Treats abound on Balboa

The most difficult decision when visiting Balboa Island is where to buy a Balboa Bar, a delectable ice cream treat named after this charming little slice of Newport Beach.

Two ice cream shops, Dad’s and Sugar ‘N’ Spice, sell the generous slab of vanilla ice cream on a stick that’s dipped in chocolate, then smothered with the topping of your choice — crushed Oreos, nuts, chocolate sprinkles or some other sinful pleasure. (Don’t even think about the calories.)

The Dad’s sign claims it’s the “original” and “world’s best,” while Sugar ‘N’ Spice boasts celebrity status with an autographed picture of the cast of “The O.C.” in its front window. While each place has its aficionados, in my book you’re good with either one.

Once you’ve made your ice cream selection, the rest of the island’s a breeze, literally. Nestled in the middle of Newport Bay, coastal breezes keep the island cool, making it the perfect place to walk, shop, eat and play.

For locals who know Balboa but not its specifics, the island is almost two miles in circumference and is the largest of the area’s three islands. Balboa is dotted with charming Cape Cod-style cottages and larger multimillion-dollar rebuilds. Every garden is awash with color from the vast array of flowers in bloom. Everything seems to grow here.

The island’s main commercial district is Marine Avenue, where shops and restaurants abound. The boutique Even Sisters is a popular stop with young, fun beach clothes and accessories. If you like Paul Frank, you’ll find plenty of it here.

Food-wise, your choices range from Chinese to Italian to Mexican to American diner. Wilma’s Patio, which has been around since 1975, is something of an institution. According to its website, Wilma’s Sunday breakfasts were once so popular that the island’s Catholic church had to lock its door to keep parishioners from skipping out early to get a seat.

No visit to Balboa Island would be complete without a trip on the ferry that carries bikes, cars and pedestrians from the island to Newport Peninsula. The crossing takes about three minutes and gives you a view of the harbor, its many boats and the occasional sea lion frolicking in the water.

The beautiful views, salty air and sound of seagulls may just inspire you to head back to the island for yet another Balboa Bar — even if you’re a Newport Beach resident.

NANCY AZIZ writes for OCLNN.com.