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Dana Point Harbor Lights
Open through Jan. 3, Dana Point Harbor has received a merry makeover with thousands of twinkling lights that are illuminated nightly during the holiday season. Steal a smooch under the popular Merry Kiss Me arch, stroll through Candy Cane Lane and enjoy performances from holiday carolers on select dates. Little ones will love taking boat rides with Santa on Dec. 4 and 5 thanks to Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching while your furry friends can join the fun on the same days during the Pet Project Foundation’s 10th annual Santa Paws. Finally, return Dec. 10 through 12 to view dozens of decorated vessels during the annual Boat Parade of Lights. danapointharbor.com/holidays-at-the-harbor
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Holiday Cottages at Lido House
Book a festive staycation at Newport Beach’s Lido House where two of its cottages have been transformed for the holidays by Grace Blu and Blackband Design. All three stories of the Balboa and Collins cottages have been trimmed with stockings, tinsel trees and more, while each home’s well-equipped kitchens, sprawling rooftop decks—complete with your own fireplace—and myriad bedrooms provide plenty of the space for family and friends alike. Make the experience even jollier by booking the Holiday Cottage package. In addition to overnight accommodations, you’ll enjoy a private dining experience in your cottage, breakfast at The Mayor’s Table, a peppermint spice sugar scrub and yam and pumpkin facial at Boost Spa, a welcome drink at Topside Roof Deck, plus a keepsake from Lido House’s gift shop. cottagesatlidohouse.com
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Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade
Presented by the Commodores Club of the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce, this beloved tradition returns for its 113th year Dec. 15 to 19. Themed Jingle on the Waves, the 14-mile parade will feature nearly 100 yachts and boats that are decked out in hopes of taking home an award for their merry efforts. Settle in at Marina Park or at one of the bay’s myriad waterfront restaurants around 6:30 each night to view the dazzling display. christmasboatparade.com
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Lighting of the Bay
Head to Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina for the 31st annual Lighting of the Bay, where more than 50 twinkling trees take center stage each night through the new year. Arrive early to score a spot at one of its fire pits and pick up a s’mores kit at the on-site market to make the evening extra sweet. “Our Lighting of the Bay display is a quintessential element of the holiday season in Southern California,” notes general manager Phil Ravenna. “Newport Dunes invites all to get outside and join us in celebration throughout the season.” newportdunes.com
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Paséa Hotel & Spa’s Oceanfront Ice Rink
Open through Jan. 2, Paséa Hotel & Spa’s annual oceanfront ice rink allows skaters to show off their skills just steps from the sand in Huntington Beach. Sip hot cocoa; cozy up by a fire pit to enjoy savory dishes, s’mores and Champagne; or view your favorite holiday movies on the big screen. Themed skate nights—think Mariah Carey Tribute Night (Dec. 3 and 17) and Ugly Sweater Night (Dec. 23)—add to the holiday cheer. End the evening on a sweet note with made-to-order doughnuts and a boozy Mrs. Claus Night Cap cocktail. meritagecollection.com/pasea-hotel
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Roger’s Gardens Christmas Boutique
A wonderland of enchanting decor awaits at the magical Roger’s Gardens Christmas Boutique in Corona del Mar, open daily from 9AM to 6PM. Explore the highly curated, multiroom store to discover a treasure trove of ornaments, lush foliage, wreaths, trees and gift options for everyone on your list. Further, each space features its own theme—from a glistening winter wonderland full of sparkle to the traditional red and green of Santa’s workshop— making shopping a breeze. rogersgardens.com
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