See Long Beach Holiday Lights from the Water

One of the ways the holiday season is even more magical in Long Beach is the opportunity to experience spectacular lights, decorations and fireworks from the water! Here you can drift past iconic floating Christmas trees on the bay, cruise through the sparkling Naples canals lined by festive homes, or take in a New Year’s fireworks spectacular while sipping champagne on the deck. Let there be lights for an unforgettable holiday experience on the water!

LONDON BOAT RENTALS

London Boat Rentals (186 N Marina Dr) rents out electric, fully enclosed Duffy boats that are cozy, easy to drive, and roomy enough for up to 12 people—including your dog. After a quick map briefing, you’re free to steer toward whatever sights you want, from Naples Island waterfront homes decked out for the holidays to the charming glow of Long Beach’s famous floating holiday trees on the water. Pack a cooler with your favorite snacks and drinks, and you’ve got your own little holiday party drifting along the bay.

LONG BEACH WATERBIKES

Pedal your way around Naples Island and Alamitos Bay and enjoy holiday lights and free hot cocoa with Long Beach Waterbikes (164 N Marina Dr). Your floating hydrobike will make it easy to get up close to the holiday lights of Naples Island and the holiday trees on the bay, plus your bike will be glowing with colorful LED lights for epic photos and a touch of magic. Get your group together for a holiday adventure making fun memories.

HARBOR BREEZE CRUISES

Harbor Breeze Cruises (100 Aquarium Way, Dock #2) adds to its whale watching expertise with exceptional holiday cruises each December. Enjoy their Holiday Cocktail Cruises on select December Fridays–Dec. 5, 12, 19, 7–9:30 PM–complete with a welcome champagne or cider, a holiday bento box, a merry DJ and cash bar. Then, see arguably the most spectacular lights of the holiday season on their New Year’s Eve Cruise from 9:30 PM to 12:30 AM. This 21+ event features champagne, hors d’oeuvres, lively music, a cash bar and unbeatable views of spectacular midnight fireworks.

JOLLY SAILING

Jolly Sailing (421 Shoreline Village Drive) offers private charters for up to six people on their 1989 Ericson 32-3 sailboat. Bring your own food and drink, and let the licensed boat captain take care of the rest. Cuddle up in a blanket in the cockpit area with a charcuterie board or hang out on the bow of the boat to make the most of the salty sea air and get the best views of holiday lights.

CITY CRUISES

Enjoy buffet-style holiday dinner cruises on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with City Cruises (Rainbow Harbor, Dock 6A), which depart from Rainbow Harbor and include live DJ entertainment, a full bar, and spectacular views of Long Beach lit up for the holidays. Reserve a window table for the best views of the city skyline and holiday lights. Private cruises for groups and holiday parties are also available.

GONDOLA GETAWAY

Gondola Getaway (5437 E Ocean Blvd) offers an intimate, magical way to experience Long Beach’s holiday season, especially when the romantic canals of Naples glow with holiday lights. While perfect for couples, the company also hosts groups on its larger Caorlina-type gondolas, which can accommodate up to 14 guests as well as food and drinks. Their popular Pizza Cruise, featuring fare from Domenico’s Restaurant, adds a delicious and easy touch.

Spirit Cruises

See the New Year's Eve fireworks show in Long Beach with Spirit Cruises (435 Shoreline Village Dr, Dock 9)! Enjoy a 2.5-hour cruise featuring an Italian buffet. Passengers receive two drink tickets, complimentary champagne and a great view of the fireworks show over the water at midnight. The cruise departs from Shoreline Village at 9 PM and returns at 12:30 AM. Tickets are $99.50 per person. Call (562) 495-5884 to reserve.

About the Author

Steve Lowery

Steve Lowery is a longtime local. Over the years he has written for the Los Angeles Times, ESPN, and others. If you're looking for the hidden gems of Long Beach, Steve is your go-to.