Here’s How to Show Mom Some Love This May
Brunch spreads, ocean cruises, boutique markets and a little spa magic—this Mother’s Day, we’re taking the celebration very seriously. Whether your mom is a poolside sipper, a gallery girl, a spa queen or just someone who deserves a giant mimosa and a nap (spoiler: she is), we’ve found the best ways to celebrate her across Southern California. Let’s get to planning! Mother’s Day Southern California
SAN DIEGO
Mother’s Day Brunch at Hotel del Coronado
Treat her like the queen she is with a Mother’s Day brunch inside the historic Crown Room at Hotel del Coronado—a place where several U.S. presidents and royalty have dined. This iconic space is newly restored and ready to impress with a seafood bar, sushi and sashimi, prime carving stations and a dessert bar so extravagant you might forget to pace yourself. Top it all off with a glass of champagne (included for those 21+) and you’ve just given her a front-row seat to living her best life.
Location: Coronado
Mother’s Day Gondola Cruise
Treat Mom to something truly unforgettable this year with a Mother’s Day Gondola Ride through the scenic Coronado Cays with The Gondola Company. This dreamy 50-minute private cruise for four includes a bottle of Italian Prosecco, sparkling apple cider, See’s Candies chocolates and a gorgeous spring bouquet for Mom—plus complimentary corkage if you bring your own bottle. You can even add an extra bouquet for a little extra wow. Space is limited and reservations must be made by May 10, so book now and give Mom the gift of la dolce vita on the water.
Location: Coronado
Ultimate Mother’s Day Weekend Mixology Experience
If you’re looking for a unique way to toast the amazing women in your life, this interactive mixology workshop at Coffee Coffee in Encinitas is it. Led by Gather and Toast’s expert mixologist, you’ll learn how to craft seasonal cocktails from scratch—think bright, refreshing flavors perfect for spring. Whether you’re mastering your mojito or shaking up a spicy margarita, the intimate vibe and hands-on format make it feel like a private party. Bring your mom, your sisters, your friends—or just come ready to sip and celebrate the art of mixing things up.
Location: Encinitas
Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet at Park Hyatt Aviara
Over in Carlsbad, Park Hyatt Aviara is delivering a five-star buffet experience in one of the dreamiest resort settings around. Think coastal gardens, ocean breezes and a buffet lineup that covers everything from freshly shucked oysters to carving stations stacked with prime cuts. It’s a classic Sunday brunch situation—with just the right touch of resort glam—that’ll leave Mom (and the whole crew) full, happy and wondering why every Sunday isn’t like this.
Location: Carlsbad
Mimosas and Spa Giveaways at The Smoking Gun
If your family motto is “come for the brunch, stay for the arcade,” The Smoking Gun in the Gaslamp Quarter is where you need to be. This casual-cool spot is celebrating Mom with a DIY mimosa bar (yes, please) and a raffle for spa gift cards. Brunch favorites like the Roxanne and Avocado-ration sandwiches come stacked and delicious, and after a few rounds of ping pong or old-school arcade games, you’ll feel like you celebrated her in true playful style.
Location: Gaslamp Quarter
Seafood Soiree at George’s at the Cove
For a classic SoCal experience with a side of ocean breeze, George’s at the Cove is serving a three-course prix-fixe brunch that’s equal parts indulgent and polished. Between the decadent pastries, main courses like Short Rib Hash and Brioche French Toast and views of the sparkling Pacific, it’s the kind of brunch that feels like a mini-vacation. Hot tip: if you’re craving something more casual, George’s Ocean Terrace and Level2 open at 11 a.m. with à la carte options and just as much coastal magic.
Location: La Jolla
Mother’s Day Dinner at Cloak & Petal
If Mom’s got a thing for sushi—or she just deserves an afternoon that feels as fresh and lively as she is—book a table at Cloak & Petal. This Little Italy restaurant’s special Mother’s Day menu is packed with tasty, flavor-packed bites like the Cherry Wood Smoked Chirashi Bowl and the Mamacita Roll, plus cocktail specials that are basically spring in a glass. (Looking at you, Strawberry Basil Rose Sangria.) This isn’t just a place for a celebratory meal—it’s a whole vibe.
