Ruby's at the Balboa Pier is the original pier Ruby's. It's small size and intimate dining make for a very old-fashioned experience. When the sun goes down, the lighting is magic.

Newport Beach has several Ruby's Diners, including the original where it all began. Ruby's on the Balboa Pier at the beaches of Newport Beach offers an old-fashioned, small cafe with great views and the same menu featured at all the Ruby's restaurants. Grilled burgers, crispy french fries, fresh salads, chicken, fish and a variety of tasty dishes are made and served on the spot.

Known for their malts, shakes and sundaes, you'll commonly see kids and adults ordering a chocolate malt. In addition, most Ruby's sell beer, as well.

The Balboa Pier where you'll take an easy stroll to the end of the pier where the diner sits, is located across the street from historic Balboa Pavilion. Boats to Catalina Island depart there daily, as do bay cruises, fishing boats, whale watching and boat rentals for bay fun. The Balboa Island ferry is also located in that spot.

One of our favorite things to do for a few hours is to park near Ruby's in the beach parking lot, wander across Balboa Blvd. to the ferry and hop aboard. In five minutes you're over at Balboa Island. Take a stroll and go shopping on Balboa Island for about an hour, then wander back to the ferry and head back toward your car. Make a stop at Ruby's Diner for some lunch or dinner and catch the Pacific Ocean views. It's so relaxing, you'll be hooked on doing it again.

Where to stay: When visiting Ruby's in Newport Beach, there's hotel just at the foot of the pier. Balboa Inn offers renovated hotel accommodations that we've heard are quite nice. If it's fully occupied, there are close to 20 other hotels in Newport Beach to select from such as the Newport Beach Hotel at the other pier, Newport Pier.

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