The Balboa Island Museum has announced that it is officially changing its name to Newport Beach Museum Balboa Island, marking a significant milestone in the museum’s evolution and its expanding role within the greater Newport Beach Community.
The museum’s new sign was officially unveiled during a community celebration event where staff, board members, museum leaders and community members were in attendance.
Founded in 2014, the museum has grown from a small island history center into a regional institution that preserves, celebrates and shares the stories of Newport Beach, its neighborhoods and its maritime heritage, as well as the larger Orange County region. The broader, more inclusive name reflects that expanded focus and positions the museum for greater grant and fundraising opportunities by inviting the entire Newport Beach community to identify with the museum’s mission and support its long-term sustainability.
“While our roots will always be on Balboa Island, our mission and impact have grown far beyond it,” said longtime Balboa Island resident Shirley Pepys, Chair of Newport Beach Museum Balboa Island. “This name change honors where we began while embracing the entire demographic we serve. It also opens doors to new funding opportunities that will help us expand programs, strengthen partnerships and continue preserving the history that connects all of Newport Beach.”
The museum currently welcomes 90,000 visitors each year, with 25 percent coming from after-school programs, elementary classrooms, and ESL programs. Its commitment to education continues to grow through new partnerships and grant-funded initiatives.
The museum received an educational grant from the Exchange Club of Newport Harbor to create, print and distribute local history pamphlets to 23 third-grade classrooms across the Newport Mesa School District. Each student will receive a booklet introducing them to the history of their community, while teachers will receive companion guides. Distribution will begin at the start of the 2026-2027 school year.
“This grant allows us to impact students at a formative age,” Pepys said. “Understanding where you come from builds identity, curiosity and a sense of belonging. We’re honored to help bring local history directly into Newport classrooms.”
As part of its expanded programming, the museum is launching a new exhibit in collaboration with the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, highlighting the organization’s work rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing marine mammals along the Southern California coast. The exhibit will offer hands-on learning opportunities for families, students and visitors of all ages.
In addition to new educational initiatives, the museum will be donating $500 to the Ben Carlson Foundation, supporting ocean safety awareness and youth education in honor of fallen Newport Beach lifeguard Ben Carlson.
The museum also continues to pursue long-term goals, including the future purchase of the historic building that houses it—a building that will turn 100 in 2027.
“Our story is still being written,” Pepys said. “With the support of our members, donors and the entire Newport Beach community, we are preserving the past while building a meaningful future.”
To learn more about Balboa Island Museum, membership opportunities, and future events, please visit www.balboaislandmuseum.org.