Location: Little Italy
ORANGE COUNTY
Mother’s Day Brunch at Ysidora
Tucked inside the Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, Ysidora is serving up a special Mother’s Day pre-fixe brunch that combines charming Spanish-style architecture, sun-dappled patios and seriously good eats. Bonus: Mom’s first mimosa is complimentary (cue the cheers). The charming courtyard vibe of Ysidora feels like a low-key European getaway without ever leaving Orange County.
Local Insight: If Mom’s the type who loves a little “me time,” gift her a peaceful start to her day with a free Vinyasa yoga class on the outdoor spa deck, which takes place every Sunday at 8 a.m.
Location: San Juan Capistrano
Voluspa Mother’s Day Festivities at Fashion Island
Because Mom deserves more than a last-minute bouquet, Voluspa at Fashion Island is making it easy to spoil her in style. From May 4-10, their chic boutique located across the koi pond is turning into a full-on celebration zone with complimentary gift wrap, hand-wrapped presents and a luxe Mountain Lavender Chamomile Bath Soak for shoppers who spend $150 or more. And if you’re looking to make a whole thing out of it, swing by their Sip + Shop event on Sunday, May 4 from 12-3 p.m. for lavender lattes, chamomile tea, dreamy gifts galore and hourly raffles for lucky shoppers. Come back on Saturday, May 10 for the calligrapher event, where you can sip, shop and have your Mother’s Day gift personalized with beautiful handwritten tags.
Location: Newport Beach
Celebrate Mom With a Moke Cruise Around Newport Beach
This Mother’s Day, swap the traditional brunch for something a little more adventurous—like a sunny, seaside cruise through Newport Beach in a colorful Moke! Originally designed in England in the 1960s, these electric low-speed vehicles have become a favorite way to explore coastal cities, and Newport Beach is no exception. With their vibrant hues and open-air design, Mokes are street-legal (topping out at 25 mph) and the perfect stylish ride for a carefree day out.
Pick up your Moke and cruise down the Balboa Peninsula, soaking in the ocean views and charming neighborhoods. Ferry across to Balboa Island and treat Mom to a sweet stop at Sugar ’n Spice for a famous frozen banana. With a 25-mile battery range, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the Balboa Peninsula. Snap photos by the pier and create unforgettable Mother’s Day memories—all with the sea breeze in your hair.
Location: Newport Beach
Pageant of the Masters Tickets
For the mama who loves experiences, snag discounted tickets to Laguna Beach’s famous Pageant of the Masters. Happpening July 5-August 29, this is one of the most unique productions in the world! This year’s show, “Gold Coast: Treasures of California,” takes audiences on an artistic road trip through the Golden State. Think living paintings, live orchestras and an outdoor amphitheater under the stars.
Pro tip: grab your tickets early—this show always sells out. Their Mother’s Day offer runs now through May 11, 2025. Readers can save 20% on tickets using the code MOM25
Location: Laguna Beach
Mother’s Day Marketplace at Lido Marina Village
Shopping, flowers and a side of harbor breeze? Yes, please. The Female Maker Market is popping up at Lido Marina Village on May 10. Its bringing local artisans, a DIY flower bar, live poetry sessions and complimentary coffee for early birds. It’s the kind of easygoing, heartwarming experience by the bay that’ll have Mom smiling all day long.
Local Insight: Want to make a full day out of it? Check out our guide to a girls’ day at Lido Marina Village!
Location: Newport Beach
Mother’s Day at VEA Newport Beach
If you’re looking to seriously impress Mom this year, VEA Newport Beach has you covered. Start with a spa day at Spa VEA—book any treatment from May 8-11 and score a complimentary Voluspa candle (just mention code “DELIGHT” at check-in). Think glowing skin, good vibes and major “favorite child” energy.
