9 Ways to Spend President’s Day Weekend in Newport Beach
A three-day weekend is upon us, and there’s no better place to spend a day off than in the sunny city of Newport Beach! Whether you’re looking to get out on the water, indulge in a bayside brunch or listen to some live tunes, we know exactly where to make it happen. So set your email to OOO and celebrate Presidents’ Day 2025 (Feb. 17) with us on the coast! Here are nine Presidents’ Day activities and events to enjoy during the long weekend.
ACTIVITIES
Beach Bonfire in Crystal Cove
Celebrate your day off with a cozy bonfire on the sand! Located in the Crystal Cove Historic District, The Beachcomber offers bonfire experiences for groups of all sizes. The Sunset Package comes with a three-hour fire pit rental, four s’mores kits, four beverages and four beach chair rentals. Throw on a sweatshirt, gather your family and friends and get ready to get cozy around the campfire. Click here to reserve your bonfire experience.
Go Whale Watching
Ranked as one of the top activities in Southern California, whale watching in Newport Beach is a great way to see these sea creatures up close! Between the months of December and April, grey whale season is in full swing, but animals like seals and dolphins can be seen year-round. Book your whale watching tour today through one of Newport Beach’s local businesses, such as Newport Landing, Davey’s Locker or Newport Coastal Adventure. Each of these local companies offers daily whale-watching adventures guided by experts.
Visit the Balboa Fun Zone
Spend President’s Day 2025 soaking up the classic coastal charm of the Balboa Fun Zone, one of Newport Beach’s most iconic waterfront attractions. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic day of carnival-style fun or looking for scenic harbor views, this lively destination has something for everyone. Hop on the Ferris wheel for a panoramic look at the bay, let your littles play at the arcade or rent a bike and cruise down the Balboa Peninsula. There are also several restaurants in Balboa Village where you can grab a bite to eat or a sweet treat!
Book a Long-Weekend Getaway
Newport Beach is home to several stunning seaside hotels—from luxurious five-star resorts to family-friendly retreats. Take advantage of the long weekend and book a stay at one of the city’s newest hotels, such as the ultra-luxe Pendry Newport Beach or coastal-chic VEA Newport Beach. For those in search of a stylish staycation in the heart of it all, Lido House is a great pick with its Cape-Cod style aesthetic, charming guest rooms and top-notch amenities. If you’re traveling with the kids, we recommend staying at Newport Beach Marriott Bayview, Hyatt Regency Newport Beach or Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina for access to a variety of water sports and activities. And for those in search of a five-star escape, check in to The Resort at Pelican Hill, or opt for a waterfront vacation at Balboa Bay Resort.
DINING
Indulge in a Sushi & Sake Saturday at Balboa Bay Resort
Nothing beats a sushi & sake on a three-day weekend! Treat you and your family to a sensational sushi spread at Balboa Bay Resort. Order specialty rolls and a selection of premium sake options to share with the table!
Dock and Dine
With one of the largest recreational harbors on the West Coast, boating in Newport Beach is practically a way of life. The best part? You can pull up dockside and enjoy a meal with stunning harbor views and ocean breezes. Rent a colorful electric boat from Vision Electric Boat Rental, Newport Beach Boat Rentals or Duffy Electric Boat Company. Then, cruise through the scenic marina before docking and dining at one of the many waterfront restaurants in Newport Beach. Stop by The Cannery for fresh-caught seafood and craft cocktails, sip a famous mai tai at Billy’s at the Beach, or grab a table at A+O Restaurant | Bar at Balboa Bay Resort, where you can toast to the long weekend with bay views.
Head to Happy Hour
Make Mondays fun again! This Presidents’ Day in Newport Beach, you can enjoy a variety of delicious happy hour deals. Whether you’re craving cocktails, tacos or sushi, Newport Beach’s happy hour hotspots are sure to fill your belly without breaking the bank. Head to Helmsman Ale House (between 12 and 5 p.m. on Monday) for $2 off all starters, or swing by SOL Mexican Cocina (between 3 and 6 p.m.) for discounted bites like the Firecracker Quesadilla and Grilled Street Corn. And if you’re in the mood for seafood, Bluewater Grill offers a variety of drink specials and discounted bites, priced between $6 and $12, like Crispy Calamari, Blackened Fish Tacos, Steamed Clams and more.
EVENTS
Fashion Island‘s Lunar New Year Celebration
Embrace the start of springtime and the dawn of a new year at Fashion Island‘s Lunar New Year Celebration. This holiday is celebrated with grandeur not just in China, but globally, and Fashion Island is welcoming visitors through Feb. 12 to enjoy all kinds of Lunar New Year sales, decorations and activations. Dive into an array of festive food specials and engaging activities, like kite painting, live calligraphy demonstrations and more. To see what other 2025 Presidents’ Day weekend events are in store at Fashion Island, click here.
Corona del Mar Farmers Market
When it comes to supporting local farms, the Corona del Mar Farmers Market is a must-visit. Located at the intersection of Marguerite and PCH, this open-air market has been around for over 22 years and features a variety of locally grown and harvested foods. Enjoy some fresh air in the charming community of CDM, and shop everything from seasonal veggies and flowers to baked goods and more. The market takes place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday, so plan accordingly!
