Inspiration Point

Inspiration Point on the bluff in Corona del Mar between Narcissus and Orchid Streets offers some of the most beautiful and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean along the coast of Southern California.

In 1987, in recognition of the site’s majesty and importance, the Newport Beach Arts Commission and Parks, Beaches & Recreation Department co-sponsored a design competition to commemorate the site. The resulting commission, “Disappearing Path,” became the City’s first Art in Public Places project. The winners of the competition were the world-class collaborative team of Newton Harrison and Helen Mayer Harrison along with Cunningham Design Inc. and artists Paul Hobson and Marcello Petrocelli.

The installation includes a sand-colored concrete walkway leading from street level to a broad view plateau, teak benches, stanchions supporting a railing made of horizontal steel cables (inspired by a sailboat lifeline,) strategically placed boulders, and native, erosion-resistant landscaping. The designers of “Disappearing Path” where pioneers of the “eco-art movement” who used landscape and architectural elements to transform the original dilapidated footpath into a sublime setting recognizing both Newport’s environmental and community roots.

On the rocks below Inspiration point rest a statue of a seal created by Corona del Mar artist Kay Finch dedicated to her husbund, Braden Finch, who was active in the Corona del Mar community and efforts to preserve local beaches.

Be sure to watch the video by William Lobdell.