Every community has a place where its story began a spot that quietly anchors its identity. In Newport Beach, that place is Lower Castaways, a shoreline that longtime resident and storyteller Bill Lobdell calls our own version of Plymouth Rock. It’s a rare stretch of waterfront that holds the memory of our earliest landings, our coastal heritage, and the community spirit that has shaped generations.
As Newport Beach evolves, the question becomes: If we could preserve one defining element of our neighborhood for the next generation, what should it be?
For many, the answer is clear: the soul of Lower Castaways must endure.
The Historical Heart of Newport Beach: Lower Castaways
Lower Castaways is more than a scenic edge of Newport Bay; it's a living piece of California history. As one of the area’s earliest landing points, the site tells the story of the community’s beginnings through its rugged shoreline, timeless views, and iconic Old Landing plaque.
This sense of authenticity is what residents want future generations to inherit:
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A connection to the land
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A respect for shared history
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An appreciation for natural coastal beauty
Preserving Lower Castaways ensures that Newport Beach remains not just a destination but a place with roots.
A Thoughtful Vision for the Future: Balancing Preservation and Use
The good news? Newport Beach is taking this responsibility seriously.
The city is currently exploring a refreshed vision for Lower Castaways that keeps history at the forefront while enhancing public use in purposeful, low-impact ways. Early concepts include:
Improved Coastal Access
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Hand launch areas for kayaks & paddleboards
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Public beach access
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Enhanced walkways and decomposed granite paths
Recreational Enhancements
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Outrigger dry storage
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Bike trail access with a fix-it station
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Drinking fountain additions
Community-Centered Additions
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Shade structures
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A small, low-profile restroom building
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Lawn space with gentle berms for gatherings
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Relocation and restoration of the historic Old Landing plaque
Preservation-First Design
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Maintaining the existing seawall
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Monument entry signage that honors the site’s origin
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Open green spaces that protect coastal character
The result is a thoughtful blend of history and modern usability, proving that preservation and progress can coexist beautifully.
Why Preserving Lower Castaways Matters
Lower Castaways is one of the last places in Newport that still feels untouched, a reminder of what the coastline looked like before growth, development, and tourism took root. Preserving it allows us to:
✔ Maintain Community Identity
Generations will understand where Newport Beach began.
✔ Protect Open Coastal Space
Public, natural shoreline is a rare and irreplaceable resource.
✔ Foster Outdoor Connection
From paddlers to families to cyclists, everyone benefits from improved access.
✔ Honor Local Stories
Residents like Bill Lobdell keep our community’s history alive, and the land should reflect that legacy.
This vision respects our past while welcoming responsible enjoyment in the future, a balance that feels exactly right.
