Top 10 Memorial Day Weekend picnic spots

Grab the family and celebrate the long weekend at these choice locations throughout the West

SoCal spot: Balboa Island
Photo by Dave Lauridsen; written by Rachel Bertone

SoCal spot: Balboa Island

Lay out your blanket: Hershey's Market is a historic food stop with fresh produce and quality meats--offering the makings of a prime beach picnic. For an afternoon treat, stop by Balboa Candy for vintage sweets like wax lips and Boston Baked Beans. Sugar N Spice and Cinnamon Roll Fair are just as satisfying to any sweet tooth.

Family time: Hop on the historic Balboa Island Ferry to the Balboa Peninsula where you'll find Fun Zone. With a handful of carnival rides like a ferris wheel, bumper cars, and a carousel, as well as an arcade and laser tag, kids will stay entertained for hours. Newport's gorgeous beaches are also perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. Or take a family bike ride along the oceanfront boardwalk.

Make it a weekend: Stay in one of Balboa's quaint hotels like the Balboa Inn, or hang with nature at one of the island's RV camping sites.


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