Newport Beach is renowned for its scenic harbor, upscale shopping, and lively coastal vibe. But beyond its natural beauty, it also offers some of Southern California’s best dining experiences. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, enjoying a romantic evening, or simply want to indulge in fresh seafood with a view, Newport Beach has options that stand out. We especially like the Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise for its festive atmosphere and spectacular harbor views, and the Orange County Premier Dinner Cruise for its elegant, gourmet dining paired with a scenic night cruise. Both tours offer a memorable way to enjoy the water and a delicious meal. For a holiday splurge, the Christmas Eve Cruise and the Thanksgiving Cruise are perfect choices, offering themed buffets and holiday cheer with scenic backdrops. If you’re looking for a comprehensive day of shopping, sightseeing, and dining, the Newport Beach Adventure, Retail Therapy and Dining tour combines sightseeing with casual upscale dining, ideal for those who want to explore and indulge.
Quick Overview
Our list features a variety of cruise-based dining experiences, from festive holiday cruises with buffets and unlimited mimosas to gourmet dinner cruises with live music. We also include an all-day exploration tour that mixes retail therapy, scenic views, and relaxed dining. Each offers a unique way to enjoy Newport Beach’s coast, catering to different budgets, interests, and special occasions.
1. Newport Beach: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
At number 1, this Christmas Day cruise combines the joy of the holiday with the beauty of the harbor. For $113 per person, you’ll enjoy a chef-prepared buffet, full bar service, and unlimited mimosas on the brunch option. The cruise lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to take in scenic views of Newport Beach while celebrating Christmas in style. The decor is festive, and the onboard music entertainment adds to the cheerful atmosphere.
What makes this tour stand out is its blend of holiday tradition and nautical charm. It’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to add a special touch to their Christmas. Reviewers praise the cruise for its friendly staff and beautiful scenery, with one noting, “The views of the harbor are stunning, and the food was delicious.” The buffet offers a variety of holiday favorites, making it a great value for a festive celebration.
Bottom Line: If you want a memorable, holiday-themed dining experience with gorgeous harbor views, this cruise delivers a warm, festive atmosphere that’s hard to beat.
$113 per person
2. Orange County Premier Dinner Cruise from Newport Beach
For around $133.30, the Orange County Premier Dinner Cruise offers a 2-hour journey combining sightseeing with a gourmet meal. Once aboard, you’ll be seated at a private table and served a duet entrée with seasonal vegetables and a choice of fine desserts. The cruise begins around sunset, transforming the harbor into a glittering spectacle, with twinkling night views that are perfect for romantic evenings or special celebrations.
This cruise is notable for its quality food and relaxed atmosphere. The onboard experience features background music via satellite radio, which enhances the mood without overpowering conversation. Many reviewers mention the attentive staff and delicious food, with one saying, “This is an unforgettable experience—great food, lovely views, and a peaceful vibe.” The outdoor decks allow for unobstructed viewing, making sunset a particularly popular time.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a gourmet meal combined with scenic views in an elegant setting, this dinner cruise is a wonderful choice for couples or small groups celebrating a special occasion.
3. Newport Beach: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
On Christmas Eve, this cruise offers a festive experience similar to the Christmas Day version, but with an earlier departure and a slightly higher price of $168 per person. It lasts about 2.5 hours and features chef-prepared buffets with holiday-themed dishes, plenty of festive decor, and full bar service. The cruise provides scenic views of Southern California’s coastline and harbor, complemented by lively music entertainment.
While the reviews aren’t available, the consistent holiday theme and the inclusion of buffets and unlimited mimosas make it a popular choice for families and groups wanting to celebrate early. The longer duration allows for a more relaxed dining experience, perfect for those wanting to soak in the holiday spirit with a view.
Bottom Line: If you’re celebrating Christmas Eve and want a festive, full-occasion cruise, this offers a delightful way to toast the holiday with excellent scenery.
$168 per person
4. Newport Beach: Thanksgiving Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
For Thanksgiving, this cruise at $141 per person offers a chef-prepared buffet with all the trimmings, alongside spectacular views of the harbor and beaches. The cruise lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours, with unlimited mimosas on the brunch option and music entertainment onboard. It’s an excellent way to combine family celebration and scenic relaxation.
While reviews are not available, the focus on traditional holiday fare and the scenic backdrop make it an appealing choice for families and groups wanting to enjoy a feast on the water. The cruise’s duration and festive decor create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those celebrating Thanksgiving in style, this cruise offers a relaxed, scenic, and delicious holiday experience that makes the holiday memorable.
$141 per person
5. Newport Beach: Adventure, Retail Therapy and Dining
If you prefer a full-day experience, this 7 to 8-hour tour is a comprehensive exploration of Newport Beach’s most iconic spots. For $1,099 per group (up to five people), it includes stops at the Newport Beach Civic Center, Fashion Island, and Lido Marina Village. You’ll enjoy panoramic views from elevated walkways, explore designer boutiques, and stroll through landscaped grounds.
This tour is perfect for those who want a mix of shopping, sightseeing, and casual dining. It’s not a traditional dining experience but offers multiple opportunities to enjoy local eateries and scenic views with a relaxed pace. The itinerary features a variety of environments—from modern art installations to charming neighborhoods—making it suitable for those interested in both culture and leisure.
While it’s pricier, the personalized nature and extensive exploration make it a good value for a day focused on discovery and upscale retail.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a full day of sightseeing, shopping, and leisurely dining, with the flexibility to customize their experience.
$1,099.00 per group (up to 5)
How to Choose
When selecting the best dining experience in Newport Beach, consider your budget, the occasion, and your interests. If you’re celebrating a holiday like Christmas or Thanksgiving, the themed cruises (Christmas Day or Thanksgiving) provide festive atmospheres and scenic backdrops. For a romantic night out, the Premier Dinner Cruise offers elegant dining with sunset views.
Those wanting a full-day experience should consider the Retail and Dining Tour, especially if you enjoy shopping combined with casual meals. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the group-oriented cruises, while special occasions or romantic trips might justify splurging on the more upscale options.
Booking early, especially during holidays, ensures you get the date and time that best fits your plans. Also, check for seasonal availability and any additional amenities like live music or themed decor.
Final Thoughts
Newport Beach offers a diverse array of dining experiences on the water and beyond. From festive holiday cruises with all-you-can-eat buffets to intimate dinner sails with spectacular sunset views, there’s something for nearly every occasion. Two standout options are the Christmas Day Buffet Cruise for holiday cheer and the Premier Dinner Cruise for a romantic, gourmet night out. For a full day of exploration and shopping, the Retail Therapy and Dining tour adds the perfect balance of activity and relaxation.
No matter your style or budget, these experiences highlight Newport Beach’s charm and culinary delights. Be sure to book early during peak seasons, and enjoy the stunning coastlines with a memorable meal in hand.