Ayrton Oneill
The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is a must-see event, attracting over a million visitors annually. With hundreds of ships of all sizes, millions of lights, and a rich history, it's one of the largest and most renowned boat parades. The best spots to watch the parade outdoors include the shores of Newport Harbor and Balboa Island, with the first public viewing area being Marina Park. Alternatively, you can rent a boat or opt for a yacht charter to view the parade from the water.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of Viewers | Over 1 million |
| Parking | All city parking lots will be open |
| Viewing Locations | Marina Park, Newport Harbor, Balboa Island, Lido Isle, restaurants, yachts, ships |
| Date | 13th-17th December |
| Time | 6:30 pm-9:00 pm |
| Ticket Price | $40 Adults / $36 Junior |
| Weather | Mild temperatures, low 50s |
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What You'll Learn
The best viewing spots
The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is viewed by over a million people each year, so it's important to plan your viewing spot in advance. The parade starts at 6:30 pm on the tip of Lido Isle and ends back at the same point around 9:00 pm, so you can choose a viewing location along the route to determine when the parade will pass by.
One option is to view the parade from the shore, where it is free to watch from any public space. Marina Park is the first and largest public viewing area along the route, offering a fantastic location for families, especially on opening night. The shores of Newport Harbor and Balboa Island are also good options, as they will be aglow with a separate "Ring of Lights" waterfront-decorating contest.
If you're looking for a more comfortable viewing experience, consider making a reservation at one of the harbor-side restaurants, such as The Winery, The Lighthouse Café, or A&O Kitchen and Bar. These establishments often have countdowns to the parade and post-parade activities to keep the festive atmosphere going. However, keep in mind that the best seats tend to be booked many months in advance.
For a truly unique perspective, you can view the parade by ship. This option requires more planning, as reservations should be made at least a week in advance, but it gives you a full appreciation of the parade. You'll be able to see not just the ships in full décor but also the homes and estates along the route. This is the best way to view all the festive holiday lights and decorations that Newport Beach has to offer.
Finally, don't forget to dress in layers and bring a cozy blanket, as it can feel cooler near the water. With these tips, you're sure to have a memorable experience at the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade!
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Restaurants with a view
The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is a magical holiday tradition for all ages. With elegantly adorned yachts, boats, kayaks, and canoes, the parade is a sight to behold. If you're looking for restaurants with a view of the parade, here are some great options:
Newport Landing
Located just steps from the Balboa Ferry and Boardwalk, Newport Landing offers an excellent vantage point for viewing the parade. The restaurant features an upstairs dining room, a downstairs dining room, an outside patio, and the Library Lounge. Their menu focuses on seafood and steak selections, including a lovely oyster bar. Reservations are recommended, especially for the more popular Friday and Saturday evenings.
Harborside
Harborside, situated within the historic Balboa Pavilion, boasts an award-winning seafood and steak menu. It is just a short stroll from the Balboa Fun Zone, where you can take a ride on the Ferris wheel after your meal while still enjoying views of the parade.
Billy's at the Beach
This beloved dock-and-dine restaurant exudes tropical vibes with its tiki-inspired fare and world-famous mai tais. Watch the harbor light up with decorated boats as you sip on a cocktail and enjoy the waterfront view.
A+O Restaurant | Bar at Balboa Bay Resort
For bayfront views and a cozy ambiance, A+O Restaurant | Bar is an excellent choice. Their expansive wrap-around patio, live music, and fresh California coastal seafood menu create the perfect atmosphere for a festive evening.
Lido Marina Village
Indulge in seasonal bites and watch the parade from one of the charming bayside restaurants in Lido Marina Village. You can also opt for a cruise on their colorful electric boats, accommodating up to 10 passengers, for a unique perspective on the festivities.
Remember to book your reservations early, as these waterfront restaurants tend to fill up quickly during the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. Enjoy your dining experience while soaking in the magical atmosphere of the holiday season!
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Boat rental options
If you're looking for boat rental options to watch the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, there are several companies that can cater to your needs. Newport Landing, for instance, offers private cruises that can accommodate all group sizes and budgets. They provide a range of packages, including a single private charter for the entire night of the parade or one of three nightly packages that allow your group to participate in the parade. You can also request a private boat for the parade or holiday cruises, which include a captain and attendants to cater to your needs. Catering options, from hors d'oeuvres to full banquet settings, are also available.
