See Long Beach Holiday Lights from the Water

One of the best parts of the holiday season in Long Beach is going out to see lights and decorations, and one of the best ways to do that is from the water! Get up close to the famous holiday trees on the bay, and see some of the hotspots for decorated homes while enjoying crisp winter air, smooth waters, and good cheer.

LONDON BOAT RENTALS

Long Beach calm waters are perfect for a Duffy boat, especially when so many homes on Naples Island go all out with holiday decor. London Boat Rentals (186 N Marina Dr) offers rentals of their electric, fully-enclosed and cozy Duffy boats, which can carry up to 12 passengers, including dogs! After a quick review of the map, you can navigate your boat to the sights you want to see, including cruising along the line of lighted holiday trees floating on the water. Bring your own cooler for food and drinks, and enjoy your own floating holiday party.

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) is known for their daily whale watching excursions and harbor tours, but the company also offers special New Year’s Eve cruises to see fireworks on December 31 and charters for private dinner cruises. Their fleet of five double-decker sightseeing vessels are eco-friendly with low emissions, with capacities of 100 to 250 passengers. Vessels are docked at Rainbow Harbor on the downtown waterfront. Visit the website for sample menus and more details.

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 scenic views of Long Beach. Reserve a window table for the best views of the city skyline and holiday lights, and wear your semi-formal attire to make the most of this celebratory holiday outing. Private cruises for groups and holiday parties are also available.

GONDOLA GETAWAY

Departing from their location on the Alamitos Peninsula, Gondola Getaway (5437 E Ocean Blvd) offers two regular 50-minute cruises through the canals of Naples Island, for the most romantic holiday cruise option. Their Traditional Gondola Cruise for up to 6 passengers includes a free photo, free ice bucket and cups, and free corkage. You can bring any food or drinks you like, or add the appetizer option to your cruise for traditional Italian antipasti served on board. The large “Caorlina” cruise, navigated by two gondoliers, can carry up to 14 passengers and includes all the same perks. Reservations are available online or by phone at 562-433-9595.

About the Author

Claire Atkinson

Claire Atkinson is a Southern California native who has lived in Long Beach for 20 years. She spends her free time visiting local parks, farmers markets, and museums, and loves learning about Long Beach history and culture.