Holiday Lights Cruise Throughout Luxurious Newport Beach Harbor

Newport Beach , United States

Holiday Lights Cruise Throughout Luxurious Newport Beach Harbor

Active

(7 reviews)

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

What you'll do this Christmas? The holiday season is a time to spend with family, eat big and delicious meals, exchange gifts, and go to holiday office parties. Of course, you won't want to miss out on festive holiday lights and decorations either. The answer, The Newport Beach Harbor Cruise Of Lights has it all. Elaborate Christmas light displays of Bayfront estates with their Ring Of Lights competition and one of the largest decorated boat parades in the country. Hundreds of decorated ships of all sizes compete for top awards in over a half dozen categories. The Newport Beach Boat Parade is viewed by over 1.5 million people each season and is one of the largest boat parades you will likely ever see. Millions of holiday lights are a part of the Newport Beach Boat Parade and Ring Of Lights decorations making Newport Bay a "must see” for the holiday season. Jump on board one of our 9 tour vessels to view this spectacular event, that will also be decorated with holiday cheer!

Available options

Peak Time Tours

Cruise

Non-Peak Tour Times

Cruise: 75 minute Tour to view the Holiday Lights on the boats and homes of Newport Harbor

What's included

Local guide

Driver/guide

Local taxes

Live commentary on board

Detailed itinerary

Children can enjoy an arcade, ferris wheel, large bounce trampoline and other fun activities. And, of course, the ever famoun, Balboa Bar (chocolate covered banana).

Embark down the beautiful Balboa Pier where Rubys Diner awaits at the end with a delicious burger or milk shake.

What's not included

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase $2-$15)

Food and drinks (available for purchase)

Transportation to/from attractions

Gratuities

Balboa Pier Parking Lot $3.75 per hour or $37.50 per 24 hours

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 3.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Closed toed shoes and a heavy jacket are recommended

Minimum drinking age is 21 years

Refunds will not be issued if tour/activity is missed due to late or non-arrival of cruise ship

Parking may be challenging during the week of the boat parade and weekends- please arrive early

Rideshare is recommended on the weekend or arriving extra early for departure

Meeting point

Best place to park is at the Balboa Pier Municipal lot. Walk to the Balboa Pier then walk away from the Balboa Pier all the way down Main Street. Make a left once you hit the Balboa Pavilion and walk down the board walk roughly 300 yards past the Ferris wheel and auto ferry location is on the left.

Important notes

• Refunds will not be issued if tour/activity is missed due to late or non-arrival of cruise ship
• Minimum drinking age is 21 years
• A moderate amount of walking may be involved from the parking area to the boarding dock
• Not all vessels are wheelchair accessible (please call office to confirm departure location if needing wheelchair assistance)
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately. Closed toed shoes and a heavy jacket are recommended.
• Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
• Children must be accompanied by an adult

About Newport Beach

Newport Beach is a coastal city in Southern California known for its beautiful beaches, luxurious yachting harbor, and vibrant outdoor lifestyle. With a Mediterranean climate, stunning sunsets, and a mix of upscale shopping and dining, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Top Attractions

Balboa Island

Balboa Island is a charming community with a picturesque ferry, beautiful beaches, and the famous Balboa Fun Zone. It's a must-visit for its relaxed atmosphere and iconic views.

Beach Half day Free to explore, attractions vary

Newport Beach Pier

The Newport Beach Pier is a historic landmark offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the harbor. It's a great spot for fishing, walking, and enjoying the sunset.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Newport Harbor

Newport Harbor is one of the largest recreational boating facilities on the West Coast, offering a variety of water activities, dining, and shopping options.

Nature Half day to full day Varies by activity

Crystal Cove State Park

Crystal Cove State Park offers stunning beaches, tide pools, and hiking trails. It's a great spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Nature Half day to full day Parking fee of $15 per vehicle

Lido Marina Village

Lido Marina Village is a charming shopping and dining destination with boutique stores, waterfront dining, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Shopping 2-3 hours Varies by store and restaurant

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fish Tacos

A popular dish featuring fresh fish, often served with cabbage slaw, avocado, and a tangy sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made gluten-free and vegetarian with plant-based fish alternatives.

Sushi

Newport Beach is known for its high-quality sushi, with many restaurants offering fresh and creative sushi rolls.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Balboa Bar

A frozen dessert treat made with ice cream, chocolate, and coconut, rolled in crushed nuts.

Dessert Contains nuts and dairy.

Popular Activities

Surfing Kayaking Hiking Beach lounging Spa treatments Yoga Art gallery visits Museum visits

Best Time to Visit

April to October

The peak season offers warm weather, perfect for beach activities and outdoor events. The city is bustling with tourists, and the harbor is lively with boating and water sports.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-8 (Pacific Standard Time, PST)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Newport Beach is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs
• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas

Getting there

By air

John Wayne Airport • 10 km (6 miles)
Los Angeles International Airport • 60 km (37 miles)

By train

Santa Ana Regional Transportation Center

By bus

Santa Ana Regional Transportation Center

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is reliable and affordable, with frequent routes connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Balboa Peninsula Corona del Mar Downtown Newport Beach

Day trips

Laguna Beach

15 km (9 miles) • Half day to full day

Laguna Beach is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, art galleries, and vibrant arts scene.

Huntington Beach

15 km (9 miles) • Half day to full day

Huntington Beach, known as 'Surf City USA,' is a popular beach destination with a vibrant surf culture and a lively pier.

Anaheim

30 km (18 miles) • Full day

Anaheim is home to Disneyland and other major theme parks, offering a fun-filled day for families and thrill-seekers.

Festivals

Newport Beach Film Festival • April (annually) Newport Beach Jazz Festival • August (annually) Balboa Island Parade of Lights • December (annually)

Pro tips

Visit the Balboa Fun Zone for a nostalgic and fun experience, especially in the evenings when the rides are lit up.
Take a harbor cruise for a unique perspective of the city and its beautiful coastline.
Explore the Balboa Island Village for local crafts, artwork, and souvenirs.
Try the famous Balboa Bar, a frozen dessert treat made with ice cream, chocolate, and coconut, rolled in crushed nuts.
Visit the Newport Beach Art Museum to experience the vibrant arts scene in the city.