Celebrate the Season With Your Sweetheart in Newport Beach
Fiery sunsets, seaside date nights and cruises on the bay set the scene for a romantic winter getaway in Newport Beach. Our city by the sea will sweep you off your feet with its abundance of waterfront restaurants, holiday activations and infinite ways to set sail. No need for mistletoe—this six-stop itinerary is sure to make sparks fly!
Stay at The Resort at Pelican Hill
For a lavish taste of Tuscany, book your stay at The Resort at Pelican Hill. This stunning five-star hotel sits on 504 acres of perfectly landscaped coastline, offering couples an upscale stay worth every penny. Spend a day at The Coliseum Pool to catch some sunshine, then indulge your senses at the state-of-the-art spa. And when it comes time for date night, you’ll be happy to know that the resort is home to several restaurants that boast sweeping ocean views.
10:30 a.m. Morning Beach Walk + Brunch at The Beachcomber
Make your morning merry and bright with a scenic walk on the beach in Crystal Cove. Head down to the Crystal Cove Historic District and snap a romantic photo in front of the decorated Christmas tree on the sand, then head to The Beachcomber for a mid-morning bite and more ocean views. Indulge in their famous Beachcomber Beignets with maple syrup, powdered sugar and whipped cream or keep things coastal with the Crab Cake Benedict or Smoked Salmon Benedict.
1 p.m. Massages at The Spa at Pelican Hill
There’s nothing more relaxing and romantic than a couples massage, and The Spa at Pelican Hill is the serene place for some pampering. This luxury wellness destination incorporates infusions, essential oils and other therapeutics into each treatment that will renew your mind, body and skin. Book the Himalayan Salt Stone Massage for a deep sense of relaxation, or check the website for seasonal specials!
4 p.m. Gondola Cruise
As the sun begins to set, cozy up in your very own private gondola by booking a cruise with Gondola Adventures, Inc. Sit back with your significant other as your gondolier navigates the quaint canals of Newport Harbor. Gondola Adventures offers an Antipasto Cruise with local fare, a seasonal Winter Lights Cruise and even an Amore Cruise, which comes with sparkling cider and gourmet chocolates. This is a one-of-a-kind boating experience you and your sweetheart are sure to love.
6 p.m. Night of 1000 Lights
Before heading to dinner, stroll through Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona del Mar to experience a dazzling display of lights and holiday entertainment. This year’s Night of 1000 Lights theme is Candy Land, and the holiday decor will be reminiscent of the vintage board game. Stroll along the Rainbow Trail, past the Gumdrop Mountains and the Lollypop Woods. Once you reach the Peppermint Stick Forest and the glistening light tunnel, you’ll find the Candy Heart Carnival, featuring carnival games for the kids! For more info and to purchase tickets, click here.
7 p.m. Dinner at The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar
With its global wine list and menu of upscale comfort food, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar is the perfect place for a romantic meal. Snag a table on the heated patio for views of the bay, and start by ordering steamed mussels and clams or a charcuterie board to share. Then, move on to mains like the Maple Leaf Farm Duck, Pistachio Crusted Chilean Seabass or The Winery Cioppino. Pro tip: be sure to check out the restaurants’ impressive climate-controlled cellars before you leave.
Don’t Miss!
The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is back for its 115th year! Celebrate the holiday season with us and watch as decorated boats cruise the harbor from Dec. 13-17. For more info, visit www.christmasboatparade.com.
Written By: Kaylin Waizinger
