Buzz-Worthy Winter Dining & Activities in Newport Beach
Winter in Newport Beach is the perfect time to explore trendy restaurants, sip cocktails at rooftop bars Newport Beach, and discover the best things to do in Newport Beach this winter. From sun-soaked patios and vibrant dining experiences to chic coastal escapes and unforgettable seasonal activities, the city offers a variety of buzz-worthy spots that promise a memorable winter getaway along the Southern California coast.
Best Restaurants for Winter Dining in Newport Beach
Grab a Coffee at Vacancy
Get your caffeine fix at Vacancy, a well-known PCH favorite serving up a creative lineup of beverages like lavender lattes, silky matchas, and its signature Gothic mocha infused with activated charcoal. Settle into a seat on the tucked away patio, relax under the umbrellas, and soak up the winter sunshine while you sip.
Enjoy Breakfast at Wilma’s Patio
A beloved family-owned staple on Balboa Island for over three decades, Wilma’s Patio continues to delight both locals and visitors with its quaint, old-school charm. This streetside restaurant is ideal for a morning meal, boasting a cozy interior and a menu of classic American comfort food. Dig into savory dishes like the smoked salmon omelet, eggs Florentine, huevos rancheros or egg quesadilla. Craving something sweet? Order the buttermilk pancake stack or Belgian waffle for a cozy morning treat.
Indulge in a Holiday Brunch at CasaDamí
Nestled in Newport Beach’s lively Peninsula Village, CasaDamí is the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Newport Beach or an indulgent brunch with friends or family. CasaDamí offers a thoughtfully curated menu featuring freshly baked pastries, vibrant salads, and shareable charcuterie and tapas, all paired with expertly crafted coffee. Specialty espresso drinks like the Nutella-infused Marocchino and creamy Affogato elevate your morning ritual, while classics like cappuccinos and cortados satisfy traditional coffee cravings. With its all-day European cafe vibe, it’s the ideal place to savor a relaxed and indulgent brunch in Newport Beach!
Enjoy an Alfresco Lunch at Malibu Farm
Enjoy a relaxed alfresco lunch at Malibu Farm, where fresh, locally sourced ingredients shine. Choose from menu favorites like the vibrant farm-to-table salads, hearty sandwiches, and flavorful flatbreads, all perfectly paired with crisp, refreshing beverages. Dine on the sunny patio and savor the flavors of the season with a view.
Grab a Slice at Skål Pizza
The charming Lido Marina Village is home to Skål Pizza, the culinary brainchild of the esteemed chef/owner Helene Henderson of Malibu Farm. Farm-to-table is the name of the game here, and pie aficionados will love the innovative creations at this waterfront hotspot. From the brown butter beet pasta to the artichoke and white sauce pizza, you can’t go wrong with anything at Skål.
Savor Wine Country Cuisine at Olea
Olea brings a touch of European elegance to the heart of Newport Beach. This elegant establishment is renowned for its wine country cuisine, featuring comforting dishes like Crispy Jidori Chicken Schnitzel and Cabernet Braised Prime Beef Short Rib with House Made Herb Pappardelle Pasta. The warm wood interiors and sophisticated decor provide a cozy yet upscale dining experience perfect for a winter date night in Newport Beach.
Grab a Cocktail at Topside Roof Deck
After a busy day, there is nothing better than a craft cocktail and some rooftop relaxation. Head to Lido House and unwind at Topside Roof Deck. This beach house-style bar is the perfect spot to relax with friends. Sink into a comfortable lounger and enjoy a Topside Hot Toddy made with sesame clove-infused bourbon or an Espresso Martini with La Colombe cold brew. Be sure to take in the views and capture a few photos along the way.
Dinner at Five Crowns and a Nightcap SideDoor
Take a trip back in time to Old England with a candlelit meal at Five Crowns in Corona del Mar, a must-visit for a little holiday dining in Newport Beach! The cozy restaurant’s warm, old-world ambiance sets the scene for an festive and authentic English meal. Snag a table in the courtyard or cozy up inside and prepare to be wooed by their seasonal menus, which rotate featured dishes like Roasted Prime Rib, Spiced Lamb Striploin and Filet Neptune.
Once your palate has been pleased, pop into SideDoor, Five Crowns’ cozy English-style gastropub, for an after-hours cocktail by the fireplace.
Buzzworthy Winter Activities in Newport Beach
Morning Workout at Ekam Yoga & Pilates
Kickstart your morning with a class at Ekam Yoga & Pilates! With everything from Vinyasa and Heated Flow classes to SUP Yoga & Pilates (classes on stand-up paddleboards), this studio in Newport Beach is sure to help you break a sweat. After your class, stop by Ekam’s in-studio boutique to shop a curated collection of activewear, home goods, unique gifts and accessories. And before you leave, don’t forget to snag a pour of their on-tap Fermensch kombucha!
Shop at Lido Marina Village
For a leisurely afternoon by the sea, visit Lido Marina Village. This open-air shopping destination is filled with local boutiques that are sure to delight. Browse pre-loved designer finds at The RealReal, pick up beauty essentials at Cos Bar, or cozy up with loungewear from Eberjey.
Cruise the Harbor With Vision Electric Boat Rental
As the sun dips low, set sail on a golden hour cruise with Vision Electric Boat Rental. Their fleet of easy-to-drive electric boats does not require a driver’s license, making it simple to enjoy the water. Pick up a gourmet cheese and charcuterie board from Lido Bottle Works and bring a bottle of wine to soak in the stunning Newport Beach sunset. End your cruise by docking at one of the many waterfront restaurants for a memorable evening on the water.
Pro tip: If you’re planning on renting a boat during the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, you can add a festive balloon garland for extra decor!
Browse the Christmas Boutique at Roger’s Gardens
With lush foliage, seasonal décor, and a farm-to-table restaurant, Roger’s Gardens is a must-visit for a little holiday magic in Newport Beach. Wander the vibrant grounds before stepping into The Stories of the Season boutique, where enchanting displays capture the spirit of the season with European elegance, festive grandeur, and artisanal craftsmanship. Inspired by the charm of an old-world toy shop, this year’s collection features heirloom-quality ornaments, wreaths, garlands, gifts, and sparkling trees. From the opulence of holiday soirées to the cozy warmth of a winter lodge, each area is designed to inspire, delight, and help you create lasting traditions that make your home extra merry this holiday season.
