1825

Our beloved island rose from the surf through the combined forces of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ana River between 1825 and 1865. Before 1902, the underwater sandbar that would become Balboa Island was just an obstacle for James McFadden. As the founder of Newport Beach township and owner of most of the swampy land in the bay, he wanted the sandbar removed to allow large ships to enter his "new port" between San Diego and Anaheim Landing (Seal Beach). Luckily for today’s island residents and visitors, his plan for a commercial port never came to life. Frustrated, McFadden sold the tideland property to Riverside developer William S. Collins.

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1905

Collins’ dream to "turn sand into money" began with a dredger and a big imagination. From 1905 to 1913, he dredged around the island, piling sand onto low areas so the land stayed dry at low tide. Later, wooden and cement bulkheads were built to hold back high tides. Horses pulled heavy rakes to level the sand. Collins created three sections: the main island, Little Island, and Collins Island, where he built his famous castle. He drew maps to divide the land into lots and began selling them for $300 to $600 each, including all improvements and a promise of no city taxes.

In 1905, the Balboa Pavilion and Balboa Pier were built to prepare for the Pacific Red Car Line’s arrival in 1906, bringing tourists from Los Angeles. Realtors welcomed visitors with picnics and boat rides to promote lot sales. However, buying a lot was a tough choice since cars were still new and the price of a lot was about the same as a new car. Only half the lots sold, leaving Collins without enough money for sewers, water, or paved streets.

 

1916

By 1916, Collins was gone, and many lots were abandoned. To save the island, residents agreed to join the City of Newport Beach, which meant taxes for lot owners. Some owners gave up their lots, which were sold by the city for $25 to $50, the cost of unpaid taxes. A group of island owners formed the Balboa Island Improvement Association to plan and push for much-needed upgrades.

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1920s

The 1920s brought better times. The island finally got sewers, streets, lights, water, gas, and a reliable ferry service. It remained a vacation spot with only a few year-round residents. Property values increased, even during the Great Depression. After World War II, more homes were built, and some military families stayed year-round. From the 1940s to the 1960s, the island became famous for "Bal Week," a spring break tradition where high school and college students flocked to the area for music, dancing, and fun. The Peninsula's Rendezvous Ballroom hosted big bands and the creation of the Balboa Swing.​

 

1930s

Despite the Great Depression, Balboa Island continued to grow as a family-friendly vacation spot. Cottages became a popular and affordable getaway option. The island also became a peaceful retreat for artists and writers drawn to its beauty and welcoming community. Events like small regattas and beach parties kept the island lively.

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1940s

During World War II, the island saw increased activity due to nearby military bases. Military families rented homes, and the harbor became busy with boats and ferries. After the war, returning veterans built new homes, starting the shift from seasonal vacation homes to permanent residences.

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1950s 

The 1950s brought the golden age of "Bal Week," with students filling the island and nearby Peninsula for music and dancing at the Rendezvous Ballroom. Families also visited for its beaches, shops, and ferry rides. Property values rose as Balboa Island became a symbol of the California beach lifestyle.

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1960s

The 1960s brought big changes. Young renters from nearby universities, vacationers, and more year-round residents made the island busier than ever. Homes were rebuilt or modernized for growing families, and traditions like the annual Christmas Boat Parade became even more popular.

 

1970s

In the 1970s, Balboa Island became a stable, year-round residential community. With UC Irvine nearby, students and faculty rented homes in winter, while vacationers arrived in summer. Rising demand led to home renovations and set the stage for the real estate boom of the 1980s.​

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1980s

The 1980s saw a rise in single-family homes and school buses filled with island kids heading to local schools. On Marine Avenue, Island Hardware and Newport Surf & Sport shared the building now home to the Balboa Island Museum. By 1984, Balboa Beach Company and Beach Enterprises Inc. moved in, but by 1985, Balboa Beach Company took over the entire space. Meanwhile, traditions like the Christmas Boat Parade and community pride grew stronger. Residents felt lucky to call this beautiful island home.​

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1990s

In 1998, Marine Avenue saw changes. Art for the Soul opened in Suite D, Balboa Beach Company kept the middle suite, and The Chic Shack moved into Suite A. Balboa Island thrived with rising property values and community events that kept its unique charm alive.

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2000s

The 2000s brought more shifts on Marine Avenue. Balboa Beach Company closed in 2002, and Art for the Soul expanded. Olive Oil & Beyond opened in Suite D in 2008. The Balboa Island Museum & Historical Society was also established, preserving the island’s history while welcoming tourists for frozen bananas, ferry rides, and unique shops.

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2018

Grand Opening: Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach
In December 2018, the museum opened its doors on Marine Avenue. Between 2018 and May 2023, more than 250,000 visitors explored the island’s rich history, making the museum a cultural centerpiece.

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2020s

The 2020s showed the island’s resilience during the global pandemic. Outdoor dining and activities thrived, and tourism rebounded. The museum expanded programs to share the island’s history virtually and in person. Environmental efforts to protect marine life and the harbor became a focus, ensuring Balboa Island remains a cherished destination for generations.