Population : 2,800 (2009)
Median Income: $ 94,721 (2009)
Elevation : 6 feet
City's Area: 0.2 Square Miles

Average temperature:
Highest: 71-62 *F
Lowest: 52-48 *F

Airport Distances:
John Wayne Airport: 10.5 Mi.
LAX Airport : 46.9 Mi.
Ontario Airport : 53.0 Mi.

Balboa Island in Newport Beach was considered a place to go for summer vacations. Many of the Balboa Island homes did not have heaters, so these homes were used during the summer months, and many were often closed up for the winter. Tourists and families came to visit Balboa Island during the summer months and enjoy the climate in Newport Beach.

The growth of Balboa Island was slow initially, however in 1916 Balboa Island officially became part of the the City of Newport Beach.


Joe Beek who was also part of the initial development of Balboa Island. In 1919, Joe Beek obtained the first contract for a ferry between Balboa Island and Balboa Peninsula. The first car that was transported on the Balboa Island Ferry was in 1920, and it was for a fee of .10 cents. Joe Beek’s ferry boat was called the Joker, and the original capacity was two cars. The ferry is still in existence and t here are three 64 foot ferries, that have the capacity to carry three automobiles. Also, many bicyclists and pedestrians can ride for a fee as well. The ferry drivers are very skilled particularly during the summer months when Newport Harbor can be incredibly busy with the Newport Harbor boat traffic. It is a great way to travel from the Peninsula to the Island and enjoy the beauty of the Newport Harbor on the brief journey.