Add These Activities to Your Holiday-Do List!
Whether you are returning home for the holidays or searching for the ultimate staycation spot, Newport Beach is a dream destination for all. With the famous beaches, quaint coffee shops and harborfront restaurants, there is plenty to do in this coastal town (and even more ways to explore). Should you choose to walk the shops by foot, sightsee on a boat or cruise around town in a Moke, here’s how to live like a local in Newport Beach this holiday season!
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Rent a Newport Beach Moke
Explore the sights of Newport Beach in a fun and functional Moke! This style of transportation originated in England in 1964, but over time, their cuteness caught on and Mokes started popping up around the world, eventually making their way to Newport Beach. A Moke is classified as an electric low-speed vehicle and is street legal with a top speed of 25 mph. With bold and bright colors, you can explore the city in style. Since Moke are electric and have a range of 25 miles, you can cruise up and down the Balboa Peninsula all in a day’s drive. Drive around the neighborhoods to see some of the best Christmas lights in Orange County, get a frozen banana from the legendary Sugar n’ Spice banana stand, then stop in for a seasonal coffee from Huskins!
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Grab a Treat from Rye Goods and Walk Around Lido Marina
Just in case the harbor views, delicious dining and holiday decor wasn’t reason enough to visit Lido Marina Village, the baked treats at Rye Goods gives you another motive to stop by. This organic sourdough bakery and deli only uses fresh, seasonal ingredients to honor whatever season we are in. From sweet scones and seasonal cakes to fresh baguettes and yes–even sticky buns, Rye Goods is a must-try! Grab yourself a sweet treat or a savory croissant and do some holiday shopping at the trendy shops around Lido.
Cruise Around on a Vision Electric Boat
Since friends and family will be back in town for the holidays, it’s a perfect time to get the gang together for a boat cruise. Located in the center of Lido Marina Village, Vision Electric Boat Rentals has no shortage of selection when it comes to their fleet! You can choose from bubble gum pink, baby blue or another fun colored “Fantail boat.” The open top is perfect for sightseeing as you cruise around the marina while admiring all of Newport’s stunning Christmas decor.
Dine at Lido Bottle Works
This high-profile eatery offers a culinary experience of cooking, eating and adventure. Lido Bottle Works believes people, food and drink should be ‘Genuinely Good Together.’ Not only will the waterfront view put you at ease from the stress that comes with the holidays, more importantly, their unique dishes are prepared with intention by using local and sustainable ingredients. They also cater private events!
Coffee at Vacancy Coffee
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Named after the vacant space they were in search of, Vacancy Coffee brings people together over the appreciation of quality brews. Located on Pacific Coast Hwy, it’s a prime place to stop in for a fresh cup of coffee or some warm herbal tea before heading to the beach for an afternoon stroll. Their merchandise also makes a great gift for the coffee-lover in your life.
Wine at the Lido Tasting Room
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The holidays aren’t complete without a little vino. Try gathering the group and enjoy an intimate ambiance while sipping on some of the best wine in Newport Beach. The Lido Tasting Room offers a re-imagined experience. From private wine tastings and exclusive seminars to wine-food mash-ups, their special events are designed to be an evening to remember! Plus, their laid-back lounge is a relaxed space—perfect for family and friends to gather and sample their variety of award-winning wines from Bravante Vineyards in Napa Valley.
Dock and Dine at Tavern House
Newport is all about the beach lifestyle, and Tavern House is a reflection of that seaside way of life. Tavern House’s menu reflects the coastal cuisines of Southern California, Hawaii and Mexico. It also features creative takes on traditional classics along with everyone’s favorite comfort foods, including French onion filet mignon, ale-battered fish and chips and Langostino Risotto. As you walk through the doors or pull up on your Vision Electric Boat, prepare to escape the holiday hustle and relax on the water with loved ones.
Watch the Waves at The Wedge With a Bear Flag Burrito
It’s impossible to visit Newport Beach without checking out waves at The Wedge. This iconic break is known for its strong swell and crazy kooks charging the powerful waves. Unless you are an experienced surfer or bodyboarder, we don’t recommend jumping in the deep end, but that doesn’t mean you still can’t enjoy the view. The Wedge is also a great place for a picturesque picnic! Pick up some fresh poke and a tasty burrito from Bear Flag Fish Company, then hit the beach to watch the sunset.
Drinks at SideDoor in CDM
With a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, SideDoor is the friendly neighborhood gastropub in Corona del Mar. Cozy up next to the fireplace with your favorite cocktail and good company. Not only do they have an impressive beer and wine selection, their hand-crafted cocktails are the best in town. If you’re looking for a taste of the holidays, their Heart of Autumn and All Jacked Up are must-tries. They also have daily cocktail specials, so be sure to ask your server what they’re stirring up that day!
Staycation at VEA Newport Beach
Why take a vacation when you can book a relaxing staycay right here in Newport Beach? Book a stay at VEA for some rest and relaxation. Spend your days lounging by the pool, head out for dinner at a five-star restaurant, then enjoy a nightcap by the fire at VIEW Restaurant & Lounge. With breathtaking Pacific views, picturesque palm trees and luxe amenities, VEA Newport Beach is the perfect place for a cozy escape!
Brunch at The Beachcomber Cafe
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Experience the holidays in true SoCal fashion by checking out the Christmas tree in Crystal Cove. Thanks to the low tides during December, the tree is set up right on the beach! The rolling waves and sunny skies make for a picture-perfect backdrop. After taking in the sights, you’ll want to get your brunch on at The Beachcomber Cafe. Their coconut-macadamia nut pancakes will satisfy any holiday sweet tooth, or you can skip breakfast all together and opt for a bloody mary instead!
Mai Tais at Billy’s at the Beach
Celebrate the holiday’s island-style with a mai tai (or two) from Billy’s at the Beach. Their signature island cocktail is world-famous and available for boat days and aloha adventures. You can order them to go and pick-up either curbside or dockside, then pour over ice and enjoy! We do recommend, however, that you try a freshly made mai tai by one of the talented bartenders. This way, you can appreciate the waterfront view, jam out to the live music and wish everyone a Mele Kalikimaka!
