Newport Beach offers some of Southern California’s most memorable dining experiences — and not just on land. Its stunning harbor views, warm coastal weather, and lively maritime atmosphere make it an ideal spot for special buffet outings. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, planning a family brunch, or looking for a unique way to enjoy your day, these buffet cruises combine scenic beauty with delicious food.
Unlike typical buffets, these tours turn your meal into an experience. You’ll enjoy chef-prepared buffets, often with full bar service, while drifting past iconic sights like Newport Beach’s busy harbor and glimmering coastline. Many of these cruises also include entertainment, making them perfect for celebrating holidays or special occasions. The following list highlights the top four buffet experiences in Newport Beach, each with its own flavor and appeal.
Quick Overview
This list includes a mix of holiday-specific cruises, such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, as well as a family-focused Father’s Day brunch. They range from 2 hours to 2.5 hours and feature amenities like unlimited mimosas, music, and scenic views. Now, let’s explore each one in detail to help you decide the best fit for your plans.
1. Newport Beach: Thanksgiving Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
At number 1, the Thanksgiving Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise offers a timely way to celebrate the holiday with a splash of maritime flair. For $141 per person, you get a 2 to 2.5-hour cruise, with options for a festive brunch or dinner. The cruise departs from Newport Harbor, giving you stunning views of Southern California’s coastline and harbor activity.
What makes this cruise distinct is the chef-prepared buffet, featuring all the traditional Thanksgiving trimmings. During brunch, unlimited mimosas add a boozy touch while you soak in the scenery. The cruise also features live music, creating a lively, holiday spirit onboard. The scenic views of Newport Beach are particularly memorable during this time of year, with the harbor decorated and bustling with boats.
This experience is ideal for families or groups celebrating Thanksgiving in a relaxed but special setting. The reviews are solid, with a 4.4/5 rating, indicating that many travelers find it a worthwhile splurge. Keep in mind, the $141 cost includes the cruise, food, and drinks, making it good value given the occasion and views.
Bottom line: A festive, scenic way to enjoy Thanksgiving with excellent food and entertainment, perfect for those who love holiday traditions with a coastal twist.
2. Newport Beach: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
Tied for the top spot, the Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise offers a luxurious way to spend Christmas in Newport Beach. With a perfect 5/5 review score, this cruise is highly recommended for those wanting to combine holiday cheer with scenic beauty.
At $141 per person, you’ll enjoy a 2 to 2.5-hour cruise with a chef-prepared buffet, live music, and full bar service. The holiday décor and festive atmosphere onboard elevate the experience, making it more than just a meal — it’s a celebration. The views of the harbor are spectacular at this time of year, especially with the holiday lights reflecting off the water.
What sets this cruise apart is its attention to detail in creating a holiday ambiance, from festive décor to the full bar and entertainment. It is particularly suited for families and couples seeking a memorable Christmas experience without the hassle of hosting. The reviews reflect a perfect score, emphasizing the quality of the food, scenery, and service.
Bottom line: An elegant and festive way to spend Christmas, combining gourmet food, lively entertainment, and beautiful holiday views — a must for holiday lovers.
3. Newport Beach: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
For those looking to celebrate Christmas Eve in style, the Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise offers an intimate, scenic experience. At $186 per person, this cruise is slightly pricier but justifies it with a more exclusive atmosphere and a slightly longer 2.5-hour duration.
Included is a chef-prepared buffet featuring holiday favorites, along with unlimited mimosas for brunch. The cruise offers full bar service and festive décor, making it an ideal way to cap off the holiday season. While the reviews are somewhat more modest at 4.4/5, they still highlight the quality of the views and the food. The special Christmas Eve setting allows for a quieter, more reflective celebration compared to Christmas Day.
This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a more luxurious, intimate experience with holiday traditions infused into a scenic waterway cruise. The higher price is balanced by the exclusive nature of the cruise and the chance to enjoy Southern California’s holiday magic from the water.
Bottom line: A refined way to enjoy Christmas Eve, blending gourmet food with breathtaking harbor views and holiday cheer.
4. Newport Beach: Father’s Day Buffet Brunch Cruise
Finally, the Father’s Day Buffet Brunch Cruise offers an enjoyable family outing, with a focus on making Dad feel special. Priced at $200.02 per person, this cruise lasts around 2 hours and includes a chef-inspired buffet with a selection of wine, beer, and cocktails.
While reviews are currently unavailable, the experience’s highlights include the combination of dining and music, with options for indoor and outdoor decks to enjoy the picturesque Newport Harbor. The cruise provides a relaxed, celebratory atmosphere suited for families and children. It’s an excellent choice if you want to combine a scenic cruise with a hearty brunch and a bit of entertainment.
Because it’s tailored for Father’s Day, it’s best booked well in advance, especially for larger groups. The value is good for a special occasion, particularly if Dad enjoys a waterfront view and a good meal.
Bottom line: A family-friendly, relaxing way to celebrate Father’s Day on the water, with good food and a lively atmosphere.
How to Choose the Right Buffet Experience in Newport Beach
When deciding between these options, think about your priorities: Are you celebrating a specific holiday like Christmas or Thanksgiving? Do you prefer a more intimate or festive atmosphere? Budget considerations matter too, with prices ranging from around $140 to over $200. Also, consider the length of the cruise and whether you want included entertainment or full bar service.
If you’re after a holiday meal with a touch of luxury, the Christmas Day or Christmas Eve cruises are excellent choices. For a family celebration, the Father’s Day cruise offers a relaxed, fun environment. Lastly, for a unique holiday experience, the Thanksgiving cruise combines scenic views with traditional fare.
Booking early is recommended, especially for holiday cruises, as they tend to fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Newport Beach’s water-based buffet experiences provide a special way to enjoy the coast and celebrate holidays or family milestones. The Thanksgiving and Christmas cruises stand out as top choices for their scenic views and festive atmospheres. For an elegant, intimate experience, the Christmas Eve cruise offers a refined option, while the Father’s Day brunch is perfect for family bonding.
Whatever your preference, these cruises ensure a memorable meal with a view. Booking ahead guarantees your spot — these water-based buffets are popular for good reason.