On May 11, treat her to an ocean-view brunch at VIEW, for the new spring/summer men. Its packed with fresh, seasonal dishes that’ll have everyone reaching for their phones (and their forks). And because it’s all about the details, don’t miss the embroidery station at VIEW. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. make complimentary embroidered keepsakes and glasses of Mumm’s Sparkling Brut. Plus, specials on Perrier Jouet will keep the celebration going all day long.
Location: Newport Beach
Mother’s Day Market at Dana Point Harbor
Celebrate Mom in style at Dana Point Harbor’s Mother’s Day Modern Makers Mart on Saturday, May 10, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This free outdoor market at Bump Out Park brings together 50+ local vendors, live music, and serious SoCal sunshine. Snag handmade gifts, sip beer and wine in the new garden, and enjoy bites from Camich Mexican Food Truck. Kids can get crafty for free, and Mom can strike a pose next to the iconic Dana Point VW Bus. Bonus: Proceeds benefit the Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group, so you’re giving back while treating Mom right. RSVP encouraged at Eventbrite; biking or walking is highly recommended!
Location: Dana Point
LOS ANGELES
Mimosa Brunch Cruise in Marina del Rey
If Mom’s ideal day involves bottomless mimosas and coastal breezes, book her a spot aboard the Mimosa Brunch Cruise out of Fisherman’s Village. This two-hour sail pairs a freshly prepared brunch buffet. Think entrees, salads, desserts, and all the coffee and tea you can handle—with unlimited bubbly. Enjoy soaking in the sweeping views of Marina del Rey’s sparkling harbor with loved ones. Live entertainment keeps the vibe lively, and every table gets a guaranteed spot to soak up the sunshine. It’s basically like whisking her away on vacation—only you can leave the passport at home.
Location: Marina del Rey
Mother’s Day Pop-Up Paint & Sip Brunch
Art supplies, brunch bites and mimosas? Say less. At this downtown LA Mother’s Day pop-up, you’ll spend the afternoon sipping wine, creating colorful masterpieces and snacking on mini frittatas, shrimp and grits shooters, yogurt parfaits and more. It’s low-pressure, high-fun energy, whether Mom’s a seasoned painter or just excited for an excuse to toast with a paintbrush in one hand and a glass of rosé in the other. Bonus: the event’s vibey, social atmosphere makes it perfect for group hangs or a special mother-daughter date.
Location: DTLA
Mother’s Day Brunch at Descanso
Turn up the heat—literally—with a Mother’s Day brunch at Descanso, where live grilling happens right at your table. The multi-course menu brings the flavor with short rib hash, huevos rancheros and cinnamon-sugar churro bites. Live music plays from noon to 3 p.m., setting the mood for laughs, toasts and a whole lot of “mmm.” Bottomless mimosas and brunch cocktails keep the celebration flowing, whether you’re in Costa Mesa or LA. Because brunch tastes better when someone’s cooking in front of you—and Mom doesn’t lift a finger.
Locations: Costa Mesa and Los Angeles
Celebratory Dinner at Lawry’s the Prime Rib
Sometimes the classics are classic for a reason. Lawry’s in Beverly Hills is pulling out all the stops this Mother’s Day with their signature prime rib experience. Enjoy perfectly roasted Akaushi beef, carved tableside. Its paired with fluffy mashed Idaho potatoes, Yorkshire pudding and the famous spinning bowl salad. Pro tip: Start with the shrimp cocktail and end with a slice of Chocolate Fantasy Cake à la mode. With its old-school glamour, white-tablecloth service and comfort-food-on-steroids menu, Lawry’s delivers a full-on feast that feels totally celebratory.
Location: Beverly Hills
Parent + Child Cooking Classes at The Gourmandise School
Ditch the store-bought cards and make something together this year. The Gourmandise School at Santa Monica Place is offering hands-on parent and child cooking classes throughout May. Try sweet and savory options like homemade pan pizza, French macarons, sushi rolls and cookies and brownies. Each 2.5-hour class blends learning and laughter for a perfect parent-child bonding moment over flour and frosting. You’ll leave with new skills, sweet memories—and something delicious that won’t survive the car ride home. For foodie families—or anyone who loves a little messy kitchen fun—it’s a Mother’s Day memory worth making.
