Noted as one of the largest decorated boat parades in the country, the 115th annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade takes place for five nights from Wednesday, Dec. 13 through Sunday, Dec. 17, with dozens of twinkling vessels sailing around Bay Island and Newport Harbor. Surrounding multimillion-dollar bayfront homes will also get in on the illuminated action with the residential Ring Of Lights competition. Spectators feeling peckish can head to a bonanza of nearby eateries, with a sardine-school’s worth of seafood spots, that will be open to serve hungry onlookers.
All of the listed restaurants are either in front of or within walking distance of the parade route. Some venues come with views of the parade, others do not. Be sure to call in advance to check availability or whether or not reservations are required. Parade starts at approximately 6:30 p.m. and lasts roughly 2.5 hours.
A+O Restaurant and Bar: Reservations available for patio dining on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights, where guests have a bayfront view of the boat parade. Located inside the Balboa Bay Resort, A+O features coastal California cuisine like hot crab dip, potato gnocchi with pancetta, lobster bisque, glazed scallops and pork belly, and a seasonal holiday-themed cocktail menu. 1221 West Coast Highway, Newport Beach
Baja Sharkeez: Mexican restaurant serving contemporary comfort fare like smoky queso, cheesy birria quesadilla, nachos, fish tacos, chicken suiza enchiladas, flatus, burritos, burgers, salads and more. Kids menu includes chicken bites, grilled cheese sliders and little bean and cheese burritos. 114 Mc Fadden Place, Newport Beach
Bayside: While you won’t have views of the boat parade at this new American cuisine restaurant, you will be able to enjoy such oceanic seafood as steamed mussels, tiger prawns, ahi tuna tartare, crab cakes, scallops, sea bass and Louie salad. 900 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach
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