Southern California is a top holiday destination. Celebrating Thanksgiving in this popular area combines the warmth of the West Coast’s sunshine with the cozy, festive traditions that make this holiday a cherished American tradition. Whether you’re drawn to traditional dinners with friends and family, outdoor activities that take advantage of the mild fall weather, or unique events that showcase SoCal’s cultural melting pot, this region offers something for everyone.

This year, why not elevate your celebration with City Cruises, where you can enjoy an all-inclusive Thanksgiving dining experience aboard a luxury yacht? Forget the stress of hosting and the hassle of cooking—City Cruises provides the ultimate way to celebrate on the water, combining a gourmet meal, breathtaking coastal views, and a festive atmosphere to make this holiday truly special. Here’s how you can make the most of your Thanksgiving holiday in Southern California and why City Cruises is an ideal choice for families, friends, and anyone looking to add a unique twist to their holiday.

Thanksgiving with a Twist: Enjoying the Outdoors in Southern California

While most Thanksgiving celebrations across the U.S. are centered around indoor gatherings due to colder temperatures, Southern California’s temperate climate invites locals and visitors alike to enjoy their holiday celebrations outside. Pair that with a stunning coastline to set the scene for a Thanksgiving unlike any other. Imagine sitting down to a holiday feast while cruising along scenic harbors and coastal views. Or ditch the formal dinner table for a beach picnic along the iconic coastlines of Santa Monica, Malibu, or Laguna Beach. Pack your favorite Thanksgiving dishes, a cozy blanket, and some beach chairs for a relaxed, scenic meal.

Working up an appetite with a Thanksgiving morning hike is a cherished tradition for many Southern Californians. On most trails in the area, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the ocean, cityscapes, and rugged landscapes unique to Southern California.

Los Angeles Holiday Events and Parades

Southern California hosts several festive events and parades to spark your holiday spirit. From community gatherings to iconic parades, there are many ways to make the holiday even more memorable.

• Hollywood Christmas Parade: Taking place at the end of November, this parade in Hollywood is a Los Angeles staple, featuring marching bands, celebrity appearances, and the iconic Santa Claus float. The Hollywood Christmas Parade brings the community together to kick off the holiday season in a way only Southern California can.
• Turkey Trots: Thanksgiving Day races, known as “Turkey Trots,” are a popular way to start the day before the big meal. Cities across SoCal, such as Long Beach, Los Angeles, and San Diego, host Turkey Trots that benefit local charities. It’s a fantastic way to spend Thanksgiving morning with your family, friends, and fellow Angelenos while supporting a good cause.
• Festival of Lights at the Mission Inn: The annual Festival of Lights at the Mission Inn is a must-see in Riverside, starting just after Thanksgiving. The Mission Inn is adorned with over five million lights, making it a magical holiday experience. It’s a beautiful event to visit with family and friends to get into the holiday spirit after a Thanksgiving feast.

Enjoy a Cozy Thanksgiving on the Water: SoCal Style

City Cruises offers a memorable way to enjoy the holiday with an all-inclusive brunch or dinner cruise.

Beautiful Thanksgiving Brunch

For those who like to start the day early, the Newport Beach Thanksgiving Day Premier Brunch Cruise provides a lively, mid-morning celebration. This 2-hour cruise includes live entertainment, a bountiful buffet featuring sweet and savory classics, and a relaxing atmosphere. Enjoy unlimited mimosas or a delicious cocktail from the onboard bar while basking in the morning sun. This is an excellent option if you want to spend the rest of the day doing other activities or visiting family.

Delicious Thanksgiving Dinner

Make this holiday truly special with the Long Beach Thanksgiving Day Premier Dinner Cruise. Set against the backdrop of a gorgeous sunset or city lights, you and your guests will enjoy a celebratory dinner buffet with all the trimmings freshly prepared by our chef. While onboard this 2.5-hour experience, enjoy incredible views of Southern California’s pristine harbor, City Cruises’ distinctive hospitality, full bar service, and festive décor. Our team will happily take care of the details, leaving you to enjoy the holiday on California’s coast with your friends and family.

The Benefit of Celebrating Thanksgiving with City Cruises in Southern California

There are several reasons why booking a Thanksgiving cruise with City Cruises is a fantastic alternative to hosting a traditional meal at home. However, one stands out from the rest. Thanksgiving can be a stressful holiday when you’re hosting. Between planning, grocery shopping, cooking, and cleaning, there’s often little time left to actually enjoy the day. City Cruises handles everything from the menu to the décor, so you can arrive, relax, and indulge in a perfectly prepared meal.

Deep Dive into City Cruises’ Southern California Locations

City Cruises operates from several scenic locations in Southern California, each offering a unique setting and vantage point. You can choose the area that best fits your plans and enjoy the specific charm of each port:

• Marina del Rey: Known for its expansive marina and coastal views, Marina del Rey is a popular cruise destination. The harbor is lined with stunning yachts, beautiful homes, and sandy beaches, making for a scenic start and end to your cruise.
• Newport Beach: If you’re celebrating from Orange County, Newport Beach offers a quintessential SoCal experience. Known for its upscale vibe, this port provides breathtaking views of the coastline and charming Balboa Island, creating a postcard-perfect backdrop.
• Long Beach: This city offers a dynamic mix of ocean and city views, displaying glimpses of the stunning Pacific and the vibrant Long Beach and Los Angeles skylines. With its bustling harbor, iconic Queen Mary, and sweeping coastline, it offers a memorable, picturesque setting for a holiday cruise.
• San Diego: For those further south, a cruise from San Diego offers views of the downtown skyline, the iconic Coronado Bridge, and historic waterfront landmarks. The mix of city and ocean views makes San Diego a unique choice for your Thanksgiving celebration.

Make Thanksgiving Extra Special This Year with City Cruises

Whether you’re planning to celebrate on the water, in the great outdoors, or from the comfort of home, Thanksgiving in Southern California offers countless ways to make the holiday special. It’s about more than just a meal; it’s a chance to create memories with loved ones and enjoy the region’s natural beauty. With scenic views, delicious dining options, exciting events, and opportunities to give back, Southern California is the perfect backdrop for a Thanksgiving filled with joy, gratitude, and community spirit.

By celebrating with City Cruises, you’ll enjoy being treated to an all-inclusive experience that combines the best of SoCal’s stunning views, delicious food, and holiday spirit. Holiday cruises are popular, so booking early is recommended to secure your preferred date and time. This Thanksgiving, leave the cooking and cleaning to the City Cruises staff and focus on spending quality time with family and friends, surrounded by views you can only find in Southern California. Give thanks for these memorable moments!