Another option is to book a private charter during the parade through companies like Newport Christmas Boat Parade. They offer customised times and cruise lengths, as well as catering options for holiday gatherings.
Additionally, you can consider yacht charter companies that offer dining and viewing experiences. These companies provide the opportunity to enjoy the parade with fantastic views and a unique dining experience.
It's important to note that reservations are typically required for these boat rental options, and you may need to allow up to 24 hours for processing. Prices and departures may also vary, so it's recommended to contact the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.
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Parking and travel advice
If you plan to drive to the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, it is recommended that you arrive at least one hour before the parade's start time of 6:30 pm. Parking around Newport Harbor is usually limited, and it will be especially busy during the parade, so it is best to arrive early, carpool, or use a ridesharing service like Uber or Lyft. There is free and metered street parking available, as well as several paid public parking lots on Balboa Peninsula, including a 177-space lot at Marina Park.
If you want to view the decorated houses on Balboa Island, it is recommended to take the ferry from Balboa Village, which costs just $1 per person.
For those who want to see the parade from the water, reservations for boat rentals should be made at least a week in advance, and a month or more in advance for weekend dates. This option allows you to see the ships, homes, and landscapes in full décor and is a great way to view the parade from beginning to end.
If you plan to view the parade from shore or a restaurant, it is important to note that the best seats are often booked many months in advance. The parade can be seen from any public space on the shore for free, and the first and largest public viewing area is Marina Park. The parade route and a list of viewing areas can be found on the official website.
Finally, remember to allow extra time for travel and dress warmly in layers, as temperatures can feel cooler near the water.
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What to wear
When it comes to what to wear to the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, it's important to prioritise comfort and warmth. The parade takes place in December, and while the weather in Newport Beach is generally mild, it can feel cooler near the water. Here are some recommendations on what to wear:
- Layering is key: Opt for a layered look to keep warm. Consider a base layer of a long-sleeved shirt or a thin sweater, and bring a jacket or coat that can be easily removed if needed.
- Choose comfortable footwear: You'll likely be standing or walking for extended periods, so comfortable shoes are a must. Boots or sneakers with a good grip are ideal, especially if you plan to walk along the shore or dock areas.
- Don't forget accessories: Bring along a cosy blanket to wrap around yourself. A hat, scarf, and gloves can also provide extra warmth if needed.
- Prepare for mild temperatures: While the exact temperature can vary, the lows are typically in the 50s (°F). Keep this in mind when choosing your outfit to ensure you're comfortable throughout the parade.
- Consider the time spent outdoors: The parade starts at 6:30 pm and lasts for a couple of hours. As the sun sets, it can feel cooler, so be sure to have those layers handy.
- Plan for dining outdoors: If you plan to dine at one of the harbour-side restaurants, such as The Winery, The Lighthouse Café, or A&O Kitchen and Bar, consider making a reservation in advance. You'll want to be comfortable while enjoying your meal and watching the parade, so a jacket or shawl is recommended.
- Boat viewing: If you plan to view the parade from a boat, be aware that reservations are typically required at least a week in advance, and earlier for weekend dates. Bring along a light jacket or cardigan, as the breeze off the water can be refreshing.
- Family-friendly attire: The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is a family-friendly event, so keep that in mind when choosing your outfit. Comfortable and modest clothing is ideal, especially if you'll be spending a lot of time outdoors.
- Add a touch of festive cheer: While not required, you may want to embrace the festive spirit by incorporating some festive colours or accessories into your outfit. A touch of red, green, or gold can add to the holiday cheer!
- Check the weather forecast: Leading up to the parade, stay updated with the weather forecast. This will help you make any last-minute adjustments to your outfit, ensuring you're prepared for any unexpected changes in temperature or weather conditions.
Remember, the key to enjoying the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is to stay warm and comfortable. By layering your clothing and bringing along a few extra accessories, you can ensure you're cosy while taking in the stunning sights of the parade.
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Frequently asked questions
The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade can be viewed from anywhere on shore for free. The first and largest public viewing area is Marina Park. Other popular viewing spots include the shores of Newport Harbor and Balboa Island, where you can see the "Ring of Lights" waterfront-decorating contest.
It is recommended to arrive early as parking can be difficult to find. All city parking lots will be open, but you can also consider carpooling or using a ridesharing service. Dress in layers and bring a blanket as it can feel cooler near the water.
Yes, you can watch the parade from a restaurant or rent a boat to view the parade from the water. You can also watch the parade by ship, which requires reservations to be made in advance.
