Jazz returns to the Hyatt Newporter starting on Friday, June 11 and continuing through Friday, October 15 for the annual 2004 Summer Jazz Series hosted by The Wave 94.7. The event will feature the smooth sounds of jazz artists performing at the Summer Jazz Amphitheater as well as on the Golf Course and Festival Grounds of the Hyatt. The series will consist of 20 concerts, which will be performed consecutively on Friday nights. Season tickets are available now with individual tickets going on sale Thursday, April 15. For ticket information and prices visit www.summerjazzseries.com or call (949) 729-1234 for more details.

Food & Wine Festival

For the savvy wine connoisseur, Newport Beach is hosting its annual Food & Wine Festival June 11 through June 13 at The Balboa Bay Club & Resort. The event showcases fine wines from some of California's best wineries and Epicurean cuisine from around the world. The festival includes a grand tasting, cognac and cigar seminars and dining experiences that are highlighted by a gala dinner in the resort's Grand Ballroom. For information call (949) 630-4146, or visit the ww.balboabayclub.com.

Fashion Island Summer Concert Series

Music is in the air this summer at the Fashion Island Summer Concert Series. Starting Wednesday, July 14 through Wednesday, August 11 attendees can enjoy the music under the moon and stars every Wednesday evening in Bloomingdale's Courtyard at 7:00 p.m. With a variety of jazz, big band, pop, or classic rock n' roll, each week of entertainment is guaranteed to provide enjoyable music in a beautiful outdoor setting. Concerts are complimentary and seating is available on a first come first serve basis. Preferred seating is available and may be purchased through the Concierge at (949) 721-2000. For additional information visit www.shopfashionisland.com.

This September, Newport Beach will entice beach lovers everywhere with its annual Sandcastle Contest at Corona del Mar State Beach. This popular 40-year-old tradition draws hundreds of participants of all levels and experience to build creations in the sand. The event is scheduled from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 12. Teams begin building their creations at 11:00 a.m., and judging commences at 2:00 p.m. The cost for participants is $30 to $60 with free admission for spectators. For more information, call (949) 729-4400.

Celebrating its 16th spectacular year, The Taste of Newport, incorporating a delectable mix of good food, drink, music and fun will attract more than 75,000 people to Newport Center Drive at Fashion Island for the party of the year. Held September 19 through September 21, this event features more than 35 restaurants that serve up culinary masterpieces from the beach's finest restaurants. From Barbecue Seared Ahi and Tiramisu, to Prime Rib and Crème Brulee everyone is sure to find something pleasing to the palette. For additional information call (949) 729-4400 or visit www.newportbeach.com

Newport Beach, located 55 miles south of Los Angeles and 85 miles north of San Diego, epitomizes the true essence of Southern California living with a wide variety of visitor accommodations, attractions, world class dining and shopping, the largest small yacht harbor in the world, and inviting year-round weather. John Wayne/Orange County Airport offers more than 290 flights daily with short transfers to area hotels.

For additional information, contact the Newport Beach Conference & Visitors Bureau at (800)94-COAST or visit www.newportbeach-cvb.com.