Our Mission
The Newport Harbor Foundation was created for the purpose of preserving, protecting and enhancing Newport Harbor for the benefit of the City of Newport Beach, the homeowners on or near the bay, the commercial operators in the bay, and the recreational users of the bay. The Foundation’s founders, contributors, and members are made up of individuals and business who have a long history of using and enjoying the harbor and a vested interest in its enhancement and preservation for use by current and future generations.
A letter of appreciation from Newport Beach Harbormaster Paul Blank
“On behalf of the entire City of Newport Beach Harbor Department, thank you very much for arranging financial support through the Newport Harbor Foundation for the refurbishment and upgrade to our oldest patrol vessel. The project is nearly complete, and the boat has been relaunched. An image of the vessel in its near-new condition accompanies this letter.” Read More
The Village Green – Newport Beach Water Wheel Update
Join Nancy Gardner as she chats with former Harbor Commission Chair Bill Kenney and Senior Civil Engineer John Kappeler about the upcoming Newport Beach water wheel project.
News
The 2026 State of the Bay Luncheon
We’re so grateful you joined us for the Third Annual State of the Bay Luncheon on May 13, 2026, at the beautiful Newport Harbor Yacht Club! We can’t wait to share a recap and photos from this wonderful event, made special by your presence. Stay tuned for updates, and keep an eye on your inbox for an email soon. Thank you once again!
Newport Harbor Foundation in the Media
On the Waterfront
EXAMINING LONG RANGE GOALS TO PROTECT AND PRESERVE THE NEWPORT HARBOR
For a generation of youngsters who grew up around the Newport Harbor, there’s a legacy to perpetuate. OK, maybe they’re only considered youngsters on a geologic scale, yet together they’ve accumulated decades of passion for the fabulous waterway central to our community. The goal now is to preserve it for generations to come.
We might compare it to fixing up a stately landmark home; the curb appeal is still magnificent but the bones need attention. Dennis Durgan can certainly relate to the analogy.
A residential real estate professional in the community for more than four decades, Durgan grew up on the harbor, beginning in the early 1960’s when it was a seasonal recreation destination. He learned to sail here, then went on to crew in three America’s Cup competitions working with both Ted Turner and Dennis Connor. Now it’s a cause for the future, and not just his own.
“There are numerous issues the harbor has, and will continue to have, as we move forward. There’s more and more people that want to use it,” Durgan explains. “I used to call it the sandbox. Well, the sandbox is overflowing with kids that want to play.”
“With all of their toys…” chimes in Val Lyon, like Durgan, a board member of the Newport Harbor Foundation, established in 2019.
Ah yes, all the toys…
Interview with Vice Chairman Marshall ‘Duffy’ Duffield
‘Duffy’ Duffield and his wife Terry discuss their electric Duffy boats, and their life-long connection with the Newport Harbor and the Newport Harbor Foundation.
