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Home » Playgrounds by City

Spyglass Hill Park in Newport Beach

Spyglass Hill Park in Newport Beach is high atop a hill near the ocean, but the views are only peek-a-boo.  Still, you feel like you're above it all when you visit at sunset and the golden rays light up the playground.

Directions to Spyglass Hill Park:  Reach San Joaquin Hills Road from either MacArthur or Jamboree and head up the hill towards Newport Coast.  Turn left on Spy Glass Hill Road.  The park will be up ahead on your right at the corner of El Capitan Drive.  (Address: Spy Glass Hill Road and El Capitan Drive) MAP TO SPYGLASS HILL PARK IN NEWPORT BEACH

spyglass hill newport beach - grassy area

Highlights:

  • As is often the case, the playground is not the main attraction. There is quite a nice grassy "rolling hill" for the kids that scoops off the lip of the playground.
  • It's easy to see the kids playing here and it wasn't too busy on our visit.
  • A nice place for a picnic.
  • Bring sand toys to play.
  • It's set up to be more of a 5-12 year old equipment, but I think older kids will bore quickly. It's got steep drop-offs for younger kids.
  • If you want a great walking workout -- park at San Miguel Park at the bottom of the hill and walk a loop up and around Spyglass Hill. You can even stop at Gelson's off San Miguel for coffee and the bakery!
  • No shade on the playground, but it's near the beach so it's cooler
  • Curvy monkey bars and a zip track
  • 2 baby swings
spyglass hill park newport beach - playground area with benches

Be Aware:

  • No bench swings for big kids
  • Popular with dog owners
  • The street is away from the playground, but it wouldn't take long for a fast toddler to make it down the hill to get there
  • NO restroom
  • Steep and fast slides on the back side of the equipment
slides

Checklist:

  • Parking on the street
  • Play surface: Sand
  • Drinking fountain
  • Picnic tables
  • Official City of Newport Beach website for Spyglass Hill Park
  • Nearest public library branch: Newport Beach Public Library
baby swings

Parks Nearby Spyglass Hill Park in Newport Beach:

  • San Miguel Park
  • Bonita Canyon Sports Park
  • Las Lomas Community Park
monkey bars

Originally published in January 2012.

spyglass hill park newport beach

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About Michele Whiteaker

Writer mom and nature guide promoting play and empowering families to prioritize outside time since 2008. Park information gathered through my personal experiences and provided as a FREE community resource to millions of Orange County families over the past 17 years via blog and social media. Subscribe to my FREE weekly email inspiring you with park tips and play ideas.

"The Park Lady"

My name is Michele Whiteaker and I'd love for you to think of me as your personal Play Concierge. When I used to search online for family-friendly activities, nothing quite fit my playful outdoor interests or tight budget.

More about me

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