Indie’s Guide to Newport Beach, CA
Written & curated by his human, @keeksitsimple
Newport Beach is my dog Indie’s little slice of paradise. Why? Here, dogs are not only welcomed, they’re highly encouraged. Here’s a curated list of our top 5 favorite dog-approved places to visit when you’re here →
The Place We Love: Daydream Surf Shop
Why We Love It: Indie enjoys his morning run/ dip in the ocean (my fiancé and I tag along), then we walk our sandy paws (and feet) straight to our local coffee shop — Daydream Surf Shop. Nestled only a mile from the beach, it’s a beloved spot knit tightly into the fabric of the community. This cozy shop feels like home the second you walk in. You're instantly greeted with smiles of familiar faces, distant chatter of friends catching up, dogs playing, and the smell of fresh ground espresso beans.
What to Order: My go-to is an iced matcha with oat milk and honey and a breakfast burrito. Oh, and a pup cup for Indie!
The Place We Love: Cliff Drive Park
The Outdoor Patio at Semi Tropics Wine
Why We Love It: Our favorite park is perched right above the harbor in one of the most charming Newport Beach neighborhoods. TBH, we primarily use it for sunset take-out dinners with Indie. During the “cooler” west coast months, we love going to the local cafe below this park, C'est Ci Bon, to pick up a sandwich, and stroll back up to enjoy while we play ball with Indie.
The Place We Love: Semi Tropics Wine
Why We Love It: Imagine this: it's a balmy summer evening. You're chillin’ on the patio of your neighborhood natural wine shop listening to a little live jazz while enjoying a crisp glass of wine with your friends, your partner, and your pup. Vibes for days.
Indie at Lifeguard Tower 68
The Place We Love: Ahba (Laguna Beach)
Why We Love It: Twenty(ish) minutes down the coast from Newport Beach, in Laguna, is our favorite dog-friendly dinner spot, Ahba. We love to sit out on the patio with Indie and enjoy a burger, some whipped feta, and a cold drink (they also have amazing mocktails)! Yes, the best burger in town is also the most welcoming to pets. (Coincidence? I think not.)
Next door is an old finance building turned speakeasy, Helen’s. It’s a cute/ cozy space to enjoy an after-dinner mocktail/ cocktail (they also have a patio out back)! Gotta love that California indoor/ outdoor living.
The Place We Love: Lifeguard Tower 68
Why We Love It: We love spending early mornings here on the beach (before the day starts — while it's still empty). My fiancé surfs. I’ll throw the ball for Indie. Sometimes, I'll walk Indie across PCH (Pacific Coast Highway) to another one of our favorite local coffee shops, Vacancy Coffee. Highly recommend — just look both ways!
