Where to Stay & Things to Do 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 a variety of things to do, everything from dazzling light displays and Santa sightings to timeless traditions like the annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. Whether you’re searching for luxury resorts for the holidays, cozy places to stay and things to do this winter, or the best family resorts for Christmas, Newport Beach offers the perfect backdrop for a merry and memorable holiday by the sea. So come jingle on the waves with us this December and book in Newport Beach!
Where to Stay for the Holiday
Bay Shores Peninsula Hotel
Opening November 2025, Bay Shores Peninsula Hotel brings a relaxed, refined coastal escape to Newport Beach. This 25-room boutique retreat captures the charm of a classic seaside getaway with breezy, individually designed rooms and thoughtful amenities like custom beach coolers, beach toys, and bike rentals. Perfect for both travelers and locals seeking sun, sand, and style, Bay Shores promises a serene retreat just steps from the sparkling Newport Beach shoreline. Guests can also take in spectacular views of the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade from the hotel’s rooftop, making it one of the coziest places to stay this winter.
Pendry Newport Beach
Pendry Newport Beach is the ultimate destination for travelers and locals seeking a luxurious holiday escape in California. The hotel features 295 beautifully designed guest rooms, 114 spacious suites, multiple on-site dining options, a full-service spa, a kids club, elegant event spaces, and an exclusive members’ lounge. This festive season, guests can enjoy a variety of seasonal experiences, including a Tree Lighting on November 28, Menorah Lighting celebrations from December 14–22, Story Time with Mrs. Claus on December 6, 13, and 20, and other special holiday activities throughout the fall and winter. Pendry is truly one of the top luxury resorts for the holidays in Newport Beach.
Newport Beach Marriott Bayview
Set along the tranquil shores of the Back Bay, Newport Beach Marriott Bayview offers a peaceful and inviting retreat for families celebrating the holidays. This all-suite resort provides plenty of space for everyone, with modern amenities designed for comfort and convenience. Each suite features stylish décor, plush bedding, crisp linens, elegant marble bathrooms, and private balconies with scenic views. Families who book the Season of Festive Fun package will enjoy two signature holiday cocktails, two welcome hot chocolates for the little ones, a special holiday amenity, and a $25 daily food and beverage credit, making it one of the best family resorts for Christmas and a go-to family vacation spot for the holidays.
VEA Newport Beach
VEA Newport Beach offers a stylish retreat for travelers eager to dive into the city’s seasonal excitement. The recently refreshed hotel showcases thoughtfully designed guest rooms and suites with a coastal touch, a luxurious spa, multiple dining experiences, and inviting event spaces, plus a standout pool area perfect for relaxing. Beginning November 14, guests can sip on festive cocktails at the Holiday Hideout bar, and the celebrations continue with special seasonal events like the Annual Holiday Tree Lighting on November 20, complete with live music, hot cocoa, and visits from Santa.
Balboa Bay Resort
Balboa Bay Resort is brimming with festive cheer this season, offering guests a blend of holiday spirit and sunny Southern California charm. Set right on the waterfront, the resort provides unbeatable views of the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, making it easy to enjoy the season in style. This year’s lineup of seasonal experiences includes the tree lighting ceremony on November 30, a stroll through the Moonlight Market on November 22 for one-of-a-kind gifts, and hands-on fun creating wreaths at A+O Wine and Wreaths on December 4. For the full list of festive happenings, check out the resort’s event calendar.
Lido House
Celebrate the season with a seaside getaway at Lido House, where holiday charm meets coastal style. Snuggle into one of the chic guest rooms or opt for a spacious cottage if you’re traveling with family. Just steps from the hotel, Lido Marina Village sparkles with festive décor and offers fantastic holiday shopping, plus some of the best views of the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. Hop on the Balboa Island Ferry to see the twinkling homes in the annual Ring of Lights home decorating contest, then toast to the season at Topside, the hotel’s rooftop bar, where seasonal cocktails and sweeping harbor views make every moment picture-perfect.
