Skip to content

NEWPORT BEACH blog

An Unmatched Experience

Where to Stay for the Holidays in Newport Beach


‘Tis the season for a holiday escape! Newport Beach may not be frosty, but it sure is festive, and if you’re craving a salty breeze this season, you’ve come to the right place. Our city by the sea is all things merry and bright, with everything from dazzling light displays and Santa sightings to timeless traditions like the annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. So come jingle on the waves with us this December and book a stay at one of these festive hotels or resorts in Newport Beach!

Pendry Newport Beach

Somewhat new to the Newport Beach neighborhood, Pendry Newport Beach opened its doors last fall, welcoming travelers and staycationers craving a posh Christmas vacation in California. Within its walls are 295 exquisitely appointed guest rooms, 114 suites, several on-site restaurants, a sumptuous spa, a kids club, grand event spaces and an elevated members’ lounge. Guests of the hotel can delight in an array of holiday happenings this fall and winter, including a pancakes and pajamas breakfast (Dec.1), a holiday movie screening under the stars (Dec. 15) and a dazzling tree lighting ceremony (Dec. 5), featuring holiday decor, photos with Santa and live entertainment.

Newport Beach Marriott Bayview

Perched on the shores of the Back Bay, the Newport Beach Marriott Bayview is a destination of serenity and comfort for families looking to visit during the holidays. This all-suite resort boasts an abundance of space, decked with every contemporary convenience your kin may desire. Each suite is a testament to style and comfort, showcasing chic furnishings, sumptuous bedding, pristine linens, marble bathrooms and private balconies. And when families book the Season of Festive Fun package, they’ll receive two signature holiday cocktails per day, a holiday room service amenity and a weekly list of holiday events in Newport Beach!

VEA Newport Beach

A social sanctuary for travelers looking to experience the best of the city, VEA Newport Beach is a chic, newly renovated hotel in the center of it all. This stunning property features three curated dining concepts, coastal-inspired guest rooms and two new suite categories, a luxury spa, beautiful event spaces and a destination pool experience. And starting Nov. 15, adults can enjoy a round of festive cocktails at the hotel’s Holiday Hideout bar! There will also be other festivities throughout the season, including VEA’s 3rd Annual Holiday Tree Lighting on Nov. 21, featuring live entertainment, hot cocoa and Santa sightings. VEA is one of the best hotels in Newport Beach for festive fun!

Balboa Bay Resort

There are so many ways to celebrate this December at Balboa Bay Resort. Get ready to soak up the SoCal sunshine and some holiday magic! Not only does this Newport Beach hotel on the water offer a front-row seat to the annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, but it’s also home to several holiday happenings this season. Catch the tree lighting on Dec. 1, shop for unique gifts at the Moonlight Market on Dec. 6 and 7 and sit down to brunch with Santa on Dec. 22! To view the resort’s full calendar of events, click here.

Lido House

The charming Lido House hotel offers holiday travelers a sumptuous seaside escape. Get cozy in one of the property’s coastal-chic guest rooms this season, or if you’re traveling with family, book one of the custom-designed cottages for a bit more living space. And when it comes to holiday happenings, you’ll be happy to know Lido House is situated in the center of it all. Do some holiday shopping at nearby Lido Marina Village, where you can also enjoy prime viewing of the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. And during your stay, you’ll want to take the Balboa Island Ferry across to see the annual Ring of Lights home decorating competition on Balboa Island. Traveler Tip: Head up to Topside, the hotel’s rooftop bar, for a selection of seasonal sips and a prime view of the boat parade!

The Resort at Pelican Hill

The Resort at Pelican Hill always embraces the spirit of the season with a jam-packed calendar of holiday events and activities! Embrace magical moments at the Holiday High Tea & Songs of the Season (Dec. 12-15), which will feature sweet and savory bites, Perrier Jouet champagne and premium tea, and an exquisite live performance of holiday classics. Other events that guests can look forward to include a Holiday Mercato (Dec. 7), Hot Chocolate Happy Hour (select dates), a gingerbread class (Dec. 8) and more. There’s no better place to celebrate the holidays in Newport Beach than the beautiful Resort at Pelican Hill.

6 Hotels in Newport Beach with Amenities and Activities for Kids

READ →

Play All Day with this Recreational Guide

READ →

A Little Leisurist’s Guide to an Elevated Vacation Experience

READ →

Your Guide to a Sun-Swept Day of Family Revelry in Newport Beach

READ →

A Food-Focused Family Itinerary for All Palates

READ →

5 Hotels Near the Water in Newport Beach

READ →

5 Events to Look Forward to in July

READ →

A Sun-sational Itinerary for Girls Getaway in Newport Beach

READ →