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 holiday events and things to do—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 or the best family resorts for Christmas, Newport Beach offers the perfect backdrop for a merry and memorable holiday season 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
The 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
The ultimate destination for a luxurious holiday escape, Pendry Newport Beach features beautifully designed guest rooms and suites, exceptional dining, a full-service spa and festive seasonal experiences. This holiday season, guests can take advantage of the Holiday Stay & Play package, offering up to $150 in daily hotel credits to enjoy holiday cocktails at Bar Pendry, festive dining at SET Steak & Sushi and more. This offer is available Nov. 20, 2026, through January 5, 2027. For those looking to tackle their holiday shopping lists, the Holiday Shopping Escape package includes 20% savings on suite stays of two nights or more, a $200-$500 South Coast Plaza gift card and complimentary valet parking at the shopping center. Available through Jan. 31, 2027, it’s the perfect excuse to turn holiday shopping into a festive getaway.
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 hotel provides plenty of space for everyone, with modern amenities designed for comfort and convenience. Each suite features stylish decor, plush bedding, elegant marble bathrooms and private balconies with scenic views. Guests can take advantage of the Shop and Play in Newport Beach package, which includes spacious suite accommodations, daily continental breakfast for two at Vista Kitchen Bar and a $50 Fashion Island gift card with a two-night stay. Available through Dec. 31, 2026, this holiday offer makes it easy to pair a relaxing coastal getaway with holiday shopping, dining and entertainment at nearby Fashion Island.
VEA Newport Beach
VEA Newport Beach offers a stylish retreat for travelers eager to dive into the city’s seasonal excitement. This high-rise 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 Nov. 20, guests can sip on festive cocktails at the Holiday Hideout speakeasy, and enjoy special seasonal events like the Annual Holiday Tree Lighting on Nov. 19, complete with live music, hot cocoa and visits from Santa. And for an extra dose of holiday magic, VEA’s Deck Your Stay Package transforms guest rooms into festive retreats with Christmas trees, gingerbread house decorating kits, hot cocoa bars and more. Available Nov. 18 through Dec. 31, 2026, this package is perfect for making holiday memories with family and friends.
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 Mistletoe Market on Nov. 22 for one-of-a-kind gifts, the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Spectacular on Nov. 29 and the 12 Days of Spalidays from Dec. 1-12. 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 a charming Cape Cod vibe. Snuggle into one of the chic guest rooms or opt for a spacious cottage if you’re traveling with family or friends. Just steps from the hotel, Lido Marina Village sparkles with festive decor and offers fantastic holiday shopping, and features 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.
Hyatt Regency Newport Beach
Hyatt Regency Newport Beach brings a tropical twist to the holiday season with lush gardens, spacious accommodations and festive celebrations for the whole family. On Dec. 5, the hotel will host Island Christmas, a one-of-a-kind holiday luau featuring high-energy Polynesian dancing, dazzling fire performances, interactive family activities and an island-inspired holiday buffet. The festivities continue Dec. 12 with A Holiday Spectacular, featuring a dazzling Rockette-inspired dance production in the hotel’s outdoor amphitheater. Before the show, guests can explore the Christmas Village, complete with artisan vendors, holiday shopping, seasonal cocktails, festive treats and visits from Santa. With its resort-style amenities and lively seasonal programming, Hyatt Regency Newport Beach offers a memorable holiday getaway with a distinctly Southern California spin.
Things to Do: A Holiday Itinerary
From dazzling waterfront light displays to festive markets and tree lighting celebrations, Newport Beach knows how to make the season merry and bright. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a holiday staycation, these seasonal events deserve a spot on your calendar.
118th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade & Ring of Lights
Dec. 16-20, 2026 (6:30 p.m. nightly)
The crown jewel of Newport Beach’s holiday celebrations returns for its 118th year! The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade transforms Newport Harbor into a spectacular display of illuminated yachts, sailboats and electric boats cruising past waterfront homes decked out for the annual Ring of Lights competition. Catch the parade from a waterfront restaurant, public viewing spot or holiday cruise for an unforgettable evening on the harbor.
36th Annual Lighting of the Bay
Nov. 27, 2026-Jan. 3, 2027
Watch the Back Bay sparkle during the 36th Annual Lighting of the Bay at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina. More than 50 illuminated floating Christmas trees and festive displays light up the waterfront each evening. The celebration kicks off Nov. 27 with holiday crafts, festive treats, visits from Santa and a special lighting ceremony. The display is free to enjoy, with parking fees applicable.
30th Annual Tree Lighting & Holiday Market in Crystal Cove
Dec. 5, 2026 (10 a.m.-6 p.m.)
Celebrate the season by the sea at the Crystal Cove Tree Lighting and Holiday Market. This beloved coastal tradition brings together local artisans, handcrafted holiday gifts, visits with Santa and a festive tree lighting ceremony. Set against the charming backdrop of Crystal Cove State Park, it’s a picture-perfect way to kick off the holidays.
Merry & Bright Nights at Sherman Library & Gardens
Select nights (Dec. 4-22, 2026)
Experience Merry & Bright Nights at Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona del Mar, where the botanical gardens transform into a festive wonderland of twinkling lights, music and holiday cheer. Guests can enjoy visits with Santa, hands-on crafts, the Sherman Express miniature train, seasonal bites and a holiday dance party. This ticketed evening event is perfect for families looking to make magical memories.
Santa’s Arrival at Lido Marina Village
Dec. 5, 2026 (11 a.m.-1 p.m.)
Santa is coming to the waterfront! Head to Lido Marina Village for a festive welcome celebration featuring live music from the Holly Belles, a gourmet hot chocolate cart, cookie decorating and holiday characters. After his grand arrival, Santa will continue strolling through the village on select days through Dec. 21, spreading holiday cheer among the decorated boutiques and waterfront walkways.
Tree Lighting at Balboa Bay Resort
Nov. 29, 2026 (5-10 p.m.)
Kick off the season with the Annual Tree Lighting at Balboa Bay Resort. This waterfront celebration features a live musical spectacular with singers, dancers and beloved holiday characters, including Santa, Mrs. Claus, Frosty and Rudolph. The evening culminates with the illumination of a magnificent 20-foot Christmas tree and a magical snowfall finale.
The Stories of the Season Boutique at Roger’s Gardens
Oct. 2-Dec. 23, 2026
Step into a storybook Christmas at Roger’s Gardens’ Stories of the Season Boutique. This year’s enchanting displays bring holiday traditions to life with whimsical decorations, sparkling Christmas trees, handcrafted treasures and charming seasonal vignettes. Whether you’re shopping for one-of-a-kind ornaments or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere, this Corona del Mar favorite is a holiday must.
Mistletoe Market at Balboa Bay Resort
Nov. 22, 2026 (11 a.m.-2 p.m.)
Get a head start on gift shopping at the Mistletoe Market, a festive waterfront shopping experience at Balboa Bay Resort. Browse a curated selection of local makers, boutiques and specialty vendors while enjoying seasonal cocktails, holiday-inspired bites and live entertainment. It’s the perfect excuse to sip, shop and be merry by the bay.
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.
