Stepping into the Balboa Bay Resort entrance and communal areas during this winter season is like entering a festive wonderland, adorned with life-sized polar bears, penguins, twinkling lights, and strands of elegant white garland. The culinary team, led by Executive Chef Prabeen Prathapan, has crafted an astonishing replica of the resort using 80 pounds of gingerbread dough, 40 pounds of frosting and icing, and 15 pounds of assorted candies.
To kick off the holiday spirit on December 1, the resort will hold a tree lighting ceremony. Along with enchanting live music performances of cherished holiday tunes, guests can enjoy complimentary treats and drinks by donating an unwrapped toy to support Toys for Tots. Reservations are not mandatory, and open seating is available post 5 p.m.
Visitors staying or visiting from December 14 to Sunday, December 18 will have the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing Newport Beach Boat Parade. Secure a reservation for a table by the window at A+O Restaurant and Bar or savor the spectacle from your guestroom balcony as the creatively adorned boats float by – the parade commences at 6:30 p.m., encircling Newport Harbor.
Dine amidst a backdrop of Newport Beach’s top-tier luxury yachts on the al fresco terrace, where fire pits and heaters ensure guests stay cozy as the stars emerge. Adjacent, the abodes on Lido Island are bedecked in holiday splendor.
The A+O menu boasts a delectable selection of dishes, including tantalizing crispy crab cakes, freshly grilled fish, a medley of seasonal salads, and a mouth-watering black bean vegan burger, accompanied by an assortment of delectable crispy fries and housemade ketchup.
The guestrooms are appointed in various shades of blue mirroring the marina’s ambiance. The lavish pillow-top mattress is cloaked in sumptuous Frette linens. A complimentary bottle of fine wine awaits to be uncorked and cherished on the private balcony, some with waterfront vistas.
The opulent suites range from 1,100 to 3,000 square feet, featuring a private king-sized bed, a cozy living area, a spacious walk-in shower, and a separate half bath. The Presidential Suite boasts a dining space for twelve and three private balconies gazing out onto the marina.
Return on either Christmas Eve or Christmas Day for a festive brunch with a waterfront view. The event will feature live music and wandering carolers, while the menu will showcase an assortment of seasonal seafood delights, including lobster, clams Rockefeller, seafood cioppino, and cranberry-infused Chilean seabass. Indulge in dishes like pistachio-crusted rack of lamb, prime rib, glazed pork tenderloin, a variety of egg specialties, salads, delightful sweets, and a hot cocoa station.
Dress elegantly for an exquisite four-course New Year’s Eve dinner and dancing event at Lighthouse. Each delightful course will be accompanied by a featured wine, culminating in a Chambord Raspberry Almond Delight dessert.
Ring out 2022 and welcome 2023 at a vibrant 70s-themed Studio 54-inspired dance soiree featuring ‘The Funky Hippeez’ band. Each attendee will receive party favors, a flute of sparkling wine at midnight, and delectable late-night snacks.
Embrace the holiday spirit at Balboa Bay Resort by partaking in an array of festive events throughout December, open to both the public and club members.
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