Newport Beach is a fantastic place for city tours because of its mix of lively neighborhoods, scenic beaches, and vibrant local spots. Whether you’re into active adventures or leisurely explorations, there’s something for all. We particularly like the scavenger hunt experiences because they turn sightseeing into a fun, hands-on game, perfect for groups and families. For instance, the Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Costa Mesa offers a relaxed way to see the city at your own pace. These interactive tours offer a different perspective than traditional walking or bus tours, making them perfect for those who enjoy a bit of competition and creativity.
Newport Beach is also known for its charming neighborhoods, stylish shops, and beautiful parks, making it ideal for exploring through unique activities. We recommend these scavenger hunts because they combine technology, local exploration, and playful challenges, all for just $10 per person. Whether you want to race your friends or just enjoy a relaxed afternoon, these options add a fresh twist to city sightseeing. Now, let’s take a closer look at each tour to see which one best suits your style.
1. Scavenger Hunt in Huntington Beach by Operation City Quest

At number 1, this Scavenger Hunt in Huntington Beach offers a lively way to explore a nearby city that’s part of the Newport Beach area. For around $10 per person, you use your smartphone to find items, solve riddles, and complete funny challenges across the city. The activity lasts about 2 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized experience — it’s limited to just your group, and a remote guide is available via chat for tips and tricks. The app is simple to download, and you can start, pause, or restart the game whenever you like. It’s ideal for families, friends, or small groups who want a playful, interactive way to learn about Huntington Beach. One drawback is the review rating of 2.0/5 based on just one review, so it might be a hit-or-miss depending on your expectations.
Bottom line: If you’re seeking a budget-friendly, flexible activity that emphasizes fun and interaction, this scavenger hunt could be a good choice. Just keep in mind the limited reviews before booking.
2. Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Costa Mesa by Crazy Dash

At number 2, the Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Costa Mesa offers a laid-back, lighthearted way to explore the city’s streets. Also priced at $10 per person and lasting around 2 hours, this tour uses an app where you submit photos of items and complete challenges to earn points. The game is designed to be flexible—you can choose the order in which you find things, making it perfect for spontaneous explorers.
While this tour has no reviews yet, it stands out for its easygoing style that appeals to casual players. During the activity, a remote host is available to chat and help, adding a touch of guidance without overwhelming the experience. The live rankings at the end add a fun competitive edge, especially if you’re with friends or family who enjoy a friendly contest. This scavenger hunt suits those who want a relaxed, playful way to discover Costa Mesa without the pressure of a formal tour.
Bottom line: It’s a straightforward, low-stakes activity that’s perfect for a fun afternoon. Great for families or groups who want to keep it simple and playful.
3. Explore Costa Mesa with a Scavenger Hunt by Operation City Quest
Finally, at number 3, this Explore Costa Mesa with a Scavenger Hunt offers a similar experience to the first but with some added flexibility in the game. Like the Huntington Beach version, this activity costs $10 per person and lasts about 2 hours. Participants will use an app to find objects, complete challenges, and rack up points, all while enjoying the sights of Costa Mesa.
What makes this tour appealing is the consistent format and the presence of a remote host to assist along the way. Because it’s run by Operation City Quest, it benefits from a straightforward, familiar platform that many players find reliable. The interactive element of live rankings adds a competitive twist, making it engaging for groups who like a little friendly rivalry. It’s a good entry point for travelers who want an organized yet flexible way to explore without the fuss of traditional guided tours.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for a convenient, affordable way to see Costa Mesa and prefer a structured game with some competitive fun, this scavenger hunt fits the bill.
How to Choose the Best City Tour in Newport Beach
When selecting a city tour, think about your budget, interests, and how active you want your experience to be. For a fun, interactive activity that keeps things simple, the Crazy Dash in Costa Mesa is perfect. If you prefer a more personalized, guided scavenger hunt, then the Operation City Quest options and Explore Costa Mesa are excellent choices.
Consider your group’s size and activity level; all these options are relatively informal, but the Huntington Beach hunt involves chatting with a remote guide, which may appeal if you like a bit of interaction. For those on a tight schedule or with a small budget, all options come in around the $10 per person mark, making them accessible. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred time slot.
To sum it up, Newport Beach and its surroundings offer diverse ways to explore beyond typical tours. If you want a relaxed, playful introduction to Costa Mesa, Crazy Dash is a good fit. For those seeking a more structured or personalized scavenger hunt, the Operation City Quest options deliver a reliable and engaging experience. Whatever your style, booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these affordable, fun activities that add a fresh twist to your Newport Beach adventure.
