Community Update
BALBOA MARINA HOSTS INAUGURAL BOAT SHOW
The inaugural Balboa Invitational Boat Show brought together 13 Newport Beach yacht brokers, more than two dozen boats and hundreds of guests for a showcase that celebrated the city’s maritime heritage and vibrant boating culture. The show also included exotic cars courtesy of European Collectibles, iLusso Exotic Car Dealership and Lamborghini Newport Beach.
“The boating community is very welcoming, and this event gives people a chance to experience that,” says Greg Sinks, general manager of CRC Marinas Newport Beach, owner of Balboa Marina. “We’re recognized as the market leader for the quality of our facilities, the service our staff provides and the overall marina experience. This is the home port for every boat — we’re here when you leave on your journey, and we’re here to welcome you back.”
For yacht brokers, the show was a chance to highlight their vessels in the perfect locale.
“Newport Beach is our home territory,” said Jeremiah Parkinson, executive vice president of Sun Country Marine Group. “CRC is a strong partner for us, and we do a lot of business in their premium marinas. It’s where our customers want to be on these beautiful yachts — a central location close to Catalina, plenty of slips and a lively waterfront with restaurants right on the water.”
Allen Jones, sales associate for Jeff Brown Yachts, echoed that point. “You look at stories like John Wayne and the influence he had on the community, especially the boating community. That legacy has been a pillar here, with people like him helping pioneer the way for us.”
Among the visitors were Jerry and Sandra Baccari, joined by Jerry’s brother Anthony and his wife, Alexandra. The Baccari brothers have been boating since they were teenagers, and this year they came to the show with a purpose.
“We’re considering whether to sell the boat we have now and get something different,” Jerry said. “You can go online and get an idea of what you might like, but nothing compares to stepping on a boat and seeing it for yourself.”
For Sandra, the appeal of boating is the sense of calm it brings. “When I used to work in management, I’d get so frustrated,” she said. “I could hop on his boat, take off and within a few minutes, I’d feel so much better just looking at the waves. The stress would go away. That’s what I really love about it.”
JOE & THE JUICE DEBUTS
Dining continues to be a major focus for Fashion Island, where the mix of restaurants reflects the coastal luxury and lifestyle of Newport Beach. The most recent opening is Joe & The Juice, a chic spot that offers healthy fare, including coffee, fresh juice and unique sandwiches that have achieved viral popularity. Like many Fashion Island dining options, it draws a young, fashionable and social media-savvy audience.
RESORT REFRESH
The Resort at Pelican Hill is entering a new chapter — one that honors its legacy while embracing the future of luxury. As the flagship of the St. Regis brand, the Resort will undergo a thoughtful reinvestment that enhances its iconic character and introduces refined modernity across the property. Inspired by the harmony and elegance of the Italian Renaissance, The Resort at Pelican Hill was envisioned as a timeless retreat along Southern California’s coast. Drawing from the architectural ideals of Andrea Palladio, the Resort opened in 2008 and quickly earned acclaim for its natural splendor, classical design and exceptional service. Irvine Company remains the long-term owner and steward of the property.
The enhancement will focus on refining iconic spaces, modernizing interiors and elevating guest experiences while preserving the timeless Palladian architecture that defines Pelican Hill. The Coliseum Pool is among the most iconic places at the Resort. While the Coliseum Pool and Grill is enhanced beginning in December, new dining options will be available at an Andrea Pop-Up. Enjoy Christmas Eve and Christmas Day meals at Andrea and Pelican Grill, as well as other holiday festivities at the Resort. Further enhancements to Andrea and adjacent spaces are scheduled later in 2026. For more details about what’s to come, visit pelicanhill.com.
