighborhood delight, Haute Cakes, has been providing mouth-watering dishes for generations. Their menu has must-try items like fluffy buttermilk pancakes, savory huevos rancheros, and even gluten-free house-made granola.

If you’re after more than just breakfast and brunch staples, you can check out Olea and dine on their Napa and Sonoma-inspired cuisine with a European twist. Known as a hidden gem in the Costa Mesa area, Ruby’s Sandwich Saloon is the go-to for a quick bite that satisfies. Their gourmet ingredients provide the base for you to take charge and build your own custom sandwich, making every visit an opportunity for exploration.

Apart from its niche local eats and shops, Dover Shores is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts who can easily take advantage of Newport Beach’s ever-sunny weather. Between the parks, the trails, the preserves, the watersports, and the nearby beaches, you’ll never run out of options for outdoor fun.

Though small, Galaxy View Park is a coveted neighborhood secret because of its quiet scenery and spectacular views of the bay from the bluff’s top. Kids love the play area in Mariners Park, which includes a mini rock-climbing feature and swings. The park has sports fields, restrooms, and quaint picnic areas that are perfect for family lunches.

Anyone with a passion for exploring will want to visit the Newport Beach Back Bay & Nature Preserve, known as one of the best preserves in Orange County for recreation and wildlife observation. With around 135 acres, this dazzling estuary is heaven for bikers, birders, horseback riders, hikers, nature photographers, and educators whose hearts beat for nature. Water-lovers should head to the Newport Aquatics Center to enjoy their indoor rowing facilities, kayak rentals, guided back bay tours, and classes.