Step into the magic of the season with the 117th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade! This festive celebration will light up the harbor from December 17 to 21 at 6:30 p.m., featuring more than 100 elaborately decorated yachts, boats, kayaks, and canoes. New to the parade? No worries! We’ve rounded up where to watch the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade this year in true Newport Beach style. From waterfront restaurants to seaside hotels, these prime viewing locations are perfect for enjoying the sparkle, lights, and holiday cheer on the water.

Where to Stay & Watch

Bay Shores Peninsula Hotel

Nestled along the golden shores of Newport Beach, Bay Shores Peninsula Hotel offers a laid-back, idyllic retreat away from the everyday hustle and bustle. Here, every sun-swept moment invites you to savor peaceful serenity and sunset strolls, and their rooftop area provides the perfect vantage point to watch the 117th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade sparkle across the harbor.

Balboa Bay Resort

Situated at the harbor’s edge, Balboa Bay Resort is a Forbes Four-Star hotel that offers a front-row seat to this year’s parade! Reserve one of their guest rooms this December where you can cozy up on your private balcony with a cocktail or hot cocoa and watch the decorated boats float by!

Lido House

Located in the heart of it all, Lido House is the ideal destination for a winter staycation. This Cape Cod-inspired hotel is all things coastal-chic and sits in the center of it all. Head to the hotel’s rooftop bar, Topside, for a craft cocktail and a bird’s eye view of the parade, or walk next door to Lido Marina Village to watch from one of the center’s many bayside restaurants.

Where to Dine & Watch

A+O Restaurant | Bar

For bayfront views and cocktails by the fire, grab a table at A+O Restaurant | Bar at Balboa Bay Resort! This waterfront restaurant features an expansive wrap-around patio and pairs live music with a menu of fresh California coastal seafood.

Billy’s at the Beach

One of Newport’s most beloved dock-and-dine restaurants, Billy’s at the Beach boasts tiki-inspired fare, tropical drinks and a waterfront view. Sip on one of their world-famous mai tais, order some pupus and watch the harbor light up with decorated boats.

Nobu Newport Beach

Feeling fancy this holiday season? Cozy up with a cocktail at Nobu Newport Beach for a festive evening out with your family and friends. Nobu’s two-story Newport Beach location offers a prime viewing spot for the boat parade, and the menu of elevated Japanese fare is unmatched.

Lido Bottle Works

Prized for its fresh, seasonal cuisine and seaside location, Lido Bottle Works is Michelin-recognized and one of Yelp’s “Top 100 Places to Eat in the US.” Cozy vibes and farm-to-table dishes make this Lido Marina Village hotspot a must-visit dining destination during the parade. Stay tuned for their menu of winter dishes and drinks!

Harborside Restaurant

Located within the historic Balboa Pavilion, Harborside boasts an award-winning seafood and steak selection perfect for a comforting meal during the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. The restaurant sits just steps from the Balboa Fun Zone, so after you dig in, you can take a ride on the Ferris wheel while watching the parade.

Louie’s by the Bay

Holiday lights and harbor views from the comfort of an Italian steakhouse? We couldn’t dream up a better situation if we tried! You’ll feel right at home this holiday season at Louie’s by the Bay. Sip a glass of champagne and dig into a charcuterie board and dishes like cioppino, scallop risotto and Colorado lamb with balsamic apple dressing as the bright and decorative boats make their way around the harbor.

Where to Park & Watch

Marina Park

Shop from local vendors at the opening night holiday market at Marina Park (Dec. 17, from 4 to 8 p.m.), then grab a seat on the grass for a great view of the parade and the fireworks show that starts at 6:15 p.m. While you shop, stroll and enjoy the festivities, your kids can play the evening away on the park’s nautical-themed playground! If you’re wondering about Christmas Boat Parade parking, on the Balboa Peninsula is a convenient choice.

Balboa Island

Take a stroll down the charming Marine Avenue on Balboa Island, grab dinner at one of the many family-owned restaurants and enjoy a night by the bay. Be sure to check out the island’s decorated homes participating in the Ring of Lights Competition, and if you want to end your night on a sweet note, a stop at Sugar ‘n Spice for a chocolate-dipped banana or Balboa Bar is a must.

Lido Marina Village

Get some last-minute Christmas shopping done at Lido Marina Village, then grab a seat on the Lido Deck or a table at one of the center’s charming bayside restaurants. There’s no better place to watch the Christmas Boat Parade while enjoying seasonal bites and drinks.

Where to Boat & Watch

Vision Electric Boat Rental

Cruise the dazzling harbor this season in your very own electric boat! Vision Electric Boat Rental in Lido Marina Village has a colorful fleet of vessels available for rent. Each boat can fit up to 10 passengers and can be embellished with a balloon garland for extra merriment.

Gondola Adventures

Cruise the bay with your Mrs. Claus in a romantic gondola! Gondola Adventures’ cruises include Christmas treats, a non-alcoholic beverage of your choice and a spectacular view of the parade. Talk about the perfect date night!

City Cruises

Book one of City Cruises’ festive holiday excursions for an epic view of the parade from the comfort of a luxury yacht. With everything from boozy brunch cruises to elegant Christmas dinner cruises, this events company is sure to make your holiday season one to remember.

Davey’s Locker

In the heart of the historic Balboa Village lies Davey’s Locker, a local company with an array of boats for rent that can accommodate almost any size group. Gather your friends and family this season and set sail on a private yacht or electric boat. You can even reserve a Davey’s Locker holiday lights cruise!