Location: Santa Monica
PALM SPRINGS
Mother’s Day Weekend Market at The Shops on El Paseo
Palm Desert’s chicest stretch is rolling out a full weekend of festivities just for Mom—and it’s basically a curated dream day. Kick things off with a Mommy & Me yoga session to get grounded and centered, then stroll The Shops on El Paseo with a coffee in hand (free for early guests, courtesy of The Watering Haul!). A pop-up flower cart lets you build a custom bouquet that’s prettier than anything you’d find at the grocery store, and the vintage photo bus parked onsite means instant, frame-worthy memories. Add in boutique shopping, sunny skies and stylish little touches everywhere you turn, and you’ve got a celebration that feels effortless and unforgettable.
Location: Palm Desert
Mother’s Day Family Feast at Tía Carmen
Chef Angelo Sosa’s Tía Carmen at Grand Hyatt Indian Wells isn’t just serving brunch this Mother’s Day—it’s throwing a full-blown celebration of Southwestern flavors and desert elegance. Settle in amid lush resort grounds and dig into a lineup of seasonal dishes designed to wow, from vibrant salads to signature mains with bold, earthy flavors. Toast Mom with sparkling mimosas, linger over hand-crafted desserts and soak up the relaxed luxury of it all. If you’re after a brunch that’s refined, heartfelt and seriously delicious, this is your move.
Location: Indian Wells
Mother’s Day Brunch at Porta Via
Treat Mom to a memorable brunch at Porta Via. This beloved neighborhood restaurant is known for its Italian-inspired, California-fresh cuisine. On Sunday, May 11, from morning until 2PM, Porta Via is serving a special Mother’s Day brunch menu. Enjoy fresh-pressed organic juices, signature craft cocktails like the Blood Orange Mimosa and PV Bloody Mary. Don’t miss the elevated lineup of brunch favorites. Try dishes like sweet dishes like Grand Marnier french toast, or the savory crispy crab cakes. With hand-picked farmers market produce, wild-caught seafood, and all-natural meats, every dish honors Chef Peter Garland’s commitment to seasonal, simply prepared ingredients.
Mother’s Day Sound Bath
For the mom who really needs a breather (and honestly, don’t they all?), a sound bath might just be the best gift you can give. This calming evening session features soothing vibrations from singing bowls, gongs and chimes, helping to quiet the mind and relax the body at a soul-deep level. Set in a tranquil, welcoming space at MyoKinetix in Palm Desert, the experience is donation-based, making it both accessible and meaningful. It’s the ultimate way for her to slow down, breathe deep and soak in some much-needed peace—and trust us, she’ll be thanking you for days.
Location: Palm Desert
Mineral Water Yoga at The Spa at Séc-he
Kick off your Saturday morning on May 10 with a little self-care meets self-love. Attend The Spa at Séc-he‘s Mineral Water Yoga led by instructor Vanessa Johnson. This rejuvenating 45-minute session takes place right in the spa’s sacred mineral pool. Here naturally heated, mineral-rich waters help melt away tension while you move. This class is designed to boost strength, balance, and flexibility without ever feeling like a workout grind. This water-based yoga class is perfect for anyone looking to stretch it out, heal, or simply find a little zen with Mom. Spots are intentionally kept intimate—only six guests per class. You’ll get personalized guidance and plenty of space to float, breathe and flow.
Location: Palm Springs
Saguaro Drag Brunch Experience
The Saguaro Palm Springs is serving full sparkle this Mother’s Day weekend with their iconic drag brunch—and trust us, you don’t want to miss it. Doors swing open at 11 a.m., just in time to grab a mimosa (or three). By noon, the queens hit the stage for a show packed with high-energy performances, fierce fashion, and unapologetic fabulousness. Pair the entertainment with a brunch menu that’s just as bold as the queens themselves. You’ll have a morning made for laughter, selfies, and maybe even a few happy tears. Bottomless mimosas and larger-than-life vibes are included—you just bring the love.
Location: Palm Springs
