Balboa Pavilion

Balboa Pavilion is a Victorian building along Newport Harbor featuring sloped rooflines and a decorative cupola at the peak. The structure houses a large event space on the upper level and restaurants and commercial spaces below.

The building opened in 1906 alongside a railroad line connecting Los Angeles to Newport Beach, bringing thousands of visitors to the waterfront. This transportation link transformed the area into a major destination.

The upper floor became a popular dance venue during the 1930s, where musicians and dancers gathered and created a local dance style that took the building's name. These gatherings drew people from across the region.

The building sits right on the waterfront and is easy to explore on foot, with access to different areas on both levels. From here you can book boat and fishing tours or simply walk around the harbor area.

Many visitors don't know this place gave its name to a dance style that started here in the 1930s. The Balboa dance began on the upper level and later spread throughout the dance world.

Location: Newport Beach

Inception: 1906

Architectural style: Queen Anne style architecture

Address: 400 Main Street

GPS coordinates: 33.60280,-117.89900

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:01