Aerial black and white photograph of a coastal town with a marina, boats, buildings, and a pier extending into the ocean.

Our Story

Logo for Doryman's Oceanfront Inn with elegant script text in dark red color.
Vintage black and white photo of a downtown street scene with cars parked along the curb, and storefronts including a drugstore, soda fountain, and cafes, labeled 'McFadden Building 62'.

A New Chapter, Timeless Charm

The next era of Doryman’s Oceanfront Inn began with restoration and reimagination—honoring the past while embracing modern hospitality.

  • Rooms were outfitted with Victorian-style furnishings and vintage-inspired decor. Marble sunken tubs, fireplaces, and etched-glass detailing were also added during its restoration.

  • The design carefully balanced historic character with present-day comfort, creating a uniquely intimate coastal escape.

  • On the ground floor, 21 Oceanfront Restaurant continues to serve classic steak and seafood dishes in an elegant, Victorian setting.

  • Today, the Doryman’s Oceanfront Inn is:

    • A romantic retreat for couples and travelers

    • A landmark of Balboa Peninsula, featured in travel guides and recommended for those seeking an authentic seaside experience

    • A place where Newport’s fishing heritage and timeless luxury meet at the water’s edge

Black and white photograph of a corner storefront with signs for soda fountain, Moore's confectionery, and Coca-Cola, with vintage cars parked outside and a lamppost in the foreground, labeled Newport, Calif.

A Legacy by the Sea

Rooted in Newport Beach history, Doryman’s Oceanfront Inn stands as a tribute to the city’s coastal heritage and enduring charm.

  • Built in 1921, the building originally served as a bunkhouse for the Dory Fishing Fleet—a group of independent fishermen who began selling their daily catch directly on the beach in 1891.

  • Strategically located across from the Newport Beach Pier, it played a vital role in supporting the local fishing community.

  • The structure reflected the character of the early 20th century: modest, functional, and closely tied to the rhythms of the Pacific.

  • The original bones of the building—its woodwork, layout, and coastal position—remained intact, preserving the spirit of old Newport.

Black and white photograph of a crowded beach scene with umbrellas, people in swimsuits, and a boardwalk with shops and buildings in the background.
Black and white illustration of a large, historic, multi-story building with a balcony or verandah, set against a hilly or mountainous landscape.

“What a wonderful hotel this is. The Doryman is beautiful and the location is perfect!”