The 4 Best Dinner Tours in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is famous for its stunning coastline, lively atmospheres, and endless entertainment options. When it comes to dinner tours, LA offers a unique way to experience the city’s scenic beauty and vibrant neighborhoods from the water. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking a romantic night out, or just want a memorable way to dine, these boat-based experiences combine fantastic views, delicious food, and a touch of sea breeze.
What makes LA’s dinner cruises stand out is their variety — from glamorous yacht cruises in Newport Beach to festive holiday celebrations in Marina del Rey. Each offers something different, whether it’s the relaxed atmosphere of a weekend dinner with a DJ or a holiday-themed buffet in a scenic harbor setting. Here’s a closer look at the top options, so you can pick the one that suits your style and schedule.
1. Newport Beach: City Cruises Weekend Dinner Cruise with DJ
At number 1 on our list, the Newport Beach: City Cruises Weekend Dinner Cruise with DJ offers a lively yet relaxed evening on the water. For around $133, you’ll enjoy a 2.5-hour yacht cruise that sails out of Newport Harbor, offering views of iconic sights like Balboa Peninsula and Mariner’s Mile. One of its big draws is the chef-prepared plated meal, made with fresh seasonal ingredients, that you can enjoy at your reserved table.
What sets this cruise apart is the DJ entertainment providing a fun backdrop for dancing or just relaxing to upbeat tunes. Guests consistently praise the friendly staff, quality food, and the opportunity to see Newport Harbor’s landmarks from the water. The cruise stops at notable spots like Corona del Mar State Beach and Balboa Island, offering a scenic tour with memorable photo ops.
This tour is ideal for those who want a lively, social atmosphere combined with good food and beautiful harbor views. While the food gets mixed reviews for quality, the overall experience is popular — especially for celebrating birthdays or just enjoying a relaxing evening on the water.
Bottom Line: A lively, well-rated cruise perfect for those who want dinner, dancing, and scenic views all rolled into one.
2. Marina Del Rey: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
For a special holiday experience, the Marina Del Rey: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise shines. At $143 per person, this 2 to 2.5-hour cruise offers a festive setting to celebrate Christmas with family or friends. The cruise features holiday-themed decor and a holiday-inspired buffet, making it a cozy way to enjoy the season.
The highlight is the unlimited mimosas on brunch, which pairs well with the scenic views of Marina del Rey’s lights and calm waters. The cruise includes live music entertainment, creating a cheerful atmosphere that captures the spirit of Christmas. As the boat drifts past glittering lights and peaceful marinas, it’s easy to feel immersed in the holiday magic.
Reviewers mention the delicious buffet and friendly vibe that makes this cruise feel warm and intimate. Since it’s geared toward holiday celebrations, it’s best suited for those looking for a relaxed, festive experience. It’s also a wonderful option for families, couples, or groups wanting a unique Christmas Eve outing.
Bottom Line: A cozy, festive cruise that combines holiday cheer, scenic views, and unlimited drinks — perfect for a memorable Christmas celebration.
3. Marina Del Rey: Thanksgiving Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
At number 3, the Marina Del Rey: Thanksgiving Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise is the top-rated holiday cruise, with a perfect 5-star review score. Priced at $143, this 2.5-hour cruise offers a chance to celebrate Thanksgiving while enjoying scenic views of Southern California’s beaches and harbor.
The cruise features a chef-prepared buffet with traditional Thanksgiving dishes like turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing, all served in a relaxed, friendly environment. Guests can also indulge in mimosas, cocktails, beer, or wine, available from the onboard bar. The live entertainment and festive decor make this a cozy, lively way to mark the holiday.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of excellent food, impressive views, and warm hospitality — delivering a true sense of celebration at sea. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or groups wanting a hassle-free holiday meal with a view. The consistent top reviews reflect high satisfaction, making it a dependable choice.
Bottom Line: If you want a festive, well-organized Thanksgiving cruise with plenty of food and drinks, this cruise delivers a holiday experience to remember.
4. Marina Del Rey: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
Closing out our list, the Marina Del Rey: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise offers a highly-rated (5/5) way to celebrate Christmas in style. For $143, this 2 to 2.5-hour cruise features a chef-prepared buffet with a variety of holiday dishes, plus unlimited mimosas on brunch. The cruise’s scenic views of the marina and the lively holiday decor create a festive ambiance.
The experience is not only about the food — live entertainment and the beautiful backdrop of Marina del Rey harbor make it a complete celebration. Reviewers describe it as a “relaxing and delicious” way to enjoy the holiday, emphasizing the comfortable atmosphere and scenic surroundings.
This cruise works well for those who want a peaceful yet lively Christmas celebration with good food and beautiful views. It’s perfect for families or couples looking to add a special touch to their holiday.
Bottom Line: A festive, well-rated Christmas cruise with great food, live entertainment, and scenic harbor views — a comfortable way to mark the holiday.
How to Choose the Best Dinner Tour for You
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, timing, and what kind of experience you’re after. If you want a lively night with music and dancing, the Newport Beach dinner cruise with DJ is a solid choice. For holiday celebrations, both the Christmas Eve and Christmas Day cruises stand out for their festive atmosphere and scenic views.
Budget-wise, all these cruises are around the same price point, but differences in atmosphere — from relaxed to lively — can help guide your choice. Be sure to check availability early, especially for holiday cruises, as they tend to sell out fast.
Final Thoughts
Los Angeles offers a variety of dinner cruises that cater to different tastes and occasions. For a lively, music-filled evening, the Newport Beach cruise delivers fun and scenic views. For festive celebrations, Marina del Rey’s holiday-themed cruises provide a cozy, memorable experience with excellent food and entertainment.
If you’re planning a special holiday or just want to enjoy LA’s beautiful coastline from a different perspective, these tours are worth booking early. Whether you prefer a relaxed dinner or a festive party on the water, there’s a cruise that will turn an ordinary night into a memorable adventure.