A Perfect Day in Newport Beach, From Sunrise to Steak at SET

How to Spend a Perfect Day in Newport Beach

With its ocean breeze, boutique charm, and laid-back luxury, Newport Beach is one of those places that makes a simple day feel like a getaway. Whether you're visiting from out of town or just playing tourist in your own city, here’s how to do Newport right—from morning coffee to a world-class dinner in Newport Beach at SET.

Morning: Coffee, Coastline, and Coastal Cool

For breakfast, head to Alta Coffee, a beloved local café tucked away in Cannery Village. Known for its cozy atmosphere and no-frills, house-made breakfast plates, it’s the kind of place locals return to weekly. Grab a latte and their breakfast burrito or signature banana bread, then make your way to Balboa Peninsula for a walk along the pier or a morning bike ride on the boardwalk.

For something a little more active, rent a Duffy boat and cruise through the harbor—or book a morning paddleboard session from Newport Aquatic Center for some calm, scenic water time.

Afternoon: Shopping, Sunning, and Scenic Stops

After the beach, head to Lido Marina Village or Fashion Island for upscale shopping and al fresco browsing. Grab a light lunch or acai bowl at Malibu Farm or Zinc Café, then wind down with a glass of wine at Lido Bottle Works or take a quick detour to the Sherman Library & Gardens if you're craving a quiet stroll surrounded by greenery.

This is Newport—there’s no rush.

Evening: Golden Hour Drinks & Dinner at SET

As the sun sets, make your way to SET Steak & Sushi—a refined yet approachable steakhouse in Newport Beach known for flame-grilled prime cuts, fresh sushi, and one of the most stylish patios in town.

SET is where Newport dines when it wants something elevated without the fuss. The garden-lit patio is made for golden hour cocktails, and the menu brings together premium steaks, creative seafood, and a curated wine list that makes every table feel like an occasion.

What to Order at SET

For starters, go with a Bluefin Tuna Pizza or the Kampachi Crudo to keep things light. Then move on to a signature steak—like the 8oz American Ribeye Cap from Snake River Farms or the 40oz Wagyu Tomahawk from Black Opal, AUS.

Don’t sleep on the sushi—SET is also a top destination for sushi in Newport Beach. The Hot Night Roll or the BYO Negi-Toro Hand Rolls with osetra caviar are house favorites.

Pair your meal with an espresso martini or something from the reserve wine list and settle in. This is dinner in Newport Beach, done right.

Make It a Night to Remember

After dinner, keep it easy. Walk off your meal through the neighborhood, grab a nightcap back at Pendry, or simply enjoy the breeze from the balcony. Whether it’s a weekend escape or a perfectly planned daycation, Newport Beach has everything you need—and SET is the perfect way to end it.

Looking for the best steakhouse in Newport Beach? Make your reservation at SET and end your perfect day with a meal worth remembering.