The Resort at Pelican Hill
The Resort at Pelican Hill always embraces the spirit of the season with a full calendar of festive activities. Starting the weekend of December 6th and 7th, guests can enjoy the Fables & Feste Holiday Weekend Brunch at Andrea, a celebration of winter storytelling brought to life with music, poetry, and literature, featuring hand-made Italian pasta, panettone, desserts, and brunch classics. Pelican Hill also invites Resort guests to embrace the holidays at the Villa Clubhouse with a variety of experiences, from Ornament, Holiday Card, and Frame-Making Workshops to classic Holiday Movie Nights. There’s no better place to celebrate the holidays in Newport Beach than the beautiful Resort at Pelican Hill.
Things to Do: A Holiday Itinerary
Follow along our suggested holiday itinerary for a perfect day spent in Newport Beach.
9 a.m. Brunch at CasaDamí
Brunch at CasaDamí in Newport Beach’s Peninsula Village is a delightful blend of European sophistication and coastal charm. Enjoy shareable small plates, vibrant salads, freshly baked pastries, and expertly crafted coffee like cappuccinos, marocchinos, and affogatos. The space features Italian marble countertops, herringbone oak floors, plush banquettes, and a flower-adorned patio, creating a chic and inviting atmosphere perfect for a relaxed weekend treat or catching up with friends.
11 a.m. Walk and Shop on Balboa Island
Your adventure continues on Balboa Island! Step aboard the ferry and arrive at the charming Marine Avenue, a picturesque street brimming with unique shops, cozy eateries, and vibrant art galleries. Wander through local favorites like Sur La Mer Coastal Goods, Crush Clothing, Etcetera and Isabelle’s Cabinet, discovering one-of-a-kind treasures along the way. This is the ultimate spot in Newport Beach to support local businesses and pick up thoughtful gifts this season.
3 p.m. Luxury Holiday Shopping + Lunch at Fashion Island
If luxury shopping is your style, Fashion Island in has everything you’re looking for. This open-air shopping haven is packed with top-name retailers and charming boutiques alike. For gifts the whole family will love, Bloomingdale’s, Neiman Marcus, and Nordstrom have you covered. Fashionistas can explore chic spots like Cinq à Sept, ELIA PARFUM, Monica Vinader, and Odin Parker, while Vuori and Alo Yoga offer stylish activewear. Stroll the sunlit walkways, soak up the coastal vibe, and uncover the perfect holiday treasures along the way.
5 p.m. Browse at Lido Marina Village
Step into the holiday magic at Lido Marina Village, where coastal charm meets effortless style. This is not your average shopping center with white brick facades, sun-dappled walkways, and a carefully curated mix of unique boutiques. Treat yourself or someone special at Le Labo with luxurious fragrances, find playful kids’ styles at Roller Rabbit and Minnow, sparkle with pieces from Marrow Fine, or refresh your wardrobe at Cynthia Rowley, Jenni Kayne, and Faherty. With gifts this good, Lido Marina Village is the ultimate spot to shop, stroll, and soak in the seaside holiday spirit.
7 p.m. Dinner at Farmhouse + Explore Roger’s Gardens’ Christmas Boutique
Treat yourself to a cozy, unforgettable dinner at Farmhouse, where seasonal ingredients and lovingly crafted dishes turn every meal into a celebration. After savoring your delicious feast, take a short stroll to Roger’s Gardens and step into their enchanting Christmas Boutique. Wander among twinkling lights, sparkling ornaments, and one-of-a-kind gifts, and let the festive atmosphere fill you with holiday cheer. It’s the perfect combination of great food, charming surroundings, and magical holiday shopping.
Plan Your Stay In Newport Beach
Ready to enjoy the holiday season with a luxurious coastal background? Plan your stay in Newport Beach to celebrate with your loved ones and make one-of-a-kind memories. Contact us to help you plan your saty, and sign up for our newsletter to stay up-to-date with new things to do in Newport Beach.
