Opinion: Date Night in Newport Beach

The holiday season in Newport Beach is nearly magical. There are so many places to visit with elaborate light displays, outstanding food and seasonal music.

Here's where you don't want to miss:

Balboa Island: Now through Sunday, Dec. 18, the 103rd will pass through Balboa Island nightly featuring over 100 decorated boats. You can have a romantic dinner before the parade starts at 6 p.m. at one of the Island's premiere restaurants including Barolo and Pas Tu and after, head on over to North or South Bayfront to get front row viewing of the boats. A stroll along Marine Avenue is great for holding hands, and the decorated holiday bridge that connects the Island is an ideal spot for a little Christmas kiss. 

Balboa Bay Club: It starts with the beautiful tree they have displayed in their valet circle as you enter the hotel. The entire space is decorated with holly, lights and poinsettias. The BBC is a perfect date spot for holiday dining in their First Cabin restaurant or grab a festive cocktail at Duke's Place where you can hear jazz carols echoing throughout the hotel. It is also a great place to view the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade as the boats pass right in front. 

In addition to the fabulous shopping at Fashion Island, it is also a great place to take a date. Their restaurants including Canaletto, Cafe R&D and Great Maple Restaurant feature fine dining for either a fancy holiday date or a casual, cozy date in your Uggs. The tall, majestic featured in the Bloomingdale's courtyard is a sight to be seen and a perfect spot to take that impromptu holiday photo with your special someone. 

Tour Around the Harbor: Newport Beach is known for many things, but its harbor is one of the most famous. A romantic date is setting sail on the nightly. It features wine, cocktails, dancing and live entertainment. Depending on specific cruise packages dinner may be offered too. There are many options from cruises around the harbor during the sunset to a romantic champagne brunch.