Day 3~ Cruising Newport Beach

We didn't have any solid plans for our 3rd day in Orange County. We just knew we wanted to relax and enjoy the warmer weather. Mark had done a little investigating and came up with the idea to rent bikes to cruise along Newport Beach. We hopped in the car and headed north.  

With numerous bike shops to choose from, we decided on this one. 

We all got our Cruisers and set off for what I think was about a 5 mile ride each way.

my poor attempt to get us all riding without crashing

I was in love instantly! It was so relaxing and beautiful.

Just in case there was any question it was time to turn around

We took a detour out to Balboa Pier 

 I find it mesmerizing to just watch the ocean. I could have stayed for hours 

 After returning the bikes we went looking for some lunch. Mark had seen that there was a Spaghetti Factory within walking distance. Could this day get any better? 

Sadly, we arrived at the door to find they didn't open until dinner:(

 Our next choice was Saigon Beach where we could smell something yummy from outside.

 That something yummy was this Banh Mi Sandwich. SO good! If you can't have Spinach Tortellini and Creamy Pesto this will definitely do as a substitute!

 Of course not for Emm. She is not so adventurous when it comes to trying new foods. We walked back to the "Pier Square" and found this dive she thought looked perfect. 

There were seagulls walking right in and out of those doors. 

Okay ... maybe she is adventurous (in her own way;)

 We hung around the square for a while and saw all sorts of interesting characters and even had some local talent trying to earn a few bucks. This turned into a bit of a sing off with two down on their luck fellas who did not have much talent to speak of but were entertaining.

We weren't ready to leave the ocean beauty just yet so we walked out to another Pier to watch the surfing class. We made bets on who was going to catch the wave and make it all the way in. There were a few that really had the hang of it.

This day turned out to be one of our favorite memories on our trip. So glad we took a chance!