The 4 Best Dining Experiences in Los Angeles
Los Angeles isn’t just about movie stars and sunny beaches; it’s a city where dining can be an experience in itself. Few places combine scenic views with quality food and entertainment quite like LA. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a relaxing cruise with a chef-prepared meal, celebrate a holiday with a festive buffet, or dance to a DJ on the water, this city offers options that turn a meal into a memorable event. In this guide, we’ll explore four of the top dining experiences around Los Angeles, each offering a different flavor of the city’s vibrant culinary and scenic offerings.
If you want to enjoy a luxurious yacht cruise with a plated dinner, or indulge in a festive Christmas Eve or Day cruise with buffet-style dining, you’ll find the perfect fit here. These experiences aren’t just about food—they’re about soaking in stunning harbor views, enjoying live entertainment, and making special memories.
Quick Overview
This list covers a mix of lunch, dinner, and holiday-themed cruises, each with its own unique appeal. The Newport Beach Weekend Dinner Cruise with DJ offers a relaxing evening on a yacht with scenic harbor sights. The Marina del Rey Christmas Eve Buffet Cruise and the Thanksgiving Buffet Cruise provide festive holiday dining with stunning views. Lastly, the Marina del Rey Christmas Day Cruise is perfect for a relaxed, celebratory Christmas meal at sea.
1. Newport Beach: City Cruises Weekend Dinner Cruise with DJ
At number 1, this Weekend Dinner Cruise with DJ in Newport Beach offers a lively yet relaxing way to enjoy LA’s iconic harbor. For around $133 per person, you get a 2.5-hour yacht cruise that combines scenic harbor views with great food and fun. The cruise departs from two different West Coast Hwy locations, making it convenient whether you’re staying in the city or nearby.
Once onboard, you’ll enjoy a chef-prepared plated dinner made from seasonal ingredients. The menu is flexible with three different food choices, and the reviews highlight that the food is consistently excellent. The ambiance is elevated by a live DJ, providing a laid-back soundtrack as you pass landmarks like Balboa Peninsula and Mariner’s Mile. The cruise showcases Newport Beach’s best sights, including Corona del Mar State Beach and The Wedge.
The staff receives praise for their friendliness, and the cruise is suitable for families, couples, or groups celebrating a special occasion. The main downside is that some find the food quality just okay for the price, but the overall atmosphere and views often outweigh that.
Bottom line: This is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting a lively, scenic, and gourmet dinner experience with the added bonus of music and social atmosphere.
2. Marina Del Rey: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
At number 2, the Christmas Eve Cruise in Marina del Rey offers a festive way to celebrate the holiday aboard a boat decorated for the occasion. For $143 per person, you’ll enjoy a 2 to 2.5-hour harbor cruise with a holiday-inspired buffet that can be enjoyed during brunch or dinner. The cruise includes unlimited mimosas on the brunch option, adding to the celebratory spirit.
The cruise departs from Marina del Rey, providing scenic views of the marina’s twinkling lights and yachts. The buffet features holiday-themed dishes, and the lively music and festive decor set a cheerful tone for families or couples wanting to add some holiday magic to their LA visit. Reviewers note the good buffet quality and the convivial atmosphere.
While there aren’t detailed reviews about the food’s specifics, the overall experience is praised for its ambiance. It’s a popular choice for those seeking a holiday-themed cruise that combines good food, scenic views, and holiday cheer.
Bottom line: This cruise is perfect for holiday travelers wanting a festive, relaxed atmosphere with unlimited drinks and holiday decor.
3. Marina Del Rey: Thanksgiving Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
Moving to a more traditional holiday, the Thanksgiving Buffet Cruise in Marina del Rey ranks highly with a perfect 5-star rating. For $143 per person, it features a chef-prepared buffet with all the Thanksgiving staples—turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and more—served during a 2.5-hour cruise.
What makes this experience stand out is its focus on celebrating the holiday amid beautiful views of Southern California’s beaches and harbor. Guests can relax with a mimosa, cocktail, beer, or wine from the onboard bar, making it easy to toast and enjoy the scenery. The cruise’s festive decor and live entertainment contribute to a warm, inviting atmosphere, ideal for families or anyone wanting to indulge in holiday traditions without the fuss of hosting.
Reviews praise the “relaxing and delicious” experience, making it a top pick for those who want a meaningful holiday meal with scenic waterside views. The value is excellent given the quality of the buffet and the festive setting.
Bottom line: Perfect for families and holiday enthusiasts, this cruise delivers a hearty meal, scenic views, and holiday cheer all in one relaxing package.
4. Marina Del Rey: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
Finally, the Christmas Day Cruise in Marina del Rey is an ideal choice for celebrating the holiday with a chef-prepared buffet and stunning seaside views. For $143 per person, this 2 to 2.5-hour cruise provides a festive setting to enjoy Christmas brunch or dinner, complete with unlimited mimosas on brunch. The cruise features live entertainment and beautifully decorated surroundings.
Reviewers describe it as a “relaxing and delicious” way to spend Christmas, highlighting the scenic beauty of the marina and the friendly atmosphere onboard. This experience is well-suited for families, couples, or groups seeking a comfortable, festive outing that combines good food and scenic tranquility. The cruise’s focus on holiday decor and music enhances the celebratory mood.
This cruise offers consistent quality and a chance to enjoy Southern California’s coastal scenery while indulging in holiday favorites. It’s a great option for those who want to celebrate Christmas with a relaxed cruise that feels special but not overly formal.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for a festive, scenic Christmas celebration that combines good food, entertainment, and holiday spirit.
How to Choose Your Best LA Dining Experience
When deciding between these unique options, think about your priorities: do you want a lively atmosphere with music and dancing? The Newport Beach dinner cruise offers that. For holiday celebrations, the Christmas Eve or Christmas Day cruises provide festive decor and themed buffets perfect for families or couples seeking a special holiday experience. If you prefer a traditional Thanksgiving meal at sea, the Thanksgiving cruise combines hearty food with scenic views.
Budget-wise, expect to pay around $133–$143 per person, which includes scenic cruising and all-you-can-eat buffets or plated dinners. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak holiday seasons, to secure your preferred time and date.
Final Thoughts
Los Angeles’s diverse dining cruises provide options for nearly every taste and special occasion. For elegant, scenic dining combined with lively music, the Newport Beach dinner cruise shines. Holiday-goers will find the Marina del Rey options perfect for celebrating Christmas or Thanksgiving with scenic views and festive spirit. If you’re looking for a memorable way to dine while enjoying LA’s waters, these cruises are well worth considering.
No matter which you choose, don’t forget to book early—these popular experiences fill up fast. Prepare to enjoy delicious food, stunning scenery, and a touch of LA glamour from the comfort of a boat.