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X is for "X Marks the Spot": A Free to See #AtoZChallenge Post

 

Lifesize pirate figurines adorn a house in Newport Beach, California

I'm living in southern California this year, and decided to use my exploration of the area as my focus for the #AtoZChallenge. I'm concentrating on free to see places, though I will include locations that require a parking fee. This is the twenty-fourth post in the series.

I imagine I'm not the only one, but I had to take some creative license to find a place to visit for today's #AtoZChallenge letter, X. I thought of the phrase, "X marks the spot," and went with that. In my research, I learned about a cartography museum, but sadly, they are no longer in operation. Then my mind turned to pirate maps and lo and behold a Google search unearthed the Pirate House in Newport Beach, California!

The Pirate House is a private residence that certainly stands out in the neighborhood. Located at the corner of Marcus Ave and 35th Street, you can't miss it. On street parking is free, though I did have to park blocks away to find an available spot. Be sure to obey the posted signs regarding the street sweeping schedule. 

Not only are there pirates all over the exterior of the house, they are also in boats that are docked in the water near the house. 

Pirates occupy two boats in the water

The waterfront side of the house has pirates on the balconies

Pirates line the sidewalk on the side of the house
The owner of the Pirate House has certainly gone overboard with the decor! The pirates look like they've come straight out of the Pirates of the Caribbean ride at Disneyland. There is even mention of Jack Sparrow.
A headstone reads, "Captain Jack Sparrow 'Where has all the rum gone?'"
If you're headed to Newport Beach, the pirate house makes for an amusing short stop. 


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