Where to find Santa this coming holiday season
Coastal Orange County offers numerous magical settings to see Santa Claus this Christmas season, with festivities spread across Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Newport Coast, Corona del Mar, and Laguna Beach. Each city brings its unique flavor to holiday celebrations, making it easy for families to find the perfect place to meet Santa.
Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa is known for its lively holiday events, especially at South Coast Plaza. This iconic shopping center transforms into a winter wonderland each year. Families can visit Santa at the Santa’s Village, where he is available for photos and visits throughout the season. South Coast Plaza also features festive decor, a beautiful Christmas tree, and even live carolers, setting the scene for a perfect holiday outing. Additionally, The OC Fair & Event Center hosts the annual Winter Fest OC, a large holiday celebration that includes Santa visits, snow tubing, ice skating, and nightly snowfall. Santa arrives in grand fashion at the Winter Fest and is available for photos and interactions.
Newport Beach
In Newport Beach, the Balboa Bay Resort offers an elegant option to see Santa Claus. The resort decorates its property with beautiful holiday lights and hosts festive events, including an annual tree lighting ceremony where Santa makes a grand appearance. The resort also has scheduled “Brunch with Santa” events, where families can enjoy a holiday meal and meet Santa in a sophisticated setting.
Another popular spot is the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. While Santa himself may not be at the parade, the boats are decked out with holiday lights and Santa-themed decorations, making it a must-see event. The parade runs over five nights in December, and Santa is sometimes available for photos at specific viewing points along the harbor. Alternatively, Fashion Island in Newport Beach is a fantastic place for family photos with Santa. The outdoor shopping mall decorates its massive Christmas tree, and Santa is stationed nearby for traditional photos with children.
Newport Coast
The Resort at Pelican Hill in Newport Coast is a picturesque venue to see Santa. Known for its luxurious atmosphere, the resort offers a family-friendly holiday brunch with Santa Claus himself. Families can enjoy delicious seasonal dishes in a beautifully decorated space, with plenty of photo opportunities with Santa. The resort also hosts storytelling sessions, ornament decorating, and other kid-friendly holiday activities. Pelican Hill’s ocean views and festive decor make this a perfect option for those seeking an upscale, coastal holiday experience.
Corona del Mar
In Corona del Mar, the Sherman Library & Gardens hosts its annual Nights of 1000 Lights event in December, where the gardens are illuminated with thousands of holiday lights. Santa makes appearances during the event, providing a beautiful backdrop for photos and creating a festive holiday experience. Children can also enjoy crafts and activities. Santa visits are part of this immersive holiday experience, which combines the charm of the gardens with seasonal joy.
Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach brings its artistic spirit to the holiday season with events like the Sawdust Winter Fantasy Festival. This month-long event transforms the art festival grounds into a holiday market, complete with Santa visits, carolers, and artisan vendors. Santa is available for photos, and kids can participate in craft workshops, making it an interactive experience. Additionally, Hotel Laguna on Pacific Coast Highway hosts holiday events and often features a Santa brunch or afternoon tea with Santa, offering a more intimate experience.
From sophisticated holiday brunches to spirited community festivals, Coastal Orange County offers a variety of places to see Santa Claus. These options make it easy for families to create magical memories against the backdrop of Orange County’s beautiful coastal cities.
