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- 🎄 50+ trees, mimosa cruises, rooftop views: early holiday magic inside
🎄 50+ trees, mimosa cruises, rooftop views: early holiday magic inside
Plus a little paint, a little prosecco, and a whole lot to love!

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We see it too: everything’s lit up but nothing’s urgent yet. By Friday, The bay’s going to be glowing, fire dancers will be warming the shoreline, and the s’mores station’s surely earning repeat visits. It’s a good time to pause and take it all in.
If you’re staying local, there’s plenty worth showing up for. A mimosa cruise on the harbor, “The Holiday” on the big screen, shrimp bubbling in a skillet at Gulfstream. Even the old surf motel on the Peninsula is looking sharp again.
It’s all here, waiting and still quiet enough to enjoy. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone, we’ll see you around!

In today’s Scoop:
🎄 Holiday Magic at Newport Dunes
🌊 A Fresh Wave at Surf Motel
✨ Weekend Treats & Festive Feels
🥂 Festive Feels Around the Neighborhood

🍤 Coastal Classic, Always the Right Call

Sliding into the long weekend, Gulfstream is ready with the smoked trout dip and those golden, layered biscuits with butter and honey.
The red trout is a steady favorite (bright, tender, and deeply satisfying) and the New Orleans–style barbecue shrimp brings a little skillet-side comfort. Claim a patio seat, order something crisp, and ease into the days ahead.

🎨 Brushstrokes and Bright Moments

Timree’s studio feels extra festive this time of year, when everyone is gathering again and looking for something fun to share.
Groups of friends walk in a little nervous, then loosen up as the colors start flowing. The instructors keep things light, the laughter fills the room, and you leave with a painting that somehow holds the whole day in it. Perfect excuse to bring the people you love!


🎄 Lights on the Bay Return to Newport Dunes

The Gist: Newport Dunes is kicking off its 35th Lighting of the Bay, filling the waterfront with more than 50 glowing trees from November 28 to January 4. Opening night runs 4 to 9 p.m. with fire dancers, Santa photos, sips from the Igloo Bar, s’mores by the water, and a beachside holiday movie. Santa will switch on the lights around 6 p.m.
Why It Matters: It is one of Newport’s most beloved holiday traditions, offering easy family fun by the bay.
🌊 Surf Motel Reborn on the Balboa Peninsula

The Gist: A longtime 1960s surf motel on Newport Beach’s Balboa Peninsula has been fully transformed into the Bay Shores Peninsula Hotel. The 25 room retreat blends mid century touches with a fresh coastal feel, featuring custom oak furnishings, local photography, and a pastel toned lobby café. Two rooftop spaces offer harbor and coastline views, giving guests a quiet spot for yoga, lounging, or small gatherings.
Why It Matters: It brings a stylish new stay for visitors and a refreshed landmark for locals who love the Peninsula’s character. Grand opening perks run through December.


Oreo is a 5 year old Pug mix with a short black coat.
He wants nothing more than to stay glued to his people. This small 20 pound sweetheart is goofy, affectionate, and dog and kid friendly.
He is house trained, loves snuggles, and happily follows his favorite humans everywhere. Oreo is available through Mutts in Need with a standard adoption fee.
To learn more about this handsome boy...

💲💲 Thanksgiving Premier Brunch Cruise | City Cruises | Newport Beach | 11/27 | More
Festive 2-hour harbor brunch cruise with endless mimosas, live entertainment, & more.
💲💲 VIEW Thanksgiving Feast | VEA, A Marriott Resort & Spa | Newport Beach | 11/27 | More
Indulge in a refined 3-course Thanksgiving experience with California-coastal flavors.
🎀 Stylist Saturday | My Sister’s Closet | Newport Beach | 11/29 | More
Fresh florals, 20% off shopping, and styling sessions for Small Business Saturday.

🎠A-List Comedy Night | Port Theater | Newport Beach | 11/29 | More
A top-tier stand-up night featuring comics from Netflix, HBO, Comedy Central & more.
✨ The Holiday Movie Night | Lido Theater | Newport Beach | 11/30 | More
Beloved holiday romance starring Diaz, Winslet, Law & Black on the big screen.

🎄 Year-End & Holiday Celebration | Lido House | Newport Beach | 12/02 | More
German-American holiday mixer with mulled wine, gourmet stations, & coastal vibes.
🪄 Nights of Coastal Lights | Fashion Island | Newport Beach | through 12/28 | More
90-ft Christmas tree lights up with snowfall, music, and choreographed displays.

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