Just across the channel from Balboa Island lies the famous and historic Balboa Inn. Nestled in the heart of the Fun Zone/Balboa Pier area on the Balboa Peninsula this historic landmark has a rich and interesting history. Established in 1929, in its early days it was one of the most popular resort destinations along the West Coast. Although the Inn has undergone many changes and renovations over its long history, the beautiful Spanish influenced architecture holds its character even today.
In the 1980s the Balboa Inn was owned by famous basketball players and at one point in its early history it was used as a school then later renovated into an inn again. In fact, the most famous suit remains the room of Kareen Abdul-Jabbar because of its nine foot tall entryway door.
The Balboa Theater, once operated by the infamous Madam La Rue used to be next to the Inn in its early days which cemented this location as a hot spot for Hollywood starlets, Olympic athletes and travelers alike. Even famous actor Tarzan star Johnny Weismueller has stayed here several times.
In the early days, the Balboa Inn served as a hostel along the Orange County Coast for vacationers and explorers. It remains a favorite spot for travelers who want to be walking distance to everything Balboa Island and the Balboa Peninsula has to offer including the Newport Beach Pier, the Balboa Fun Zone, many famous bars and restaurants and some of Southern Californias most beautiful beaches.
