Neighborhood Knowledge: Michelle Linovitz

As a Corona del Mar resident and one of the area’s top real estate agents, Michelle Linovitz is an expert in the community and Cameo Shores, Cameo Highlands, Shorecliffs and Corona Highlands in particular. We asked Michelle to share some of her favorite local spots and what makes this Newport Beach community so special.

Do you have any favorite restaurants or shops in the area?

One of the great draws of Corona del Mar is its close proximity to some of the area’s best restaurants and shops. My husband and I often walk to popular coffee shop, Zinc Café & Market, enjoy wine and aperitifs at Side Door, and dine with friends at Bandera.

For interior design lovers like myself, Corona del Mar has several great shops. J. Nicolas Architectural Hardware offers one-of-a-kind, custom finishes on kitchen and bath hardware; Linden Rose & Co. is a one-stop shop for all things lighting; and Roger’s Gardens, whose garden design and plant selection draws crowds from all over the map, offers stylish decor and gifts at its boutique.

Not to be forgotten is a personal-favorite, Juxtaposition Home, a carefully curated mix of furnishings, accessories, clothing and gifts. The shop’s owner, Michele Graham, has branded her personal aesthetic of California neutrals, stripes and vintage, resulting in a cult following of local designers and tastemakers.

What is the best part about living in this community?

Homeownership in Cameo Shores, Cameo Highlands, Shorecliffs and Corona Highlands offers access to a gated private beach. Our community welcomes many tourists in the summer months, so the private beach is a perk that many of our neighbors enjoy away from the crowds.

If you live outside of the four neighborhoods mentioned above, there are two lesser-known beaches that can offer a quieter experience than Big Corona State Beach. Little Corona, east of Big Corona, has a pedestrian ramp entry off Poppy Avenue and is laden with tide pools for exploration. On the west end, Pirates Cove looks across the mouth of the harbor to famous surf break, The Wedge. The cove can be accessed via a stairwell below Lookout Point Park.

Do you have any local insider knowledge you can share with us?

The best cheeseburger in town is from The Beachcomber on Crystal Cove State Beach. The burger is an off-menu item available to locals who know to ask for it. Be sure to request bacon and blue cheese to top it off!

How do you like to spend your weekends?

My days usually start with a cappuccino from Zinc Café & Market. If I’m not showing property or hosting open house, I may go on a walk along Ocean Boulevard, hike Crystal Cove State Park, or join a spin class at Soul Cycle. Afternoons are typically reserved for barbecuing at home with friends and family, but quiet nights may end at Port Theater, a historical theater completely renovated with oversize recliners and food service.