The current value of Irvine Ranch land that was dedicated as open space and parks over the decades would be difficult to calculate. The value to Newport Beach locals, families and visitors is much simpler to determine: It is priceless. Here are five of the many parks, playgrounds and natural preserves available for everyone to enjoy.

Bonita Canyon Sports Park
This large community park features baseball diamonds, a soccer field, basketball courts, tennis courts and dedicated pickleball courts. With picnic tables, playgrounds and ample green space, it is a popular destination for families and sports enthusiasts. The park resulted from an agreement between Irvine Company and the city of Newport Beach to create the communities in the area.

Coastal Peak Park
Situated high in the Newport Coast hills, this park is one of the most visited in the city. It features athletic fields (baseball and soccer), a basketball court and a playground, and provides easy access to the hiking trails of the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park via the Pacific Ridge Trailhead. The park is part of 7,300 acres of Newport Coast bluffs and canyons that were preserved as part of a landmark agreement in 1982.

Corona del Mar State Beach
Known as Big Corona, this half-mile-long sandy beach is framed by cliffs and a rock jetty marking the entrance to Newport Harbor. It’s a favorite spot for swimmers, surfers, divers, volleyball players and sunbathers. The 700 acres of Irvine Ranch land that became Corona del Mar (including the beach) was sold to a developer in 1904, and over time became city and then state land.

Crystal Cove State Park
Stretching along 3.2 miles of coastline, the park boasts sandy beaches, tide pools and over 15 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking and equestrian use along the preserved bluffs. The park also features the Crystal Cove Historic District with charmingly restored vintage beach cottages. In 1979, Irvine Company transferred more than 2,700 acres of Irvine Ranch to the state of California, establishing the park.

Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve
Since it was dedicated in 1975, a $150 million investment has helped conserve approximately 1,000 acres of open space for recreation and as an important natural habitat. Residents and visitors enjoy kayaking on the bay and hiking, biking, running and bird-watching on the 10.5-mile Back Bay Loop Trail.