improving the island since 1918
This is the Balboa Island Improvement Association's guide to Balboa Island. This guide offers listings of accommodations, activities, activities, maps, and travel information. Hopefully, this guide shall assist our visitors in enjoying the best of what Balboa Island has to offer. Stop by and stay a while, and see why many refer to this beautiful island as "The Host of the Coast".
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Newport Harbor 4th of July Boat paradeCalifornia's largest and one of the nation's most well established Patriotic boat parades, Newport Harbor's 4th of July Boat parade. The boat parade sees over 100+ vessels cruise through the harbor of Newport Beach, CA American Legion Yacht Club Best: Tugboat, Wooden Classic, Dinghy, Electric Power, Sail Categories: Sweepstakes Trophy, Commodores Trophy, Best theme, Best Sound / Music, Best Animation, Best Decoration, Best Costumes, Best Spirit, Spirit of Freedom |
History of Balboa Island - Come see what made this historic island great.
In 1918 the Balboa Island Improvement Association was started (and is still going strong). The BIIA was a strong motivating force in working with the City on bulkhead repair, ferry service, a sewer system, water, gas, electricity, paved streets and sidewalks, and street lighting.
Every year, The American Legion Newport Harbor Post 291 celebrates the 4th of July with a Boat Parade. The event fills the harbor with boats adorned in red-white-&-blue celebrating the time-honored Old Glory Boat Parade. 
You are in for a patriotic surprise as all kinds of boats try to outshine each other waiting for the loudest ovations from onlookers. The spirit of competition drives the participants to out-do themselves each year hoping for a trophy inscribed with “best decorated”, “outstanding music”, “finest costumes”, “most creative animation” and “greatest spirit” maybe even the Commodores Award!
The Old Glory 4th of July Parade truly began very casually in the 50’s as the “Character Boat Parade.” As the years passed, the Newport Harbor Chamber of Commerce took the helm and built her into a grand parade. Today the American Legion Yacht Club hosts the boat parade.
This year the American Legion, Newport Harbor Post 291, 15th St., Balboa Peninsula, celebrates its 84th year, with over 2,500+ members is the largest post in California and the only one in the world that has a yacht club. Everyone involved has had a taste of serving their country, whether it is directly or through families.
The All Day Gala at the American Legion begins with a pancake breakfast from 7:00 to 11:00 a.m. ($10) and a raffle. Lunch is served from 12 noon to 5:00 p.m. ($10); dinner is available. In addition, watch the Old Glory Boat parade as it cruises by the American Legion during the festivities.
For Information/Entry Forms for the Old Glory Boat Parade please contact the American Legion Newport Harbor Post office: 949-673-5070