Newport Beach is a fantastic place for those who enjoy a good buffet experience. With its stunning harbor views, luxurious yachts, and lively marina, few places combine scenery and cuisine as effortlessly as Newport Beach. Among the many dining options, holiday cruises stand out for their unique blend of scenic sailing and gourmet buffets. We particularly like the Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise for its festive atmosphere and unlimited mimosas, and the Thanksgiving Cruise for a holiday that combines tradition with coastal views. These cruises offer an experience that’s both relaxing and memorable, making your holiday celebrations extra special. The Christmas Eve cruise also deserves mention for its elegant setting and festive décor. For a more traditional sit-down buffet, these cruises provide a lively, scenic alternative to land-based dining, perfect for those who want a taste of luxury with a side of ocean breeze.
If you’re considering a buffet in Newport Beach, you’ll find options tailored to holiday celebrations, special occasions, or just a relaxing day on the water. Whether it’s the festive holiday cruise or Thanksgiving dining, these experiences combine good food with gorgeous views. Now, let’s explore each of these top buffet experiences more closely.
1. Newport Beach: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
At number one, the Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise delivers a holiday experience that’s as scenic as it is flavorful. For around $113 per person, you get a 2 to 2.5-hour harbor cruise with a chef-prepared buffet that features classic holiday dishes and seasonal treats. The cruise includes full bar service and, during the brunch, unlimited mimosas, making it perfect for those who want to indulge. The onboard music entertainment adds to the festive atmosphere, while the views of Newport Beach and Southern California’s coastline create a picturesque backdrop for your holiday feast.
What makes this cruise stand out is its combination of fine food and scenic cruising. The holiday décor, along with the crisp ocean air, creates an ambiance that is both celebratory and relaxing. The cruise is ideal for families, couples, or anyone looking to do something special on Christmas Day without the hassle of land-based festivities. The thoughtful touches, like live music and unlimited drinks, make it a popular choice. One reviewer mentions the “beautiful views and delicious buffet” as highlights.
Bottom line: This cruise offers excellent value for a festive, scenic holiday meal, perfect for those who want a memorable Christmas experience without leaving the water.
$113 per person
2. Newport Beach: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
Coming in at number two, the Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise is a slightly more exclusive option at $168 per person. This 2.5-hour cruise offers a chance to celebrate Christmas Eve with a festive buffet and spectacular harbor views. Like the Christmas Day cruise, it features a chef-prepared buffet and full bar service, with unlimited mimosas during brunch. The cruise is decorated for the holidays, and lively music adds to the joyful ambiance.
This experience is perfect for those who want to enjoy an elegant, holiday-themed meal aboard a boat, savoring fresh coastal air while indulging in holiday favorites. Its slightly higher price reflects the exclusive holiday setting and the intimate, festive atmosphere. The itinerary emphasizes scenic views of the Newport Harbor, along with holiday décor, making it a memorable way to ring in Christmas Eve. Although ratings are not specified, the comprehensive offerings suggest a strong value for holiday celebrants seeking a special dinner or brunch.
Bottom line: This cruise provides a luxurious way to celebrate Christmas Eve, combining gourmet food, festive décor, and beautiful coastal scenery in a refined setting.
$168 per person
3. Newport Beach: Thanksgiving Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
At number three, the Thanksgiving Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise is a cozy, scenic way to enjoy your turkey day. Priced at $141 per person, this 2 to 2.5-hour cruise features a chef-prepared buffet with all the traditional trimmings, plus unlimited mimosas during brunch. It offers music entertainment and spectacular views of Southern California’s beaches and harbor, adding a coastal twist to your Thanksgiving feast.
What makes this cruise special is its ability to combine classic holiday fare with stunning waterfront scenery. The onboard atmosphere is lively yet relaxing, perfect for families or anyone looking to savor a holiday meal without the usual Thanksgiving chaos at home. The view of the harbor, especially during sunset, makes this cruise particularly memorable. One reviewer notes the “delicious food and excellent service,” highlighting its value as a holiday outing.
Bottom line: This Thanksgiving cruise is a fantastic way to enjoy a traditional holiday meal with ocean views, ideal for travelers wanting a unique twist on their holiday celebration.
$141 per person
How to Choose the Right Buffet Experience in Newport Beach
Choosing between these options depends on your priorities: do you want a holiday cruise with unlimited mimosas and festive décor? The Christmas Day cruise is perfect. For a more formal celebration on Christmas Eve, the luxury cruise fits the bill. Or, if you’re after a cozy, scenic Thanksgiving feast, the Thanksgiving cruise offers a memorable coastal setting. For each, consider your budget, preferred holiday, and whether you’d like music, drinks, or specific décor.
Booking early is highly recommended, especially for holiday cruises, as they fill quickly. Check each experience’s webpage for seasonal availability and special packages. If you want a holiday meal with a view, these cruises provide a memorable way to celebrate in style.
To sum it up, Newport Beach offers a range of buffet experiences that combine scenic beauty with delicious food. The Christmas Day cruise ranks highly for its festive cheer, while the Thanksgiving cruise provides a cozy holiday atmosphere on the water. For a special night on Christmas Eve, the luxurious cruise offers an elegant celebration. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a loved one, these options are worth booking early. Each provides a unique way to enjoy Newport Beach’s stunning harbor — with plenty of good food and holiday spirit to spare.