Newport Coast Climb
Orange County's go-to road climb: Newport Coast Drive from Pacific Coast Highway up to Vista Ridge, about 3.5 miles and 915 feet with sweeping ocean views. A staple of Coffee Crew and Food Park.
A few signals on the way up · about 3.5 mi climb, ~915 ft
Newport Coast, CA
The local climb.About 3.5 miles at roughly 5 percent.
The climb has a few signaled intersections along Newport Coast Drive, so expect a stop or two on the way up. Between them it's a steady, sustained grade.
The route.
Start at Pacific Coast Highway and turn inland onto Newport Coast Drive. The road climbs steadily through the Newport Coast neighborhoods, with longer variations continuing up toward Ridge Park and Vista Ridge at the top. From the top, riders descend back to the coast or head toward the San Joaquin Hills and Irvine.
Why riders like it.
It's the benchmark climb for Irvine and Newport riders: long enough to hurt, steady enough to pace, and close to everything. At about 5 percent for roughly 3.5 miles, it rewards a steady effort, and the views back over the ocean are some of the best in Orange County. Coffee Crew and Food Park both use it.
Riding it well.
Pace yourself; the climb is long enough that going out too hard costs you near the top. Stay right, ride single file, and be ready to stop at the signaled intersections. The descent is fast, with cars turning in and out of neighborhoods, so keep your speed in check and watch the intersections on the way down.
PCH to top of Vista (bikeclimbs)Newport Coast climbs (bikeclimbs)
Ride it with a group
Group rides on this road.
Newport Coast Climb
Frequently asked questions.
How long and steep is the Newport Coast climb?
About 3.5 miles from Pacific Coast Highway up Newport Coast Drive to the top at Vista Ridge, gaining about 915 feet at an average of roughly 5 percent. It's rated a Category 3 climb.
Does the Newport Coast climb have traffic lights?
A few. Newport Coast Drive has signaled intersections along the climb, so expect a stop or two on the way up. Between them it's a steady, sustained grade.
How should I pace the Newport Coast climb?
Start steady. The climb is long enough that going out too hard costs you near the top. On the descent, keep your speed in check and watch for cars at the neighborhood intersections.
Which group rides use Newport Coast Climb?
Coffee Crew (Tuesday & Thursday at 6:15 AM, from University Dr & Campus Dr, UCI, Irvine). Food Park (Saturday at 8:45 AM, from Ralphs center, Harvard Ave & Main St, Irvine).
Local riding guide