Whether You’re on a Boat or at a Waterfront Restaurant, These Viewing Spots Offer Front-Row Seats!
Whether you prefer dining at a restaurant, hanging on a boat with friends or casually strolling through town, we know all the best spots to watch this year’s 114th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. Dine, boat or park at these local favorite spots around town to get the absolute best view of this year’s boat parade. Happy holidays!
Dine + Watch
Nobu Newport Beach
Elevate your festive evening with dinner at Nobu Newport Beach. This two-story location offers a prime viewing spot for the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. You’ll definitely want to make a reservation in advance at this sleek and stunning hotspot.
Lido Bottle Works
Michelin-recognized and one of Yelp’s “Top 100 Places to Eat in the US,” Lido Bottle Works now celebrates five years of culinary expertise with craft beers, wine and seasonal eats. Cozy vibes, farm-to-table cuisine and waterfront views make this hotspot a can’t-miss dining destination during the boat parade.
Louie’s by the Bay
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A modern Italian steakhouse, holiday lights and harbor views? We can’t dream up a better situation. You’ll feel right at home at this cozy dining destination. Sip a Bullseye Negroni and dig into carbonara as the bright and decorative boats float by.
Harborside
Located within the historic Balboa Pavilion, Harborside offers award-winning seafood and a California wine selection. It’s just steps from the Balboa Island Ferry, and it’s bound to have a grand view of the boats on the bay during this year’s parade.
A+O Restaurant | Bar
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Snuggle up around the outdoor fire pits with a glass of wine in hand at Balboa Bay Resort’s A+O Restaurant | Bar. The restaurant’s casual California vibe paired with live music is sure to please every member of your crew this holiday season.
Boat and Watch
Vision Electric Boat Rental
Cruise the harbor this season in your very own electric boat! Vision Electric Boat Rental in Lido Marina Village boasts a colorful fleet of vessels available for rent. Each one can accommodate up to 10 passengers and can be decorated with a balloon garland for extra merriment!
City Experiences
For an epic view of the parade from the comfort of a luxury yacht, book one of City Experiences’ festive holiday excursions. From themed brunch cruises to elegant dinner cruises, this on-the-water events company is sure to bring you some holiday cheer.
Davey’s Locker
Situated in the heart of the historic Balboa Village, Davey’s Locker offers an abundance of boats for rent that can accommodate almost any size group. So gather your friends this season and set sail on the bay on your very own electric boat or private yacht.
Captain Newport
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Looking to keep things festive and fun? Captain Newport offers a one-of-a-kind cruise experience on your very own private charter. There’s no better way to sip back, relax and watch the boats cruise by! Rent a luxury yacht for you and your friends and live the high life this holiday season.
Gondola Adventures
Cruise with your Mrs. Claus during the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade in a romantic gondola! Gondola Adventures’ Parade of Lights Cruise includes hot cider or hot cocoa, Christmas treats and a spectacular view of the parade. Plus, a gondola cruise makes for the perfect date night.
Park and Watch
Balboa Island
Take a stroll down Balboa Island’s charming Marine Avenue, grab dinner at one of the many family-owned restaurants and enjoy a night by the harbor.
Marina Park
Shop from local vendors at the Marina Park Holiday Market on opening night, then grab a seat on the grass for a prime view of the parade. Plus, your kids will love the nautical-themed playground!
Lido Marina Village
Get some last-minute holiday shopping done at Lido Marina Village, then snag a table at one of the center’s many bayside restaurants. There’s no better place to watch the decorated boats set sail.
This article is brought to you by one of the many talented writers associated with Locale Magazine! We are a group of locals (whether born and raised or transplanted) who love this county we now call home!
