We paid nearly $200 for a night at a waterfront "super site" at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina. While there was much to like about the sprawling park in Newport Beach, it ultimately didn't live up to the sky-high price.

First, the plus side. As advertised, it's got loads of amenities:

• A lovely pool area, complete with hot tub and ping pong table
• Fire rings on the beach (tip: reserve in advance during busy summer months)
• Back Bay Bistro is a short walk from the park
• Cottages are available on site
• Good WiFi
• Daily activities including water aerobics, hot cocoa social hours, family bingo and adult painting parties
• Laundry facilities, nice restrooms and a gym
• Water sports rentals on the beach include standup paddle boards and kayaks

Some features are only offered in the summer season, including movies on the beach and a game room/video arcade.

When we first parked, the vista from our site was pretty thrilling, especially as a California sunset lit up the scene. But our site fronted a busy walkway, so there was a steady stream of folks strolling past. And above, we were in the flight path for a nearby airport. Then, our peaceful sleep was interrupted by weed whackers and leaf blowers at the crack of 8 a.m. Yes, they were finished in a matter of minutes, but left behind clumps of grass that needed to be stepped around.

These might sound like minor complaints, but when you're paying a premium, it's fair to expect a gold standard, right? There are sites at this resort that are less expensive, but they're not right on the water.

Read more RV Park reviews:

• Anaheim Harbor RV Park, near Disneyland
• Marina Dunes, Monterey Bay, Calif.
• Sam's Family Spa, Desert Hot Springs, Calif.
• Point of Rocks, Prescott, Ariz.
• Rancho Sedona, Ariz.
• Monte Bello, Taos, N.M.
• Happy Traveler, Palm Springs, Calif.

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