Opinion: Let Newport Beach Decide Our Future — Snug Harbor Surf Park Is the Right Move for Our City
By Newport Beach City Councilmember Erik Weigand
On Tuesday night, our Council Chambers were packed — standing room only. And that’s a good thing. A full house means our community is engaged, and we heard from all sides about the proposed Snug Harbor Surf Park.
Roughly two-thirds of the speakers were Newport Beach residents who stood up in strong support of the project. The remaining one-third, the majority of whom don’t live in Newport Beach, opposed it. And that’s fine, too. But at the end of the day, it’s Newport Beach residents who should decide Newport Beach’s future.
Let’s Set the Record Straight
There’s been a lot of misinformation circulating about this project. So, let’s clear a few things up.
Loss of golf? No.
The project preserves golf for those who enjoy it, it simply modernizes and right-sizes it for today’s needs.
Increased noise? No.
The surf park will not increase noise. Anyone who lives here already knows the sound of planes overhead — that’s far louder than the quiet, consistent rhythm of small, controlled surf waves.
Increased traffic? No!
Traffic won’t worsen. The site already generates consistent daily trips from the driving range and golf operations. Independent analysis confirmed there was no increase.
Loss of open space? No.
The 15-acre site is already developed. It’s not open space; it’s a golf course and parking lots. The project enhances public accessibility and aesthetics on a property that’s long overdue for reinvestment.
Water Efficiency Will Improve
Right now, all the water that hits the golf course simply runs off. With the surf park, water will be managed responsibly and recycled through the Groundwater Replenishment System — one of the most advanced purification systems in the world. Newport Beach continues to lead in sustainability, and this project strengthens that leadership.
Beware of Paid Signature Gatherers
In the coming weeks, you may see paid signature gatherers trying to overturn the Council’s approval and place the project on the ballot. They’ll likely tell you this is about “affordable housing.” That’s simply not true. There is no affordable housing component to this project. Ironically, the effort is being funded by an out-of-town developer who builds high-density housing elsewhere.
This is not about affordable housing — it’s about outside interests trying to disrupt a good project Newport residents support.
A Unique Opportunity for Newport Beach
Change is coming to this site — with or without the surf park. The land will redevelop. The real question is how and into what.
The Snug Harbor Surf Park represents the very best version of that change:
A state-of-the-art, world-class facility reflecting Newport’s surf culture.
A safe, controlled environment where our firefighters, lifeguards, and junior guards can train year-round.
A resource for local high school surf and golf teams to practice close to home.
A thoughtful, sustainable plan that will enhance property values and preserve our community character.
What we don’t want is another big-box store — and yes, at one point, Costco tried to get this site.
Newport Beach has always been about quality: in design, in recreation, and in community. Snug Harbor keeps that legacy alive and ensures that the next generation can enjoy the best of Newport right here at home.
Let’s move forward together and keep Newport, Newport.