California’s beaches dazzle visitors throughout the year but especially during the holidays when boat parades light up the night in harbors and bays. Decked out with lights, wreaths, and garland, the boats are a festive sight to behold. Whether viewing by land or by sea, check out this list of all the best Christmas light boat parades this year.
Mission Bay, San Diego
The annual Mission Bay Parade of Lights features more than 100 decorated boats and yachts decorated with lights. The parade begins at 5:30 p.m. in Mission Bay on December 9, 2024. Enjoy the parade from a designated spectator viewing area. The holiday tradition features SeaWorld’s spectacular fireworks. The event is free.
San Diego Bay, San Diego
A holiday tradition brought to San Diego by the boating community, the Annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights features about 80 elaborately decorated boats. This year’s theme is Peace on Earth. A free event, the parade begins at 5:30 p.m. on December 8 and 15, 2024 at Shelter Island.
About 100,000 San Diego residents and visitors are expected to attend, so plan to get there early to secure your viewing spot. The parade will proceed to the pier at Cesar Chavez Park before making the turn to Coronado. This gives spectators another chance to view the parade.
Dana Point, Orange County
Dana Point’s 49th Annual Boat Parade of Lights features about 90 decorated boats vying for awards. The categories include Best Theme, Best Animation and Most Colorful. Watch the boats light up the night on December 13, 14 and 15, 2024. Themed Santa’s Seaside Carnival, the parade starts at 6:30 p.m. in Dana Point Harbor.
Newport Beach, Orange County
The 116th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade and Ring of Lights features million-dollar yachts, small boats, kayaks and canoes at 6:30 p.m. nightly from December 18 to 22, 2024. The parade starts at the east end of Lido Island. The first public viewing destination is at the 10.5-acre Marina Park. The park offers 177 parking spaces and a nautical-themed playground. There’s also a picnic area and a sailing center.
In addition, Newport Landing offers Holiday Boat Cruises from November 29 through December 31, 2024. The 75-minute cruises are a festive way to see harbor Christmas lights. During the five nights of the boat parade, the cruises travel in the parade. Rates start at $23.
Marina del Rey, Los Angeles
The 62nd Annual Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade is back and ready to float your Christmas boat on December 14, 2024. The theme Margarittaville Holiday celebrates the legacy of the legendary singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett.
A five-minute light show at 5:55 p.m. precedes the Christmas Boat Parade, which cruises through the main channel. Narration on a PA system is available at Burton Chace Park and Fisherman’s Village. These are the best spots for parade viewing. Arrive early to find parking for this free popular event. The parade lasts about two hours.
In addition, the Marina Lights usually glow all month long in Burton Chace Park. Free entertainment and holiday movies on Saturdays.
Half Moon Bay, San Mateo County
Half Moon Bay’s Lighted Boat Festival features a dazzling parade at Pillar Point Harbor, as well as food trucks, kids’ crafts, and live performances by local bands from 4 – 8 p.m. December 14. Plus, check out Nights of Lights in Half Moon Bay every Friday night from 6 – 8 p.m. November 29 to December 20, 2024. This festive event includes a Christmas tree lighting, a holiday movie night, a visit from Santa, and many more activities.
Half Moon Bay is located about 35 minutes south of San Francisco.
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