The Newport Beach California Temple is one of the most picturesque temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Located in the coastal city of Newport Beach, it was the sixth temple built in California, the fourth built in Southern California, and the 122nd dedicated temple of the Church. Known for its beautiful pink granite exterior, peaceful gardens, and location overlooking Orange County, the temple has become a cherished landmark for members throughout Southern California.
A Brief History
President Gordon B. Hinckley announced the Newport Beach California Temple on April 21, 2001, the same day the Redlands California Temple and Sacramento California Temple were announced. The temple was planned to better serve the rapidly growing membership in Orange County and reduce travel to the Los Angeles California Temple.
Obtaining approval for the temple required close cooperation with the local community. After public meetings and discussions with city officials, the Church agreed to several design modifications, including changing the exterior color to a softer earth-tone shade and reducing the height of the spire from the original proposal to 90 feet. These changes helped gain final approval from the Newport Beach City Council in November 2002.
Groundbreaking services were held on August 15, 2003, with Elder Duane B. Gerrard presiding. During construction, workers placed the angel Moroni statue atop the temple on January 13, 2005, an event remembered by many because a remarkable solar halo briefly appeared around the sun during the installation. Following a 28-day public open house from July 23 through August 20, 2005, President Gordon B. Hinckley dedicated the temple on August 28, 2005, making it the 122nd dedicated temple of the Church.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
One of the Newport Beach California Temple's most distinctive features is its elegant Salisbury pink granite exterior, quarried in North Carolina. Combined with lush landscaping, fountains, and mature trees, the temple creates a peaceful oasis in the heart of Orange County.
The temple features a graceful single attached tower topped with the angel Moroni and contains approximately 17,800 square feet. Inside are two progressive instruction rooms, three sealing rooms, and a baptistry. Although smaller than many California temples, its thoughtful design efficiently serves thousands of members throughout the region.
Another unique aspect is the temple's hilltop location overlooking portions of Newport Beach and Irvine. The beautifully landscaped grounds are open to visitors and have become a favorite place for quiet reflection, photography, and enjoying Southern California's pleasant climate. The temple currently serves members from 11 stakes across South Orange County and Long Beach.
Visiting the Temple
The Newport Beach California Temple is located at 2300 Bonita Canyon Drive in Newport Beach, California. The temple does not have a visitors' center, arrival center, patron housing, or an on-site distribution center. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the beautifully landscaped grounds, fountains, and peaceful atmosphere surrounding the temple.
Fun Facts
- Sixth temple built in California.
- Fourth temple built in Southern California.
- 122nd dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Announced on April 21, 2001.
- Groundbreaking held on August 15, 2003.
- Dedicated by President Gordon B. Hinckley on August 28, 2005.
- Public open house lasted 28 days.
- Built on an 8.8-acre property.
- Approximately 17,800 square feet.
- Features two progressive instruction rooms, three sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
- Exterior finished with Salisbury pink granite from North Carolina.
- The temple's spire was reduced to 90 feet after collaboration with the local community.
Final Thoughts
The Newport Beach California Temple beautifully combines elegant architecture, peaceful surroundings, and a remarkable history of cooperation with its local community. Since its dedication in 2005, it has provided a sacred place of worship for thousands of Latter-day Saints throughout Orange County. Whether you're attending the temple or simply walking its beautiful grounds, the Newport Beach California Temple is a memorable stop on any temple journey.
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